Laiv Harmony µDAC – Ultra-Compact R-2R DAC with Stunning Sound Quality
The Laiv Harmony µDAC is a state-of-the-art, ultra-compact digital-to-analog converter (DAC) engineered for exceptional sound quality in an elegant, space-saving design. Built with the same engineering precision and sonic philosophy as Laiv’s flagship devices, it integrates advanced digital clock technology, a high-end analog output stage, and galvanic isolation. This approach delivers a noise-free, highly detailed, and immersive musical experience, whether used in desktop or high-end audio systems.
Premium Compact Elegance
The Harmony µDAC fits perfectly into modern desktop and high-end audio systems. Thanks to its compact size, it occupies minimal space while making no compromises in performance or aesthetics. The elegant ebony-black chassis with gold accents and smooth contours stands out with refined visual appeal.
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Single-Block CNC-Machined Aerospace-Grade Aluminum Chassis
For mechanical stability and efficient heat dissipation, the µDAC’s enclosure is crafted from a single block of aerospace-grade aluminum with precision CNC machining. This construction offers three key advantages:
- Structural stability: The monoblock design reduces mechanical resonance and protects sensitive internal components.
- Efficient heat dissipation: Aluminum naturally conducts heat away, ensuring stable operation even during extended listening sessions—especially important for the Class A analog stage.
- Premium feel and appearance: The matte finish and flawless craftsmanship provide a true high-end experience in both look and touch.
Galvanic Isolation – Noise-Free Signal Path Between Digital and Analog
One of the most common sources of error in digital audio systems is noise from ground loops and power supply interference. The Harmony µDAC solves this with galvanic isolation:
- Operating principle: The digital and analog sections are completely electrically isolated, with data transfer occurring via optical or magnetic coupling.
- Effect: Eliminates ground loop currents and reduces EMI/RFI interference.
- Sonic advantage: Deeper silences, more precise soundstage imaging, cleaner micro-dynamics, and a more natural tonal character.
Accusilicon Femto Clock – Ultra-Low Jitter, Maximum Timing Accuracy
The heart of any audio DAC system is its clock. The Harmony µDAC uses an Accusilicon AS318-B femto-grade oscillator, delivering exceptionally low phase noise and jitter:
- Precision: Ultra-low jitter ensures accurate timing, avoiding the harshness and uncertainty typical of digital sound.
- Impact on sound: Better transparency, more precise imaging, tighter rhythm, and a more natural musical experience.
I2S Master Clock Synchronization – Compatible with Advanced Systems
The Harmony µDAC supports I2S master clock synchronization, making it ideal for integration with advanced digital systems:
- Precise timing interface: Can synchronize with an external clock generator or high-end streamer, perfectly aligning the digital data flow.
- Musical benefits: Synchronized clocking minimizes jitter, resulting in even cleaner sound, more stable stereo imaging, and a more natural musical experience.
Balanced Discrete R-2R Ladder Network – Analog Character with Digital Precision
Unlike most DACs that use chips, the Harmony µDAC features a fully discrete R-2R ladder architecture:
- Precision resistor pairs: Built from 0.05% tolerance precision resistors.
- Symmetrical output: Balanced topology reduces noise and improves channel separation.
- Sound: Warm, natural character, excellent detail, airy soundstage, and a truly live musical presentation.
Discrete Class A Output Buffer – Optimal Matching, Analog Magic
For analog signal fidelity, the µDAC uses a discrete Class A buffer stage:
- Impedance matching: Ideal synergy with amplifiers or headphones, distortion-free signal transmission.
- Low output impedance: Maintains signal integrity even with longer cable runs.
- Class A character: Linear, natural sound, slightly warm tone, genuine analog experience.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|
| Processing chip | Intel® Altera® Cyclone® FPGA |
| Master clock | Accusilicon AS318-B Femto-grade oscillator |
| Digital inputs | USB, Optical (Toslink), Coaxial (RCA), I2S |
| Analog output | XLR balanced (max. 4 Vrms, approx. 82 Ω) |
| Supported formats | USB: PCM 44.1–768 kHz, DSD64–DSD256
Optical: PCM 44.1–192 kHz, DSD64 (DoP)
Coaxial: PCM 44.1–192 kHz, DSD64 (DoP)
I2S: PCM 44.1–768 kHz, DSD64–DSD256 |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz (± 0.25 dB) |
| THD+N | 0.006 % |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | ≥ 125 dB |
| Dynamic range | ≥ 110 dB |
| Crosstalk | ≤ -120 dB |
| Power supply | 15V DC / 2A (5.5/2.5 mm jack) |
Key Features
- Elegant and compact design
- NOS / OS mode
- Phase inversion: positive / negative
- Display brightness, delayed dimming, and off
- 8 × I2S mode, automatic configuration for Laiv devices
- I2S clock support
- Galvanic isolation for a cleaner signal
- LAiV Harmony R-2R ladder network architecture
Package Contents
- Laiv Harmony µDAC
- Power supply with international adapter set
- Welcome card and Quick Start Guide
