Model S4 is coming

Model S4 comes to show how real audiophile reference USB DAC sounds today. It also includes acclaimed and well known Audial S/PDIF quality input.

Plans for 2018

Another story about TDA1541A: 384 kHz

Can this old gem get there?

Back to the roots: 14 bits (of TDA1541A)

By measuring standard low level performance at -60 dBFS (dithered sine wave), there was practically no difference between its regular 16 bit, and this 14 bit “mode” of operation. Noise floor, on the other hand, is somewhat higher, roughly speaking 6-12 dB, and that is what you would expect, given 2 bits difference.

USB to simultaneous data (or I2S) board

Audial quality USB interface. At one side it connects to PC via USB port, and on the other it outputs “raw” PCM signal, in simultaneous data or I2S form.

Transformer coupling pros and cons (in a nutshell)

Purely sonically, transformer coupled output has more calm presentation, with more quiet background, and somewhat more precise soundstage. On the other hand, transformers can lack some definition at the most bottom end. Still, possible benefits and shortcomings depend also on the environment.

Cermet potentiometers

Audial Model A uses cermet potentiometer as premium part. The reason is simple: cermet is sonically clearly superior to any other potentiometer type. Cermet potentiometers are still however relatively unknown, so more information follows.

Model A volume control

Model A uses the low impedance shunt potentiometer. This article brings more details about this ultimate volume control.

Asynchronous USB to simultaneous data converter board, interest check

Asynchronous USB Audio Class 2.0, galvanic isolation, two oscillators, and reclocked simultaneous data output. With U.FL output connectors it would be adequate companion to AYA II 2014 or DS board, and of course the great possibility to connect PC to Model S MkIII.

Model A, one year later: Power

The Model A shipped in 2015 can output up to 10 A current.