Sugden Masterclass DAC-4 Digital to Analogue Converter

Sugden Masterclass DAC-4 Delivers Pure Analogue Sound with Precision Digital-to-Analogue Conversion

The Sugden Masterclass DAC-4 Digital-to-Analogue Converter is crafted to transcend digital convention, focusing instead on delivering a warm, analogue-like audio experience. Sugden’s philosophy of “Rescuing Music from Technology” is fully embodied in this converter, which deliberately omits digital filtering and oversampling for a sound that remains unaltered by contemporary digital processing trends. With Sugden’s proprietary conversion circuits and data reformatting, the DAC-4 is engineered to reproduce sound with depth, clarity, and natural tonal balance, appealing to discerning audiophiles seeking an authentic listening experience.

Proprietary Conversion Circuits for Analogue-Feel Audio

Sugden’s custom conversion circuits in the DAC-4 bypass conventional oversampling and digital filtering, reducing digital artefacts and enhancing audio purity. This design choice preserves the original texture and integrity of recordings, achieving an analogue feel that’s closer to live performance. By focusing on true-to-source sound reproduction, Sugden’s DAC-4 creates an immersive, natural listening experience unmatched by many oversampling DACs. It’s a carefully crafted, minimalist approach to digital conversion that enhances the subtleties in high-fidelity audio.

Extensive Connectivity and Intuitive Controls

The DAC-4 offers versatile connectivity options with three SPDIF coaxial and two optical SPDIF inputs, plus a USB Type-B input for seamless integration with multiple digital sources. Designed with ease of use in mind, the front panel includes a power switch, an input selector, and digital lock indicator, allowing you to quickly monitor and control your settings. An IEC socket provides power, and a single RCA stereo analogue output delivers high-quality signal to your amplifier. The DAC-4 also includes a digital coaxial output, providing flexibility in audio routing for more advanced setups.

High-Resolution, Low-Power Consumption Performance

With support for up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution on SPDIF inputs and USB compatibility for 16-bit/44.1kHz files, the DAC-4 ensures detailed audio playback that captures nuances often lost in typical digital processing. Despite its robust capabilities, the DAC-4 operates at a low power consumption of just 12 watts, providing energy-efficient performance. The DAC-4’s frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz, within +/- 1.5dB, and signal-to-noise ratio of over 80dB ensures a rich, noise-free listening experience.

Elegant, Compact Design Built for Longevity

Housed in a compact, durable chassis measuring 90 x 250 x 330mm, the DAC-4 is designed to blend seamlessly into any high-end audio setup. With a packed weight of 5kg, it combines portability with structural integrity, making it suitable for both stationary and varied listening environments. The DAC-4’s understated elegance reflects its focus on sound quality, delivering Sugden’s refined craftsmanship in a DAC that promises durability, reliability, and an unembellished musical experience.