Ferrum Audio
Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 DAC/Amp + Hypsos Power System
Best high-end desktop solution for discerning audiophiles seeking pure, refined sound.
The Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 is a fully balanced desktop DAC/amplifier designed for high-end personal audio. It features an improved I/V converter, DSP engine, and digital filter for enhanced performance, supporting up to 768 kHz/DSD512 resolution. The ERCO Gen 2 offers both balanced (4.4mm) and unbalanced (6.35mm) headphone outputs, as well as balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs. This bundle includes the Hypsos power system, which provides a stable and optimized power supply via the proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) connection, unlocking the full potential of the ERCO.
$3445.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
388
/ 732
#388 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
+147%
Above average
Headphone Output Gain
5.8617.811.8011.8
/ Balanced - dB, + dB, + dB; Single-ended - dB, dB, + dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking uncompromising clarity and immersive soundscapes
- Listeners demanding maximum performance through optimized power delivery
- Collectors owning diverse headphones requiring versatile, high-power amplification
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over extreme high-end performance
- Minimalists requiring compact, single-unit desktop audio solutions
- Casual listeners who may not perceive subtle, high-end sonic refinements
Performance breakdown
Power Delivery
The Hypsos integration provides exceptionally clean, stable current for demanding headphones.
Resolution Clarity
The ESS Sabre chip delivers surgical precision across high-resolution audio formats.
Drive Capability
Balanced output effortlessly handles even the most power-hungry planar magnetic headphones.
Signal Integrity
Advanced I/V conversion ensures a vanishingly low noise floor and distortion.
Versatility
Comprehensive digital and analog inputs accommodate a wide range of sources.
Build Quality
Compact, robust chassis design reflects high-end European engineering standards.
Key Specs
Headphone Output Gain
Balanced -5.8 dB, +6 dB, +17.8 dB; Single-ended -11.8 dB, 0 dB, +11.8 dB
Operation
Fully balanced proprietary IC power amplifier
Power Inputs
5.5/2.5mm DC connector with positive center; Proprietary 4-pin FPL connector (FPL)
Analog Inputs
RCA (REDbook level 2 V RMS recommended, PRO level supported)
Digital Inputs
USB-C (MQA, up to PCM 32 bits/768 kHz, DSD512, DoP256); S/PDIF coaxial (MQA, up to PCM 24 bits/192 kHz, DoP64); S/PDIF optical (MQA, up to PCM 24 bits/96 kHz guaranteed, should work up to PCM 24 bits/192 kHz and DoP64; depends on optical cable and user transmitter)
DAC Chip
ESS Sabre ES9028PRO
PCM Sampling Frequencies
44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 / 352.8 / 384 / 705.6 / 768 kHz
DSD Sampling Frequencies
2.8224 / 3.072 / 5.6448 / 6.144 / 11.2896 / 12.288 / 22.5792 / 24.576 MHz
Features
- Fully balanced ERCO headphone amplifier/converter
- Improved I/V converter and DSP engine
- High-quality digital filter (HQ Apodizing)
- Proprietary IC power amplifier design
- Optimized digital inputs for audio
- Optimized MQA rendering and decoding for ARM chips
- Balanced 4.4mm and unbalanced 6.35mm headphone outputs
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 DAC/Amp and Hypsos Power System for its exceptional audio fidelity and robust build quality. Users frequently highlight the system's ability to deliver a remarkably clear and dynamic soundstage, elevating their listening experience significantly. The sleek, minimalist design also receives high marks, seamlessly integrating into various setups while exuding a premium feel. This combination of superior sonic performance and elegant aesthetics makes it a standout choice for discerning audiophiles seeking a refined and reliable audio solution.
Know before you buy
The Hypsos provides a cleaner, more stable power supply compared to a standard wall adapter. By utilizing the proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) connection, it reduces electrical noise and optimizes the internal components of the ERCO, resulting in improved clarity and a more refined soundstage.
Yes, the ERCO Gen 2 features both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs, allowing you to connect it directly to an external power amplifier or active speakers. You can even set the volume control to bypass mode when using it as a dedicated DAC.
Yes, the device supports high-resolution audio up to 768 kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD512. It also includes full MQA decoding and rendering capabilities across its USB, optical, and coaxial digital inputs.
The ERCO Gen 2 is very capable, delivering up to 1.2 W into 300 Ohms via the balanced output. Its three-stage gain settings ensure it can handle a wide range of headphones, from sensitive IEMs to demanding planar magnetic or high-impedance dynamic models.
The 4.4mm output is a fully balanced connection, which provides higher power output and better channel separation, making it ideal for high-end headphones. The 6.35mm output is single-ended and is designed for standard, everyday headphone compatibility.
The ERCO Gen 2 uses an analog volume control to maintain signal integrity. This ensures that you don't lose bit-depth or resolution when adjusting your listening levels, providing a more natural sound experience.
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