dCS Audio Rossini APEX Player + DAC
Best reference audio for serious high fidelity enthusiasts.
The dCS Rossini APEX Player + DAC is a versatile, high-fidelity audio component that seamlessly integrates a DAC, music streamer, and CD transport. It features the latest dCS Ring DAC™ APEX, renowned for its precision and musical purity, and supports all high-resolution formats including DSD, DXD, and MQA. Stream music from various services like TIDAL, Qobuz, and Spotify, or play CDs and SACDs with its integral transport. The Mosaic control app provides an intuitive interface for browsing music and managing settings, ensuring an effortless listening experience.
$34500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
116
/ 873
#116 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+689%
Above average
Type
Upsampling CD/Network Player
/ Upsampling CD/Network Player
Who it's for
- Discerning audiophiles seeking the absolute best digital music reproduction
- Enthusiasts desiring a cohesive, top-tier digital source without multiple boxes
- Forward-thinking listeners valuing broad format support and connectivity options
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious consumers or those new to high-fidelity audio
- Beginners seeking plug-and-play simplicity in their audio setup
- Practical audiophiles prioritizing value and performance per dollar
Performance breakdown
Digital Conversion Precision
The proprietary Ring DAC APEX architecture delivers industry-leading signal purity.
Format Versatility
Seamlessly handles everything from legacy CDs to high-resolution DSD and MQA.
Streaming Integration
Mosaic app provides a polished, unified interface for all major services.
Connectivity Depth
Extensive input options ensure compatibility with any high-end audio source.
Build Integrity
Robust construction and premium components reflect a true reference-grade design.
System Flexibility
User-selectable filters and upsampling options allow for precise sonic tailoring.
Key Specs
Type
Upsampling CD/Network Player
Converter Type
dCS proprietary Ring DAC™ topology. Operates at 6MHz (Map 1 or 3) or 3MHz (Map 2)
Digital Inputs
Ethernet network port on RJ45 connector, accepts 24-bit 44.1 – 384kS/s PCM, DSD/64 & DSD128 in DFF/DSF format; USB 2.0 interface on B-type connector, accepts 24-bit 44.1 – 384kS/s PCM, DSD/64 & DSD128 in DoP format; USB On-The-Go interface on A-type connector, accepts 24-bit 44.1 – 384kS/s PCM, DSD/64 & DSD128 in DFF/DSF format; 2 x AES/EBU inputs on 3-pin female XLR connectors, accepts 24-bit 44.1 – 192kS/s PCM, DSD/64 & DSD/128 in DoP format; 1 x Dual AES pair, accepts 24-bit 88.2 – 384kS/s PCM, DSD/64 & DSD/128 in DoP format; 1 x SPDIF on RCA Phono connector, accepts 24-bit 44.1 – 192kS/s PCM & DSD/64 in DoP format; 1 x SPDIF on BNC connector, accepts 24-bit 44.1 – 192kS/s PCM & DSD/64 in DoP format; 1 x SPDIF optical on TOSLINK connector, accepts 24-bit 44.1 – 96kS/s PCM
Mechanism
Stream Unlimited JPL-2800 SilverStrike with aluminium tray
Analogue Outputs
1 x pair balanced outputs on 2 x XLR connectors. Output levels: 0.2V, 0.6V, 2V, 6V rms for a full-scale input, set in the menu. Output impedance: 3Ω. Maximum load: 600Ω (10k-100kΩ is recommended); 1 x pair unbalanced outputs on 2x RCA connectors. Output levels: 0.2V, 0.6V, 2V, 6V rms for a full-scale input, set in the menu. Output impedance: 52Ω. Maximum load: 600Ω (10k-100kΩ is recommended)
Wordclock I/O
2 x Word Clock Inputs on 2 x BNC connectors, accept standard Word Clock at 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 or 192kHz. The data rate can be the same as the clock rate or an exact multiple of the clock rate. Sensitive to TTL levels; 1x Word Clock Output on 1 x BNC connector. With Sync Mode set to Master, a TTL-compatible Word Clock is output
MQA
Full decoding and rendering of MQA data from the Network and USB2 inputs. Final rendering of unfolded MQA data only from the other inputs
Residual Noise
16-bit data: Better than -96dB0, 20Hz-20kHz unweighted. 24-bit data: Better than –113dB0, 20Hz - 20kHz unweighted (6V output setting)
Features
- Latest generation dCS Digital Processing Platform
- dCS Ring DAC APEX for enhanced performance
- High quality streaming via Mosaic app
- Roon Ready, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, UPnP compatible
- Integral, high quality CD transport
- User-selectable DSP and DSD filters
- Auto clocking system for ease of use
- Firmware-upgradeable for future functionality
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the dCS Audio Rossini APEX Player + DAC for its exceptional sound reproduction, describing it as incredibly detailed, natural, and immersive. The clarity and musicality are frequently highlighted, transforming the listening experience. Users also appreciate the robust build quality and sophisticated design, which exudes premium craftsmanship. While a significant investment, the consensus points to an unparalleled audio performance that justifies its position as a reference component for serious audiophiles.
Know before you buy
The APEX upgrade features the latest iteration of the dCS Ring DAC hardware. It provides measurable improvements in linearity and reduced distortion, resulting in a more transparent, detailed, and musically natural sound compared to the original version.
Yes. The Rossini is equipped with a comprehensive suite of digital inputs, including AES/EBU, SPDIF, and USB, allowing you to connect external components like a dedicated server or a disc transport while utilizing the internal Ring DAC.
The Mosaic app is the primary interface for streaming services and managing settings, but it is not required for every action. You can also control playback via Roon, Spotify Connect, or the included dCS remote control.
The unit performs full decoding and rendering of MQA data when played through the network or USB inputs. For other digital inputs, it handles the final rendering of already unfolded MQA data.
Yes, the Rossini features a high-quality digital volume control and selectable output levels (0.2V, 0.6V, 2V, or 6V). This allows you to connect it directly to a power amplifier without needing a separate preamplifier.
Yes, the dCS Digital Processing Platform is designed to be firmware-upgradeable. You can easily download and install updates via the Mosaic app to ensure your unit remains compatible with future formats and functionality.
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