The Harmony DAC 2 employs a fully balanced, precision-matched R2R resistor ladder. Digital processing is handled by an Intel Cyclone FPGA, while accurate timing is ensured by a CCHD-957 femtosecond clock oscillator.

Unlike integrated DAC chips, this solution converts digital data into an analogue signal using a carefully matched resistor network. The discrete architecture, FPGA-based control and high-precision clocking together provide the technical foundation for precise digital-to-analogue conversion.

One of the most important enhancements in the Harmony DAC 2 is its new discrete Class A analogue output stage. Its purpose is to deliver the converted analogue signal reliably to the next component in the system.

The low output impedance makes matching with amplifiers easier. The XLR and RCA analogue outputs can also be used simultaneously, allowing greater flexibility when building a system.

During PCM playback, users can choose between NOS, LAiV's proprietary oversampling method and dedicated hardware SRC. The three processing modes allow operation to be tailored more closely to the specific system and user settings.

DSD material is processed in native NOS mode. PCM signals up to 768 kHz and DSD256 can be received via USB and I2S, while the hardware SRC can upscale PCM signals to as high as 768 kHz.

Stable clocking and the effective management of electrical interference play a key role in accurate D/A conversion. Complete digital isolation of the input stage reduces the impact of interference originating from ground loops, the USB connection and connected source devices.

An external reference clock can be connected directly to the 10 MHz master clock input without requiring a separate DDC unit. This provides a simpler signal path in systems that use a shared reference clock.

Thanks to its USB, optical, coaxial and I2S inputs, the Harmony DAC 2 can be connected easily to computers, streamers, CD transports and other digital source devices. The analogue signal is available through both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connections, and the two outputs can be used simultaneously.

The 12 V trigger input and output enable synchronised power-on and power-off with compatible system components. Firmware can be updated via the rear USB-C port, while the colour TFT display and included Harmony RCX remote control provide clear and convenient operation.