SW1X DAC IV

The SW1X DAC IV is the reference statement of the SW1X DAC lineup, a single-chassis TDA1541-based NOS design that adds directly heated diode (DHD) rectification to the power supply, a power output valve output stage, and a quasi dual-mono architecture, producing what SW1X describes as the most dynamic DAC currently in production: a presentation of scale, presence, and dynamic authority that no other topology in the lineup can match.

Type and Technology

Non-oversampling (NOS) R2R DAC with directly heated diode power supply and power output valve stage. TDA1541 R2R DAC chip. Directly heated diode (DHD) tube-rectified, 2x choke-filtered, quasi dual-mono B+ power supply, the most sophisticated power delivery in the SW1X lineup. Anode choke-loaded or signal output transformer-decoupled, zero negative feedback, triode valve output stage. SW1X custom-designed copper-wound Super HiB DC core chokes or signal output transformers. Discrete transistor shunt regulated low voltage supplies. S/PDIF coaxial input up to 24-bit/96kHz (optional up to 48kHz purist Red Book mode). Orient grain M6 EI core mains transformers and chokes. Tube complement: 1x 6SN7 or 2x 6J5, 2x 6V6 or 2x 6F6, 1x 5U4G.

Sound Character

Transient response and dynamic scale that set the DAC IV apart from everything below it in the SW1X lineup, music is presented with a visceral impact and dimensional realism that makes vocalist and instrument placement feel uncomfortably, wonderfully physical. In the right system the illusion of performers in the room is strong enough to be startling. The DHD power supply removes the last vestiges of solid-state character from the power delivery, and the larger power output valves provide the current delivery for those dynamics.

Build and Finish

The largest and heaviest SW1X DAC at 250 x 450 x 410mm and 20kg, the single-chassis design houses everything in one enclosure with shorter signal paths despite the challenge of isolating the power supply magnetically. Signature versions with silver-wound OPTs available on a custom built-to-order basis. Specifications subject to ongoing SW1X research and development.

Best For

Serious digital listeners who want the most dynamically alive, organically musical NOS R2R DAC available, the reference endpoint of the SW1X DAC ecosystem for those who have heard the DAC III and want more of everything.

Specifications