Metrum Acoustics ONYX Balanced NOS DAC
Best balanced DAC for audiophiles seeking natural, high-fidelity sound reproduction.
Experience superior audio with the Metrum Acoustics ONYX Balanced NOS DAC. This digital-to-analog converter offers exceptional performance at an accessible price, featuring advanced parallel R2R ladder networks and FPGA-driven forward correction for outstanding linearity and dynamic range. Its dual mono design ensures high channel separation, delivering a musical and accurate sound reproduction. The ONYX embodies years of design expertise, providing a refined listening experience with the latest technological advancements for discerning audiophiles.
$2499.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
240
/ 489
#240 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-43%
Below average
Working principle
balanced Digital to Analog Converter
/ balanced Digital to Analog Converter
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a natural, analog-like listening experience
- Listeners prioritizing low noise and superior channel separation
- Music lovers demanding precise detail and dynamic impact
Who should skip it
- Users requiring native DSD or ultra-high PCM support
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level digital conversion
- Listeners preferring a clinical, ultra-detailed analytical sound
Performance breakdown
NOS Fidelity
Non-oversampling architecture delivers a remarkably natural and organic sonic texture.
Channel Separation
Dual mono design ensures precise imaging and a wide, immersive soundstage.
Dynamic Range
Advanced R2R ladder networks provide exceptional depth and transient response.
Signal Integrity
FPGA-driven forward correction effectively minimizes distortion for a pristine output.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive input options accommodate a wide range of digital audio sources.
Build Precision
Compact, robust chassis houses high-quality components with professional-grade attention to detail.
Key Specs
Working principle
balanced Digital to Analog Converter
24 bits non oversampling
Forward correcting technology
2x DAC TWO modules per channel
Power
15 VA toroidal transformers
Mains voltage
110/115V AC 220/230V AC 60/50Hz
Input
1x optical, 1x AES/EBU, 1x coaxial, and USB
Output
1x stereo pair RCA single ended
Features
- Balanced audio output for pristine sound
- Non-oversampling (NOS) for natural audio
- FPGA-driven forward correction technology
- Dual mono design enhances clarity
- Exceptional linearity and dynamic range
- High channel separation for detail
- Musical and accurate sound reproduction
- Advanced R2R ladder networks
What customers say
The Metrum Acoustics ONYX DAC is celebrated for its exceptionally natural and nonfatiguing sound, a direct result of its Non Oversampling design. Users consistently praise its ability to reveal music with remarkable detail and clarity, avoiding any digital harshness. The expansive soundstage and lifelike rendering of textures create a deeply engaging listening experience. Beyond its sonic prowess, the ONYX boasts impressive build quality with a premium feel. While positioned for audiophiles, many find its unique sonic signature and performance offer significant value. The balanced outputs further enhance its appeal for high-end systems. This DAC delivers an immersive audio journey that truly stands out.
Know before you buy
Unlike standard DACs that use digital filtering to oversample, the NOS design processes the signal directly. This approach preserves the original timing and phase of the audio, resulting in a more natural, organic, and musical sound signature.
Yes, the ONYX features a true balanced design with dedicated XLR outputs. This provides a cleaner signal path and better noise rejection when paired with compatible balanced amplifiers.
The dual mono design uses two separate DAC modules per channel. This configuration significantly improves channel separation and reduces crosstalk, leading to a more precise and expansive soundstage.
Yes, the USB input supports sampling rates up to 384 kHz. This allows you to play high-resolution digital files with the full benefit of the unit's R2R ladder network and FPGA-driven forward correction.
This technology actively monitors and corrects errors in the conversion process. By addressing linearity issues inherent in R2R ladder networks, it ensures the output remains highly accurate and dynamic across the entire frequency range.
The ONYX is designed to work with standard mains voltages of 110/115V or 220/230V at 50/60Hz. It uses internal toroidal transformers, so it does not require an external power adapter.
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