EMM Labs DA2i

The EMM Labs DA2i is the flagship standalone DAC, EMM Labs' most accomplished digital-to-analog converter, built around the company's proprietary 16xDSD (DSD1024) MDAT2 conversion technology and a fully discrete analog output stage. Thirty years of Ed Meitner's digital audio research distilled into a single component for listeners who want the finest digital-to-analog conversion available.

Type and Technology

Flagship reference DAC. EMM Labs' proprietary 16xDSD (DSD1024) MDAT2 conversion, the same technology licensed to Sony for the original Super Audio CD format. Fully discrete analog output stage. Fixed balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs. Digital inputs: USB, AES/EBU, SPDIF coaxial, SPDIF optical, and EMM OptiLink (proprietary optical connection for compatible EMM transport). PCM support up to 32-bit/DXD (352.8kHz/384kHz); DSD up to DSD1024 natively. Remote control included.

Sound Character

Natural, three-dimensional, and completely free of digital harshness, the DA2i presents recordings with a tonal accuracy and spatial realism that reflects Ed Meitner's conviction that DSD at very high multiples is the ideal format for musical reproduction. The 16xDSD upsampling process minimizes the quantization noise artifacts that affect conventional PCM and even standard DSD playback, and the result is a DAC that sounds like music rather than a convincing reproduction of it.

Build and Finish

Premium full-width machined aluminum chassis with EMM Labs' meticulous build quality. Remote control included. Available in silver or black.

Best For

Audiophiles who want the finest standalone DAC available from one of the most historically significant names in digital audio, particularly those building a reference two-channel system who want a dedicated DAC without preamplifier integration.

What's in the Box

• EMM Labs DA2i DAC
• Remote control
• Power cable
• Documentation

Specifications