Vincent DAC-1 MK D/A Converter Black

The Vincent DAC-1 MK is a D/A converter that translates digital sources such as streamers, computers or TVs into analogue music via USB, optical and coaxial.

In short: the link between your digital world and your system. Zeros and ones go in, a full-fledged analogue signal comes out – clean, balanced and with plenty of resolution headroom.

Why the DAC-1 MK?

At its heart works an ESS Sabre ES9038 converter – one of the established high-end chips. The analogue section is built strictly balanced, and the power supply uses separate transformer windings for the digital and analogue sections so the two don't get in each other's way. Via USB, the DAC-1 MK accepts high-resolution files up to 32-bit / 384 kHz and DSD; via optical and coaxial up to 24-bit / 192 kHz.

What you get

A dedicated converter that turns thin- or harsh-sounding digital sources round and full-bodied again. Output runs via both RCA and balanced XLR – so it matches practically any amplifier, even over longer cable runs. The format list is wide: from MP3 to FLAC, WAV and DSD, it all plays.

Who is the DAC-1 MK suited for?

For anyone who listens via streamer, computer or TV and wants more than their amplifier's built-in converter – especially when a balanced XLR output is called for. Honestly: the DAC-1 MK is a pure converter in transistor technology – no tube, no volume control, no headphone output. If you want tube warmth, a level control or a headphone section in the same housing, take a look at the larger DAC-700 instead.

Our verdict

The DAC-1 MK is a cleanly built, balanced ESS Sabre converter with plenty of resolution headroom and DSD over USB – the uncomplicated way to lift digital sources to HiFi level. Not sure whether it suits your amplifier and sources? Call us on 044 680 22 00, write on WhatsApp to 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or drop by in Wädenswil – we're happy to advise you.

Technical Data

• Type: D/A converter (digital/analogue converter), transistor technology
• Converter chip: ESS Sabre ES9038
• Sample rate USB: PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz, DSD up to DSD256
• Sample rate optical/coaxial: PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz, DSD64
• Playable formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, AAC+, ALAC, FLAC, APE, WAV, DSD
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
• Total harmonic distortion: below 0.0004%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: above 95 dB
• Dynamic range: above 100 dB
• Channel separation: above 90 dB
• Audio output voltage: 2.5 V
• Digital inputs: 1 × USB, 1 × optical, 1 × coaxial, 1 × power control (3.5 mm)
• Outputs: 1 × stereo RCA, 1 × stereo XLR (balanced), 1 × power control (3.5 mm)
• Max. power consumption: 35 watts
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 79 × 343 mm
• Weight: 5.5 kg
• Colour: Black
• What's included: Vincent DAC-1 MK, remote control, power cable, USB cable, user manual

Frequently Asked Questions

What resolution does the Vincent DAC-1 MK handle?
Via USB up to 32-bit / 384 kHz plus DSD up to DSD256; via optical and coaxial up to 24-bit / 192 kHz. That lets you play even high-resolution files and DSD albums directly from your computer or streamer – more headroom than most music libraries will ever need.

Does the DAC-1 MK have a tube?
No. The DAC-1 MK is a pure solid-state converter based on the ESS Sabre ES9038 with a fully balanced analogue section. If you're specifically after tube sound, the larger Vincent DAC-700 is the right choice, with its switchable tube output stage.

Can I connect the DAC-1 MK in balanced mode?
Yes. Alongside the RCA output there's a fully balanced XLR output. If your amplifier has XLR inputs or sits further away, the balanced connection is the lower-interference choice.

Why use a separate DAC instead of the one built into the amplifier?
A standalone converter has its own optimised power supply and a low-interference layout, away from the power amplifier stage. Especially with USB audio from a computer or a simple streamer, the DAC-1 MK audibly pulls more calm and resolution out of the signal.

Why buy the Vincent DAC-1 MK from HD Zürisee?
Because we tell you whether a separate converter actually brings anything to your chain – and how to integrate it best. As an experienced team, we've known Vincent for many years and help with connection, cabling and configuration. Our own technician takes care of service and installation.

Goes well with

The DAC-1 MK sits between your source and a matching Vincent amplifier – ideally cabled in balanced mode. You'll find the right Cables with us, and if you're still looking for the right amplifier, you'll find it in our Amplifiers.