Processor 3 vs Calyx Femto
The Femto's bit depth is 24-bit against the Processor 3's 20-bit, its weight 18.5 kg (41 lbs) against 14 kg (31 lbs), its height 102 mm against 110 mm, and its width 430 mm against 480 mm.
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
DigitalDACsDiscontinued
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$2,199
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the Processor 3
The Sonic Frontiers Processor 3 is a premium digital-to-analog converter renowned for its modular design, low jitter, quiet noise floor, and world-class sonic performance. It features discrete I/V conversion, a proprietary inductor-capacitor low-pass filter, tube output stage with two tubes per channel, and support for HDCD. Designed with input from UltraAnalog, it includes six digital inputs: two coaxial (with LC low-pass filters), two optical, one AES/EBU (via isolation transformer), and the proprietary I2S-e interface which significantly reduces jitter. The unit has an external power supply providing multiple regulated supplies including +165V high-voltage for tube stage Zener-follower regulators and low-voltage supplies with IC regulators and Sanyo Oscon capacitors. Outputs are balanced and single-ended (RCA + XLR), directly coupled with servo for DC offset minimization. Highly praised in reviews for outstanding crosstalk (-120dB or better 20Hz-15kHz), low noise, and modularity allowing upgrades. Paired typically with Transport 3 CD player.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 20-bit
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Digital Inputs
- Coaxial S/PDIF, Optical, AES/EBU, I2S-e
- Analog Outputs
- RCA, XLR
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 480 × 110 × 360 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 14 kg (31 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions