Audiolab D9 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 - ES9038PRO (32-bit, 8-channel)
- Max. sampling frequency - 768kHz PCM, DSD 512 (USB)
- Sound tuning options - 2x upsampling; 5x digital filters
- Digital inputs - USB-B, USB-A, AES3/EBU, 2x optical, 2x coaxial
- Bluetooth - Bluetooth 5.1 inc. LDAC and 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: 123dB; RCA: 118dB (A-weighted)
- Power supply circuitry - 40VA transformer, multiple discrete regulators
- Display - 2.8in colour IPS LCD; 9000 Series GUI
- Dimensions (WxHxD) - 315x88x277mm
Description
The Audiolab D9 DAC marks the brand’s triumphant return to high-end standalone digital-to-analogue conversion. It stands at the pinnacle of Audiolab’s DAC range and inherits design cues, components, and sonic aspirations from the acclaimed 9000 Series. With its elegant brushed aluminium chassis and compact footprint (315x88x277mm), the D9 offers premium performance in a sleek, space-conscious form.
A vibrant 2.8-inch colour screen brings a modern visual interface, showing input info, track metadata, and even VU meters. The D9 is not just an upgraded D7—it’s a purpose-built reference DAC for discerning audiophiles who demand ultra-low noise, fine control, and stunning clarity across digital music formats.
Reference-Class Digital Architecture
At the core of the Audiolab D9 DAC lies the ES9038PRO DAC chip—ESS Technology’s flagship 32-bit, 8-channel processor. Unlike the 2-channel variant used in the D7, the PRO version is leveraged to its full extent: four channels per stereo side are combined to deliver extraordinary noise rejection and distortion suppression.
Audiolab couples this with their proprietary clocking system and a Class A post-DAC filter, resulting in a signal chain that achieves both sonic delicacy and raw dynamic power. Capable of decoding PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512, the D9 meets and exceeds the requirements of today’s highest-resolution digital audio content.
Audiophile-Grade Power and Components
The Audiolab D9 DAC doesn’t just sound high-end—it’s built like it too. Inside, a large 40VA toroidal transformer feeds a sophisticated linear power supply, while multiple discrete ultra-low-noise regulators supply clean, isolated power to each stage of the signal path. Left and right channels receive separate, symmetrical power lines, further enhancing stereo performance.
This high-end topology ensures maximum purity from source to output. Audiolab’s experience in reference-grade DAC design is evident in every circuit detail, enabling the D9 to reveal layers of detail and depth that lesser DACs blur or obscure. This level of engineering elevates the D9 well beyond its price class.
Expanded Connectivity and Precision Control
The Audiolab D9 DAC delivers a comprehensive range of inputs and outputs for maximum system integration. In addition to the USB-B and USB-A ports found on the D7, the D9 includes an AES3/EBU digital input for professional audio sources. Two optical and two coaxial S/PDIF inputs complete the digital suite.
Bluetooth 5.1 is onboard, but here it includes LDAC support alongside aptX HD and Low Latency for superior wireless playback. Output options include balanced XLR, single-ended RCA (both variable and fixed), coaxial and optical digital outs, and a high-quality 6.3mm headphone jack. The D9 adapts seamlessly to everything from desktop rigs to full-scale separates.
User-Friendly Interface, High-End Flexibility
Despite its technical sophistication, the Audiolab D9 DAC remains remarkably easy to use. Its dual rotary controls flank a vivid left-aligned IPS colour screen, which mirrors the interface of Audiolab’s 9000N streamer. Display options include input source, volume, sample rate, and track info, as well as a classic-style VU meter.
The user can dim or disable the screen entirely if preferred. Sound can be tuned to taste using selectable upsampling (to 352.8kHz or 384kHz) and five digital filter settings, accommodating different genres, formats, and streaming platforms. Whether integrated into a multi-component hi-fi system or used standalone, the D9 puts full control in the listener’s hands.
A Powerhouse for Headphone Enthusiasts
Like its sibling, the Audiolab D9 DAC incorporates dedicated, high-performance headphone amplification. Its current-feedback design delivers 500mW into a 33-ohm load, with a maximum output current of 180mA and up to 4.8Vrms output. With a low output impedance of 2.35 ohms, it can drive anything from efficient earbuds to hard-to-drive planar magnetic headphones without strain.
Wide bandwidth and fast slew rates ensure detailed, open sound with minimal coloration. Whether you're monitoring in a studio setting or enjoying music at home, the D9 provides an exceptional headphone experience that rivals standalone headphone amps in both power and finesse.