High-end audio streamer from dCS unveiled, boasting enhanced versatility, a fresh design, and powerful performance promises
The dCS Lina DAC X is the latest high-end music streamer from dCS, designed for audiophile 2-channel systems. This network DAC boasts a robust build, advanced digital processing, and versatile streaming capabilities, making it an attractive choice for music enthusiasts.
Key features and specifications of the dCS Lina DAC X include:
- Design and Build: The dCS Lina DAC X is housed within a machined aluminium chassis, offering structural rigidity and electromagnetic shielding. The sophisticated flex-rigid circuit board consolidates core functions to minimize interference and signal path length for clean audio reproduction. The Lina DAC X is wider than the compact Lina DAC, measuring 44cm across, and includes preamp volume control and IR remote support, making it suitable for full 2-channel setups.
- Digital to Analog Conversion: The dCS Lina DAC X utilizes the proprietary dCS Ring DAC™ system and advanced digital processing platform. This ensures high integrity, detailed, musical, and natural sound. The L–R crosstalk is better than –115 dB across the 20 Hz–20 kHz range.
- Streaming and Network: The dCS Lina DAC X supports multiple streaming services and protocols, including UPnP, Internet Radio, Qobuz, Spotify, Deezer, TIDAL, Roon Ready, and QQ Music. It works with dCS Mosaic platform for hi-res streaming.
- Upsampling: The Lina DAC X offers multi-stage DXD oversampling with switchable DSD upsampling options, including DSD ×1 (2.822 or 3.07 MS/s) and DSD ×2 (5.644 or 6.14 MS/s).
- Analog Outputs: The device offers 1 stereo pair balanced XLR outputs and 1 stereo pair unbalanced RCA outputs.
- Master Clock Compatibility: The Lina DAC X can be paired with the dCS Lina Grade 1 Master Clock to minimize jitter and improve timing accuracy, offering even better audio performance.
The dCS Lina DAC X is available for order now, with shipping starting in June 2025. Its combination of precision engineering, extensive streaming service support, advanced digital processing, and premium build quality makes it a flagship device for audiophiles seeking detailed, natural sound reproduction in a networked audio system. The Lina DAC X supports streaming from platforms like Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Roon, and Audirvana, and offers balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, coaxial, optical, and USB (Type B and Type A) digital inputs. Additionally, it supports AirPlay 2, Internet Radio, and UPnP streaming, and is designed to be consistently upgradable thanks to its flexible built-in architecture. The price of the dCS Lina DAC X is £13,500 / $15,500. The Lina DAC X includes a rotary volume control, a new remote handset, and the option to connect CD/SACD transports. The device is the upgraded version of the original Lina DAC, designed to live up to the legacy of the original Lina DAC.
- The dCS Lina DAC X will be showcased at an upcoming audiophile event, with shipping scheduled to start in June 2025.
- With its high-end build and advanced digital processing, the dCS Lina DAC X presents an exciting review opportunity for gadget enthusiasts.
- Music enthusiasts are encouraged to review the dCS Lina DAC X, a hi-fi device designed for 2-channel systems.
- When compared to the compact Lina DAC, the Lina DAC X is wider and includes additional features such as preamp volume control and IR remote support.
- Headphone enthusiasts can take advantage of the dCS Lina DAC X's detailed, natural sound reproduction, given its impressive DXD oversampling and signal integrity.
- The dCS Lina DAC X is the latest news in the world of streaming technology, boasting versatile streaming capabilities and extensive support for platforms like Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify.
- The dCS Lina DAC X supports a variety of streaming protocols, making it a must-have gadget for music lovers seeking the best audio quality.
- The dCS Lina DAC X is a feature-rich amplifier, offering balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, coaxial, optical, and USB digital inputs.
- For those considering a purchase, the dCS Lina DAC X offers a premium deal on precision engineering, high-res streaming, and natural sound reproduction.
- As the upgraded version of the original Lina DAC, the Lina DAC X strives to maintain the legacy of its predecessor, providing an exceptional audio experience without compromise.