This is a DAC I built around the AKM AK4396 DAC evaluation board. This DAC features a resolution of 24-bit with a maximum sampling rate of 192kHz, and a SNR of 120dB. The AK4396 DAC is very well regarded among the DIY community, it is capable of delivering a very detailed and natural presentation, very analog like, yet supporting high-res formats. The board is very well built and designed. I have modified it slightly by adding completely independent regulated power supplies for each stage. Completely isolating digital from analog. There's a total of 4 independent power supplies in this DAC. The power supplies are designed by Welborne labs. Parts quality is very high featuring Elna Cerafine caps in the 3 power supplies that power the input receiver and DAC, and BlackGates caps in the main board. The circuit features a 2 digital inputs: Coax via BNC (can be changed to RCA if desired) and Toslink; one analog input completely independent from the DAC; and a volume control. The volume is a very clever affair only using resistors, totally transparent. It has 3 knobs to control the volume, the center one for coarse adjustments, and 2 for fine adjustments (one for the left channel and one for the right, providing balance control as a bonus). If you'll be using this DAC with a pre-amp, just turn all the knobs to maximum. But if you wish a minimalist approach, it can be your pre-amp and DAC in one box providing 2 digital inputs and one analog. The op-amps provided are the well regarded and good sounding National LME49710, but they can be easily swapped for slight sonic variations to fit your taste.
The chassis is all heavy duty aluminum. Non magnetic and a great shield for the circuit.
PS: I'm an experienced audio builder with an Industrial Design background. I have built and modified many audio components in the past 12 years. This DAC is built like a tank just like all my other projects. It should last you a lifetime. I'm also an audiophile and music lover. My priority is always the quality of the sound.
