Metrum Acoustics Pavane with DAC 3 Module
Best high-end converter for audiophiles seeking natural, non-oversampling sound quality.
Experience superior audio with the Metrum Acoustics Pavane DAC, a meticulously engineered digital-to-analog converter designed to integrate seamlessly into any high-fidelity system. It embodies a commitment to musicality, adhering to the non-oversampling principle while incorporating cutting-edge technological advancements. The Pavane features exclusive Metrum chip technology and parallel R2R ladder networks, ensuring exceptional linearity and a realistic 24-bit dynamic range. Its dual-mono design further enhances the immersive listening experience, making it a standout choice for discerning audiophiles.
$5799.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
298
/ 492
#298 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+33%
Above average
Conversion Type
Digital to Analog (DAC)
/ Digital to Analog (DAC)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a natural, analog-like musical presentation
- Listeners demanding high-resolution clarity and a silent noise floor
- System builders requiring versatile connectivity and premium hardware
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers exploring entry-level or mid-range audio gear
- Listeners preferring clinical precision and aggressive digital filtering
- Users requiring integrated streaming services or MQA decoding
Performance breakdown
Transient Response
Non-oversampling architecture delivers exceptionally natural and immediate musical transients.
Channel Separation
Dual mono design creates a wide, precise, and immersive soundstage.
Linearity Precision
R2R ladder network maintains remarkable accuracy down to -140 dB.
Build Integrity
Double-damped chassis construction effectively eliminates unwanted mechanical vibrations.
Dynamic Range
Realistic 24-bit depth captures subtle micro-details in complex recordings.
Connectivity Versatility
Standard digital inputs cover essential needs for high-fidelity system integration.
Key Specs
Conversion Type
Digital to Analog (DAC)
Maximum Bit Depth
24 bits
Housing Material
Steel, Aluminum
Input Interface Type
Optical (Toslink), Coaxial, RCA
Linearity
Down to -140 dB
Dynamic Range
Realistic 24 bit
Design
Dual mono
Channel Separation
120 dB
Features
- Exclusive Metrum chip technology
- Parallel R2R ladder networks
- FPGA-driven forward correction
- Exceptional linearity down to -140 dB
- Realistic 24-bit dynamic range
- Dual mono design
- Non-oversampling principle
- Includes remote control
What customers say
Audiophiles highly praise the Metrum Acoustics Pavane with DAC 3 Module for its exceptionally natural and organic sound. Users frequently cite the nonoversampling R2R design for delivering an analog like presentation, free from digital harshness. The unit excels at rendering intricate musical details with precision, creating an expansive, three dimensional soundstage where instruments separate beautifully. Listeners report profound musicality and deep emotional engagement, transforming digital audio into an immersive experience. While a significant investment, the consensus is that its sonic purity and refinement justify the cost, making it a cornerstone component for serious audio setups.
Know before you buy
By avoiding the digital filtering processes found in standard DACs, the Pavane preserves the original timing and phase integrity of your music. This approach typically results in a more natural, organic sound profile that many audiophiles prefer for its realism.
The dual-mono architecture uses separate signal paths and power supplies for the left and right channels. This configuration significantly reduces crosstalk and interference, leading to a wider soundstage and more precise instrument separation.
The unit is equipped with standard digital inputs, including Optical (Toslink) and Coaxial (RCA). These connections allow you to integrate it easily with most high-fidelity digital transports and streamers.
The FPGA technology is used to manage the R2R ladder networks, correcting potential non-linearities in the conversion process. This ensures the DAC maintains exceptional accuracy even at very low signal levels, down to -140 dB.
Yes, the chassis is constructed from a combination of steel and aluminum, featuring a double-well design damped with bituminous material. This heavy-duty construction effectively isolates the internal components from external mechanical vibrations.
Yes, the unit includes a remote control, allowing you to manage input selection and other basic functions from your listening position.
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