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Delivery time approx. 2 weeks.
Introducing the HERMES, the mid-tier digital-to-digital converter from DENAFRIPS.
After a careful three-year refinement process, DENAFRIPS has perfected its development, based on the technological advances incorporated into our renowned DAC.
These advancements include our exclusive FPGA DSP processing, the integration of a FIFO buffer and reclocking, and an unprecedented USB audio interface solution through the use of the STM32F466 Advanced AMR-based MCU.
Essentially, the HERMES is derived from the Gaia DDC model. The main differences between the Gaia and Hermes models are as follows:
- The Gaia features a high-quality OCXO.
- The Gaia’s housing is made of solid aluminum panels.
- Although the Hermes has an aluminum front panel, its casing is made of a metal alloy.
- The Hermes model is only available in black
To celebrate DENAFRIPS' 12th anniversary and its outstanding expertise in digital audio, the Hermes 12th Anniversary Edition features the coveted sound quality of the original Hermes and performance improvements.
WHAT IS A “DDC”?
A DDC, which stands for digital-to-digital converter, is a device that converts a digital audio signal from one format or interface to another within the digital domain. Its primary purpose is to facilitate harmony between different audio systems, especially when faced with different digital interfaces.
The Denafrips Digital-to-Digital Converter (DDC) is a device carefully designed to accept a digital audio signal into a specific digital connection, such as USB, and then convert it to alternative digital audio outputs. This conversion process not only improves audio quality but also involves the application of advanced processing techniques.
Denafrip's DDC uses a FIFO buffer to store and manage the incoming digital input signal. This buffering process is enhanced and reclocked using an internal high-quality femtosecond clock, ensuring precise timing and synchronization. Furthermore, the DDC features galvanic isolation, protecting the signal from electrical noise and maintaining signal integrity throughout the conversion process.
The Denafrips HERMES DDC offers versatile connectivity and can handle various input formats such as USB, coaxial, optical, and AES. It also supports multiple output formats such as SPDIF coaxial, optical, AES, and i2s. This wide range of input and output options enhances its adaptability and compatibility with various audio setups.
Denafrips has earned a reputation for producing DDCs that deliver outstanding audio performance. This is made possible by integrating cutting-edge technologies that ensure precise signal conversion and preserve the authenticity of the audio data during enhancement.
These DDCs serve as an important link in connecting different digital audio setups and promote compatibility between different audio components that may use different digital interfaces or have different sampling rates.
SWEET-SPOT by DENAFRIPS DDC
Featuring over 8 sets of precision, ultra-low noise linear regulators complemented by an oversized O-core transformer, the Denafrips HERMES DDC effortlessly delivers clean and stable power to its digital circuits.
The HERMES goes beyond conventional limitations and offers greater signal processing flexibility. It handles a variety of input signals and isn't limited to USB. In fact, the HERMES supports both USB and SPDIF inputs, including coaxial, TOSLink, and AES/EBU inputs.
These incoming digital data streams undergo a careful process of FIFO buffering and reclocking through the integration of the Precision Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator (OCXO). This strategic process effectively minimizes jitter to a nearly imperceptible level and ensures that the digital output signal is not affected by disruptive jitter noise.
The use of the OCXO plays a crucial role in achieving this result.
Hermes 12th features an upgrade in the form of an 80 VA O-core shielded transformer. This transformer is carefully manufactured in-house by DENAFRIPS engineers using UPOCC copper.
The oversized 80 VA O-core shielded transformer delivers significant power to the Hermes 12th DDC's multi-stage linear power supply. This improvement ensures the DDC receives a plentiful and stable power supply for optimal performance.
BEST-IN-CLASS D/D CONVERTER
If you are still unsure whether you will find a D/D converter that can improve the sound quality of your system, then your search is over.
HERMES is an excellent partner, compatible with numerous DAC brands and models available. Purchase it and integrate it into your setup to experience the noticeable change in audio quality.
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