Question regarding DAC in portable desktop

[mackay maus]

Hi headroomers;

I'm confused about the DAC in the portable-in the info page on the amp, it mentions the unit contains a special version of the desktop DAC.

In reading about your different DAC modules, there is no longer any mention of the desktop DAC. Just wondering if the DAC in the portable has changed to a home based module, or does the portable, due to the battery nature of the amp, continue to use the desktop DAC?

Thanks

M

[elnero]

In addition to mackay maus' question, I'd be interested to know if it is using the Desktop DAC how does it stack up/compare to the other DAC's in the lineup?

[JorgeC]

The 'desktop' DAC in the new HeadRoom Portable Desktop Amp is indeed a uniquely specialized version of our older 'desktop' DAC installation, similar to what was employed in our HeadRoom 'Desktop Amp' line of yore.... The 'desktop' DAC topology now only occurs in this new HR Portable Desktop unit.

The desktop DAC uses Cirrus Logic’s flagship CS4398 24bit/192kHz, 120dB dynamic range digital-to-analog converter circuit. Coupled with extensive power supply isolation & regulation, this stage takes virtually any digital input audio source(s) and turns it into an excellent audiophilic listening experience. The desktop DAC board uses the well-regarded Burr-Brown 134 op-amp strictly in single packages; only metal thin film resistors and polyphenylenesulfide (poly film) capacitors are allowed anywhere near the audio circuits. Three low-noise, ultra-low dropout power supply regulators isolate the various digital, analog, and mixed signal circuits.

Cheers,

Jorge
HR Sales/Product Manager

[mackay maus]

Hello;

I appreciate the reply-thanks for answering my question. Great customer support!

[JorgeC]

Originally Posted by elnero

In addition to mackay maus' question, I'd be interested to know if it is using the Desktop DAC how does it stack up/compare to the other DAC's in the lineup?

The Desktop DAC does not operate in true 'Class-A' biasing so our current-model HR Micro DAC (basically equivalent to the "Home" DAC) and certainly the HR Ultra Micro DAC with the upsampling stage -- basically the "Max" DAC equivalent -almost! -- are considered slightly superior D-A performers.

That said, the HeadRoom Portable Desktop unit does utilize a Class-A 'Home' electronics module but the DAC is dialed down just a bit in keeping with the rechargeable lithium ps limitations.

Cheers,
Jorge
HR Sales/Product Manager