DAC 3.5mkII vs DAC 2.5
The DAC 2.5's output voltage is 4.0V RMS against the DAC 3.5mkII's 2.5V RMS and its weight 6.5 kg (14 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
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The Bel Canto Design DAC 3.5mkII is a sophisticated digital-to-analog converter that also functions as a preamplifier. It supports a wide range of digital inputs, including AES/EBU on XLR, S/PDIF on BNC and RCA, ST fiber, and TosLink, with resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz. It features analog outputs via both RCA and XLR, with a balanced output of 5.5V and unbalanced output of 2.5V. Additionally, it includes a single analog input that can digitize signals at 24-bit/192kHz using an AKM 5386 A/D converter, allowing it to connect to legacy analog sources. The DAC3.5mkII incorporates Bel Canto’s Master Reference Ultra-Clock circuitry to minimize jitter and uses high-quality components like Caddock resistors. It is designed to be used directly with a power amplifier, thanks to its built-in digital volume control.
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The DAC 2.5's output voltage is 4.0V RMS against the DAC 3.5mkII's 2.5V RMS and its weight 6.5 kg (14 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
The DAC's output voltage is 2.2V RMS against the DAC 3.5mkII's 2.5V RMS and its weight 3.99 kg (9 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
The WDS-1's output voltage is 2.2V RMS against the DAC 3.5mkII's 2.5V RMS and its weight 4.08 kg (9 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
The CD2's output voltage is 2.0V RMS against the DAC 3.5mkII's 2.5V RMS and its weight 8.2 kg (18 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
DAC 2.7
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