DAC Audio Research DAC 9

The Audio Research DAC 9 digital-to-analogue converter is the latest model (the 8th) in the American manufacturer's line of DACs.

Despite the constant evolution of digital technology and digital sources, the Minneapolis brand remains at the forefront of performance.

Audio Research DAC 9: Technology

With the DAC 9, Audio Research aims to give digital a highly musical, analogue-like presentation.

To achieve this, the DAC 9 combines a tube analogue section with a latest-generation digital design, capable of decoding DSD and PCM music files up to 384 kHz.

The DAC 9's converter section uses a "Quad DAC" architecture: four converters in total, with two stereo chips running in mono mode. These are Burr-Brown PCM1792A chips, 24-bit/384 kHz, renowned for their reliability and above all for their musicality. Using two stereo DACs in mono also increases dynamic range and lowers the noise floor.

Audio Research designed two separate data paths to the D/A converters: one for PCM files and another for serial DSD files at 1x and 2x DSD clock rates. This ensures accurate integer decoding, eliminating the interpolation distortion errors that degrade sonic purity. Native upsampling is available on all inputs, up to 384 kHz for non-DSD (PCM) music files.

The digital section is paired with a tube analogue section using two 6H30 dual triodes. The DAC 9 is a balanced converter with a class A analogue section, free of negative feedback and capacitive coupling.

The Audio Research DAC 9 offers two selectable digital filters, "Slow" or "Fast", to suit your listening preferences.

Every DAC 9 is meticulously handcrafted and listened to before leaving the factory.

Audio Research DAC 9: Connections

The DAC 9 features an asynchronous USB input as well as four galvanically isolated SPDIF inputs, ensuring all your digital sources can be integrated. These inputs come as coaxial (RCA), coaxial (BNC), AES/EBU (XLR) and optical (Toslink).

The outputs are fully balanced on the XLR sockets, and are doubled by high-quality RCA outputs, as always with Audio Research.

The mains inlet is an IEC C13 type, so it can be upgraded with a high-quality shielded power cable.

Audio Research DAC 9: Sound

Like the products that preceded it, the DAC 9 combines remarkable resolution with an extremely natural and nuanced musicality. Audio Research's sonic heritage is also there: clarity, dynamics, imaging, and remarkable tonal quality.

The Audio Research DAC 9 is certainly one of the best converters we have ever had in our hands, or rather our ears!

Our reference!

FAQ: Everything you need to know before buying the Audio Research DAC 9

Which digital sources can I connect to the Audio Research DAC 9?

The DAC 9 accepts a computer or streamer via its asynchronous USB input, as well as any source fitted with a coaxial RCA or BNC, AES/EBU or Toslink optical output. It pairs ideally with a pure network drive such as the Eversolo T10 for streaming, or with a CD transport such as the Atoll DR400 EVO drive for your discs. To plan your setup, read our guide how to choose your dematerialized equipment.

How do I connect the DAC 9 to my amplification?

The DAC 9 delivers a line-level signal on two pairs of outputs: fully balanced XLR (3.8 V RMS max.) and unbalanced RCA (1.9 V max.). It therefore connects to a line input on an integrated amplifier or a preamplifier. If your electronics offer XLR inputs, the balanced connection lets you take full advantage of the DAC 9's balanced design.

What are the "Slow" and "Fast" filters and the upsampling for?

The DAC 9 offers two selectable digital filters, "Slow" or "Fast", chosen according to your listening preferences. All inputs are also upsampled to 384 kHz for PCM files, while DSD files follow a dedicated data path at 1x and 2x DSD. Whether your music comes from a CD transport or from one of our network players, every PCM signal benefits from this processing.

Can I upgrade the DAC 9 with a high-end power cable?

Yes. The DAC 9 has an IEC C13 mains inlet, so you can replace the supplied cord with a better shielded cable. Its electronically regulated low and high voltage power supplies will benefit from it. Explore our selection of power cables to complete your system.