SW1X DAC II

The SW1X DAC II steps up to the PCM56, widely regarded as one of the most refined and musical 16-bit R2R DACs ever manufactured, in a dual-mono NOS design with a more sophisticated power supply and a powerful 6N6P valve output stage. The result is a meaningfully more refined and nuanced presentation than the DAC I while retaining the same pure NOS philosophy of zero oversampling and zero digital filtering.

Type and Technology

Non-oversampling (NOS) R2R DAC with valve output stage. Dual PCM56P-K chips, considered among the finest-sounding 16-bit DACs ever created. Active I/V conversion via a specially selected transistor with less than 10 ohm input impedance, connected directly to the tube grid for the shortest possible signal path. Class A, anode follower, zero negative feedback, single-ended valve amplification topology. 6N6P double triode output stage. Valve-rectified CLC choke-filtered B+ supply. Discrete transistor shunt regulated low voltage supplies. Only one decoupling capacitor per channel in the signal path. Circuit wired with specially selected copper conductors throughout. S/PDIF coaxial input up to 24-bit/96kHz (USB optional). Dual EI core mains transformers for split digital and analogue power supplies.

Sound Character

The PCM56 brings a step up in low-level resolution, midrange refinement, and musical presentation relative to the TDA1543 in the DAC I, more detail and air, without losing any of the tonal warmth and natural character that defines the SW1X DAC family. The anode follower topology and single decoupling capacitor per channel keeps the signal path elegantly simple and tonally honest.

Build and Finish

Available in STD and SPX versions (SPX includes film/foil output decoupling capacitors, premium tube options). Hand-assembled with selected copper conductors. Optional extras include AN copper foil in oil decoupling capacitors, vintage NOS tube upgrades, and orient grain M6 EI core mains transformer. Specifications subject to change as SW1X research continues.

Best For

Digital listeners who want a meaningful step up from the DAC I in resolution and refinement while maintaining the NOS R2R philosophy, and those who want to experience the PCM56 chip at its best in a proper valve output stage.

Specifications