Merason DAC 2 D/A Converter, Black

The Merason DAC 2 is a fully balanced High-End D/A converter in true dual-mono – Merason's most uncompromising statement on pure PCM conversion.

It's the evolution of the DAC 1 Mk II: two complete converters, a Class-A output without feedback, and an effort on circuit board, power supply and mechanics that leaves nothing to be desired. Hand-built in Switzerland, here in black.

Why the DAC 2?

Two Burr-Brown PCM1794A chips work in true dual-mono – one complete chip per channel, for around 5 dB more dynamics and a wider, more stable soundstage. The discrete, fully balanced Class-A output stage runs entirely without feedback, twelve dedicated power supplies feed each section individually, and a new multilayer board with precision SMD keeps signal paths short. Belleville washers on the output transistors and damped feet keep heat and vibration in check.

What you hear

Everything the DAC 1 Mk II already does well – one step more consistent. A bigger stage, even more calm, more body, the last layer of the recording. Distortion below 0.006%, signal-to-noise ratio above 120 dB: the DAC 2 leaves hardly any question open, on the bench or in the room.

Who is the DAC 2 for?

For the resolving top-tier system that wants to get the maximum out of PCM. Plain talk: the DAC 2 is also a pure converter – no volume control, no headphone amp, no DSD (PCM up to 192 kHz/24 bit). You need a preamp or integrated amp with a high-level input. And the premium over the DAC 1 Mk II is significant: for most people, the Mk II is already the reference. The DAC 2 is for those who want the absolute last word, uncompromisingly – and can hear it in a direct comparison.

Our verdict

The DAC 2 is the crown of Merason's PCM converters. Whether the step up from the DAC 1 Mk II is worth it, you'll hear most honestly in a direct comparison at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil – that's exactly what our listening room is for.

Technical data

• Type: D/A converter, true dual-mono, fully balanced
• Converter: 2× Burr-Brown PCM1794A (one chip per channel), discrete I/V stage
• Output stage: discrete, Class A, without feedback
• Inputs: USB, AES/EBU, Toslink (optical), S/PDIF coaxial (RCA) – all galvanically isolated
• Input formats: PCM up to 192 kHz / 24 bit
• Outputs: XLR balanced max. 3.5 V RMS, RCA unbalanced max. 1.75 V RMS
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.3 dB
• Distortion (THD+N): < 0.006%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 120 dB
• Power supply: 12 separate power supplies, 230 V / 50–60 Hz, approx. 30 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 45 × 10 × 29 cm
• Weight: 5.5 kg
• Finish: Black
• Origin: Made in Switzerland
• Included: Merason DAC 2 D/A converter (Black), power cable, user manual

Frequently asked questions

What sets the DAC 2 apart from the DAC 1 Mk II?

True dual-mono with one complete chip per channel, a Class-A output stage without feedback, a new multilayer board with more precision SMD, plus improved thermal and vibration management. In numbers: less distortion (< 0.006%) and a higher output level (3.5 V balanced).

Does the DAC 2 play DSD, and do I need a preamp?

It doesn't play DSD – the DAC 2 is designed for PCM up to 192 kHz/24 bit. Since it deliberately does without volume control, you run it into a preamp or integrated amp with a high-level input.

Is the premium over the DAC 1 Mk II worth it?

For most systems, the DAC 1 Mk II is already reference level. The DAC 2 is worth it if you have a correspondingly resolving chain and want the uncompromising maximum. The most honest answer comes from a direct comparison.

Why buy the Merason DAC 2 at HD Zürisee?

Because a converter of this class deserves advice at eye level. In Wädenswil, we compare the DAC 2 and DAC 1 Mk II on your own chain, match sources and cables, and deliver and install on site. Call us (044 680 22 00), write to us, or reach us on WhatsApp (076 534 22 00, text only, no calls).

Goes well with

A converter of this class wants an equally capable environment – a clean source, a good preamp, good cables: Streamers · Preamplifiers · Cables · Merason