V-DACII – DAC

The V-DACII is a DAC of exceptional quality in an unobtrusive but attractive package.

The V-DAC II brings true hi-fi quality digital-to-analogue conversion to an affordable price point.

From CDs to music streaming and downloads – if you listen to digital music then you need a digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) before amplification and speakers can work their magic.

Computers – and even many CD players – use very basic DACs, meaning you won’t get close to hearing the best from your music. That all changes when you add the dedicated V-DAC II: from lower bit-rate internet streams to better-than CD quality music files, your listening will be transformed.

With co-axial, optical and USB inputs, there’s not a digital device the V-DAC II can’t enhance – it’ll even boost the performance of your TV receiver and Blu-ray/DVD player.

Crucially, it’s a 24bit/192kHz asynchronous USB design, offering a significant sonic step up for computer music lovers.

All this high-end hi-fi technology is presented in a solid casing with a sleek brushed silver finish. As with the rest of the V Series, the V-DAC II is a product you’ll be proud to own.

Design and Build

The original V-DAC was praised for offering premium hi-fi performance at an affordable price. The upgraded V-DAC II, with an advanced specification and fresh styling, provides even more exceptional value for money.

At the heart of the V-DAC II are a high-quality Burr Brown DSD 1796 DAC and Burr Brown SRC4392 asynchronous sampler. No other DAC at this price can offer such a combination of 24bit 192kHz upsampling, reclocking, and asynchronous USB in a beautifully built box that also boasts high-grade optical and coaxial inputs. Many far pricier DACs don’t meet this high technical standard.

Asynchronous USB implementation is crucial – it means the V-DAC II fully controls the transfer of audio data from your computer, isolating the signal from digital noise your PC and Mac can introduce.

The V-DAC II also improves on its predecessor’s already excellent technical performance. Distortion has halved to a remarkably low 0.002%, while stereo separation is now an incredible -105dB.

The results are audibly impressive. Hi-Fi World’s review praised the V-DAC II’s “clean, crisp and engaging sound”, also confirming that it “measured well in all areas”.

The V-DAC II’s technical and performance excellence comes clad in suitably smart casing, complete with reassuringly solid aluminium extrusions and a smooth silver finish. As the Hi-Fi News review concludes: “the V-DAC II is superb value for money, offering the latest package with looks that do its quality internals justice”.

 

Specifications

Performance

  • Jitter: <12 picoseconds peak to peak
  • THD(+ noise): <0.004% 20Hz to 20 kHz
  • Frequency Response: +0, –0.1dB, 20Hz to 20 kHz

Inputs

  • 1x RCA coaxial connector SPDIF 32-192 kbps (16-24 bit stereo PCM)
  • 1x TOSLINK optical connector 32-96 kbps (16-24 bit stereo PCM)
  • 1x USB type ‘B’ connector for computer/PDA – 16-24 bits, 32-96 kbps (Determined by source file/computer settings)

Outputs

  • 1x line level RCA (phono)

General

  • Dimensions – WxHxD (mm): 170 x 95 x 40
  • Weight (unpacked / packed): 350 g / 1 kg