Cayin iDAC-8 | Dual Timbre Desktop DAC

Cayin iDAC-8 is a High-Performance DAC Featuring Dual Timbre Modes, Fully Balanced Architecture, and Precision Volume Control for Hi-Fi Audio Dual Timbre Mode: Offers both Tube and Solid-State timbre options, allowing users to customize the audio signature to their preferences Utilizes a 4-channel low noise, low distortion resistance ladder circuit for accurate and transparent volume adjustments Equipped with a fully balanced circuit architecture, ensuring precise and high-fidelity sound reproduction Offers versatile connectivity with I2S, USB Audio, Coaxial, AES/EBU, and Optical inputs Vacuum Tube | Solid-State Vacuum Tube Timbre: 6H6b-B Dual Triode Single-Ended Mode: Utilizes 2x 6H6b-B tubes, one for each channel. Within each tube, two parallel triodes form the first stage of the timbre circuit, operating as cathode followers to enhance current driving capability and reduce noise. A fast-switching, low-resistance Vishay MOSFET is used in the second stage as a voltage follower for improved performance. Balanced Mode: Also employs 2x 6H6b-B tubes, with the two triodes in each tube dedicated to amplifying the current and driving the positive and negative phases of the same channel. Solid-State Timbre: Utilitarian Op-Amp The solid-state timbre circuit integrates high-performance, low-noise, dual-channel audio-grade operational amplifiers from Texas Instruments. A single Op-Amp is sufficient for the single-ended circuit, while the balanced circuit uses two Op-Amps for precise audio reproduction. Pre-Amp Output | Line Level Output Easily switch between output modes to suit your amplifiers with the push of a button: Pre Out: Provides a variable output with volume control, ideal for use with power amplifiers or active speakers Line Out: Delivers a fixed-level output that bypasses the volume control, perfect for integrated amplifiers The Apex of Decoding The AKM flagship AK4191 + AK4499EX chipset powers the digital-to-analog conversion, utilizing dual AK4499EX chips—one dedicated to each channel. This ensures the DAC operates in MONO mode within a fully balanced circuit, maximizing the chipset’s performance potential. Ultra Low Noise Power System In-house designed and manufactured high-performance toroidal power supply transformers have a rated power of up to 45W. High Precision Volume Controller Volume control is crucial when Preamp mode is active, as it ensures precise adjustment while maintaining transparent and accurate playback. The iDAC-8 utilizes the NJW1195AV volume controller, which operates through a 4-channel low-noise, low-distortion resistance ladder circuit. This design delivers exceptional inter-channel consistency and a highly accurate audio experience. Though electronically managed, the volume adjustment is performed entirely in the analog domain for optimal sound integrity. Compact and Versatile The iDAC-8 joins the Cayin i-series lineup, sharing a cohesive design language with the iDAP-8 digital streamer and the iHA-8 headphone amplifier. Each product functions seamlessly on its own or can be combined to create a unified audio system. Compact and thoughtfully designed, the iDAC-8 fits effortlessly into any home audio or desktop setup. Its L-shaped aluminum cover plate is crafted with precision mold extrusion, CNC machining, fine sandblasting, and an anodized finish, offering a sleek and uniform texture that is both stylish and durable. The ridged heat sink panels on the sides not only enhance the DAC’s aesthetic appeal but also improve heat dissipation by increasing surface area for better airflow. This optimized thermal performance ensures the iDAC-8 operates at peak efficiency for the best possible audio output. Specifications DAC: AK4191 Digital A Modulator + (2x) AK4499EX (Mono Mode) Vacuum Tube RCA: (2x) 6H6b-B XLR: (2x) 6H6b-B Volume Control: NJW1195AV 4-channel electronic controlled analog volume Display: 3.12" 256 x 64 OLED Dot-matrix Digital Inputs: 3S, USB Audio, Coaxial (RCA), Coaxial (BNC), AES/EBU, + Optical Analog Outputs: (2x) BAL XLR + (2x) SE RCA Output Modes Fixed Level: Line Out Variable Level: Pre Amp Out Power Supply: 45W Toroidal Transformer Power Management: 29,200uF Nichicon filtering capacitors + LDO + Regulators Weight: 10.14lbs Dimensions: 270mm x 215mm x 70mm Cayin 1 Year Warranty Analog Outputs (Line Out) Output Level RCA SE: Solid State + Vacuum Tube 2.2V + 2.2V XLR BAL: Solid State | Vacuum Tube 4.2V + 4.2V | 4.1V + 4.1V Analog Outputs (Pre Out) Output Level RCA SE: Solid State + Vacuum Tube 6V + 6V XLR BAL: Solid State | Vacuum Tube 12V + 12V | 10V + 10V Extended Analog Output Specifications Digital Input Specifications In the Box Cayin iDAC-8 Desktop DAC Power cord USB cable (2x) Replacement fuse User Manual Warranty card