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Digital Sources

Digital-to-Analogue Converters in Ottawa

A better DAC reveals more from streamers, computers and CD transports alike.

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PS Audio digital analogue converter

What does a DAC do, and which one fits your system?

A digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) turns the digital signal from a streamer, computer, or CD transport into the analogue waveform your amplifier needs — and a dedicated outboard DAC does it with far lower noise and jitter than a built-in chip. Our Ottawa selection spans the $1,850 Tri-Art Audio B-Series DAC to the FPGA-based $7,999 PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2.

Add a standalone DAC when you want the biggest single upgrade to an existing streamer or CD transport. Choose a tube output stage for analogue warmth, or an ES9038PRO/FPGA design for precision.

Digital-to-analogue converters available at Distinctive Audio in Ottawa, with key features, condition, and price in Canadian dollars.
Model Highlights Condition MSRP (CAD)
Tri-Art Audio B-Series DAC Bamboo chassis, tube stage, USB Brand New $1,850
Audiolab 9000DAC ES9038PRO, MQA, Bluetooth Display Model $2,499
PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2 FPGA-based, balanced, I²S Brand New $7,999

Our Selection

Trade In PS Audio digital analogue converter

PS Audio Model Perfect Wave Direct Stream DAC

$1,899.95
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Brand New Audiolab cd transport Tri-Art dac

Audiolab D7 Digital to Analogue Converter; Headphone Amp

$749.95
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Cleaner Digital

Advanced clocking and isolation reduce jitter for a more natural, fatigue-free presentation.

Multiple Inputs

Connect your TV, CD transport, and computer simultaneously acting as a digital hub.

Streaming & USB

High-resolution USB inputs capable of handling DSD and ultra-high bitrate PCM files.

Tube or Solid State

Choose output stages that match your system's synergy, from analytical precision to analog warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expert guidance on choosing the right digital-to-analogue converters for your system.

What does a DAC do? expand_more
A Digital-to-Analogue Converter takes the digital 1s and 0s from a source (like a computer, CD transport, or streamer) and translates them into an analog signal that your amplifier and speakers can understand. Every digital audio device has one built-in, but dedicated outboard DACs do it much better.
Do I need one? expand_more
If you want to extract the maximum fidelity from your digital music library or streaming services, a dedicated DAC is often one of the most significant upgrades you can make to a digital source. It provides lower noise, better timing (less jitter), and more accurate conversion than built-in chips.
USB vs coax vs optical? expand_more
USB is typically used for connecting computers and can handle the highest resolutions (including DSD). Coaxial (RCA/BNC) is common for CD transports and streamers, offering excellent timing. Optical (Toslink) provides electrical isolation but is often limited to 24-bit/96kHz resolutions.
DAC vs built-in? expand_more
Built-in DACs in phones, laptops, and budget receivers share a noisy environment with other components and use inexpensive chipsets. A dedicated outboard DAC has its own robust power supply, premium components, and sophisticated clocking circuits, resulting in a cleaner, more spacious sound.

Ready to hear the difference?

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