Consonance DSD 1.1 walnut

Consonance Reference DSD1.1: A Refined and Versatile Digital Converter

In the world of high-fidelity audio, the Consonance Reference DSD1.1 digital converter from Opera stands out by combining the best of old and modern technology. With its refined performance and versatile connectivity options, this DAC offers a captivating listening experience for audiophiles.

Design and Innovations

The Consonance Reference DSD1.1 features a classic design that is both elegant and functional. It is part of Opera Consonance’s Reference line of models, recognizable by their wood or metal top plate with arched slots, black or silver front panel, and symmetrical layout of chrome knobs and a central display. This attention to design details not only enhances the visual appeal of the device but also contributes to its overall performance.

One of the main innovations of the Reference DSD1.1 is its ability to decode a wide range of audio signals. It can process all PCM signals and supports DSD up to DSD256, making it compatible with various digital audio formats. The device uses an AK4497 DAC/filter chip from Asahi Kasei Microdevices, renowned for its high-quality audio performance and support for PCM files up to 32-bit/768kHz resolution. This chip, commonly used in high-end audio devices, ensures accurate and detailed audio reproduction.

Features and Technical Specifications

The Reference DSD1.1 also offers five PCM filter settings, absolute phase adjustment, two DSD high-frequency suppression filters, and three undefined “sound mode” settings, all accessible from the front panel. These features allow users to fine-tune the sound according to their preferences and system setup.

Performance and Connectivity

The Consonance Reference DSD1.1 excels in its sound performance, delivering a refined and organic sonic signature. It strikes a balance between scale, refinement, and the front/back edges of the music, ensuring a natural and immersive listening experience. The DAC emphasizes phrasing rather than timing, offering an excellent sense of fluidity and highlighting tempo changes within musical themes. The headphone amplifier stage is also noteworthy, providing good performance for a wide range of headphones.

• High-end converter using the advanced X-MOS module to support DSD playback up to DSD 256 and native DSD streaming mode
• Latest and most powerful AK4497 chip
• Supports low-dispersion Direct DSD with short delay
• Supported audio:
  • 32bit/ 768 kHz DSD64 (1bit 2.8M)
  • DSD128 (1bit 5.6M)
  • DSD256 (1bit 11.2M)

Measurements

• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 118 dB (RCA, XLR)
• Distortion: < 0.002% (XLR output), < 0.08 (RCA output)

Connectivity

• Digital inputs
  • 1x 75 Ω coaxial
  • 1x optical
  • 1x AES/EBU
  • 1x USB Type-B port
  • 1x Bluetooth
• 1x RCA analog output (2.2 V RMS) and XLR (4.6 V RMS) + 6.5 mm headphone jack

General

• Dimensions (H × W × D): 10.4 × 33 × 44 cm
• Weight: 9 kg