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DAC / preamplifier (1x SABRE32 ES9038Q2M)

An old-school DAC / preamplifier

We do not use any DSP to oversample or post-process the digital original signal. And we have not connected a tube output in parallel with a solid-state output to sweeten the analog signal and attract attention. Instead, the Composer 3X Performance plays faithfully, from MP3s to native DSD512, without bass boost or frosting.

With a powerful SABRE32/ESS9038Q2M DAC chip, a minimal signal path, and a robust power supply, the Composer follows an old-school design approach, reproducing the original with the highest precision.

The power to connect

The Composer features excellent digital connections. Equipped with the Qualcomm/CSR8675 [+] Learn more Bluetooth receiver (24bit/96khz / AptxHD) and the XMOS USB receiver (PCM 768Khz / DSD 512), the Composer connects seamlessly with all PC, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.

Maximum performance

The Composer is a testament to the "less is more" design approach. That means a short signal path ensures accuracy, and clean power ensures transparency.

The entire audio signal path of the Composer is about the size of two postage stamps. This symmetrical, fully balanced signal path is free from inferior IC opamps. Instead, discrete Burson V6Vivid operational amplifiers are used, widely regarded as the best sounding in the world.

The quality of the power supply is as important for audio amplification as the quality of water is for cooking. For this reason, we dedicate the rest of the product area to power regeneration. The Composer features four Burson-designed Max Current Power Supplies (MCPS). They raise the voltage frequency from 50Hz to 170kHz, pushing noise beyond human hearing. The result is a transparent sound with incredible micro-details. 

Refined preamplifier

The Composer is also a phenomenal preamplifier with low output impedance and two gain stages, making it the perfect partner for all amplifiers and active speakers.

Opamp rolling fun

The Composer 3X Performance comes with discrete Burson V6 Vivid operational amplifiers. But don't let us or others dictate your listening experience. The Composer encourages opamp rolling with gold-plated DIP8 sockets along the signal path. With hundreds of audio opamps, you have the freedom to tailor your listening experience to your preferences. 

A timeless classic

But wait a minute! Don't many high-end DACs use ESS9038 and Xmos, and many DACs claim to use high-end components? What makes the Composer unique without a glowing tube output, a porthole to look into, and a fancy DSP sales argument?

Every music composer works with the same set of notes. Those who have the right focus and necessary experience create timeless classics by arranging them the right way. Those who want to shock and collect "Likes", who compile drafts with the help of focus groups instead of using their heart, usually create something forgettable. The Composer 3X Performance is excellent because we did the hard work. It sounds incredibly old school, and we know it is a classic.

Technical Details

• 38 KOhms
• Frequency response: ± 1 dB 0 – 58Khz
• THD: <0.0017% Power Cable
• Output impedance (Pre Out / DAC Out): 10 Ohm / 25 Ohm
• Inputs: USB, Optical Toslink, BlueTooth 5.0, microphone
• Outputs: 1 x XLR Pre Out / DAC Out1 X RCA Pre Out / DAC Out
• Channel Separation: 142 dB @ 1KHz, 135 dB @ 20KHz
• THD+N: 0.0005% @ 1KHz, 0dBFS
• COAX & Toslink / SPDIF : up to 24bit 192K
• PCM Support: PCM ≤ 768kHz @ 16, 24 or 32bits
• Native DSD: Native DSD 64 / 128 / 256 / 512
• DSD over PCM: DoP64 / DoP128 / DoP256/Dop512
• Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD (Qualcomm CSR8675)
• iOS* , Android (OTG support)
• Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 Mac OSX
• Dimensions: 200mm x 250mm x 60mm

Scope of delivery

• Conductor 3X Performance (R-180X)
• Remote control
• Power supply 24V
• USB-C cable

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