Description
The DSPre is such a product, combining the award-winning digital-to-analog capabilities of the DAC8 into a fully balanced active analog Audio Research preamplifier. This combination of high performance and convenience in one chassis delivers incredible musical performance as well as great overall value.
The DSPre offers five digital and five analog inputs. Included in the digital input section are USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA, BNC and Toslink® – all capable of decoding up to 24 bit, 192 kHz resolution. Two balanced and three single-ended sets of inputs complete the analog section. There is a pair of balanced and single-ended outputs. The DSPre also has RS-232 connectivity for automation control as well as two 12 volt triggers for turning on other products such as the Definition series amplifiers.
The digital technology in the DSPre is derived from our award-winning DAC8. Utilizing a quad DAC architecture and dual low jitter master crystal oscillators, the decoding is state of the art and leading edge technology. The asynchronous USB design, in conjunction with Audio Research custom software drivers ensure bit perfect data transfer. Further, all S/PDIF inputs are eligible for upconversion via our sample rate converter, taking 44.1 and 88.2 kHz signals to 176.4 kHz, or 48 and 96 kHz signals to 192 kHz.
The preamplifier of the DSPre is all analog and pure class-A with zero feedback. The outputs are direct-coupled, and the design is fully differential from input to output. Frequency response extends beyond 200 kHz and the signal-to-noise ratio is 120 dB.
Sonically, the DSPre is simply captivating, with a transparent, extended, and relaxed presentation that is unlike other solid-state products—you will know that it came from Audio Research. The sound is spacious and focused, resolving so much information but without any brightness, grain or artifact. In fact you will be quite amazed at the capabilities of this unit as it far outperforms your expectations in both sound and ability. High Definition® from Audio Research.
-TYPE: Solid-state stereo line stage with DAC.
-DISTORTION (THD): THD+N less than .006% at 2VRMS BAL output.
-NOISE & HUM: -96dB (volume at 1).
-GAIN: Max. Analog Gain: 18.1dB Balanced, 12dB SE. Max. Digital Gain: 30dB Balanced, 24dB SE. (Processor input: 0dB balanced).
