ПК и серверы — XACT S1 EVO

The S1 EVO is a music server from XACT, a Polish company based in Wroclaw founded by Marcin Ostapowicz, the creator of JPLAY playback software and JCAT hardware. Developed from the ground up over six years, the S1 EVO represents an enhanced evolution of XACT's original S1 server, built around an uncompromising philosophy the brand summarises as digital that doesn't sound like digital, more like vinyl.

Key specs that matter

The 100% custom motherboard is developed exclusively for high-end music playback and claimed as the world's first fully linear-powered motherboard - no switching components appear anywhere in the power supply, with the OPTIMO X1 linear power supply section delivering 140,000 microfarads of filter capacitance. A specially selected 4TB SSD handles audio file storage, with 8TB available on request. Two USB Audio 2.0 outputs are provided via gold-plated, EMI-shielded connectors - one main output and one without the 5V power bus - alongside six Gigabit Ethernet LAN inputs using gold-plated RJ-45 connectors with built-in 12-core transformers for improved isolation; these LAN ports let the S1 EVO function either as a server/streamer or as an audiophile network switch, though only in one role at a time. JPLAY playback software supports Tidal and Qobuz streaming alongside local file playback, with native bit-perfect support for DSD up to DSD512 and PCM up to 768kHz at 16-32 bits, plus a lifetime JPlay licence included. The in-house developed Master OCXO (oven-controlled crystal oscillator) clock offers exceptional stability and precision typically reserved for premium audio systems. The PHANTOM Music Drive Cable, sharing construction with XACT's PHANTOM USB and LAN cables, minimises signal interference for genuine audio integrity, while IMMOTUS mechanical isolation footers, engineered from aerospace-grade aluminium and ceramics, eliminate detrimental vibration to improve detail, resolution and bass precision. At 439 x 315 x 86mm, the chassis occupies most of a standard equipment shelf, and the unit is made to order with a typical four-week lead time.

Sound and use context

Expect a natural, organic and analogue-sophisticated sound with lifelike imaging - the designer's own vision specifically targets sound that feels hard to believe is digital.

Pairing

The dual USB outputs let the S1 EVO feed a compatible DAC directly with or without USB bus power depending on the DAC's own requirements, and the alternative network-switch functionality means this unit could serve either role within a system depending on what a buyer already owns.

Alternatives

XACT's standard S1 sits below this EVO model at a genuine price saving, sharing the same core custom motherboard and linear power philosophy, worth considering instead if the EVO's specific clock, cable and isolation-footer refinements exceed what a particular system requires.