Sugden Sapphire DAP-800 Digital Analogue Pre-Amplifier

Sugden Sapphire DAP-800 Digital Analogue Pre-Amplifier: Precision Meets Versatility

The Sugden Sapphire DAP-800 Digital Analogue Pre-Amplifier is designed as the ultimate control hub for high-end audio systems, delivering remarkable flexibility and precision through its combination of analogue and digital circuits. With six analogue and six digital inputs, as well as multiple output options, the DAP-800 provides seamless integration for a wide array of audio sources, ensuring superior audio performance in any setup.

Advanced Dual-Domain Design for Superior Sound

The DAP-800 operates in two distinct domains: analogue and digital. Each of these sections is powered independently, essentially creating a separate DAC and analogue pre-amplifier within a single chassis. This isolation of power supplies reduces potential interference between the digital and analogue stages, preserving signal purity and ensuring that both sections operate optimally.

The analogue stage is based on Sugden’s most advanced VCV circuit, featuring a high impedance input section followed by a current gain stage that drives a folded cascode stage into a Class A output stage. This sophisticated circuit design offers exceptional bandwidth, dynamic range, and low capacitive connectivity, resulting in a neutral and transparent sound that captures every nuance of your audio source. The Class A output further enhances this clarity, maintaining the purest signal possible.

Cutting-Edge Digital Section with Unique Conversion Method

The digital section of the DAP-800 utilises the same digital-to-analogue conversion technology as Sugden’s renowned DAC-4, reflecting over 25 years of expertise in digital audio design. To achieve the most accurate playback, the DAP-800 features a dedicated transceiver circuit that re-formats incoming data before conversion, minimising jitter and reducing errors. This ensures precise timing and a stable signal throughout the digital playback process.

Unlike many digital products that rely on oversampling and digital filtering, the DAP-800 uses an analogue filter instead. This method preserves the natural warmth and depth of the original recording while delivering a wide bandwidth capability. The DAC in the DAP-800 accepts a range of digital formats, including USB input for plug-and-play compatibility with computers and music streamers, supporting up to 24-bit, 96kHz via SPDIF and 16-bit, 44.1kHz via USB.

Exceptional Input and Output Flexibility

The Sugden DAP-800 offers an extensive range of input options, ensuring compatibility with both analogue and digital sources. It includes:

• Four line-level inputs, allowing connection to traditional analogue sources.
• One balanced input, for connecting high-quality balanced audio equipment.
• Three SPDIF coaxial inputs, and two SPDIF optical inputs, catering to digital devices such as CD players, streamers, and network audio players.
• USB Type B input, offering straightforward integration with computers and music servers.

For output, the DAP-800 provides:

• Two single-ended outputs, ideal for driving stereo power amplifiers or other components.
• One balanced output, providing high-performance connectivity for balanced audio systems.
• Tape output, enabling connection to external recording devices.

This wide array of input and output options makes the DAP-800 a versatile pre-amplifier that can effortlessly integrate into complex audio systems.

Precision Control with Motorised Volume and Remote Functionality

The motorised analogue volume control provides smooth, precise adjustments and is operable via the included RC5-compatible remote control. This adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing you to control volume and other functions without leaving your listening position, while maintaining the tactile satisfaction of analogue volume adjustment.

Separate Power Switching for Analogue and Digital Circuits

To further minimise any potential interference between the two sections, the DAP-800 features independent mains power switching for its analogue and digital circuits. This ensures that each section operates in the cleanest possible power environment, preserving the integrity of both digital and analogue signals.

Specifications and Build Quality

The Sugden Sapphire DAP-800 is built with precision and attention to detail, reflecting Sugden’s commitment to high-end audio performance:

• Input Sensitivity: 120mV for 1 Volt output
• Maximum Output: 9 Volts
• Frequency Response: 0dB from 15Hz to 98kHz
• Bandwidth: 8Hz to 125kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >85dB
• Distortion: Less than 0.05% at 1kHz, 1 Volt out

Measuring 120 x 430 x 340mm (hwd) and weighing 10kg, the DAP-800 is compact enough to fit into most systems while being solidly built to ensure durability and excellent sound isolation.

The Sugden Sapphire DAP-800 is the ideal solution for audiophiles seeking the perfect balance between analogue warmth and digital precision. Its ability to serve as both a high-end DAC and a transparent analogue pre-amplifier makes it the centrepiece of any sophisticated audio system.