DSP 7000 III

About the DSP 7000 III

The Enlightened Audio Design DSP 7000 III is a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that incorporates advanced digital and analog design features to provide a high standard of sonic performance in digital audio playback. It features the HDCD upgrade, which enhances dynamic range and musical resolution. The unit uses a proprietary 'Digital Flywheel' reclocking circuitry, a dual time constant phase-locked loop with a precision voltage-controlled crystal oscillator (VCXO), which achieves a ten-fold reduction in jitter compared to previous models. This jitter reduction is critical for achieving ultimate musical resolution and sound-stage focus. The DAC includes a massive custom toroidal power transformer designed for low mechanical noise and minimal radiated hum. It has thirteen separate power supplies with multi-stage regulation for critical analog stages, and sophisticated grounding and isolation to eliminate ultrasonic and RF noise. The device offers balanced outputs with switchable gain as an option, and high-quality custom gold-plated RCA connectors for both analog and digital inputs and outputs. Dimensions are approximately 17 x 2.5 x 11 inches, and it weighs about 21 to 40 pounds depending on the source. Inputs include coaxial and optical digital, and outputs include unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR. The DSP 7000 III is noted for its smooth, analogue-like sound character on 4x oversampling mode and a more detailed, lively presentation on 8x oversampling mode. It is highly regarded for natural midrange, good bass presence, and a well-balanced stereo image, though some find the treble slightly softened or dry in 4x mode and more forward and sibilant in 8x mode. Overall, it remains a respected vintage DAC with a strong following for its musicality and build quality, despite being discontinued and no longer manufactured.