Accuphase Updated Its Audio Processor and Digital Equaliser

Japanese company Accuphase is expanding its digital lineup with two new components: the DC-500 audio processor and the DG-78 digital equaliser. Formally, a full global release has not yet taken place: the Japanese manufacturer’s official website still lists the flagship DC-1000 processor and the previous DG-68 digital voicing equaliser. This suggests that the information about the new products has appeared at an early stage through distributor channels rather than as part of a major public launch.

According to preliminary information, the Accuphase DC-500 audio processor will become a more accessible alternative to the flagship DC-1000. The model retains the core principles of Accuphase’s proprietary digital architecture, but comes with a less complex implementation and, presumably, a more moderate price. Among the differences from the flagship are the removal of wooden side panels, a different set of digital components, and a more compact chassis.

The digital section of the DC-500 is built around eight ESS ES9028PRO DAC chips operating in a parallel configuration. This architecture is used to implement Accuphase’s proprietary MDS technology for PCM signals and MDSD for DSD playback. To reduce noise and distortion, the device uses the ANCC circuit – Accuphase Noise and distortion Canceling Circuit.

In terms of connectivity, the DC-500 processor offers a familiar set of interfaces for a device of this class: coaxial, optical and USB Type-B inputs, as well as balanced and unbalanced analogue outputs. As a result, the model is designed both for integration into modern digital systems and for use in traditional high-end audio setups.

The second new model is the Accuphase DG-78, the successor to the DG-68 digital equaliser. The device continues the development of Accuphase’s proprietary concept of digital room acoustic correction, but receives an updated interface: instead of the previous pressure-sensitive panel, it now uses an electrostatic touch screen. This should make control and adjustment more modern and convenient.

Functionally, the DG-78 retains three main operating modes: Voicing, Equaliser and Analyser. They are responsible for automated DSP room correction, manual frequency balance adjustment, and real-time frequency response analysis. Like its predecessor, the new model supports both digital and analogue signal paths, while its DAC section mirrors the architecture of the DC-500, with eight ES9028PRO chips and Accuphase’s proprietary noise-cancelling circuit.

Shipments of the Accuphase DC-500 and DG-78 are expected to begin around mid-2026. Prices have not yet been announced. Given that both models are still absent from Accuphase’s official website, their current appearance can be viewed as a preliminary announcement indicating the direction of the brand’s further digital lineup update.