EMM Labs DA2i DAC
Best high-end converter for audiophiles seeking ultimate digital playback precision.
Experience the pinnacle of digital audio with the EMM Labs DA2i DAC. This flagship converter redefines high-fidelity sound, offering unparalleled sonic clarity and an immersive soundstage. It features advanced real-time audio processing and proprietary jitter reduction technology for pristine audio reproduction. Supporting a wide range of formats including DSD1024, it seamlessly integrates with popular streaming platforms. Crafted with a Class A analog output stage, the DA2i delivers exceptional fidelity, making it the ultimate choice for discerning audiophiles.
$35000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
34
/ 489
#34 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+701%
Above average
Conversion Type
Digital to Analog (DAC)
/ Digital to Analog (DAC)
Who it's for
- Serious listeners prioritizing long-term build quality and stability
- Audiophiles seeking natural, analog-like sonic realism
- Digital enthusiasts requiring support for ultra-high-resolution DSD files
Who should skip it
- Listeners with less-than-perfect source components or recordings
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level high-end audio
- Minimalists wanting an all-in-one streaming and preamp solution
Performance breakdown
Resolution fidelity
DSD1024 support captures every micro-detail in your high-resolution audio library.
Jitter suppression
Proprietary MCLK3 technology ensures a rock-solid, artifact-free digital signal path.
Streaming versatility
Native Roon and Tidal integration makes high-end streaming effortless and intuitive.
Analog output quality
Class A circuitry provides a warm, transparent, and incredibly lifelike soundstage.
Processing power
MDAT2 DSP handles complex real-time conversion with surgical precision and speed.
Build integrity
Canadian craftsmanship delivers a robust chassis built for a lifetime.
Key Specs
Conversion Type
Digital to Analog (DAC)
Maximum Bit Depth
32 bits
Maximum Sample Rate
4915.2 kHz
Supported Formats
DSD, 2xDSD, DXD, MQA
Connectivity
USB, Network (Roon, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, V-Tuner)
Digital Processing
MDAT2™ DSP
Clocking System
MCLK3™ asynchronous clock
Power Supply
Proprietary switch-mode power supply
Features
- Flagship 16xDSD (DSD1024) conversion
- Real-time MDAT2™ DSP processing
- MCLK3™ asynchronous clock for minimal jitter
- Advanced network streaming capabilities
- Supports DSD, 2xDSD, DXD, and MQA
- Seamless Roon and Tidal Connect integration
- Class A analog output stage
- Designed and crafted in Canada
What customers say
Owners consistently praise the EMM Labs DA2i DAC for its exceptional musicality, often equating its performance to superior analog sources. The core theme is its ability to retrieve staggering detail without any digital harshness, leading to fatigue free listening. Users highlight the expansive and precisely layered soundstage achieved through its proprietary technology. Furthermore, the build quality reflects its flagship status, showcasing robust construction and meticulous engineering. While the investment is substantial, the consensus is that the DA2i represents a pinnacle of digital audio, offering natural timbre and dynamic authority for those seeking an end game component.
Know before you buy
The DA2i utilizes EMM Labs' proprietary MDAT2™ DSP to upsample incoming signals to 16xDSD (DSD1024). This process significantly increases the resolution and transient accuracy of the audio, resulting in a more natural and immersive soundstage compared to standard conversion methods.
The DA2i features advanced network streaming capabilities built-in. It supports Roon, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, and other platforms directly, allowing you to stream high-resolution audio without needing an external network bridge.
The MCLK3™ asynchronous clock is designed to virtually eliminate jitter, which is the timing error that can cause digital audio to sound harsh or smeared. By ensuring precise timing, the clock helps maintain the clarity, focus, and depth of the original recording.
Yes, the DA2i fully supports MQA decoding. This ensures that if you are streaming MQA-encoded content from services like Tidal, you are hearing the full resolution as intended by the studio master.
A Class A output stage is favored for its exceptional linearity and low distortion. In the DA2i, this design ensures that the analog signal remains pure and musical, providing a smooth, high-fidelity transition from the digital conversion process to your amplifier.
Absolutely. The DA2i includes a high-performance USB input that supports a wide range of formats, including DXD and high-rate DSD, making it a versatile hub for your digital library or computer-based audio setup.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$35000