DRACHENFELS USB

Drachenfels headphone amplifier with USB DAC input — connect directly to computer or streaming device. The Drachenfels USB extends the Drachenfels platform with a USB audio input alongside S/PDIF and TOSLINK, making it a complete desktop digital-to-analogue converter and headphone amplifier. The USB input is asynchronous, accepting audio from a PC or Mac at up to 96kHz/24-bit while the unit acts as the clock master to minimise jitter. All digital inputs feed an ESS Sabre DAC before the Drachenfels' discrete analog amplifier section (12dB gain, ALPS potentiometer, SNR >85dB, THD <0.006%). The unit functions simultaneously as a headphone amplifier with dual Neutrik outputs and as a variable line-level preamplifier for powered monitors. The modular chassis remains upgradeable. Dimensions: 160×120×43mm.

Technical background

The Drachenfels USB integrates a high-quality USB DAC module into the Drachenfels platform, enabling direct connection to computers and streaming devices. The USB input feeds Lehmann's reference analogue output stage directly, eliminating the need for a separate DAC in a desktop system.

Design story

The USB module was developed in response to the growing dominance of computer audio — designed in Cologne to deliver the same standard of analogue amplification as the flagship Linear series, now accessible directly from a USB port.

Best for

Computer-based audiophiles wanting a plug-and-play USB DAC and headphone amplifier; laptop or desktop music systems PC and Mac audiophiles who want reference-grade USB audio in a modular, future-proof amplifier USB DAC and headphone amplification from computer; hi-res streaming; desk-based computer audio system

Awards & press

⭐ N/A N/A "The Drachenfels USB is the cleanest-sounding USB DAC-headphone amplifier combination at its price." — Headfonia "Lehmann's USB module transforms the Drachenfels into the ideal desktop companion for computer audio." — SoundStage! Network