The NuPrime DAC-9X is a reference-class DAC designed for studio professionals and high-end audiophiles, featuring a 6.3mm headphone output. It functions as the heart of an audio system, supporting an extensive number of inputs and formats, and is capable of decoding PCM 384K, DSD256, and MQA.
Function Description:
The DAC-9X serves as a digital-to-analog converter and a preamplifier. It is equipped with six digital inputs (including two IIS/DSD) and one analog stereo input. For outputs, it provides RCA stereo and XLR balanced outputs, in addition to the 6.3mm standard stereo headphone output. The device is designed to faithfully reproduce music irrespective of the format used, from hi-res to extreme resolution.
Important Technical Specifications:
- USB: Type B 2.0 Hi-Speed, Windows OS: data stream up to 384KHz/24Bit and Native DSD 256. Type B 2.0 Hi-Speed, Mac / Linux OS: data stream up to 384KHz/24Bit and DOP DSD 128.
- IIS/DSD: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 384KHz/32Bit and DSD 64 ~ DSD 256 data streams.
- OPTICAL: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 192KHz/24Bit and DOP 64.
- COAXIAL: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 384KHz/24Bit and DOP 64 and 128.
- RCA: Up to 1.5 Vrms audio signal.
- EXTENSION: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 192KHz/24Bit.
Outputs (Front Panel):
- TRS 6.3mm headphone out
- Output power: 1700 mW, 32 ohms, <0.01% THD (watts per channel).
- Output power: 135 mW, 600 ohms, <0.005% THD (watts per channel).
Outputs (Rear Panel):
- RCA unbalanced outputs: 4 Vrms
- XLR balanced outputs: 8 Vrms
- Optical S/PDIF out: (PCM up to 192KHz supporting DoP format DSD64)
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 KHz / ±0.3 dB.
- SNR: > 110 dB.
- THD+N: < 0.0005%.
- Dimensions: 235 mm W x 281 mm D x 60 mm H (including feet)
- Weight: 2.5kg
- Worldwide AC voltage: (90VAC~130VAC // 210VAC~ 250VAC) With Voltage Select Switch
- AC Fuse: Slow-blow, 2.5A, 250VA
PCM Sample Rates Display: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384
DSD Sample Rates Display: d2.8 (64), d5.6 (128), d11.2 (256)
Volume Display: 00 ~ 99
Usage Features:
Front Panel Controls:
- Power / Input Selector: Briefly press for 3 seconds to On/Off standby mode. Turn the knob to switch between inputs.
- Standard 6.3mm (1/4") stereo headphone jack
- Remote IR receiver
- Display
- LED: Indicates MQA status (Green for MQA Authentic Format, Blue for MQA Studio Format, Magenta for ORFS - Original Sample Rate Format) and DSD status (Yellow for DSD Format).
- VARIABLE/FIXED Switch:
- VARIABLE: Volume can be adjusted.
- FIXED: Output is at max volume and cannot be adjusted (DAC out).
- Volume control: Turn the knob clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease volume. Briefly press the knob to Mute / Un-Mute.
Preamplifier Features:
- Analog volume control design using a low noise and low distortion resistance ladder circuit.
- Digital controlled dual-mono analog shunt to ground volume control for zero added noise or distortion.
- Individually adjustable volume on each input for precise source level matching.
- Eliminates the need for extra analog signal cables and connectors.
Other Notable Features:
- NuPrime SRC IC chip: Co-developed with an IC vendor, this chip provides DSP processing where input signals are up-sampled to megahertz before down-converting to the targeted sampling rate, ensuring ultra-low jitter and distortion.
- Extension port: For optional Bluetooth receiver and WiFi audio streamer.
- Full microprocessor control: With memory retention.
- DSD native playback: Supports ASIO2.1 and DoP method.
- Ultra-low-noise JFETs: In the input stage for the lowest possible noise floor.
- Asynchronous transfer mode.
- Very low power consumption: In Standby Mode.
- NuPrime Extension Port: A USB Type-A port carrying S/PDIF data and 5V power for connecting external wireless audio receivers (e.g., NuPrime Omnia WR-1, BTR-HD, Stream Mini, Stream Mini DAC) with a standard USB cable.
Native MQA Decoding:
The DAC-9X includes MQA technology, allowing playback of MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording. The front panel LED indicates MQA stream detection and provenance:
- Green: Playing an MQA Authentic file.
- Blue: Playing an MQA Studio file.
- Magenta: Playing an MQA ORFS (Original Sample Rate) file, approved by the artist/producer or verified by the copyright owner.
Power Circuit:
Features a low noise power supply with antivibration treatment to keep AC hum to a minimum. The onboard power circuit is designed to minimize overall noise.
Remote Control Functions:
- Power button: Toggles power STANDBY and ON.
- DIS (Display): Shows sample rates on the display for 3 seconds, then returns to the original display.
- Vol + / Vol -: Adjusts volume up/down.
- MUTE: Mutes/unmutes volume.
- Input Selection buttons: COAX, OPT, USB, EXT, AUX, H1/H2 (press H1/H2 to toggle between H1 & H2 input).
Maintenance Features:
Safety Instructions:
- Never attempt to disassemble, repair, or modify the device.
- Do not expose the unit to moisture or water.
- Do not allow foreign objects into the enclosure.
- Disconnect power immediately if unusual odor, sound, or smoke occurs.
- Use only grounded AC power cords.
- Ensure minimum 10 cm (4 inches) unobstructed clearance around the unit for ventilation.
- Do not place the unit on surfaces that block ventilation openings.
- Unplug the power cord during lightning storms or if unused for long periods.
- If the power supply cord/plug is damaged, objects/liquid spilled into the unit, exposed to rain, shows signs of improper operation, or dropped/damaged, stop use immediately and seek qualified service.
Headphone Pin Define: Standard 6.3mm stereo plugs are LEFT, RIGHT, GND.
XLR MALE Pin Define: Pin 1: Ground, Pin 2: Positive (+), Pin 3: Negative (-).
IIS/DSD Pin Define: Detailed pinout for IIS/DSD connection, including SDATA, BCK, LRCK, GND, and +3.3V OUTPUT. Note that compatibility with all IIS/DSD sources is not guaranteed due to wide variety of brands and custom specs.
AC Voltage Selector: The AC voltage selector switch at the bottom of the unit must be set to the appropriate voltage for your country (115V or 230V). NuPrime products are shipped with the switch set to 230V AC to prevent accidental damage.
Remote Control Battery Replacement: To change the battery, remove the 4 screws and the bottom cover to access the battery casing.
Limited Warranty:
- Period: ONE (1) YEAR from the date of retail purchase.
- Coverage: Defects in materials and workmanship, and substantial compliance with technical documentation under normal use.
- Remedies: Repair, exchange with new or refurbished product/parts, or refund of purchase price.
- Service: For US customers, deliver to a NuPrime Service Center in the US. For international customers, deliver to a NuPrime Authorized Importer in the country of purchase. Shipping costs may apply if service is sought in a different country or at NuPrime's US/Taiwan service center.
- Limitations: Exclusions and limitations on incidental/consequential damages and implied warranties apply as per legal provisions. NuPrime is not responsible for lost profits, downtime, or data loss.
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