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About the DAC-5
The Audio Research DAC-5 is a high-fidelity digital-to-analog converter introduced in 1996, designed to deliver precise and natural sound reproduction. It uses a 20-bit bitstream converter with a switched capacitor 1-bit DAC and supports a maximum input resolution of 16 bits. The DAC-5 features solid-state circuitry and offers both balanced and unbalanced analog outputs. It has a frequency response of 0.1-20,000 Hz with ±0.25 dB accuracy and a very low distortion of -94 dB (0.0002%) at 1 kHz balanced output. The signal-to-noise ratio is 100 dB (A-weighted, balanced), with a channel separation of 110 dB at 1 kHz. The output impedance is 200 Ohms unbalanced and 400 Ohms balanced. Digital inputs include TOSLINK fiber optics, BNC coaxial SPDIF, and XLR balanced AES/EBU. The unit measures 19" W x 3.5" H x 11.75" D and weighs 8.6 lbs net. It is known for its clean, natural sound and solid build quality, making it a respected classic in the audiophile community.
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