Audio Analogue AADac D/A Converter, Silver

The Audio Analogue AADac is a D/A converter with a switchable preamp stage that converts digital sources into an analog signal and, if you choose, controls the volume as well.

That lets a single device cover two roles: a pure converter feeding a preamp or integrated amplifier – or converter and preamp in one, going straight to a power amp. A headphone output up front is also on board, and an aptX Bluetooth module is available as an option. The silver finish shows off the brushed aluminum of the Pure-AA series.

Why the AADac?

Because inside the AADac sits a Sabre ES9038, which Audio Analogue pairs with seven selectable digital filters and separate power supplies for the digital and analog sections. Over USB it accepts up to 32 bit/384 kHz and native DSD512, over AES/EBU and the two coaxial inputs up to 24 bit/192 kHz. The output stage is fully balanced, built from discrete components, and delivers 3.35 volts at both XLR and RCA. Anyone who plays with the filters quickly notices: this isn't a marketing dial.

What you hear

The calm, unhurried character Audio Analogue has been known for over decades – digital, without sounding digital. Dynamic range is 124 dB, distortion is –108 dB; in practice that means a black background and plenty of room for details that get lost in the noise floor with simpler converters. This shows up especially clearly on the headphone output, because nothing stands between you and the signal there anymore.

Who is the AADac for?

For anyone with a predominantly digital chain: streamer, computer, CD transport. It gets especially interesting if you listen through a power amp – in preamp mode it takes over the volume too, saving you a device plus a pair of cables. Straight talk: anyone running analog sources like a turntable or tuner won't get by with it, since the AADac has no high-level inputs. And anyone who already owns an integrated amplifier with a good internal converter should honestly weigh whether the upgrade is worth the effort.

Our verdict

A converter that can do more than its name suggests – and precisely for that reason wants to be set up properly. One warning we'd rather give once too often: in DAC mode, the output sits fixed at maximum. Switch first, then turn up the volume. Whether preamp mode makes sense for your system is something we're happy to work out with you – HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, +41 44 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Technical data

• Device type: D/A converter with switchable preamp, Pure-AA series
• Converter: Sabre ES9038, 7 selectable digital filters
• Digital inputs: USB-B (up to 32 bit/384 kHz, native DSD512), 2 × coaxial S/PDIF (up to 24 bit/192 kHz), Toslink (up to 24 bit/96 kHz), AES/EBU (up to 24 bit/192 kHz)
• Bluetooth: optional aptX module (up to 16 bit/48 kHz), 2.4 GHz antenna
• Analog outputs: balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA (usable simultaneously)
• Output level: switchable – DAC mode fixed at 3.35 V RMS, preamp mode adjustable including channel balance
• Headphone output: yes, 6.35 mm jack on the front (unbalanced)
• Network: not available (no LAN, no Wi-Fi)
• Dynamic range (A-weighted): 124 dB
• Total harmonic distortion (THD+N): –108 dB
• Output noise (A-weighted): 2.1 µV
• Channels: 2
• Finish: Silver
• Warranty: up to 5 years (Audio Analogue)
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 220 × 100 × 390 mm
• Weight: 5.5 kg
• Included: AADac, aluminum remote control with batteries, power cable, USB cable, 2.4 GHz antenna, user manual with warranty card

Frequently asked questions

What does a D/A converter like the AADac do?

It converts digital music signals from a streamer, computer or CD transport into an analog signal your amplifier can reproduce. A dedicated, high-quality converter usually extracts more calm and resolution from digital sources than a simple DAC running somewhere inside an amplifier.

Can the AADac connect directly to a power amp?

Yes, in preamp mode. You switch the AADac from pure converter to preamp, and it then controls volume and channel balance itself, going straight to the power amp – no separate preamp needed. In DAC mode, on the other hand, the output stays fixed at 3.35 volts; there, an amplifier absolutely has to follow it.

Does the AADac have a headphone output?

Yes, a 6.35 mm jack with its own headphone amplifier sits on the front. As soon as you plug in headphones, volume control activates automatically – even when the AADac is otherwise running in fixed DAC mode. The stage has enough power for most demanding headphones; there's no balanced headphone jack.

What does the optional Bluetooth module offer?

With the optional aptX module, you stream directly from your smartphone or tablet to the AADac, without cables and without extra equipment. It transmits up to 16 bit/48 kHz, making it suited to a quick song on the side. For critical listening, a wired source clearly remains the better choice.

Why buy the AADac from HD Zürisee?

Because we tell you honestly whether a separate converter actually helps your chain, whether you really need the Bluetooth module, and whether preamp mode is the shorter path for you. Our team in Wädenswil puts together the right combination, and our own technician stays your contact afterward too.

Goes well with

The AADac needs sources and power: digital sources sit under Streamers & Network Players and in All Sources, matching amplification among the Power Amplifiers. For the headphone output, take a look at the Headphones, and the rest of the range sits in the Audio Analogue world.