Digital Link III vs Parasound Zdac
The Zdac's signal-to-noise is 110 dB against the Digital Link III's 123 dB and its thd 0.015% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The PS Audio Digital Link III is a high-end digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed to provide superior audio quality. It features three digital audio inputs: optical, coaxial, and USB (Type B), allowing it to connect to various digital sources such as CD players, computers, or streaming devices. The DAC outputs analog audio through both RCA and balanced XLR connections, offering flexibility for different audio setups. At its core, the Digital Link III uses the Texas Instruments (formerly Burr Brown) PCM1798DB DAC, which supports up to 192kHz/24-bit resolution. It includes an 8X oversampling filter and allows users to select between 96kHz or 192kHz upsampling frequencies. The device boasts a dynamic range of 123 dB and a total harmonic distortion (THD) of 0.0005%, ensuring clear and detailed sound reproduction. The analog output stage is fully discrete, using FET-based components and avoiding op-amps for a warm and rich sound. The power supply is robust, featuring a large toroidal transformer and high-quality voltage regulators, which contribute to its excellent performance. The unit's design is sleek, with a contoured, brushed aluminum faceplate and minimal controls, making it both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly.
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
Components that show up alongside the Digital Link III 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 Zdac's signal-to-noise is 110 dB against the Digital Link III's 123 dB and its thd 0.015% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
The M51 matches the Digital Link III on bit depth (24-bit), max sample rate (192 kHz), signal-to-noise (123 dB), and thd (0.001%).
The M1's signal-to-noise is 119 dB against the Digital Link III's 123 dB and its thd 0.003% against 0.001%. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and max sample rate (192 kHz).
The DAC100 matches the Digital Link III on bit depth (24-bit), max sample rate (192 kHz), signal-to-noise (123 dB), and thd (0.001%).
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