Denafrips Erato R-2R DAC

DENAFRIPS ERATO R-2R DAC

The Denafrips Erato is a compact, fully balanced R-2R digital-to-analogue converter designed to bring the distinctive Denafrips conversion architecture to a more accessible price point. Combining a discrete 24-bit resistor ladder, dedicated DSD conversion, FPGA digital processing and precision clocking, Erato delivers a sophisticated digital audio platform for high-quality stereo systems.

With five digital inputs, balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs, selectable NOS/OS operation and support for ultra-high-resolution audio via USB, Erato is equally suited to dedicated streamers, CD transports and computer-based music playback.

TRUE BALANCED DISCRETE R-2R CONVERSION

At the heart of Erato is Denafrips' proprietary fully balanced conversion architecture, combining a 24-bit R-2R resistor ladder for PCM playback with a dedicated 6-bit DSD conversion section.

Carefully selected, hand-matched resistors with 0.005% precision form the foundation of the discrete ladder network. This approach differs from conventional integrated delta-sigma DAC chips and reflects Denafrips' focus on precise, controlled digital-to-analogue conversion.

The dedicated DSD architecture incorporates 32-step FIR filtering, allowing the converter to process both PCM and DSD formats through its proprietary digital architecture.

FPGA PROCESSING, FIFO BUFFERING & RECLOCKING

Erato employs FPGA-based digital signal processing together with an adaptive FIFO buffer and reclocking architecture. These technologies help manage incoming digital audio data and reduce the influence of source-related timing fluctuations on the internal conversion process.

Precision femtosecond crystal oscillators operating at 45.1548MHz and 49.152MHz provide dedicated timing references for the main digital audio sampling-rate families.

The result is a carefully engineered digital processing system designed for consistent performance across compatible audio sources.

HIGH-RESOLUTION USB AUDIO

The USB Type-B input supports PCM playback up to 1536kHz and native DSD up to DSD1024, making Erato suitable for advanced computer-audio and dedicated USB transport applications.

Denafrips uses a proprietary USB audio solution based on the STM32F446 ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller. Windows operation is supported through the licensed Thesycon USB audio driver, while macOS and Linux offer driverless compatibility with supported audio software.

The USB input provides the highest supported sampling rates. Coaxial and optical inputs support PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz, with DSD64 capability specified by the manufacturer.

FIVE DIGITAL INPUTS & BALANCED ANALOGUE OUTPUTS

Erato offers two coaxial S/PDIF inputs, two Toslink optical inputs and one USB Type-B input. This allows several digital sources to remain connected, such as a network streamer, CD transport, television audio output or computer.

On the analogue side, balanced XLR outputs deliver a nominal 4.0V RMS, while the single-ended RCA outputs provide 2.0V RMS. Both output types allow straightforward integration with compatible integrated amplifiers and preamplifiers.

Erato is a dedicated DAC and does not provide an HDMI I2S input, network streaming functionality or an integrated headphone amplifier.

SELECTABLE NOS/OS MODES & DIGITAL FILTERS

Denafrips Erato allows users to select between Non-Oversampling (NOS) and Oversampling (OS) operation, providing flexibility when evaluating different playback characteristics.

Slow and Sharp digital filter selections are also available where applicable, enabling further adjustment of the digital processing configuration.

For convenient operation, Erato supports the separately available Denafrips DN-Y3 remote control. This optional accessory provides access to supported functions without requiring direct interaction with the DAC's front panel.

COMPACT CHASSIS & LOW-NOISE POWER DESIGN

Despite its compact dimensions of 220 × 255 × 65mm, Erato incorporates a dedicated low-noise power supply and carefully engineered digital and analogue circuitry. Its 3.2kg construction provides a substantial foundation for a small-format DAC.

Available in Black and Silver finishes, Erato is designed to complement both compact desktop-based audio systems and full-size stereo installations.

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