DAC ES9038 GR3
After the great success the second version Quang Hào opens a new group buy to produce a new series of DAC modules with the best chip available on the market.
>>> first group buy closed <<<
>>> second group buy open <<<
Some rewiew and articles:
Mono & Stereo
Measured in Denmark!
6moons
QuangHao
Now, I am very excited to open the 3rd buy group sharing this DAC design.
Quanghao is proud to announce the latest addition to our level ES series with the new Hq9038 Tube DAC. Under development for many years it’s quite incredible this product is available as a kit, rather it is an exceptional piece of high-end audio that can also be purchased in kit form or as factory assembled.
Quanghao was to build on our current DAC expertise and develop one of the finest digital to analog converters on the market today.
Thorough, Andrea, Morten, Quanghao have successfully conquered the potential of the ES9038PRO. Hq-audiodesign has succeeded in creating a full-featured ES9038-TUBE DAC with a DAC player. This is a premium and luxurious gift for your home audio system. We would like to send you this design with the energetic and sweet sound of the Tube!
1 X Music server (Pi3)
1 x DAC ES9038 PRO
1 x Tube Output Direct to Amplier
Balance output ans SE output
Z-out under 100 Ohm
4 inputs: USB, Spdif coax on BNC, AES/EBU Professional on XLR, Optical Toslink.
Output 2 x 12AU7 and 2 x 6DJ8.
The HQ9038 Tube DAC includes 9 options. This options are available and here the new cost:
1. DAC module assembled and tested with all components:
- ES9038PRO chip,
- CCHD-575 Ultra-Low Phase Noise Crystal Oscillator: Ultra-low phase noise CMOS oscillator provides 168-dBc/Hz noise floor | Electronics EETimes
- 7 x LT3042 linear power supply regulator 1uV noise
- 5 x LT1117 linear power supply regulator.
- All input connectors
- BUT NO OUTPUT STAGE
price 400$
2. DAC controller- Encorder + 4 x 20 LCD:
see video for LCD: YouTube
20x4 LCD
Infrared remote command
Remote silver
All connectors
price: 150$
3. Pure I/V balanced module assembled and tested with all components:
price: 560$
4. Hq-HV supply for Pure i/V module assembled and tested with all components:
price: 400$
5. Transformers, for the DAC:
price 150$ each
6. Chassie: include: weighs: 10 kg
- 1 x chassis, iron powder coated black, size: 420 x 380 x 86 mm,
- 1 x front surface silver anodized scratch: 430mm x 92mm x 10mm.
- 4 x rubber feet: 20mm high, 50mm wide
- 2 x aluminum knob 26mm x 38mm
- 1 x Plug + switch
- 20 x copper base 10 x 3 mm
- fasteners: catch the front, the back, motherboards, storage tank foam.
price 250$
7. Amanero module
Please purchase from: : Amanero Technologies
8. Raspberry-Pi for Music Server:
price: 40$
9. Product Hq9038 Tube DAC
price: 2589$
Shipping by TNT:
A. The options : 1 to 3 : 70$ ( the same price)
B. The options : 1 to 4 : 85$ ( the same price)
C. The options : 5 : 90$ very heavy, calculated separately for each country.
D. The options : 9 , and 1 to 8 : 180$ ( all: 15 kg)
Payment: half the amount for the selection, the remaining amount of money + shipping payment before shipping.
Payment by paypal: quanghao168@yahoo.com.vn
Paypal free: 2%.
Note: Because this is a shared project, and need money to produce,
Therefore, you have paid half of the money for the project will not be allowed to get back the money - this is a mandatory provision of this buying group!
One-year warranty.
You send me back defective products and carrier billing yourself.
I return it to you and I pay for shipping to you, after you're done!
After the great success the second version Quang Hào opens a new group buy to produce a new series of DAC modules with the best chip available on the market.
>>> first group buy closed <<<
>>> second group buy open <<<
Some rewiew and articles:
Mono & Stereo
Measured in Denmark!
6moons
QuangHao
Now, I am very excited to open the 3rd buy group sharing this DAC design.
Quanghao is proud to announce the latest addition to our level ES series with the new Hq9038 Tube DAC. Under development for many years it’s quite incredible this product is available as a kit, rather it is an exceptional piece of high-end audio that can also be purchased in kit form or as factory assembled.
Quanghao was to build on our current DAC expertise and develop one of the finest digital to analog converters on the market today.
Thorough, Andrea, Morten, Quanghao have successfully conquered the potential of the ES9038PRO. Hq-audiodesign has succeeded in creating a full-featured ES9038-TUBE DAC with a DAC player. This is a premium and luxurious gift for your home audio system. We would like to send you this design with the energetic and sweet sound of the Tube!
1 X Music server (Pi3)
1 x DAC ES9038 PRO
1 x Tube Output Direct to Amplier
Balance output ans SE output
Z-out under 100 Ohm
4 inputs: USB, Spdif coax on BNC, AES/EBU Professional on XLR, Optical Toslink.
Output 2 x 12AU7 and 2 x 6DJ8.
The HQ9038 Tube DAC includes 9 options. This options are available and here the new cost:
1. DAC module assembled and tested with all components:
- ES9038PRO chip,
- CCHD-575 Ultra-Low Phase Noise Crystal Oscillator: Ultra-low phase noise CMOS oscillator provides 168-dBc/Hz noise floor | Electronics EETimes
- 7 x LT3042 linear power supply regulator 1uV noise
- 5 x LT1117 linear power supply regulator.
- All input connectors
- BUT NO OUTPUT STAGE
price 400$
2. DAC controller- Encorder + 4 x 20 LCD:
see video for LCD: YouTube
20x4 LCD
Infrared remote command
Remote silver
All connectors
price: 150$
3. Pure I/V balanced module assembled and tested with all components:
price: 560$
4. Hq-HV supply for Pure i/V module assembled and tested with all components:
price: 400$
5. Transformers, for the DAC:
price 150$ each
6. Chassie: include: weighs: 10 kg
- 1 x chassis, iron powder coated black, size: 420 x 380 x 86 mm,
- 1 x front surface silver anodized scratch: 430mm x 92mm x 10mm.
- 4 x rubber feet: 20mm high, 50mm wide
- 2 x aluminum knob 26mm x 38mm
- 1 x Plug + switch
- 20 x copper base 10 x 3 mm
- fasteners: catch the front, the back, motherboards, storage tank foam.
price 250$
7. Amanero module
Please purchase from: : Amanero Technologies
8. Raspberry-Pi for Music Server:
price: 40$
9. Product Hq9038 Tube DAC
price: 2589$
Shipping by TNT:
A. The options : 1 to 3 : 70$ ( the same price)
B. The options : 1 to 4 : 85$ ( the same price)
C. The options : 5 : 90$ very heavy, calculated separately for each country.
D. The options : 9 , and 1 to 8 : 180$ ( all: 15 kg)
Payment: half the amount for the selection, the remaining amount of money + shipping payment before shipping.
Payment by paypal: quanghao168@yahoo.com.vn
Paypal free: 2%.
Note: Because this is a shared project, and need money to produce,
Therefore, you have paid half of the money for the project will not be allowed to get back the money - this is a mandatory provision of this buying group!
One-year warranty.
You send me back defective products and carrier billing yourself.
I return it to you and I pay for shipping to you, after you're done!
Attachments
Last edited:
One more question, is it possible to get source of firmware for DAC controller? I would like to mod it to have more digital outputs with i2c controled selector, but controled trough DAC controler. And free USB port for PC connection, and connect raspbery pi with pi hat dac ( Digi+ | HiFiBerry ) internaly to SPDIF, nad to have more than one SPDIF imput.
Hi gemby!
I am very sorry, we can not provide it for you because we have been so hard to write code for it:
1. write code for ES9018S to 65 version.
Writing code for ES9038, 9028PRO is: 65 times + 12 version of bug fixes.
We have perfected it. We can only provide Hex files to you and the members, when needed upgrades.
2. Our DAC design with i2S input is the input sharing, it's completely different design. Therefore, our code is very difficult to use for other ES9038PRO designs.
Thank you, and We are looking forward to your understanding!
Special thanks!
quanghao
I am very sorry, we can not provide it for you because we have been so hard to write code for it:
1. write code for ES9018S to 65 version.
Writing code for ES9038, 9028PRO is: 65 times + 12 version of bug fixes.
We have perfected it. We can only provide Hex files to you and the members, when needed upgrades.
2. Our DAC design with i2S input is the input sharing, it's completely different design. Therefore, our code is very difficult to use for other ES9038PRO designs.
Thank you, and We are looking forward to your understanding!
Special thanks!
quanghao
Hi Myint67!
Shipping: $ 150. All ready to ship. Except for some components at PCX:
Wait for payment, we will order:
1. 12au7 x 2. More Information Page
2. 6922 / E88CC, x 2 -TUBEEH-64281: Electro-Harmonix Small Signal Vacuum Tubes
3. Capacitor output - MUNDORF-76452 :Mundorf Film Caps EVO - Silver|Gold + Oil
at Parts ConneXion - The authority on Hi-Fi DIY parts and components after 1 week.
Next week can ship to you when I get your payment!
Thank you for your purchase!
Quanghao
Welcome to Hq9038 Tube Dac
DIGITAL TO ANALOGUE CONVERTER WITH MUSIC SERVER
Our new ultimate DAC us chip ES9038PRO.
HQ-Audio is proud to announce the latest addition to our level ES series with the new Hq9038 Tube DAC.
Under development for many years it’s quite incredible this product is available as a kit, rather it is an exceptional piece of high-end audio that can also be purchased in kit form or as factory assembled.
Hq-Audio was to build on our current DAC expertise and develop one of the finest digital to analog converters on the market today.
We leveraged our Low-Z-out power supply technology and combined that with a film capacitor architecture dedicated to delivering unparalleled performance.
The dynamics, the smoothness, the end result–a staggering experience for the modern audiophile and a chance to re-experience their entire digital collection.
The Hq9038 Tube Dac Architecture
Looking at the heart of the digital to analog section of the DAC Hq9038 tube there are five key ingredients:
1. All new digital DAC board using 7pcs of the Ultra low noise Regulator LT3042 (<1 uV noise) to feed ultra quiet DC voltages to the digital board.
2. i/V conversion with a dedicated resistor to transfer the analog signal from the DAC board to the Tube board.
3. Analog output stage encorporating a 12AU7 & ECC99, zero feedback configuration with both single ended output using RCA connectors and true balanced output using XLR connectors.
4. Beautiful remote control.
5. Music server using 1.2GHz quad core CPU in a Raspberry Pi 3 setup. The Server runs the Linux operation system.
Board DAC
Specifications:
♥ Input: 4 inputs:
1. USB-match with Amanero USB (not included).
2. Spdif- RCA
3. AES/EBU.
4. Optical.
♥ Support: 44,88,96,192,352, 384KHz PCM and DSD 512.
♥ Supply: Digiltal & Analog supply:
All low noise LT3042.
Parts Compliment includes:
♥ ES9038PRO chip.
♥ CCHD-575, Ultra-Low Phase Noise Crystal Oscillator.
♥ All Input connecters, Amanero USB (not included)
♥ All low noise LT3042
♥ LT1117.
THE BEST CHIP DAC
The ES9038PRO SABRE DAC is the flagship of the ESS PRO series.
Hq-Audio has succeeded in creating a full-featured ES9038-TUBE DAC with a DAC player. This is a premium and luxurious gift for your home audio system. We would like to send you this design with the energetic and sweet sound of the Tube! Bring your music to life!!!
Network Music Player
Moode-Audio is a software that turns Raspberry Pi into an Moode-Audio music player. It will make it perform as an high fidelity digital source.
Hq-Audio has seleceted the Raspberry Pi3 for music server, as this is the Music source that plays with an immersive listening experience that HQ Audio appreciate and admired for playing music better than a most then most of computers used as Music server.
The Premium USB interface
USB is supported by a unique true asynchronous FPGA based solution from the italian company Amanero. We believe it is the sound leading USB interface and gives a perfect Audio match for the Raspberry Pi.
Besides being excellent in sound, the USB interface supports future high resolution audio format in PCM up to 384 and up to DSD512. Please Buy it : Amanero Technologies
The REMOTE Control
The DAC includes a gorgeous remote control is made of cast aluminum. Convenient, beautiful and easy to use. Just press the button and you have great features like: On-Off function, Volume control of the 32bit Attenuator, input select, mute function, select of PCM/DSD filter types and the frequency cutoff of the filters. All the settings. The Remote is the PERFECT COMPANION FOR YOUR DAC
The remote control
The DAC includes a gorgeous remote control is made of cast aluminum. Convenient, beautiful and easy to use. Just press the button and you have great features like: On-Off function, Volume control of the 32bit Attenuator, input select, mute function, select of PCM/DSD filter types and the frequency cutoff of the filters. All the settings can easily be memolised. The Remote is the PERFECT COMPANION FOR YOUR DAC.
BALANCED OUTPUT & UNBALANCED OUTPUT
Real Analogue output With Tube i/v
The HQ9038-Tube DAC has an Analouge output design that surpasses all earlier designs. The DAC chips balanced output are converted to unbalanced using the HQ unique technology. That gives a great experiences and creates unbelievably stunning soundstage.
In particular, the output of the DAC has an impedance of less than 100 Ohm and 3VRMS. wich makes it ideal for connecting the ES9038PRO to the power amplifier without the need for a pre-amplifier, giving the strongest clarity in the sound. In addition, the high-voltage supply for the Tubes in the analouge output is optimized using Mosfets vith very low internal resistance and a noise level of 1 uV. The high- voltage supply are equipped with high end components and includes several non-polarized MKP capacitors that provide crystal clear sound, increased dynamic and create deep and wide sound stage.
HV SUPPLY FOR PURE I/V
Power supply for Pre, Phono, Loudspeakers .. Audio system is very important, it is the power supply factor and feeds the whole audio system. Not only that, power is also a key factor in determining the output audio quality. Basically, it must be clean enough so that the system does not have a lot of noise. Hq-Audio has succeeded in using and designing voltage sources for audio systems such as Pre, Phono, DAC, Amplifier …,
The Hq9038-HV regulator is one of the high voltage voltage regulators designed for preamplifiers using the Tube with the following features.
Music Server in HQ-9038 Tube Dac
DAC integrates a Rasberry Pi3 to be the dedicated Music Server. It Take advantage of the endless digital music sources, especially the DSD64 format are very close to the sound of the SA-CD. The time for using bundles of expensive CDs and SA-CDs is over.
This Music Server will give you choose High resolution audio files. Actually, the DAC plays all formats of digital music file.
HQ Audio has seleceted the Raspberry Pi3 for music server, as this is the Music source that plays with an immersive listening experience that HQ Audio appreciate and admired for playing music better than a most then most of computers used as Music server.
HQ9038 Tube Dac with Your Audio System
Finished Product
You can order the Hq9038 Tube DAC as FACTORY ASSEMBLED.
Simply select the ‘FINISHED PRODUCT’ option in the shop section of the website.
Thorough, Andrea, Morten Audio have successfully conquered the potential of the ES9038PRO. Hq-audiodesign has succeeded in creating a full-featured ES9038-TUBE DAC with a DAC player. This is a premium and luxurious gift for your home audio system. We would like to send you this design with the energetic and sweet sound of the Tube!
1 X Music server
1 x DAC ES9038 PRO
1 x Tube Output Direct to Amplier
Balance output ans SE output
Z-out under 100 Ohm
4 inputs: USB, Spdif coax on BNC, AES/EBU Professional on XLR, Optical Toslink.
Output 2 x 12AU7 and 2 x 6DJ8
Specifications:
Main DAC: ESS Sabre32 Reference ES9038PRO.
Resolution: 32 Bit
Output Tubes: 02 x 12AU7 Electro Harmonix & 2 x ECC99 J
Audio Outputs: 1 x Stereo Pair RCA, 1 x Stereo Balanced.
Output impedance: 100 Ohm.
Output Levels: 3.0V RMS fixed, 6.0V RMS Balanced.
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 20kHz +0.1dB.
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.015%
Digital Inputs: Amanero USB SPDIF RCA, XLR digital
Input Format Support: PCM 16-32Bit /44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 6.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz DSD DSD64/128/256 (DoP/dCS) DSD64/128/256/512 (ASIO Native). PCM 16-32Bit /44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz DSD DSD64/128/256 (DoP/dCS) SD64/128/256/512 (ASIO Native).
Interface and music player software: Moodaudio, Runeaudio, Volumio.
Wifi – Ethernet: 802.11 b/g/n Wireless LAN.
USB: 4 x USB 2.0 ports.
Parts Compliment includes:
Remote Control: Turn on / Set / Volume / Mute / Select signal channel.
Mains Power: 220V-240V, 50/60Hz.
Power Consumption: Under 100W.
Chassis: 8mm Aluminum with Black Powder Sandtex.
Dimensions: (H x W x D): 100 x 350 x 435 mm.
Weight: 12.5 Kilos.
Finish: Silver.
Output capacitors: M-Cap®ZN.
Filter capacitors: Solen MKP.
USB caps, Power caps, Use Manual.
Specifications may be subject to revision.
*Request separately Hq-Audio variant
at extra cost.
DIGITAL TO ANALOGUE CONVERTER WITH MUSIC SERVER
Our new ultimate DAC us chip ES9038PRO.
HQ-Audio is proud to announce the latest addition to our level ES series with the new Hq9038 Tube DAC.
Under development for many years it’s quite incredible this product is available as a kit, rather it is an exceptional piece of high-end audio that can also be purchased in kit form or as factory assembled.
Hq-Audio was to build on our current DAC expertise and develop one of the finest digital to analog converters on the market today.
We leveraged our Low-Z-out power supply technology and combined that with a film capacitor architecture dedicated to delivering unparalleled performance.
The dynamics, the smoothness, the end result–a staggering experience for the modern audiophile and a chance to re-experience their entire digital collection.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
The Hq9038 Tube Dac Architecture
Looking at the heart of the digital to analog section of the DAC Hq9038 tube there are five key ingredients:
1. All new digital DAC board using 7pcs of the Ultra low noise Regulator LT3042 (<1 uV noise) to feed ultra quiet DC voltages to the digital board.
2. i/V conversion with a dedicated resistor to transfer the analog signal from the DAC board to the Tube board.
3. Analog output stage encorporating a 12AU7 & ECC99, zero feedback configuration with both single ended output using RCA connectors and true balanced output using XLR connectors.
4. Beautiful remote control.
5. Music server using 1.2GHz quad core CPU in a Raspberry Pi 3 setup. The Server runs the Linux operation system.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
Board DAC
Specifications:
♥ Input: 4 inputs:
1. USB-match with Amanero USB (not included).
2. Spdif- RCA
3. AES/EBU.
4. Optical.
♥ Support: 44,88,96,192,352, 384KHz PCM and DSD 512.
♥ Supply: Digiltal & Analog supply:
All low noise LT3042.
Parts Compliment includes:
♥ ES9038PRO chip.
♥ CCHD-575, Ultra-Low Phase Noise Crystal Oscillator.
♥ All Input connecters, Amanero USB (not included)
♥ All low noise LT3042
♥ LT1117.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
THE BEST CHIP DAC
The ES9038PRO SABRE DAC is the flagship of the ESS PRO series.
Hq-Audio has succeeded in creating a full-featured ES9038-TUBE DAC with a DAC player. This is a premium and luxurious gift for your home audio system. We would like to send you this design with the energetic and sweet sound of the Tube! Bring your music to life!!!
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
Network Music Player
Moode-Audio is a software that turns Raspberry Pi into an Moode-Audio music player. It will make it perform as an high fidelity digital source.
Hq-Audio has seleceted the Raspberry Pi3 for music server, as this is the Music source that plays with an immersive listening experience that HQ Audio appreciate and admired for playing music better than a most then most of computers used as Music server.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
The Premium USB interface
USB is supported by a unique true asynchronous FPGA based solution from the italian company Amanero. We believe it is the sound leading USB interface and gives a perfect Audio match for the Raspberry Pi.
Besides being excellent in sound, the USB interface supports future high resolution audio format in PCM up to 384 and up to DSD512. Please Buy it : Amanero Technologies
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
The REMOTE Control
The DAC includes a gorgeous remote control is made of cast aluminum. Convenient, beautiful and easy to use. Just press the button and you have great features like: On-Off function, Volume control of the 32bit Attenuator, input select, mute function, select of PCM/DSD filter types and the frequency cutoff of the filters. All the settings. The Remote is the PERFECT COMPANION FOR YOUR DAC
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
The remote control
The DAC includes a gorgeous remote control is made of cast aluminum. Convenient, beautiful and easy to use. Just press the button and you have great features like: On-Off function, Volume control of the 32bit Attenuator, input select, mute function, select of PCM/DSD filter types and the frequency cutoff of the filters. All the settings can easily be memolised. The Remote is the PERFECT COMPANION FOR YOUR DAC.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
BALANCED OUTPUT & UNBALANCED OUTPUT
Real Analogue output With Tube i/v
The HQ9038-Tube DAC has an Analouge output design that surpasses all earlier designs. The DAC chips balanced output are converted to unbalanced using the HQ unique technology. That gives a great experiences and creates unbelievably stunning soundstage.
In particular, the output of the DAC has an impedance of less than 100 Ohm and 3VRMS. wich makes it ideal for connecting the ES9038PRO to the power amplifier without the need for a pre-amplifier, giving the strongest clarity in the sound. In addition, the high-voltage supply for the Tubes in the analouge output is optimized using Mosfets vith very low internal resistance and a noise level of 1 uV. The high- voltage supply are equipped with high end components and includes several non-polarized MKP capacitors that provide crystal clear sound, increased dynamic and create deep and wide sound stage.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
HV SUPPLY FOR PURE I/V
Power supply for Pre, Phono, Loudspeakers .. Audio system is very important, it is the power supply factor and feeds the whole audio system. Not only that, power is also a key factor in determining the output audio quality. Basically, it must be clean enough so that the system does not have a lot of noise. Hq-Audio has succeeded in using and designing voltage sources for audio systems such as Pre, Phono, DAC, Amplifier …,
The Hq9038-HV regulator is one of the high voltage voltage regulators designed for preamplifiers using the Tube with the following features.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
Music Server in HQ-9038 Tube Dac
DAC integrates a Rasberry Pi3 to be the dedicated Music Server. It Take advantage of the endless digital music sources, especially the DSD64 format are very close to the sound of the SA-CD. The time for using bundles of expensive CDs and SA-CDs is over.
This Music Server will give you choose High resolution audio files. Actually, the DAC plays all formats of digital music file.
HQ Audio has seleceted the Raspberry Pi3 for music server, as this is the Music source that plays with an immersive listening experience that HQ Audio appreciate and admired for playing music better than a most then most of computers used as Music server.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
HQ9038 Tube Dac with Your Audio System
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
Finished Product
You can order the Hq9038 Tube DAC as FACTORY ASSEMBLED.
Simply select the ‘FINISHED PRODUCT’ option in the shop section of the website.
Thorough, Andrea, Morten Audio have successfully conquered the potential of the ES9038PRO. Hq-audiodesign has succeeded in creating a full-featured ES9038-TUBE DAC with a DAC player. This is a premium and luxurious gift for your home audio system. We would like to send you this design with the energetic and sweet sound of the Tube!
1 X Music server
1 x DAC ES9038 PRO
1 x Tube Output Direct to Amplier
Balance output ans SE output
Z-out under 100 Ohm
4 inputs: USB, Spdif coax on BNC, AES/EBU Professional on XLR, Optical Toslink.
Output 2 x 12AU7 and 2 x 6DJ8
An externally hosted image should be here but it was not working when we last tested it.
Specifications:
Main DAC: ESS Sabre32 Reference ES9038PRO.
Resolution: 32 Bit
Output Tubes: 02 x 12AU7 Electro Harmonix & 2 x ECC99 J
Audio Outputs: 1 x Stereo Pair RCA, 1 x Stereo Balanced.
Output impedance: 100 Ohm.
Output Levels: 3.0V RMS fixed, 6.0V RMS Balanced.
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 20kHz +0.1dB.
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.015%
Digital Inputs: Amanero USB SPDIF RCA, XLR digital
Input Format Support: PCM 16-32Bit /44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 6.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz DSD DSD64/128/256 (DoP/dCS) DSD64/128/256/512 (ASIO Native). PCM 16-32Bit /44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, 384kHz, 705.6kHz, 768kHz DSD DSD64/128/256 (DoP/dCS) SD64/128/256/512 (ASIO Native).
Interface and music player software: Moodaudio, Runeaudio, Volumio.
Wifi – Ethernet: 802.11 b/g/n Wireless LAN.
USB: 4 x USB 2.0 ports.
Parts Compliment includes:
Remote Control: Turn on / Set / Volume / Mute / Select signal channel.
Mains Power: 220V-240V, 50/60Hz.
Power Consumption: Under 100W.
Chassis: 8mm Aluminum with Black Powder Sandtex.
Dimensions: (H x W x D): 100 x 350 x 435 mm.
Weight: 12.5 Kilos.
Finish: Silver.
Output capacitors: M-Cap®ZN.
Filter capacitors: Solen MKP.
USB caps, Power caps, Use Manual.
Specifications may be subject to revision.
*Request separately Hq-Audio variant
at extra cost.
Last edited:
Unbelievable how people accept these prices for a DIY DAC.
$150 for a transformer?
Is is silver wound?
$150 for a transformer?
Is is silver wound?
Hi maessen and all
you as: ***Anybody here has any listening done with this DAC? ***
Please see Algar_emi finis DAC. thank
Post : 179
""" Finally the DAC is signing Here the pictures. I had to make a lot of mods on the inside to install the needed power transformers 115/230V compatible, and have provision for this primary voltage selection. I had one transformer for B+/FIL (T1), one for B- (T2), one for the DAC (T3) and finally one for the High current discrete 5V supply for the Raspberry Pi3 (T4). The Raspberry trasnfo PCB has the necessary AC primary voltage distribution and 115/230V selection switch for T1 & T2. I used a nice pcb from HQ Audio for the Rasberry 5V regulator. It uses the LT3042 High current low noise smd IC, with an D45H11 current booster. Worked like a charm
I had also to replace the front controller 230V transformer by an other one with 115/230V primary. Simple junction points allow voltage selection for this one.
I installed a shield over the DAC PCB, and the I/V current outputs go through feedthrough. An extra shield separates the DAC from the AC transformers. Don't know if it was necessary but it was easier to plan them right from the start, then to add them later. I also installed an AC Inlet module with EMI filter/switch and built-in fuse to replace the standard inlet.
The DAC is completely silent, except for a small hiss at max volume, typical tube thermal hiss probably. But it is very low and not in the way of the music.
Listening to it using the Amanero USB interface (modified to use the DAC digital supply, not the USB +5V) and JRiver. Sound is incredible with DSD output, and very nice choice of digital filter by the way, still haven't had the time to compare all of them.
Pure I/V PCB has MK132 27R current conversion resistor, Kiwame cathode resistors, Active CCS option on the output tube cathode, large MKP Wima local B+/B- filter caps (an addition I did) and Mundorf MCap EVO output coupling caps. Also the output section is already modified to accept an optional balanced output, using Lundhall Transformers.
Next thing I may try are active CCS on the tube anode, to replace the passive 33K resistors. But so far it is a great DAC
And naturally I still have to configure/try the built-in Moode Raspberry music server..."""
Thanks Algar_emi !
And lindamar post 302
"""Hi Quanghao,
this is to report that we have successfully (well, my friend smanz indeed ) tested your dac with a pair of your lundahl boards and their corresponding trafos.
The test was made comparing that setup against a buffalo DAC with a super modded IVY output stage (best quality in capacitors and resistors that you can imagine). No blind test, just a simple listening session over a couple of songs that we know well.
The result was, and we both agree on that front, that your DAC is much better in every single corner. Better timbre, better sound stage, very well articulated and capable of showing all nuances with a big orchesta, and in summary... a better DAC. I find it very musical and dynamic.
We (my friend and I) disagreed nevertheless on how voices are presented. In my opinion, the ES9038 is darker .... maybe the trafos ? maybe the filter we used (brickwall) ?. Now we have a battery for the remote, we will make the test again (perhaps with an apodizing filter?) but for this occasion we´ll use a bigger contender: quadruple Buffalo ES9018 DAC with tubes output stage.
I will get back here with our conclusions. In any case, thank you and congratulations for the DAC. It is a great product, no question about it.
Cheers
Pepe """
And akltam post 208
((I have now run the DAC for about 4 hours. As everything including the output transformer LL1690 is new, I expect at least 100 hours of run-in time. My initial impression is that this DAC has more control authority compare to the previous ES9018 DAC using the LL1684 (also in voltage output mode). So far everything sounds OK.
Looking forward to hear from you how this DAC compare to the previous ES9018 DAC. )) and post 221
Thanks you all very much!
quanghao
you as: ***Anybody here has any listening done with this DAC? ***
Please see Algar_emi finis DAC. thank
Post : 179
""" Finally the DAC is signing Here the pictures. I had to make a lot of mods on the inside to install the needed power transformers 115/230V compatible, and have provision for this primary voltage selection. I had one transformer for B+/FIL (T1), one for B- (T2), one for the DAC (T3) and finally one for the High current discrete 5V supply for the Raspberry Pi3 (T4). The Raspberry trasnfo PCB has the necessary AC primary voltage distribution and 115/230V selection switch for T1 & T2. I used a nice pcb from HQ Audio for the Rasberry 5V regulator. It uses the LT3042 High current low noise smd IC, with an D45H11 current booster. Worked like a charm
I had also to replace the front controller 230V transformer by an other one with 115/230V primary. Simple junction points allow voltage selection for this one.
I installed a shield over the DAC PCB, and the I/V current outputs go through feedthrough. An extra shield separates the DAC from the AC transformers. Don't know if it was necessary but it was easier to plan them right from the start, then to add them later. I also installed an AC Inlet module with EMI filter/switch and built-in fuse to replace the standard inlet.
The DAC is completely silent, except for a small hiss at max volume, typical tube thermal hiss probably. But it is very low and not in the way of the music.
Listening to it using the Amanero USB interface (modified to use the DAC digital supply, not the USB +5V) and JRiver. Sound is incredible with DSD output, and very nice choice of digital filter by the way, still haven't had the time to compare all of them.
Pure I/V PCB has MK132 27R current conversion resistor, Kiwame cathode resistors, Active CCS option on the output tube cathode, large MKP Wima local B+/B- filter caps (an addition I did) and Mundorf MCap EVO output coupling caps. Also the output section is already modified to accept an optional balanced output, using Lundhall Transformers.
Next thing I may try are active CCS on the tube anode, to replace the passive 33K resistors. But so far it is a great DAC
And naturally I still have to configure/try the built-in Moode Raspberry music server..."""
Thanks Algar_emi !
And lindamar post 302
"""Hi Quanghao,
this is to report that we have successfully (well, my friend smanz indeed ) tested your dac with a pair of your lundahl boards and their corresponding trafos.
The test was made comparing that setup against a buffalo DAC with a super modded IVY output stage (best quality in capacitors and resistors that you can imagine). No blind test, just a simple listening session over a couple of songs that we know well.
The result was, and we both agree on that front, that your DAC is much better in every single corner. Better timbre, better sound stage, very well articulated and capable of showing all nuances with a big orchesta, and in summary... a better DAC. I find it very musical and dynamic.
We (my friend and I) disagreed nevertheless on how voices are presented. In my opinion, the ES9038 is darker .... maybe the trafos ? maybe the filter we used (brickwall) ?. Now we have a battery for the remote, we will make the test again (perhaps with an apodizing filter?) but for this occasion we´ll use a bigger contender: quadruple Buffalo ES9018 DAC with tubes output stage.
I will get back here with our conclusions. In any case, thank you and congratulations for the DAC. It is a great product, no question about it.
Cheers
Pepe """
And akltam post 208
((I have now run the DAC for about 4 hours. As everything including the output transformer LL1690 is new, I expect at least 100 hours of run-in time. My initial impression is that this DAC has more control authority compare to the previous ES9018 DAC using the LL1684 (also in voltage output mode). So far everything sounds OK.
Looking forward to hear from you how this DAC compare to the previous ES9018 DAC. )) and post 221
Thanks you all very much!
quanghao
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