D to A Converter-24/192-AES/EBU and S/PDIF

The RDL HR-DAC1 provides broadcast-quality digital-to-analog audio conversion for AES/EBU, AES-3ID, coaxial S/PDIF, and optical S/PDIF sources. It converts digital audio at resolutions from 16 to 24 bits and sample rates from 32 to 192 kHz into left and right analog audio through balanced and unbalanced connections. Adjustable output gain, signal-lock indication, automatic sample-rate detection, and left/right VU metering provide direct control and visual confirmation during operation.

Ideal Use Cases

The HR-DAC1 is suited to audio systems that need to connect an AES/EBU or S/PDIF digital source to analog stereo equipment. Its balanced XLR and terminal-block outputs accommodate installations using balanced analog connections, while the unbalanced phono outputs support equipment operating at a nominal -10 dBV level.

Four digital input formats provide flexibility when source equipment varies. These include a transformer-isolated 110 Ω AES/EBU XLR input, a 75 Ω AES-3ID BNC input, a 75 Ω coaxial S/PDIF phono input, and an optical S/PDIF input. This selection makes the converter useful wherever different professional and consumer digital interfaces must feed a stereo analog signal path.

Why Choose This Model

The HR-DAC1 combines broad digital input compatibility with detailed operating feedback. Automatic sample-rate detection identifies incoming digital audio, while dedicated indicators show 44.1, 48, 96, and 192 kHz rates. A green LOCK LED confirms a valid digital input, and a blue POWER LED confirms operating status. Dual-LED VU meters monitor the left and right analog output levels.

Output level is adjustable from OFF to +24 dBu at 0 dBFS for the left and right channels. This gain range allows the analog output to be matched to the connected system rather than relying on a fixed conversion level. Balanced outputs are available through XLR and terminal-block connections at +4 dBu, with unbalanced phono connections provided at -10 dBV.

Installation and Integration

Digital sources connect through the appropriate AES/EBU, AES-3ID, coaxial S/PDIF, or optical S/PDIF input. The AES/EBU XLR input is transformer isolated, providing isolation at that input interface. Analog destination equipment can then be connected through the left and right 150 Ω balanced XLR outputs, balanced terminal-block outputs, or unbalanced phono outputs.

The converter requires ground-referenced 24 Vdc at 175 mA. The recommended power supplies are the PS-24AS for the USA and the PS-24AX for international use; a power supply is not included. Its specified ambient operating range is 0° C to 55° C. The unit conforms to AES3-2003 and IEC60958 standards.

Performance Highlights

The HR-DAC1 supports sample rates from 32 to 192 kHz and resolutions from 16 to 24 bits. Frequency response is specified from 5 Hz to 24 kHz within ±0.2 dB into a high-impedance load. Dynamic range is greater than 110 dB at 24-bit resolution, unweighted, while THD+N is less than 0.002% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz below +22 dBu.

Channel separation is supported by crosstalk specifications of less than -100 dB from 5 Hz to 3 kHz and less than -90 dB from 3 kHz to 20 kHz. Left-to-right and right-to-left phase accuracy is ±0.15° from 5 Hz to 20 kHz. Residual noise is specified at less than -100 dB from 10 to 20 kHz with a -120 dBFS input and less than -110 dB when locked to a digital input with digital audio off.

What Makes It Different

RDL’s exclusive Sure-Lok™ Auto-Recovery Sentinel is a defining feature of the HR-DAC1. It is paired with automatic sample-rate detection and a digital signal-lock indicator, giving the operator immediate confirmation of input validity and detected rate. The combination of transformer-isolated AES/EBU input, four supported digital interfaces, adjustable output trim, three analog connection types per stereo pair, and dual-LED output metering consolidates conversion and monitoring functions in one model.

Final Assessment

The RDL HR-DAC1 is a focused converter for systems requiring stereo analog audio from AES/EBU, AES-3ID, or S/PDIF sources. Its 24-bit, 192 kHz capability is complemented by documented low distortion, wide dynamic range, precise phase performance, and flexible output-level adjustment. Multiple digital inputs, balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, automatic rate detection, Sure-Lok auto-recovery, and visible lock and level indicators make it a well-specified choice for broadcast-quality digital-to-analog conversion.