Cayin iDAC-8: Tube D/A Converter with 6H6b-B Triodes

Following our flagship Cayin N30LE music player, which featured AKM AK4499EQ converters and a tube output stage to rave reviews, we now introduce the new iDAC-8 tube DAC/preamplifier. Featuring a tandem of AK4191EQ and AK4499EXEQ converter chips and a 6H6b-B tube circuit, the iDAC-8 delivers a unique sonic experience.

Two triode tubes per channel are responsible for current amplification and driving the positive and negative phases of each channel, ensuring excellent music reproduction.

The output stage of the iDAC-8 consists of two triodes operating in parallel as a cathode follower within the 6H6b-B tube. This increases current capacity and reduces noise. A fast-switching Vishay MOSFET with low on-resistance is connected in series as a voltage follower for the second output stage.

As a result, the iDAC-8 can be operated as either a tube or solid-state preamplifier. Regardless of how well the 64-bit digital filters and volume control of the AK4191EQ perform, Cayin has additionally opted for an analog volume control. By using the JRC NJW1195A chip, digital losses are avoided and the resolution of the iDAC-8 is fully maintained at every attenuation level.

Sophisticated, open, and airy – in addition to its neutral transparency and excellent sound, the iDAC-8 offers technically and visually matched combination options. It not only forms a coordinated complete system with our new iHA-8 headphone amplifier and iDAP-8 audio player, but can also be used as an external converter for the Mini-CD MK2. Its I2S and AES/EBU inputs make it a wonderful intermediary for digital-to-analog conversion.

Or combine the iDAC-8 with the simultaneously released Cayin HA-2A tube headphone amplifier.

DAC chipset:
AK4191 Digital, 2x AK4499EX (mono)

Inputs:
I2S, USB, coaxial (RCA & BNC), AES/EBU, optical

Line and preamp outputs:
2.2V + 2.2V RCA, 4.2V + 4.2V XLR

Output voltage:
6V + 6V RCA, 12V + 12V XLR

Tube complement:
2x 6H6b-B

Dimensions (W x D x H):
270x215x70

Weight (kg):
4.6

Herstellerangaben:

Zhuhai Spark Electronic Equipment Co., Ltd.
No. 9 LianFa Road
Zhuhai City
Shuanglin , Guangdong Province
China
info@cayin.cn

Verantwortliche Person:

Cayin Audio Distribution GmbH
An der Kreuzheck 8
61479 , Glassworks
Germany
info@cayin.com