Frequency response is +0/-3dB, 0.2Hz to 200kHz, and S/N ratio is 120dB.Analog inputs include two pairs of balanced XLR inputs and three pairs ofsingle-ended RCA inputs (one of which is also configurable as a unity-gainprocessor pass-through). Analog outputs include one pair of RCA Recordoutputs, one pair of XLR Main outputs, and one pair of RCA Main outputs.The DSPre is the first Audio Research product to allow full custom integrationwith the inclusion of an RS232 port that will allow it to be controlled via aCrestron system.
The demand for simplicity, flexibility and performance has fueled the integration of multiple components into individual products. It was that demand, and our desire for a DS-series source component, that led to the development of a new Definition Series product, the DSPre Preamp-DAC. Combining the awardwinning DAC8 with a fully balanced active analog preamplifier, the DSPre provides a level of flexibility and sound quality that is startling.
Like the DAC8, the DSPre offers the following:• Five digital inputs, including USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA, BNC, andToslink®, all of which are capable of decoding 24 bit/192k files.• Asynchronous USB.• Utilizes quad “monoblock DAC” architecture with dual low jitter mastercrystal oscillators to eliminate decoding and quantization errors, increasethe dynamic range, and lower the noise floor.• Galvanically-isolated inputs to assure no ground loops.• Custom Audio Research installation software drivers assure “Bit perfect”data transfer between server and DSPre at all sample rates.The DSPre offers some additional options, addressable via the front panel or its remote:• Sample rate conversion: For SPDIF inputs it plays back native resolutionor upsamples the input signal (44 or 88kHz to 176kHz; 48 or 96kHz to192kHz). USB upsampling can be performed through the driver softwarein conjunction with the Mac or PC, as with the DAC8.• Digital filter selection: Fast or slow rolloff.The preamplifier section of the DSPre is all-analog, pure Class-A, with zerofeedback. It has 18dB of gain balanced, 12dB single-ended. The DSPre isdirect-coupled, fully differential in/out, with servos to maintain zero DC offset at the output for the life of the DSPre.
There is also an IR input (via mini plug), plus two 12V triggers. In addition, there is a menu system that allows the user to label each input from a selection of preprogrammed labels, or to create a name for any input using an alpha/numeric menu.Cosmetically, the DSPre looks most like a DSi200, with two knobs (Volume andInput select) flanking the same vacuum-florescent display used in the DSi200and LS27. Under the display are seven aluminum buttons for Power, Sample(rate), Menu, Enter, Mono, Invert, and Mute. The standard finish for units with a Natural front panel includes silver handles, knobs, and a silver top cover. ABlack front panel, handles, knobs and top cover are available.
If black handlesare ordered with a Natural front panel (usually to match an older Audio Research component), a black cover will be installed.Sonically, the DSPre is simply captivating, with a transparent, extended, andrelaxed presentation that is unlike other solid-state products—you will know that it came from Audio Research. The sound is spacious and focused, resolving so much information but without any brightness, grain or artifact. We invite you to compare the DSPre to any other preamplifier or DAC at twice the price. Production has begun and the DSPre will start to ship next week. This is an important product that breaks new ground for us in its flexibility and its ability to be integrated
