Brand: Accuphase
The Accuphase DAC-40 is a high-end digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed and manufactured by Accuphase, a Japanese audio equipment company known for its premium audio products.The DAC-40 employs a dual mono architecture, which means that the left and right channels are completely independent from each other, yielding greater channel separation and stereo imaging. It utilizes two 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC chips, configured in a 'buffered' or 'double' configuration, where an output buffer stage is added to each channel to further enhance noise rejection and improve dynamic range.Other notable features of the DAC-40 include a high-resolution digital input section that supports up to DSD256 and PCM32-bit/768kHz files via a variety of connections, including USB, S/PDIF, AES/EBU, and RCA and XLR analog outputs. The DAC-40 also incorporates Accuphase's proprietary ESP Digital Filter System, which is a hybrid approach combining both digital and analog filtering for optimal sonic performance.In terms of user interface, the DAC-40 offers an intuitive control panel, featuring a high-contrast OLED screen displaying important information such as input source, sample rates, and volume level, as well as navigation and adjustment functions via a rotary dial and discrete pressed buttons.Overall, the Accuphase DAC-40 is a top-tier DAC that offers exceptional sonic performance, advanced features, and high build quality, making it a worthy choice for audiophiles seeking the highest level of digital reproduction in their system.