ЦАПы — Métronome DSC

The DSC from Métronome, the French specialist in digital sources, is presented by Métronome as a three-in-one component that combines a top converter, a network streamer and, above all, a digital preamplifier. It is meant to sit at the centre of a digital system, taking in computer, network and disc sources and serving amplification from one chassis.

Key specs that matter

Conversion is built on an ESS ES9038PRO chip, with THD+N given as minus 122 dB and a dynamic range of 132 dB. Single-ended RCA outputs present 100 ohms and balanced XLR outputs 150 ohms, each with a maximum level of 3 V at 0 dB. The case measures 430 by 105 by 430 mm and weighs 17 kg, and the complete chassis is machined from high grade aluminium billets in a black or silver finish. Métronome describes the DSC as the start of a new era for the company, being its first three-in-one device.

Engineering and use context

Over USB, PCM reaches 384 kHz at 32 bits and native DSD from DSD64 to DSD512. An I2S input handles the same PCM range with DSD64 to DSD256 over DoP, the S/PDIF and AES/EBU inputs take DSD64 to DSD128 over DoP, and the Toslink input stops at 192 kHz PCM and DSD64. The streaming section plays PCM up to 384 kHz and native DSD64 to DSD256, with support for Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Roon Ready and DLNA or UPnP, and MQA rendering covers 44.1 to 384 kHz at 32 bits. The network connects through dual band Wi-Fi on 2.4 and 5 GHz or gigabit Ethernet. Operation is through a 5-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 800 by 480 pixels that gives access to every function, through the supplied remote control or the mconnect app, and volume can also be set with a front knob. Other services can reach the DSC through AirPlay. Certifications include Plays with Audirvana and Roon Ready. Only Windows computers need a USB driver, and firmware updates are installed through the rear USB input. Consumption is 35 W in use and 34 W in standby.

Pairing

Because the DSC works as a digital preamplifier, its balanced and single-ended outputs can run straight into power amplification, stereo or monoblock, without a separate analogue preamplifier. An integrated amplifier can also take its signal through a line input. A CD or SACD transport with an I2S output can link through the I2S input, while a computer uses USB for native DSD files and other digital sources use the remaining coaxial, balanced digital or optical connections.

Alternatives

The Métronome LE DAC 2 is the entry model among the brand's converters, based on an ES9026PRO chip in the Classica range.