Laiv Harmony DAC - High-End Modular R-2R Digital-to-Analog Converter
Precision Engineering, Discrete R-2R Architecture, and Modular Design
The Laiv Harmony DAC is a state-of-the-art digital-to-analog converter (DAC) engineered for discerning audiophiles. With its fully modular design, balanced discrete R-2R architecture, and CNC-machined unibody aluminum enclosure, the Harmony DAC offers a unique combination of sonic excellence, upgradeability, and industrial-grade durability. This high-end DAC is built for those who demand uncompromising sound quality, long-term reliability, and future-proof flexibility in their digital audio systems.
CNC-Machined Aluminum Chassis - Mechanical and Electromagnetic Isolation
The Harmony DAC is enclosed in a solid aluminum chassis, precision-milled from a single block using CNC machining.
This robust housing provides multiple performance advantages:
- Reduces mechanical resonance for purer sound reproduction
- Shields sensitive circuitry from electromagnetic interference
- Enables superior passive heat dissipation and long-term reliability
The minimalist design and solid weight ensure excellent stability and a premium aesthetic fit for any high-end audio rack.
Fully Modular Design - Upgradeable and Serviceable Audio Platform
Unlike most DACs in its class, the Laiv Harmony DAC features a fully modular architecture. This future-oriented design allows users to tailor the DAC to their system’s evolving needs.
Modular benefits include:
- Upgradeable inputs and outputs (USB, I2S, SPDIF, etc.)
- Replaceable display and clock modules
- Simplified service and maintenance
- Customization options for signal path and power supply modules
Whether integrating new digital transports or experimenting with different clocking strategies, the modularity ensures unmatched flexibility.
Balanced Discrete R-2R Ladder DAC - True Analog Musicality
At the heart of the Harmony DAC lies a fully balanced discrete R-2R resistor ladder, built using 0.05% ultra-precision resistors.
Unlike traditional chip-based DACs, this discrete design delivers:
- Natural, analog-like musicality
- Superior micro-detail and transient accuracy
- Extremely low jitter and digital artifacts
- Wide dynamic range and exceptional transparency
The balanced architecture also minimizes noise and crosstalk when used with XLR outputs, making it ideal for reference-grade headphone or speaker systems.
High-Resolution OLED Display - Functional and Elegant
Equipped with a 3.83-inch monochrome OLED display, the Harmony DAC provides a high-contrast, legible user interface.
Key display features:
- 320x132 resolution with 16-bit grayscale support
- Excellent visibility in all lighting conditions
- Automatic CD track info display via SPDIF input
Users can monitor playback status, input selection, and system settings with ease.
I2S Master Clock Compatibility - Precision Digital Timing
For users with external DDCs or high-performance streamers, the Laiv Harmony DAC supports clock input via I2S, allowing:
- Selection between internal or external clock sources
- Optimized jitter performance based on system configuration
This flexibility is crucial for those who seek maximum clock accuracy in high-resolution playback systems.
Premium Internal Components - Selected for Sonic Purity
Laiv engineers have carefully selected only the highest-grade components to ensure unmatched audio performance:
- Crystek CCHD-575 ultra-low jitter clock oscillator
- Audio Note Kaisei electrolytic capacitors for warm tonal balance
- Rubycon ZLH capacitors for fast transient response and detail
These parts are used throughout the signal path, power supply, and decoding stages to deliver uncompromising fidelity and reliability.
Thoughtful User Experience and Ergonomics
The Harmony DAC is engineered for practical use in real-world setups:
- Stable rotary knob placement prevents movement during operation
- Spike alignment card included for precise isolation foot positioning
- Multi-device remote control allows simultaneous control of two Laiv units
Every design detail has been refined for intuitive use and long-term satisfaction.
Technical Specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|
| Dynamic Range | >110 dB (A-weighted) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) | >123 dB |
| Crosstalk | >110 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N) | 0.0035 % |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz ±0.25 dB |
| Inputs (PCM / DSD) | USB: 44.1 kHz - 768 kHz / DSD64 - DSD256;
Optical: 44.1 kHz - 192 kHz / not supported;
Coaxial: 44.1 kHz - 192 kHz / not supported;
I2S: 44.1 kHz - 768 kHz / DSD64 - DSD256 |
| Input Types | 1 x USB;
1 x Optical (Toslink);
1 x Coaxial (SPDIF);
1 x I2S |
| Output Types and Characteristics | 1 x XLR balanced (max. 4.15 Vrms, ~1200 Ω);
1 x RCA single-ended (max. 2.07 Vrms, ~600 Ω) |
| Clock | Crystek CCHD-957 femto clock (ultra-low phase noise) |
| Processor | Intel® Altera® Cyclone® FPGA |
Features:
In details:
- Fully modular construction
- NOS / OS selectable modes
- Phase inversion (positive / negative)
- Quick-access function key
- Adjustable display brightness and auto-off timers
- Eight I2S modes (auto-configured for Laiv components)
- SPDIF CD track info support
- External I2S clock compatibility
What’s in the box?
With every order, you get:
- Welcome card with Certificate of Authenticity
- Harmony DAC
- Three spike shoes with alignment card
- Remote control (Battery CR2032 not included)
- Power cord
- Cleaning cloth
