MSB SIGNATURE DAC IV

Pre owned. In good conditions. Shows signs of wear. Comes with manual and original packaging.

The MSB DAC IV, paired with its dedicated Diamond Power Base power supply, represents the pinnacle of digital conversion according to MSB Technology’s philosophy. Completely redesigned from the previous DAC III, this converter is engineered to fully exploit the potential of high-resolution digital audio, offering refined aesthetics, exemplary build quality, and outstanding technical performance. At first glance, it impresses with its clean design and solid construction, featuring two separate chassis: one housing the DAC module and the other the Diamond Power Base, developed to ensure a constant, clean, and noise-free power supply.

The DAC IV employs four second-generation 24-bit Sign Magnitude R2R Ladder conversion modules, entirely designed and built by MSB, capable of operating at frequencies up to 3 MHz. Each module is crafted with ultra-precise, aerospace-grade resistors and configured in a fully balanced architecture. Digital processing is managed by the internally developed Custom 32x Digital Filter, which supports 27-bit DACs, offers selectable response curves (Filter Suite), and reduces jitter by up to 50%. The sonic result is a reproduction with astonishing detail, absolute naturalness, and a remarkable three-dimensional soundstage.

Upstream of the conversion modules, the DAC IV applies a sophisticated reclocking system to incoming digital data, independent from the source and able to eliminate timing imperfections from external clocks. A 0.5-second internal buffer maintains perfect synchronization, contributing to extremely precise signal decoding. The control section, accessible via a front panel display, allows extensive customization of operational parameters, including gain adjustment across five levels from -9 dB to +3 dB to suit any system setup.

The Diamond Power Base, a key component of the system, provides separate power supplies for the DAC’s analog and digital sections, including a dedicated line for the sensitive clock circuits. The quality of components and advanced filtering ensure the DAC operates free from electrical noise or interference, resulting in absolute black levels and microdynamics that make every detail vivid and tangible.

The MSB DAC IV with Diamond Power Base is not just a converter but a true control center for top-tier audio systems. Thanks to the optional integration of a preamplifier module, multiple digital inputs, and an analog input, it can serve as the sole component before the power amplifier, delivering transparency and control that rival even high-end analog sources. This design is made for those who refuse compromises and demand the very best that digital technology can offer today.

Technical specifications:

• Digital filter: 32x filter and standard filter suite
• Upsampling: intersample harshness correction and standard upsampling
• Digital inputs: 3 S/PDIF (optical, coaxial, balanced); 1 S/PDIF (BNC) or Word Sync; 1 MSB Network with clock link; 2 optional input slots (USB, HDMI)
• Digital input limits: 24-bit 384 kHz S/PDIF; 4-channel 32-bit 384 kHz MSB Network
• Analog inputs: 1 balanced; 1 optional single-ended or 1 optional secondary balanced; both can be volume controlled or bypass volume control
• Power supply: external power supply with upgraded power, shielding, and Signature Power Link cable
• Volume control: passive attenuators with 1 dB steps; range +9 to -69 dB
• Channels: 2 balanced or 4 single-ended
• Operational controls: phase invert; upsampling on/off; selection of any filter from the suite; adjustable display brightness with auto-off; reclocking on/off; level trims; balance trims; internal or external clock source; dithering on/off; switch modes for all or active only
• Expansion and upgrades: 2 unused DSP headers (useful for digital crossovers); 1 clock upgrade header (for future low-jitter clocks); 2 external input headers for USB or new input types; 1 internal input header for upgrades like iLink II
• Vibration control: IsoRack feet allow stacking with complete mechanical isolation
• Dimensions: 450x70x90 mm (WxHxD) per each of the two modules (DAC and Power Base)
• Weight: 6.15 kg DAC, 7.5 kg Power Base