Weiss DAC204 MK2 – a Compact Swiss DAC with an Updated Architecture

Weiss Engineering has released a modernized version of its compact digital-to-analog converter, the Weiss DAC204-MK2. The new model continues the concept of the original DAC204, but features a significantly upgraded digital section, an updated analog path, and a number of engineering improvements aimed at enhancing signal conversion quality.

One of the key changes is the new DAC board. The Weiss DAC204-MK2 uses the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO chip, which replaces the previous solution. In addition, the manufacturer has improved the jitter suppression system to ensure more accurate and stable digital signal processing even when connected to sources with less-than-ideal synchronization characteristics.

Equally important changes have been made to the analog section of the device. The output stage of the Weiss DAC204-MK2 has been redesigned to achieve an output impedance close to zero. This should have a positive effect on the DAC’s compatibility with various audio system components and ensure more predictable operation when connected to difficult loads.

At the same time, Weiss Engineering has retained a highly focused philosophy for the DAC204-MK2. The device is not overloaded with additional features: there is no network streaming, built-in DSP processing, menu display, remote control, or dedicated headphone amplifier. Instead of versatility, the manufacturer focuses on the quality of the DAC’s core functions.

The model’s connectivity options are designed for integration into different audio systems. The Weiss DAC204-MK2 is equipped with USB-B, coaxial digital RCA, and optical Toslink inputs. For analog signal output, balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connectors are provided, and both types of outputs can be used simultaneously.

Via USB, the device accepts PCM signals with a resolution of up to 384 kHz, as well as DSD64 and DSD128 streams. The coaxial RCA input supports PCM up to 192 kHz, while the optical Toslink input supports up to 96 kHz. In addition to operating as a digital-to-analog converter, the DAC204-MK2 can also perform digital format conversion and output the signal via AES/EBU, RCA, and BNC.

The internal architecture of the Weiss DAC204-MK2 is based on four oversampling sigma-delta converters per channel. They operate in parallel, which helps improve the signal-to-noise ratio. Power is supplied by an external power adapter, while the most sensitive sections of the circuit are equipped with separate linear regulation designed to reduce the influence of digital interference on the analog path.

The recommended price of the Weiss DAC204-MK2 is $3,990. Against the background of modern DACs with numerous multimedia features, this model appears to be a more specialized solution. Its main task is not to replace a streamer, preamplifier, or headphone amplifier, but to provide accurate, stable, and musical digital-to-analog conversion as part of an already assembled high-end audio system.