Audial S5B Digital to Analogue Converter - Black

Originally released in 2021, as another step on the design principles and standards set with the Audial S series of D/A converters, the S5 easily established itself as a reference in TDA1541A design, by associating the supreme audio performance with ultimate connectivity.
The current version, S5b, moves even further, confirming Audial’s leading position in the TDA1541A world, and adding Audial remote control compatibility and one more input.
The S5b is thus by far the best-equipped TDA1541A DAC ever, with USB, S/PDIF, optical, and I2S LVDS and A-link direct inputs, and optional transformer coupled output. And two S5/S5b units can even operate as a four-channel USB DAC.
The S5b mates so many things that usually don’t come together in the audiophile world. No compromise performance and ultimate connectivity. Non-oversampling D/A conversion and high-resolution capability. Advanced topology and fancy parts. Firm soundstage and natural ambiance. Resolution and definition, and natural tone and colours.
In addition to the USB, coaxial S/PDIF, and optical S/PDIF (TOSlink) input, the S5b also includes two PCM (I2S) direct connections, using the interface with HDMI connectors.
The one is our A-link, which may also turn two S5b units into a four-channel USB DAC. The A-link specifications are available as open source. The S5b also includes a more widespread LVDS I2S input.
In 2018, we worked with designer Menno van der Veen and transformers manufacturer Trafco and came up with high-performance, unique devices, designed exactly for our needs. They were first employed in the S4 DAC, and we continue using them in the S5/S5b.
The low external field of toroidal transformers ensures unbeatable resistance to environmental noise, so they clean out the artifacts caused by the system grounding issues, not picking up the noise on their own at that.

Features

Non-oversampling, real multibit TDA1541A DAC
Master USB device (“asynchronous USB”), operating up to 384 kHz, with galvanic isolation and two low-jitter master clocks
True 75 Ohm BNC S/PDIF input
Audial proprietary, high performance, zero feedback, hybrid discrete / IC output analogue stage
Output impedance 3 Ohm coupled by 23 µF capacitors, or 30 Ohm transformers coupled (optional)
High-quality parts, including Renesas, Toshiba and Zetex semiconductors, Panasonic PPS and OS-Con and Elna Silmic II capacitors, and Allen Bradley and Vishay carbon resistors
Ten fully separate supplies, with three-stage passive common-mode filtering
Fully discrete, low noise, zero feedback regulators
Extremely optimized layout
Mains isolation transformer, acting as a mains filter and balanced power source

Inputs
USB 2.0, supports 2.0 Class Definitions for Audio Devices, asynchronous operation; Fs max 384 kHz; 2- or 4- channel operation, with 3rd & 4th channel available at A-link output (PCM direct digital with HDMI connector)
S/PDIF electrical, 75 Ohm BNC; Fs max 96 kHz
S/PDIF optical (»TOSlink»); Fs max 96 kHz
I2S LVDS; Fs max 96 kHz
A-link, supports I2S up to Fs 96 kHz, and Philips simultaneous data protocol up to Fs 384 kHz
Outputs
Unbalanced RCA, capacitors coupled, 2.1 Vrms
Optional transformer coupled balanced XLR, or transformer coupled RCA, 2.1 Vrms
Output Impedance
Capacitors coupled outputs: 3.5 Ohm @ 20 kHz, 10 Ohm @ 1 kHz (23.5 µF)
Transformers coupled outputs: 30 Ohm, 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Harmonic Distortion: 0.003% @ - 6 dB FS (I/V dominated); 0.9% @ - 60 dB FS (D/A dominated)
Intermodulation Distortion (CCIR): 0.006%
Mains Voltage: 220 - 240 VAC/50 - 60 Hz
Power Consumption: 12 W, typical
Dimensions: 426 (W) x 280 (D) x 73 (H) mm
Weight: 7.0 kg

Turnaround

Orders will usually dispatched within 2 working days of receiving cleared payment.

Shipping Rates

We calculate your shipping rate based on the total weight of your items and your delivery address. Standard shipping to the UK Mainland (excludes Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, Channel Islands) is free, except where specifically indicated. Don't worry, you'll always see the final shipping charge displayed before you reach the payment step (on the checkout page).

Carriers

We despatch the bulk of our UK mainland items on a 24 hour service.  Non-Mainland locations – Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, the Scilly Isles, the Scottish highlands and Islands, the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland may take a day or so longer. Smaller items are delivered using Royal Mail 24 or special delivery. Larger items are delivered using a courier service such as UPS and occasionally by a Pallet service.

Order Tracking

If a tracking # is provided by the carrier, we will update your order with the tracking information. Please note that some orders will not have tracking numbers.