Aune S18 EVO

The Aune S18 EVO is a reference desktop DAC in the purest sense: a dedicated conversion stage with no headphone amplifier on board, engineered around clocking precision that is rare anywhere near its price.

Two AKM AK4497 chips run in a precisely synchronized, mirrored dual-mono configuration, governed by Aune's third-generation full clock synchronization PLL with femtosecond-level jitter. A BNC input even lets you slave the S18 EVO to a 10MHz master clock such as the Aune SC1 EVO.

Type and Technology

The XMOS XU316 USB interface accepts PCM up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD512, while coaxial, optical and AES/EBU inputs handle up to 24bit/192kHz. Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX HD is re-clocked through the in-house PLL stage before conversion. Outputs cover balanced XLR and single-ended RCA, with two selectable digital filter modes.

Sound Character

Vanishingly low noise and distortion: 0.00022 percent THD+N from the XLR outputs, 127dB SNR and a noise floor measured in microvolts. The result is a jet-black background with effortless resolution, precise imaging and natural tonal weight.

Build and Features

The arc-shaped all-aluminum chassis houses a front display and ships with Aune's RC1 all-aluminum remote control. Output level is 4.9Vrms balanced and 2.2Vrms single-ended, ready for any preamp, integrated amp or active monitors. The unit measures 211 x 288 x 63 mm and weighs 5kg.

Best For

The conversion centerpiece of a serious desktop or hi-fi rig. Pair it with a dedicated amplifier like the Aune S17 Pro EVO, or explore more converters in our DACs collection and digital collection.

What's in the Box

• Aune S18 EVO
• Power cable
• USB cable
• RC1 aluminum remote control

Specifications