Audiolab D7 DAC
In stock
Features
| Headphone Socket | No |
|---|---|
| Brand Color | None |
| Warranty The length of time your product is protected by warranty | 3 Years |
| Product Type | Other |
Tech Specs
- DAC chipset - ES9038Q2M (32-bit, 2-channel)
- Max. sampling frequency - 768kHz PCM, DSD 512 (USB)
- Sound tuning options - 2x upsampling; 5x digital filters
- Digital inputs - USB-B, USB-A, 2x optical, 2x coaxial
- Bluetooth - Bluetooth 5.1 inc. aptX HD support
- Audio outputs - Analogue: XLR, RCA; Digital: optical, coaxial
- Headphone output - 6.3mm
- Headphone amp power - 500mW into 33Ω
- Headphone amp impedance - Output: 2.35Ω; Load: 20-600Ω
- DAC signal-to-noise ratio - XLR: 117dB; RCA: 115dB (A-weighted)
- Power supply circuitry - Independent power supplies, external PSU
- Display - Monochrome OLED
- Dimensions (WxHxD) - 180x56x208mm
Description
The Audiolab D7 DAC comes Eight years after the release of its last standalone DAC and Audiolab proudly re-enters the scene with the launch of the Audiolab D7 DAC, a compact, high-performance digital-to-analogue converter built on the legacy of the iconic M-DAC. Priced at £449, the D7 distills years of refinement and engineering into a sleek aluminium chassis measuring just 180x56x208mm.
Drawing heavily from the DNA of its celebrated predecessor, the D7 promises elevated digital audio for both desktop and hi-fi system use. With its robust design and accessible price point, it fills a much-needed gap in the audiophile market—offering cutting-edge performance without the need for full-sized, full-priced components. This release underscores Audiolab’s unmatched expertise in DAC development and their enduring dedication to audio excellence.
Next-Gen Chipset with Heritage Sound Tuning
The heart of the Audiolab D7 DAC is the ES9038Q2M DAC chip from ESS Technology—a high-grade 32-bit processor known for its ultra-low noise and high dynamic range. This chip builds upon the legacy of the ES9018 used in the original M-DAC, but with advanced features like HyperStream II architecture and the Time Domain Jitter Eliminator for incredible audio precision.
While many manufacturers use Sabre DAC chips, Audiolab’s years of refinement and deep understanding of ESS implementation give the D7 a clear edge in sound quality. Paired with a Class A post-DAC active filter and proprietary clock and power supply design, this DAC extracts a natural, dynamic performance from every digital source.
Feature-Rich Connectivity and Digital Versatility
Despite its compact size, the Audiolab D7 DAC is packed with connectivity options, making it a versatile hub for modern digital setups. It includes USB Type B for PC/Mac connections, USB Type A for media playback from flash drives, and four S/PDIF digital inputs (two optical, two coaxial).
Bluetooth 5.1 support enables high-resolution wireless streaming from smartphones and tablets, including aptX HD for enhanced fidelity. Users can upsample audio to 352.8kHz or 384kHz and choose from five digital filter settings to tailor playback to personal preference.
These adjustments make the D7 especially effective in dealing with varied source material—whether high-resolution files or compressed streaming content.
Professional Output Options and Signal Control
The Audiolab D7 DAC provides a full suite of output options to integrate into any audio system. On the analogue side, it offers both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs, allowing users to connect to integrated amps, preamps, or even directly to power amps and active speakers. Digital outputs include both coaxial and optical for further flexibility.
Headphone listeners aren’t left out either, thanks to a front-mounted 6.3mm headphone jack and a dedicated internal headphone amplifier. The analogue output can operate in fixed or variable mode, enabling use as a DAC-only source or a digital preamp with volume control handled by the D7 itself.
Design with Audiophile Precision in Mind
Internally, the Audiolab D7 DAC showcases meticulous engineering. The layout is optimized to protect signal integrity, with independent low-noise power supplies for key stages fed by an external PSU. This eliminates interference and supports the unit’s pristine sound signature. Physical controls are simple but tactile, with rotary dials for intuitive operation.
A sharp, monochrome OLED display provides essential information such as input selection and audio format, enhancing usability without clutter. Available in either silver or black finishes, the D7 exudes understated sophistication—combining form and function for those who appreciate both sonic and visual elegance in their audio gear.
Desktop Hero and Headphone Powerhouse
The Audiolab D7 DAC is not only an exceptional digital source for full hi-fi systems—it also excels as a standalone desktop headphone amplifier. The unit delivers 500mW into a 33-ohm load, with an output voltage of up to 4.8Vrms and a maximum output current of 180mA, ensuring it can comfortably drive even demanding headphones with finesse and authority.
Its wide bandwidth, high slew rate, and low output impedance result in dynamic, distortion-free playback across a broad range of headphone types. Whether part of a larger system or used for private listening, the D7 consistently delivers exceptional audio quality with clarity and control.