Description
EMM Labs has set a new standard in DAC design and most importantly in digital music reproduction. The DA2 plays a prominent role in the reference system at Locrian Audio and we are not alone. The EMM Labs DA2 V2 DAC is a core component in any “no holds” system worldwide and in many occasions, along with its sibling DV2, a component around which entire reference systems are being build and enjoyed.
The DA2 V2 is EMM Labs’ updated flagship 16xDSD/DSD1024 stereo D/A converter. It is the next evolutionary step in our line of award winning, critically acclaimed range of high end converter systems.
The DA2 V2 features a multitude of inputs and support for PCM up to 24bit/192kHz, DSD, 2xDSD, DXD (352/384kHz), and MQA® via USB.
16xDSD Proprietary Discrete DACs
MDAC2™ is the world’s first true fully discrete DSD1024/16xDSD D/A converter and still built in-house at our manufacturing facility in Calgary, Canada.
We’re not willing to accept the inherent non-linearities of every mass-market chip created to date. Neither should you.
Newly Updated MDAT2™: 16xDSD Upsampling
Our multi-award winning MDAT2™ DSP has been refined and updated to synergistically work with the new 16xDSD MDAC2™. The new MDAT2™ DSP does real-time transient detection, processing and up-conversion of all incoming audio, PCM and DSD, before sending it to the new 16xDSD DACs.
USB Isolation, MFAST™ and MCLK2™
The USB interface includes EMM’s proprietary hardware galvanic isolation. In combination with MFAST™, our high-speed asynchronous jitter removal technology and MCLK2™ our custom built clock, jitter is completely removed from the conversion process.
The new EMM Labs DA2 V2’s analog and digital systems have been meticulously revised. All culminating in that next level of immersive pristine sonic clarity that has been the definition of every new EMM product. The DA2 V2, our new reference converter proudly designed and made in Canada.
Being in the forefront of technology is imperative, when it comes to digital. However, decisions at the budget level are not made on technology. Auditioning the DA2 V2 is important because is far ahead than most DAC’s in the market, some costing significantly more and comprised of multiple ancillary components. The DA2, when part of a reference system will allow you to hear the musical event unfolding in front of you, convey the emotion of the performance and provide you with the distilled essence of music.
Sample tracks on the EMM Labs DA2 v2
Key Features
- 16xDSD proprietary discrete dual differential D-to-A converters (MDAC2™)
- New high High/Low output gain control
- Latest generation Meitner Digital Audio Translator signal processing technology (MDAT2™)
- Enhanced technology for instant signal acquisition and jitter-free performance (MFAST™)
- Proprietary asynchronous clocking system (MCLK2™)
- USB interface with custom hardware galvanic isolation
- Up to 24bit/192kHz & DSD support over all inputs
- 2xDSD, DXD (352/384kHz) & MQA® support over USB
- User controlled signal polarity
- Custom aerospace-grade ceramic circuit boards
- EMM Optilink for transport or streamer connection
- Precision-machined aluminum chassis & remote control
- Service USB port for future software upgrades
- RS-232 serial port for wired remote control
EMM Labs’ DA2 Reference is exceptional: Rather than strike a balance between musicality and detail, it provides both without limitation or compromise. At $25,000, the DA2 Reference isn’t cheap, but its sound is faultless. I don’t have a single complaint about it, and am tempted to call it the best DAC in the world. But I can’t, if only because I haven’t actually heard every DAC made. So I’ll draw the obvious conclusion and say only that, as of now, I’ve heard nothing better. After 40 years in the game, Ed Meitner has proven with the DA2 Reference not only that he knows a thing or two about digital playback, but that he’s still at the top of his game.
Doug Schneider, SoundStage!, July 1, 2017
Specifications
Digital inputs:
EMM Optilink (CD/SACD)
AES/EBU, 2x S/PDIF Coax, 2x S/PDIF, TOS & USB up to 24bit/192kHz and DSD
USB also supports 2xDSD, DXD (352/384kHz) & MQA®
Stereo Analog Outputs:
XLR and RCA
Output Impedance:
300 ohms balanced (XLR)
150 ohms unbalanced (RCA)
Output Levels (High/Low):
XLR outputs: 7.0/5.0V (+19.1/16.2dBu)
RCA outputs: 3.5/2.5V (+13.1/10.2dBu)
Dimensions:
W x D x H: 438 x 400 x 161mm
Weight: 17.2kg
Power Supply:
Proprietary high-isolation resonant mode power supply for silent & eco-friendly operation
Factory set to 100V or 115V or 230V, 50/60Hz
Maximum 30W consumption
Other Resources
EMM Labs DA2 V2 on manufacturers site
DA2 Reference Stereo DAC and PRE Reference Pre-Amplifier, Computer Audiophile Review.
Both the DA2 and PRE are now on Computer Audiophile’s C.A.S.H. List!
“Reproducing music with all its warts when warts are present and in all its glory for those rare recordings that really shine. The DA2 and PRE are in rarefied air no doubt at $25,000 a piece, but the best of anything is never inexpensive.”
Chris Connaker, Computer Audiophile June 2018
DA2 Reference Stereo DAC, SoundStage! Review, Product of the Year
“EMM Labs’ DA2 Reference is exceptional: Rather than strike a balance between musicality and detail, it provides both without limitation or compromise. I don’t have a single complaint about it, and am tempted to call it the best DAC in the world.”
Doug Schneider, SoundStage!, July 2017 (Full Review…)