(November 13, 2020) Florida based Clarus, maker of interconnects, cables, power conditioners, and DACs, has announced the arrival of an all-new USB DAC. CODA is packed with functional features, including a headphone amplifier and MQA decoding, and crafted with high-grade materials for exceptional sonic performance.
CODA’s lead designer, Jay Victor, pulled together a package built upon a foundation of quality and intelligent engineering. “With any DAC, the printed circuit board layout is critical for low noise and best performance,” explained Victor. “Because of the small enclosed space, we used a high grade, high-temperature PCB material to eliminate any overheating problems. It’s that level of attention to detail that enables CODA to provide a very enjoyable listening experience.”
Victor says key features include a high precision clock to reduce jitter, audio-grade film capacitors, and an all-new Legendary ESS Professional Series SABRE DAC with Hyperstream II modulation (124dB DNR and -112dB THD+N). CODA’s USB controller supports USB 1.1 and 2.0, with 32-bit 384kHz PCM and DSD (up to 5.6MHz) compatibility. And output is powered by a Class G amplifier (2.0Vrms), capable of driving demanding headphones without draining power during mobile use.
Audio sample rates are relayed using LED indicator lights. Blue signals standard definition, green indicates high definition, and magenta is associated with MQA rendering. Volume control is achieved using two 64-step buttons, which also activate one of three digital roll-off filters.
CODA ($300) will begin shipping on December 1, 2020. Clarus says that support for the unit will include firmware updates posted to its website. For more information, visit claruscable.com.
