Oppo
OPPO Sonica DAC
Best high-resolution converter for audiophiles seeking precise, jitter-free digital playback.
OPPO has introduced the Sonica DAC, positioned as a high-value digital-to-analog converter. This unit features the advanced ESS ES9038PRO chip and utilizes a synchronous transfer mode, ensuring the internal high-precision clock dictates the audio signal quality, independent of the source computer's clock. It offers comprehensive compatibility across all digital formats, including streaming and multi-room audio capabilities. The USB DAC input supports high-resolution PCM up to 768 kHz/32-bit and DSD formats up to DSD512. Furthermore, the Sonica provides variable, line-level outputs, allowing it to function effectively as a preamplifier.
$799.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
83
/ 489
#83 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-82%
Below average
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-resolution clarity and sonic transparency
- System builders wanting a versatile, all-in-one digital hub
- Design-conscious listeners valuing premium build quality and longevity
Who should skip it
- Buyers concerned about long-term software updates and technical support
- Users preferring modern, intuitive streaming app interfaces
- Tidal subscribers requiring native MQA hardware decoding
Performance breakdown
Digital Resolution
Handles high-resolution PCM and DSD512 files with absolute technical precision.
Jitter Control
Internal high-precision clock effectively isolates audio from source-side timing errors.
Preamplifier Versatility
Variable line-level outputs allow for seamless integration into high-end audio systems.
Streaming Integration
Robust multi-room audio capabilities make digital library management feel effortless.
Signal Integrity
Synchronous transfer mode ensures the signal remains clean and remarkably stable.
Format Compatibility
Broad support for diverse digital formats covers almost any audiophile requirement.
Features
- Features synchronous transfer mode to eliminate reliance on computer clock quality.
- Functions as a preamplifier due to its variable line-level outputs.
- Designed with a focus on low jitter through its dedicated internal clock.
What customers say
Consumers consistently praise the Sonica DAC for its remarkable audio fidelity, noting a clean detailed and expansive soundstage that truly elevates digital music playback. The premium build quality and versatile feature set, including network streaming capabilities, make it a powerful centerpiece for a modern audio system. This unit delivers exceptional performance and features, offering tremendous value compared to higher priced competitors in the high resolution audio space.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Sonica DAC features variable line-level outputs, allowing you to connect it directly to a power amplifier or active speakers and control the volume through the unit.
By using its own high-precision internal clock, the Sonica DAC ignores the potentially noisy or unstable clock signal from your computer. This significantly reduces jitter and ensures a cleaner, more accurate digital-to-analog conversion.
The USB DAC input is highly capable, supporting high-resolution PCM files up to 768 kHz/32-bit and DSD formats up to DSD512, covering virtually all high-fidelity audio standards.
Yes, the Sonica DAC includes built-in streaming capabilities that allow it to integrate into a multi-room audio setup, letting you play music across different zones in your home.
The ES9038PRO is a flagship-grade digital-to-analog converter chip known for its exceptional dynamic range and low distortion. Its inclusion ensures that the Sonica DAC can handle complex audio signals with high transparency and detail.
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$799