DAC 1.1x vs McIntosh MDA1000
The MDA1000's bit depth is 24-bit against the DAC 1.1x's 18-bit, its output voltage 6.0V RMS against 3.2V RMS, and its weight 10.9 kg (24 lbs) against 5.1 kg (11 lbs). Both share max sample rate (96 kHz).
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The Audio Note DAC 1.1x/II Digital to Analogue converter is designed with a philosophy prioritizing pure sonic performance over technical specifications. It bypasses common digital corrections such as oversampling, jitter reduction, noise shaping, and re-clocking to preserve the original time/frequency/amplitude relationships of the music signal. The DAC reformats the data stream to allow the converter chip to interpolate the incoming information correctly, with all filtering performed in the analogue domain to maintain wide band phase-frequency and dynamic coherence. It uses the highest grade Analogue Devices AD1865 18-bit stereo converter chip, chosen for its superior sound quality. The DAC1.1x/II Signature version includes upgraded components such as Audio Note (UK) Tantalum resistors. Inputs include RCA 75 Ohms SPDIF and XLR 110 Ohms AES/EBU, with an output impedance of 600 Ohms and a reference output of 3.2V RMS. The valve complement consists of 2 x ECC88 / 6DJ8 tubes. The unit weighs approximately 5.1 kg and measures 145mm (H) x 300mm (W) x 415mm (D). This DAC supports 44.1 / 48 / 96 kHz input capability and is part of Audio Note (UK)'s Level 1 criteria for materials and component quality. It is not focused on technical specs but on delivering authentic, transparent, and deeply musical sound.
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
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The MDA1000's bit depth is 24-bit against the DAC 1.1x's 18-bit, its output voltage 6.0V RMS against 3.2V RMS, and its weight 10.9 kg (24 lbs) against 5.1 kg (11 lbs). Both share max sample rate (96 kHz).
The DAC-100T's bit depth is 24-bit against the DAC 1.1x's 18-bit, its max sample rate 192 kHz against 96 kHz, its output voltage 2.0V RMS against 3.2V RMS, and its weight 9.07 kg (20 lbs) against 5.1 kg (11 lbs).
The DAC7's bit depth is 24-bit against the DAC 1.1x's 18-bit, its max sample rate 192 kHz against 96 kHz, its output voltage 5.2V RMS against 3.2V RMS, and its output impedance 500Ω against 600Ω.
The Femto's bit depth is 24-bit against the DAC 1.1x's 18-bit, its max sample rate 192 kHz against 96 kHz, its output voltage 2.0V RMS against 3.2V RMS, and its weight 18.5 kg (41 lbs) against 5.1 kg (11 lbs).
DAC 2.1x
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