How about an R-2R DAC for under a grand?
I was impressed by the LAiV Harmony DAC which I reviewed last summer about which I concluded: “The Laiv Harmony DAC offers exceptional performance and build quality and I don’t know of any real competition anywhere near its price.”
The original LAiV Harmony DAC was $2700 at the time of that review and now we’re looking at the new LAiV Harmony R-2R µDAC that comes in at a wallet-friendly $994.
The new µDAC comes jam packed with LAiV tech including their R-2R Ladder Network, Discrete Class A Output Buffer, Accusilicon AS318-B Ultra-Low Phase Noise FEMTO Oscillator, and Galvanic Isolation all wrapped in a compact (less than 7″ wide) Unibody Aluminum Chassis. For under a grand. Nice.
Here’s the press release:
Introducing the LAiV Harmony µDAC – High-end R-2R DAC in a Compact Form Factor
Following the overwhelming success of the LAiV Harmony DAC, HP2A preamp & headphone amp, and the uDDC digital-to-digital converter, LAiV Audio is once again redefining the listening experience.
We are excited to introduce the LAiV Harmony uDAC, a discrete R-2R ladder DAC that embodies innovation, precision, and purity in a compact design. Whether you’re an experienced audiophile or just starting your high-fidelity journey, the uDAC brings the signature LAiV sound quality to your system with next-level performance.
LAiV – Audiophile Excellence
In April 2024, LAiV Audio made waves with its Harmony DAC, praised for its unibody aluminum chassis, modular design, large display, and unparalleled sound quality. It quickly became a contender for DAC of the year in the audiophile community.
Building on that success, LAiV introduced the HP2A, a preamp and powerful Class A headphone amplifier, capable of driving even the most demanding headphones like Dan Clark Audio and HiFiMAN Susvara. The LEXT further expanded LAiV system flexibility, catering to vinyl lovers and multi-source users alike.
LAiV then heard the call for a compact yet powerful digital-to-digital converter, leading to the uDDC, which set a new standard with its full suite of digital inputs, FEMTO clock reclocking, and ultra-low jitter i2S output.
Now, a year later, LAiV bring you the next evolution—the LAiV Harmony uDAC.
The LAiV Harmony uDAC redefines what’s possible in a small yet powerful digital-to-analog converter. Designed for audiophiles who demand world-class performance in a sleek, space-efficient chassis, the uDAC delivers exceptional sound quality without compromise.
Precision-Crafted, Premium Build
- Unibody Aluminum Chassis – Milled from aircraft-grade aluminum billet for superior durability, vibration resistance, and thermal efficiency.
- Compact Yet Elegant – Designed to seamlessly fit into any desktop, headphone, or stereo system, complementing high-end setups with its sleek, modern aesthetics.
Audiophile-Grade Performance in a Small Package
- LAiV Harmony R-2R Ladder Network – Ensures ultra-precise digital-to-analog conversion, delivering a natural, detailed, and transparent sound signature.
- Discrete Class A Output Buffer – Provides rich tonality, dynamic expression, and pure analog warmth for an immersive, holographics listening experience.
- Accusilicon AS318-B Ultra-Low Phase Noise FEMTO Oscillator – Guarantees ultra-precise, low phase noise clocking, reducing jitter for crystal-clear audio reproduction.
- Galvanic Isolation – Maintains pure signal integrity, eliminating noise and interference for an ultra-clean sound.
Versatile & Intuitive Design
- Customizable Display Settings – Adjustable brightness, auto-dim, and delay-off features for a distraction-free experience.
- 8x I2S Modes with Auto-Configuration – Optimized for seamless integration with LAiV products and other high-end audio systems.
- NOS & OS Modes – Choose between Non-Oversampling for pure, unaltered sound or Oversampling for enhanced detail and resolution.
- Positive/Negative Phase Selection – Adapts to different system configurations for maximum flexibility.
High-Res Audio Formats Supported
- PCM: 44.1kHz – 768kHz
- DSD: DSD64 – DSD256
The uDAC represents LAiV Audio dedication to pushing the boundaries of digital audio, bringing exceptional sound clarity, precision engineering, and modular innovation to a new level.
With the LAiV Harmony uDAC, high-end sound meets modern elegance. Experience uncompromising audiophile performance in a form factor that fits anywhere.