🟦 Audio Research DAC9

Digital-to-analog converter – Foundation Series

⭐ DAC9 Highlights

• Highly musical conversion using an analog topology inherited from the Reference series.

• Full support for high-resolution formats, including DSD and high-frequency PCM.

• Audio Research's signature sound: transparency, naturalness, fluidity and depth.

• Meticulous construction and silent power supply for extremely low noise.

• An essential product in Son Ultime's digital systems, selected by Nicolas for its perfect balance between performance and musicality.

📝 Product presentation

The Audio Research DAC9 is the flagship digital-to-analog converter in the Foundation series. Designed to deliver precise, natural, and textured sound, it retains Audio Research's signature analog approach while incorporating modern, high-performance digital processing. Its perfectly isolated conversion section ensures a sound reproduction free from any digital harshness, resulting in remarkably smooth performance.

Compatible with a wide range of formats, the DAC9 accepts DSD, high-resolution PCM, and streams from high-end players, servers, or streamers. It particularly stands out for its wide soundstage, fine detail, and ability to bring even the most complex recordings to life.

At Son Ultime, this converter holds a prominent place in the digital systems demonstrated by Nicolas. It is regularly paired with high-end network players and high-resolution speakers, allowing customers to discover a fully coherent, faithful, and warm musical approach, typical of Audio Research.

✔️ Conclusion: His Ultimate Sound

For Nicolas and the Son Ultime team, the DAC9 represents the ideal entry point into Audio Research's digital universe. It combines exemplary musicality, natural presentation, and an immersive soundstage, while remaining perfectly compatible with higher-end electronics. It's a product we often recommend for those who want to enjoy digital without sacrificing the soul of the music.

📦 Specifications

🔷 Digital conversion

• Converter: High-performance multibit chipset

• Supported formats:

  • PCM up to 384 kHz

  • DSD (DSD64 and DSD128 via USB)

• Internal clock optimized for very low jitter

🔷 Connectivity

• Inputs: USB Audio 2.0, AES/EBU, RCA SPDIF, BNC SPDIF, Toslink

• Outputs: Stereo RCA, Stereo XLR

• Controls: remote control included

• Trigger and system communication functions

🔷 Performance

• Extended bandwidth

• High signal-to-noise ratio

• Extremely low distortion

• Stable and linear output level

🔷 Food

• Separate low-noise power supply

• Multi-section regulation

• Thermal optimization

🔷 Dimensions & Weight

• Dimensions: 48.3 × 13.4 × 33 cm

• Weight: 10.4 kg