Lite DAC-AH Modified
The modified version of the DAC-AH was created to further achieve quality sound from the TDA1543 chip. Modifications include bypassing the Op-Amps and converting the line outs to passive output, changing TDA1543 operating voltage to 8V and fine tuning the VRef voltage.
Op-Amps are normally used for the line outs, but we have decided to improve on this by using high quality capacitors at the outputs rather then Op-Amps. This is called passive output, and it totally bypasses the Op-Amps in the signal stage. To pick the perfect capacitor for the job, we tried a number of different capacitors during the period of one month. Mundorf, Aerovox, Auricap and Solen were a few brands we tried. But in the end we decided on a NOS (New Old Stock) Paper In Oil capacitor designed and rated to Military Spec.
Now that we were ready to bring our DAC-AH to another level or performance, the search for an ideal output capacitor was back again! After several months of research and tests we discovered a new capacitor from ClarityCap. After lengthy evaluations, ClarityCap was choosen and a production of capacitors was ordered especially for our modified DAC-AH. The ClarityCap, as the name states, is able to produce music with a lot of clarity! It does this without spoiling the smooth and natural sound of the DAC-AH, but now seems to reveal more life to music and produce romance in female vocals.
Electrolytic power capacitors have also been upgraded to audio grade Elna capacitors, this now allows the DAC-AH do produce even lower notes then ever before! By combining the smooth and natural sound of the DAC-AH with the clarity and low-end focus of our modifications, this DAC is really something special.
The TDA1543 chip by Philips has an operating voltage range from 3V to 8V, typical operating voltage being 5V. The standard DAC-AH operates at 6V, at this voltage the DAC outputs a very good and clean sound, but is no where near performing at its best. Lite chose to run the TDA1543 chips at 6V because it does prolong the life of the DAC, running at any higher voltage without appropriate cooling causes overheating and will lead to malfunction.
The DAC-AH is also modified to run at 8V by replacing the 6V regulators with 8V ones. Modifications don't stop there, heatsinks are then installed to all 8 TDA1543 chips. To further improve thermal disipation, silver thermal compound is used between the TDA1543 chips and heatsinks.
You may have heard the term NOS used a bit in DAC terminology, the acronym stands for Non-Over Sampling. Unlike other high end DACs, which use Over Sampling as a technique to improve sound quality, the DAC-AH uses NOS.
Whether NOS or OS is the better technique is an entirely subjective view. However, many people agree that NOS DACs provide a warmer lush sound while adding to the realism of the music reproduction.
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