Zdac

About the Zdac

The Parasound Zdac is a half-rack width DAC designed for audiophiles seeking high-quality digital audio conversion with versatile connectivity. It supports digital inputs via USB, optical, and coaxial with sampling rates up to 192 kHz for optical/coax and 96 kHz for USB. The unit uses an Analog Devices AD1853 DAC chip and an AD1895 asynchronous sample rate converter, upsampling all inputs to 422 kHz/24-bit for improved sound quality and jitter reduction. It features balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, a high-current headphone amplifier capable of driving headphones from 32 to 600 ohms, and separate volume controls for line and headphone outputs. The Zdac includes a robust toroidal power transformer for stable power delivery. Its frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±0.2 dB, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 110 dB and THD+N under 0.015%. The unit is available in black or silver finishes, weighs about 5 lbs, and measures approximately 8.5" wide, 10" deep, and 2" high. It is praised for its natural, detailed sound and excellent value.