Chroma 396

About the Chroma 396

The Theta Digital Chroma 396 is a digital to analog converter designed to deliver superior audio quality with minimalist and straightforward operation. It uses the Burr-Brown PCM-67 18-bit DAC chip with 8x oversampling. The unit features separate power supplies for analog and digital sections, vibration-damping materials, and a refined analog filter to reduce jitter and improve sound quality. It offers coaxial and optical digital inputs, phase inversion control, and indicators for lock and power status. Optional features include balanced outputs and HDCD decoding. The Chroma 396 is praised for its musicality, airiness, and ability to improve soundstage and bass clarity, making it a valuable addition to both stereo and home theater systems. It is considered a better alternative to the Theta Cobalt DAC at a slightly higher price point. The HDCD option enhances playback of HDCD-encoded discs but some audiophiles prefer the non-HDCD version for standard CD playback. The unit has no on/off switch and is designed to be left powered on for optimal performance after a 15-minute warm-up period.