AI-301DA

The USB input facility allows DSD native playback which converts 5.6MHz DSD files directly into analog signals without needing first to convert it to PCM. It supports both the ASIO2.1 and DoP (DSD over PCM) conversion methods. Using the AI-301DA in conjunction with the TEAC HR Audio Player* high-resolution playback computer software application, anyone can easily explore the world of high-rez digital audio, including 5.6MHz DSD or 32bit/192 kHz PCM files, without struggling to have to understand complex settings etc.

When receiving digital audio signals from a computer via USB cable, the unit can operate in asynchronous mode, controlling the timing of the input signal using the UD-301's internal clock (which is identical to the one used in the UD-501). With asynchronous transmission over USB, signal compromising jitter is effectively eliminated, allowing digital audio signals to be transmitted in a pure, unadulterated state.

Besides its a USB audio input, the AI-301DA is also fitted with S/PDIF inputs for maximum compatibility. The coaxial digital input supports up to 24bit/192kHz while the optical digital input supports up to 24bit/96kHz digital audio.

The AI-301DA supports the aptX® codec which offers high sound quality wireless playback capability via Bluetooth® hardware. Besides high quality sound, the aptX® codec also offers low latency and an excellent error recovery function, both crucial features for achieving the best audio performance.

The BurrBrown PCM 1795 D/A converter converts 5.6MKz DSD or 32bit/192kHz PCM digital data into analog form. The analog signal, which is derived from huge digital audio data files (far larger than those used by CD) delivers a finely etched sound, with a great sense of depth.

The power amplifier stage is based upon a tried and tested Class-D amp, manufactured by ICEpower of Denmark.

It converts a high-resolution sound source into high-definition speaker signals using a feedback loop between a hybrid feedback controlled oscillating modulator (HCOM) which faithfully amplifies the signal, and a multivariable enhanced cascade control (MECC). The efficient design of the 60W + 60W (4 ohms) amplifier creates very little heat, eliminating any need for a cooling fan, thus affording a quiet environment that's ideal for musical appreciation.

The 100mW + 100mW output (at 32 ohms load) headphone amplifier uses CCLC (Coupling Capacitor Less Circuit) technology. In ordinary headphone output circuits, a capacitor is used for output-stage coupling, and so the sound is unavoidably colored. When the capacitor is combined with a high-pass filter this often results in phase lags, or low frequency level degradation. With CCLC the negative impact of capacitors on sound quality is eliminated, providing full low-frequency sound and a responsive headphone listening environment with great spatiality.

Following on from our development of the 501 series concept (small high-performance audio components that can be fitted on a desktop) we decided, at the outset, that the 301 series would be an even more compact design. Now, the casework has been shrunken to just 215mm wide, allowing greater freedom in positioning the amplifier. External highlights include aluminum panels and a motor-driven volume knob with the tactile feel you'd expect from controls found in high end full-size hi-fi components. At the same time, the solid enclosure underpinned by the metal chassis, is impressively inert, minimizing the effects of vibration on the unit's sound quality.

The AI-301DA has a well-conceived Auto Power On function which automatically switches on the unit's power when it senses a digital signal input. When the amplifier is connected to optical digital audio output from a television set, just switching on the television turns on the power of the AI-301DA, enabling you to immediately enjoy high-quality sound without having to adjust any other settings. This facility makes life very convenient allowing users to switch on the TV and instantly listen to music or a soundtrack.

Combining the AI301-DA, with its high-performance engineering packed into a compact body, and the LS-301 coaxial speaker, specifically developed to match it, creates a system that does full justice to any high-resolution audio source.

What's more, the AI301-DA has been fitted with a sub-woofer pre-out plug so that the user can, if they wish, also employ the equally compact 2.1ch LS-WH01 satellite/subwoofer system, ,making for an extraordinarily compact 2.1ch system that can easily be placed on a desktop or next to a TV set.