DAC-200.TS
Digital soul. Analogue heart.
🔗 Manufacturer websiteDescription ⌄
Cary Audio DAC-200ts — reference tube output stage DAC. The DAC-200ts is an exceptionally versatile digital-to-analogue converter featuring four AK4490EQ DAC chips in a true balanced, dual-differential array delivering 123 dB dynamic range. Its defining feature is a front-panel selectable output stage — switching between a solid-state output for analytical transparency and a 12AU7 vacuum tube output stage for a more organic, harmonically rich character. A 128-bit DSP engine with TruBit upsampling to 768 kHz, async USB, AES/EBU, S/PDIF, TosLink, and Bluetooth inputs, and a choice of Silver or Black faceplate make this one of the most flexible DACs available at any price.
Technical background
Hybrid tube/solid-state output design. 4 independent DACs processing in 8-channel configuration with 128-bit DSP. Vacuum tube output stage provides harmonic richness; solid-state output for analytical precision. Both outputs simultaneously active.
Design story
The DAC-200.ts brings Cary Audio's tube heritage into the DAC category. Dual output stages let owners choose their preferred character — and it can be paired with any tube or solid-state amplifier from the Cary lineup.
Best for
Audiophiles wanting a standalone high-resolution DAC with tube output stage; those adding a premium DAC to an existing Cary or tube amplifier system Tube amplifier owners; audiophiles wanting analogue warmth from digital; DAC buyers upgrading from solid-state-only units Desktop DAC; high-end digital source; hybrid tube/SS system integration
Awards & press
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Features ⌄
- Dual Independent Output (DiO™) — separate solid-state and vacuum tube output stages
- 128-bit DSP engine with TruBit™ upsampling — seven selectable sample rates to 768kHz
- Four independent DACs in eight channels — reference-grade digital-to-analogue conversion
- OSO™ reclocking + master clock I/O — ultra-precise jitter elimination
- Dual output stages — choose between tube warmth (XLR/RCA) and solid-state precision (RCA) from the same DAC
- 128-bit DSP with 7-step upsampling — upgrades any digital source to up to 768kHz internally