Audiobyte Super Vox Multibit DSD D/A Converter

The Audiobyte Super Vox is a D/A converter that translates a digital source signal – from USB, I2S or S/PDIF – into an analog music signal, deliberately forgoing a classic off-the-shelf delta-sigma chip. Instead, an FPGA converts the signal using a specially developed multibit DSD process, fifth order, with 36-bit computational precision.

That's the kind of technical solo effort rarely expected of manufacturers – and exactly why you can hear the Super Vox's effort: clean, calm, without the slightly acidic timbre of some chip DACs.

Why the Super Vox?

Because it does two things at once that often exclude each other: pure converter quality and the flexibility of a preamplifier. The digital 256-step volume control (0.5 dB increments) lets you connect the Super Vox directly to a power amplifier – entirely without an additional preamp in between, if that's what you want.

What you hear / get / experience

A fully balanced circuit from the digital inputs all the way to the XLR outputs, amplified with low loss via a discretely built output stage – no operational amplifier IC in the signal path. Add to that Femtovox clock technology against jitter and a linear, low-noise power supply with silver-plated copper wiring inside. The result: 120 dB dynamic range and a signal-to-noise ratio that doesn't swallow even quiet passages.

Who is the Super Vox suited for? (and who isn't it for)

For anyone looking for a converter with its own character and wanting to run it either as a pure DAC or directly as a digital preamplifier ahead of a power amp. Honestly: if you need a headphone output on the device itself, the Super Vox is the wrong choice – for that, the same lineup offers the Super Head, which handles exactly that.

Our verdict

A DAC that makes the effort of its own development path audible instead of just claiming it on the spec sheet. Anyone next looking for a headphone amp or power amplifier finds the logical next step in the Audiobyte stack.

Technical data

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 310 × 64 × 290 mm
• Weight: 3.8 kg
• Housing: anodized solid aluminum block, CNC-machined
• Finish: matte black or matte silver
• Digital inputs: USB, I2S (LVDS via HDMI connector), S/PDIF
• Analog outputs: XLR balanced, RCA unbalanced
• Conversion principle: FPGA-based multibit DSD conversion, 5th order, 36-bit, 33-level delta-sigma modulator
• Dynamic range: 120 dB
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): −110 dB at 0 dB, −120 dB at −12 dB
• Maximum output level: 2.9 V RMS
• Output level: adjustable, digital volume control in 256 steps of 0.5 dB
• Headphone output: not present
• Power supply: internal linear power supply, low noise
• Manufacturing: handmade in Romania

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect the Super Vox directly to a power amplifier?

Yes. Thanks to the built-in digital volume control with 256 steps, the Super Vox also works as a preamp and drives a power amplifier directly – a separate preamplifier isn't strictly necessary for this, but depending on your chain and cable length it can still make sense.

Which formats does the Super Vox play?

The Super Vox converts PCM and DSD signals via its specially developed multibit DSD engine, fed via USB, I2S or S/PDIF. The maximum supported resolution depends on the specific interface – ask us for the exact format list for your particular playback chain.

Does the Super Vox have a headphone output?

No, the Super Vox doesn't bring its own headphone output; it's designed as a pure converter and preamplifier. For headphones in the same housing look and with matching amplifier power, the Audiobyte Super Head from the same series is the obvious complement – same look, same standard.

Does the Super Vox pair with the Audiobyte Super Hub MKII?

Yes, both devices are designed as a joint stack and connect directly via I2S through an HDMI connector – the Super Hub MKII provides the transport, the Super Vox handles the conversion. Same housing concept, nearly identical dimensions, consistent look in the rack.

Why buy the Audiobyte Super Vox at HD Zürisee?

Because our experienced team knows the combination of streamer, converter and amplifier chain inside out and advises you on the right combination, instead of just selling you a single device. Call us, send us a message or simply ask on WhatsApp – we listen.

Goes well with

As a source, a network streamer like the Super Hub MKII fits well, as a headphone solution a headphone amplifier. For the complete stack, it's worth a look at the HiFi rack range.