Valve Audio Devices DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD Digital to Analogue Converter User Manual Version 2.
Introduction The Valve Audio Devices DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD valve DAC is an exquisitely engineered, handbuilt, point-to-point wired unit employing specifically selected components. It is designed for the audio purist and refined over countless hours to produce exceptional high definition sound with unparalleled musicality.
Technical information DSD64 playback (DAC-10 DSD): In our dedicated DSD (Direct Stream Digital) module, the USB interfaced DSD Left and Right channel bitstream data is passed through 1bit driver gates and applied to a high precision, double differential FIR (Finite Impulse Response) filter and then a passive analogue filter. This removes any DSD noise shaping high frequency carrier present in the signal and pink noise above 30kHz. Retrieved pure audio is then amplified by vacuum tube triodes.
2. DSD stage audio signal coupling. 3. Gain regulation - part of this function implemented in DC mode. 4. Signal dependent variable tube biasing. 5. Voltage amplification. 6. SE and balanced out signal stage. The whole tube circuit is operating in pure Class A. Casing: The unique VAD casing is designed as a monocoque structure with the fulfilled aim for extremely high mechanical rigidity, EMI and RFI screening and vibration damping. It is polymer coated and additionally polyurethane `silenced`.
CONTENTS Introduction 2 Technical info 3-4 Unpacking 5 Connection 6-7-8-9 Before Switching ON 10-11-12 Safety and other information 13-14 Specifications 15-16 Warranty Information 17-18 Warranty registration form 19 Unpacking In the flight case you will find the following: • • • • • 1 x VAD DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD valve DAC 1 x RF remote control 1 x Power cord 1 x Hex key (for removing the valve cover) User manual Remove all contents.
Connection VAD DAC-10 inputs: VAD DAC-10 DSD inputs 6
Digital inputs DAC-10 digital audio connectivity: • • • • • AES/EBU balanced digital audio input BNC SPDIF digital audio input COAXIAL SPDIF digital audio input TOSlink optical SPDIF digital audio input USB 2.0 audio PCM input (up to 24bit/192kHz) DAC-10 DSD digital audio connectivity: • • • • • BNC SPDIF digital audio input COAXIAL SPDIF digital audio input TOSlink optical SPDIF digital audio input USB 2.0 audio PCM input (up to 24bit/192kHz) USB 2.
Audio outputs: Balanced: Use screened, twisted pair cables fitted with 3pin XLR plugs (receptacle type plug for the DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD end). When using the balanced connection, pin 1 is “ground”, pin 2 is “hot” and pin 3 “cold”. Make sure this complies with your other audio equipment and consult with your dealer for any necessary modifications. RCA: analogue interconnects for single ended outputs. RCA cables should ideally be no longer than 1.
In the `up` position of SW2, the PCM USB is OFF and the dedicated DSD USB interface is ON for DSD64 playback (example: dsf. dff. iso.). SW2 also activates a separate analogue `path` for DSD playback. PCM and DSD If you have both formats (PCM, DSD) of music files on your computer connect both USB inputs to your computer using quality USB 2.0 cables.
Before switching on Front Panel Switching on / off Powering ON: “Flip” the mains power switch on the rear panel of the DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD followed by pushing the “Power” button on the front panel. Powering OFF: Press the “Power” button on the front panel of the DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD. When in use at home, there is no need to switch OFF the main switch on the rear panel – use the back panel switch to completely power off the unit when leaving the house for longer periods.
Whilst the DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD will sound superb from the moment it is switched on, due to the nature of valves, it’s sound will improve even further as it warms up. After 20 minutes it will be on song, after approximately 40 minutes it will reach its peak performance. To maximise the life span of the valves, it is recommended to minimise the number of times that the unit is switched on and off - e.g.
Safety Information Placement Apart from the valves, which, by their very nature, are designed to run hot, the DAC-10 / DAC10 DSD is relatively cool running and operates well below the maximum allowed temperature for consumer audio. It should be positioned so as to allow free airflow around it and not placed on top of other equipment – particularly Class A amplifiers, which run hot. Possible vibrations should be minimised as far as possible.
IMPORTANT: Tube (valve) replacement The DAC must be powered OFF by the mains switch on the back panel (mains IEC socket) and then fully disconnected from the mains socket for a minimum of 10 minutes before commencing any tube replacement. (`bleeding` the circuit fully discharges power supplies within 2 minutes, but take care as the valves may be still too hot to handle).
Specifications Audio Signal Frequency Range: 5Hz - 20 kHz (PCM) 5Hz - 30 kHz (DSD) Dynamic range: 122dB Digital inputs: 1x AES/EBU (DAC-10 only) 1x RCA Coaxial 1x BNC 1x Toslink optical 1x asynchronous 32 bit/192kHz USB 2.0 PCM input 1x asynchronous USB 2.0 DSD input (DAC10 DSD only) Output Signal Level (adjustable via gain control): 50mV to 4.4Vrms (approximate) Analogue Outputs: 1x XLR (balanced) max. 4.5Vrms- adjustable 1 xSingle ended RCA outputs 50mV to 4.
Power consumption: 58W AC mains operation voltage: Factory set for 220-240V/50/60Hz (100-120V/50/60Hz factory set version can be ordered at no additional cost) Fuse type: 1A Anti Surge 20mm fuse Dimensions: H 15cm x W 43.
Valve Audio Devices (VAD) DAC-10 / DAC-10 DSD Warranty Information Valve Audio Devices Limited warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of seven (7) years from the date of purchase (subject to the terms set forth below). Valve Audio Devices will repair or replace (at VAD option) this product or any defective parts in this product within the warranty period. Warranty periods may vary from country to country.
REPAIRS OR REPLACEMENTS AS PROVIDED UNDER THIS WARRANTY ARE THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF THE CONSUMER. VALVE AUDIO DEVICES LIMITED (VAD) SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY IN THIS PRODUCT. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT PROHIBITED BY LAW, THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES WHATSOEVER INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PRACTICAL PURPOSE.
Valve Audio Devices (VAD) Warranty Registration Form First Name: Title Last Name: Full address (number and street): City: Postcode/Zipcode: State/Province: Country: Phone Number: E-mail Address (receive up-to-date information on new products and promotions): Date of Purchase (day/month/year): Please indicate the serial number and warranty number of this product. (Found on the ID labels attached to your product). S/N No. Warranty No. You may receive information on a new products and special promotions.
