Need a DAC Recommendation.

@oddiofyl 

“The latest build of RME adi-2 DAC is now using an ESS Sabre chip.”

where you see that?

“The latest build of RME adi-2 DAC is now using an ESS Sabre chip.”

where you see that?

https://www.rme-audio.de/adi-2-dac.html

5 paragraphs down...

"The updated ADI-2 DAC uses ESS’s ES9028Q2M in a special circuit variant developed by RME engineers that allows the chip to perform at its best. With noise levels of 123 dBA, distortion less than -120 dB, or THD+N of -116 dB, the device delivers outstanding measured values, and allows the IEM output to reach a sensational low noise level of -121 dBu. In addition, there is +2.5 dB of digital headroom, so that high intersample peaks do not produce any audible distortion. The reserve in volume setting results in a still undistorted analog output signal even at a volume setting of +2.5 dB."

searching the internet isn’t so hard... 💻💻💻

The OCTO looks nice...too bad XLR only.   

If you want a DAC that provides the same level of signal conversion accuracy that is enjoyed by many studios, the RME ADI-2 DAC fs is your best bet. German precision at an affordable price, with plenty of onboard features to boot. Learning to navigate the extensive menu options can initially be a little intimidating, but becomes second nature after some use.

I believe the current iteration of this DAC, the V2, uses the AKM 4493 chip. From the website:

"The updated ADI-2 DAC uses AKM’s AK4493 in a special circuit variant developed by RME engineers that allows the chip to perform at its best. With noise levels of 123 dBA, distortion less than -120 dB, or THD+N of -116 dB, the device delivers outstanding measured values. Even the IEM output, with -118 dBu already the world’s lowest noise headphone output, improves to a sensational -121 dBu. In addition, there is 4 dB of digital headroom, so that even high intersample peaks do not produce any audible distortion. Finally, the device now also offers a clear reserve in volume setting. +2.5 dB result in a still undistorted analog output signal."