WEISS 501-502 DAC


I believe the Weiss 502 Dac came out in 2017. Does anyone know if there have been any up-grades to that unit since it's release date? in other words, is the current unit the same ,or have there been any sonic improvements? Thanks for any feedback. Sam

samgar2

There have been multiple firmware upgrades over the years. These are usually downloaded over the internet and installed by the end user. Mainly the addition of new DSP features.

The latest upgrade is a hardware upgrade to Mk 2 status. The existing analog module is replaced with the Mk 2 version. The Mk 2 uses ESS 9038PRO DAC chips, instead of ESS 9018 previously.

The "white paper" can be accessed using this link:

https://www.weiss.ch/files/downloads/dac501-dac502/White-paper-on-the-DAC50x-4ch.pdf

 

The 501v2 and 502v2 are both available and the distributor is working on stocking these models.  Silver 502v2 is in-stock.  The 501v2 is $11,495, the 502v2 is $12,795.  

Also, upgraded boards will be available for people who want to move from the original 501 and 502.  This is not a vicious process and just needs to be coordinated through your dealer.  

This is a DAC brand we need to see more reviews of. For me the Weiss products are almost affordable while something like the DCS is not.