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The Aqua Formula xHD Rev. 2 is a high-end digital-to-analog converter (DAC) featuring a proprietary Optologic R2R ladder DAC architecture with galvanic and magnetic isolation. It uses a hybrid 2-stage XMOS xCore XE216 + FPGA for asynchronous USB decoding and clock generation, enabling high-resolution playback up to 768kHz PCM and native DSD512. The DAC employs no digital filtering to preserve the emotional content of music, with a fully direct-coupled analog signal path free of capacitors. Balanced outputs use transformer coupling, and the device offers a wide range of digital inputs including USB 2.0, I2S (RJ45 AQlink), AES/EBU, coaxial, BNC, and optional optical and AT&T fiber inputs. The analog module Rev. 2 upgrade includes new output transformers, super-fast active components, and improved circuit polarization, enhancing sonic performance. The unit is housed in a solid aluminum case with satin silver finish, measures 450 x 370 x 100 mm, and weighs 9 kg. It is designed for audiophiles seeking a transparent, neutral, and emotionally engaging sound signature with excellent synergy in high-end systems.
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
Components that show up alongside the Formula xHD Rev. 2 in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The DAC-1000's max sample rate is 384 kHz against the Formula xHD Rev. 2's 768 kHz, its output impedance 30Ω against 10Ω, and its output voltage 2.8V RMS against 3.8V RMS. Both share bit depth (24-bit).
The DAVE's bit depth is 16-bit against the Formula xHD Rev. 2's 24-bit, its output impedance 0.055Ω against 10Ω, and its output voltage 6.8V RMS against 3.8V RMS. Both share max sample rate (768 kHz).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The 360's max sample rate is 192 kHz against the Formula xHD Rev. 2's 768 kHz and its output voltage 4.0V RMS against 3.8V RMS. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and output impedance (10Ω).
The Pacific's bit depth is 32-bit against the Formula xHD Rev. 2's 24-bit, its output impedance 0Ω against 10Ω, and its output voltage 3.0V RMS against 3.8V RMS. Both share max sample rate (768 kHz).
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
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