Ferrum Audio ERCO Gen 2

Compact high-end DAC, headphone amplifier and preamplifier in one

The Ferrum Audio ERCO Gen 2 combines a high-end DAC, powerful headphone amplifier and preamplifier in one compact housing. Developed for discerning audiophiles, it offers state-of-the-art digital technology, fully balanced signal processing and exceptional power reserves. Whether on a desktop or as the heart of a high-quality hi-fi system, the ERCO Gen 2 delivers precise, dynamic and detailed music reproduction at a reference level.

Fully balanced amplifier architecture for maximum sound quality

Inside, the ERCO Gen 2 operates with a fully balanced amplifier architecture and a specially developed high-performance amplifier. Thanks to its extremely low output impedance of less than 0.3 ohms, it drives sensitive in-ear monitors as well as demanding high-end headphones with confidence and control. Three selectable gain levels allow for optimal adjustment to different headphones, while up to 6.1 watts of output power at 50 ohms easily powers even power-hungry models.

High-resolution ESS Sabre DAC for uncompromising music enjoyment

The ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC forms the heart of the digital signal processing and supports high-resolution audio formats up to PCM 32-bit / 768 kHz as well as DSD512. Complemented by MQA decoding and an exceptionally linear frequency response, the ERCO Gen 2 impresses with a natural soundstage, high dynamics and the finest detail resolution – ideal for audiophile music lovers.

Flexible connectivity and HYPSOS upgrade

With USB-C, coaxial and optical S/PDIF, as well as analog RCA inputs, the Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 integrates seamlessly into almost any hi-fi or desktop system. Balanced 4.4 mm Pentaconn and 6.35 mm headphone outputs, as well as XLR and RCA line outputs, make it particularly versatile. The proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) also allows for the connection of the optional HYPSOS hybrid power supply, which optimizes power delivery and further increases the sonic potential of the ERCO Gen 2.

Highlights

• High-end DAC, headphone amplifier and preamplifier in one device

• Fully balanced signal processing for maximum sound purity

• ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC

• Supports PCM up to 32-bit / 768 kHz and DSD512

• MQA decoding and playback

• Up to 6.1 watts of output power at 50 ohms (balanced)

• Three selectable gain levels for different headphones

• Extremely low output impedance of less than 0.3 ohms

• USB-C, coaxial, optical and analog RCA inputs

• Balanced XLR and RCA line outputs

• 4.4 mm Pentaconn and 6.35 mm headphone outputs

• Ferrum Power Link (FPL) for connecting the HYPSOS power supply

• Compact desktop design with high-quality craftsmanship

The Ferrum Audio ERCO Gen 2 is the ideal solution for anyone looking for a compact high-end DAC with an integrated headphone amplifier and preamplifier. With its powerful amplifier section, state-of-the-art DAC technology and the option to expand with the Ferrum HYPSOS, the ERCO Gen 2 sets new standards for demanding desktop and hi-fi systems.

Technical Specifications:

Architecture & Design

Fully balanced operation, proprietary IC power amplifier

DAC:

· Chip: ESS Sabre ES9028PRO
· PCM: 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 / 352.8 / 384 / 705.6 / 768 kHz
· DSD: 2.8224 / 3.072 / 5.6448 / 6.144 / 11.2896 / 12.288 / 22.5792 / 24.576 MHz
· Resolution: PCM up to 32-bit / 768 kHz, DSD up to DSD512
· MQA: Decoder & Renderer (USB, Coaxial, Optical)

Inputs:

· USB-C (PCM up to 768 kHz, DSD512, DoP256, MQA)
· S/PDIF Coaxial (PCM up to 192 kHz, DoP64, MQA)
· S/PDIF Optical (PCM up to 96 kHz guaranteed, up to 192 kHz depending on cable, DoP64, MQA)
· Analog RCA input (2 V RMS recommended, professional support)

Outputs:

· Balanced headphone: 4.4 mm TRRRS
· Headphone output (single-ended): 6.35 mm TRS
· Balanced line-out: XLR (4V RMS)
· Unbalanced line-out: RCA (2V RMS)

Headphone Gain:

· Balanced: -5.8 dB / +6 dB / +17.8 dB
· Unbalanced: -11.8 dB / 0 dB / +11.8 dB

Output Power:

· Balanced: 6.1 W at 50 Ω / 1.2 W at 300 Ω
· Single-ended: 1.7 W at 50 Ω / 300 mW at 300 Ω

Distortion (THD):

· Balanced: <0.00018% (1 mW and 100 mW at 16 Ω)
· Single-ended: <0.00032% (1 mW at 16 Ω), <0.00057% (100 mW at 16 Ω)

Dynamic Range:

· Analog: 129 dB (A-weighted)
· Digital: 117 dB (A-weighted)

Frequency Response:

· 10 Hz – 30 kHz (+/- 0.05 dB)
· 10 Hz – 200 kHz (+/- 1 dB)

Impedance:

· Input: 47 kΩ
· Preamp output: 22 Ω (RCA), 44 Ω (XLR)
· Headphone: <0.3 Ω

Power Supply:

· DC 5.5/2.5 mm (center positive)
· Proprietary FPL 4-pin DC connector
· Adapter: 100–240 V AC → 22–30 V DC
· Power consumption: <15 W (idle)

Dimensions and Weight:

· 21.7 × 20.6 × 5 cm
· 1.8 kg

In the box:
· 1x Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 Desktop DAC
· 1x Power cable
· 1x AC/DC power adapter
· 1x USB cable

Herstellerangaben:

HEM Sp. z o.o. / Ferrum Audio
475 Jerozolimskie Avenue
05-800 , Pruszków
Poland
info@hem-e.com