Cary Xciter DAC
Best desktop upgrade for listeners seeking warmer, high-resolution digital audio.
Elevate your digital audio with the Cary Xciter DAC, a compact desktop component designed to bridge the gap between legacy and modern high-resolution audio. It upsamples all digital inputs to 32-bit/192kHz, revealing enhanced detail and depth. Experience a lifelike, slightly warmer sonic signature that benefits a wide range of recordings. Perfect for upgrading CD players or integrating computer-based audio, the Xciter DAC offers a significant performance boost for your existing system.
$1499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
298
/ 492
#298 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-66%
Below average
Dimensions
3.51113
/ x x inches
Who it's for
- Listeners seeking a fatigue-free, warm, and musical sonic experience
- Audiophiles prioritizing premium build quality and elegant component design
- System builders needing flexible connectivity for multiple digital sources
Who should skip it
- Collectors of modern high-resolution DSD and ultra-high PCM masters
- Value-conscious buyers comparing technical specifications against modern competitors
- Users wanting an all-in-one streaming or headphone amplification solution
Performance breakdown
Sonic Warmth
Delivers a rich, inviting character that breathes life into digital recordings.
Upsampling Precision
Consistent 32-bit/192kHz processing adds impressive depth to standard resolution files.
Desktop Ergonomics
Compact footprint fits easily into tight workspaces without sacrificing build quality.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive input selection bridges legacy gear and modern computer audio sources.
Detail Retrieval
Extracts nuanced textures often lost in standard digital-to-analog conversion.
Build Integrity
Solid aluminum housing provides a reassuringly sturdy and premium desktop presence.
Key Specs
Dimensions
3.5 x 11 x 13 inches
Weight
12 pounds
Digital Inputs
RCA, BNC SPDIF, TOSLINK optical, USB
DAC Chipset
AKM 4399 32-bit
Upsampling Rate
32-bit/192kHz for all inputs
Analog Outputs
Single-ended RCA
Maximum Bit Depth
32 bits
Maximum Sample Rate
192 kHz
Features
- Upsamples all digital inputs to 32-bit/192kHz
- Custom output devices for enhanced fidelity
- Lifelike presentation with added detail
- Slightly warmer sonic signature
- Compact design for desktop integration
- Improves CD player and computer audio
- Supports PCM audio formats
- Multiple digital input options
What customers say
The Cary Xciter DAC earns high praise for its exceptional sonic performance and premium build quality. Users consistently describe the sound as detailed, musical, and easy to listen to for long periods. It handles high resolution formats beautifully, delivering an expansive soundstage that revitalizes recordings. The unit feels robust and looks premium, justifying its position in high-end audio systems. While the cost is significant, most owners feel the substantial upgrade in clarity and depth makes the investment worthwhile. The core focus remains on pure, unadulterated sound reproduction, making this a reference level component for serious listeners prioritizing lasting quality.
Know before you buy
The Xciter DAC provides a slightly warmer, more lifelike presentation. It is designed to add depth and detail to your digital music while avoiding the clinical or overly analytical sound often associated with digital conversion.
Yes, by connecting your CD player's digital output to the Xciter, you can bypass its internal conversion. The Xciter will upsample the signal to 32-bit/192kHz, which typically results in improved clarity and a more refined audio performance.
The Xciter supports PCM audio formats and upsamples all digital inputs to 32-bit/192kHz. It is an excellent choice for integrating computer-based audio into your high-fidelity system.
The Xciter DAC is equipped with a versatile range of inputs, including RCA, BNC SPDIF, TOSLINK optical, and USB, allowing you to connect multiple digital sources simultaneously.
Absolutely. With dimensions of 3.5 x 11 x 13 inches, it is specifically designed as a compact desktop component that fits easily into smaller listening environments or office setups.
No, the Xciter DAC is specifically engineered to support PCM audio formats. It uses the AKM 4399 32-bit chipset to optimize the conversion of standard digital audio streams.
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$1499