DAC-01A

About the DAC-01A

The Xiang Sheng DAC-01A is a multifunctional digital-to-analog converter and preamplifier known for its high fidelity vacuum tube output stage using a 6N3 tube, which can be upgraded with various tubes such as GE JAN6570, Western Electric WE396A, or Tesla 6CC42 for enhanced sound quality. It supports up to 192kHz/24-bit resolution and includes multiple digital inputs (USB, coaxial, optical) and two analog RCA inputs. The device offers separate outputs for tube and transistor stages, a headphone output routed through solid state op-amps (OPA2604 and LF353N), and a volume control knob for headphone output. It can also function as a preamplifier with an internal switch. The DAC is praised for its warm, musical sound with a wide soundstage and dynamic range, making it a notable affordable tube DAC option. Dimensions are approximately 26 x 6 x 17 cm (WxHxD). The unit is no longer manufactured but remains popular among audiophiles for its sound quality and tube rolling capability.