Kassandra MkII 1

About the Kassandra MkII 1

The Aries Cerat Kassandra MkII Gen 1 is a high-end non-oversampling R2R DAC using 16 Analogue Devices AD1865N-K converters per channel. Its analog section employs transformer I/V conversion and a transformer-loaded E280F tube output stage, with no op-amps in the signal path. It provides selectable 10 V RMS output at 50 ohms or 5 V RMS output at 12 ohms, true balanced outputs, and switchable floating RCA outputs for ground-loop management. The asynchronous USB input supports PCM rates up to 24-bit/384 kHz, with claimed jitter attenuation to the femtosecond range. It measures approximately 540 × 520 × 165 mm and weighs about 60 kg. The design emphasizes minimal digital processing and a natural, dynamic, tonally dense presentation.