Hifiman Electronics unveils two affordable R-2R DAC/Amps
The new HM800 earphone DAC/amplifier (SRP: $299) relies on R2R architecture, a chip composed of an array of resistors, but with a new algorithm that reduces power handling between the chip and peripheral components. Signal-to-noise ratio, total harmonic distortion, and energy consumption are at their most efficient and cost-effective.
“As a company, HIFIMAN is committed to satisfying the demands of discerning listeners through advanced yet cost-effective designs,” said Dr. Fang Bian, President, and CEO, HIFIMAN Electronics. “The HIMALAYA DAC architecture makes it easy to enjoy hi-res audio with an ordinary mobile phone, making it a high-fidelity source that can compete with nearly any standalone DAP.”
Its miniature proportions – approximately the size of a U.S. quarter — make the HM800 a perfect match for high-performance audio equipment. In addition, HIFIMAN emphasized maximum flexibility, with a USB-C input and four cables included for connection with the majority of high-end earphones on the market: USB-C, MMCX coaxial, MMCX-0.78 and MMCX-0.75 pin connector cables.
Designed to turn any smartphone into a high-resolution audio source, the HM800, which, from its DAC to its amplifier is fully balanced, combines a low audio frequency range, out-of-band noise, and low energy consumption to create a high-performance match for in-ear monitors at any price point. The internal HIMALAYA DAC module supports the common PCM signal transmitted by the most common IIS (Integrated Interface of Sound) audio interface, with a maximum 24Bit resolution.
HIFIMAN’s new concept-based NOS (None Over-sampling) filter stands out from previous designs by minimizing noise without pushing weak signals to the ultrasonic frequency band, rendering them inaudible. With the NOS filter, the best possible performance is achieved, preserving the most minute details of a well-mastered recording.
The signal-to-noise ratio is measured at 112dB, the output power is 40mW+2, and the DAC module’s total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) is 0.0025%.
The HM800 will be available in March at a suggested retail price of $299. It will be available from authorized HIFIMAN dealers and the company’s online store.
The company’s first new desktop model in 10 years is their EF400 desktop DAC/Amp that was designed as both a homage to the acclaimed EF6 and a statement of modern audio technology, the fully balanced EF400 (SRP: $599) features the company’s new low-energy, high sampling HIMALAYA R2R DAC, which features an array of highly accurate resistors that use a “ladder” method of conversion. This approach converts the digital signal with maximum accuracy and overall musicality. Signal-to-noise ratio, total harmonic distortion, and energy consumption are at their musical and efficient best.
“Thanks to its musicality to power handling that drives the lowest efficiency headphones, the EF6 is one of our most beloved amplifiers, making it a tough act to follow,” said Dr. Fang Bian, President, and CEO, HIFIMAN Electronics. “But the EF400 is up to the challenge, with sonics and power output that are in the same league as its predecessor, but at a significantly lower price.”
HIFIMAN placed equal emphasis on performance, flexibility, and convenience when developing the EF400 DAC/amplifier. The fully balanced four-channel differential structure features the company’s world-class HIMALAYA DAC module, which supports the common PCM signal transmitted by the most common IIS (Integrated Interface of Sound) audio interface, with a maximum 24Bit resolution. When combined with a buffer, active filter and Class AB amplifier that offers the fidelity of a Class A design and efficiency of Class B architecture, the HIMALAYA DAC raises the bar for desktop DAC/amplifier performance under $600.
The compact physical dimensions of the EF400 contradict its substantial output. Measuring 9.5” D x 9” W x 2.5” H, the EF400 requires the bare minimum of desktop or rack space. The front panel includes four balanced outputs – 6.35mm single-ended, 3.5mm single-ended, 4.4mm balanced, XLR four-pin balanced – in addition to a four-level function switch and volume control. The rear input panel includes jacks for RCA, USB-B, and USB-C source connectors, in addition to dual (L/R) XLR three-pin full balanced line outputs, a rarity in products at this price point.
Signal-to-noise ratio is measured at 118+/-3dB, channel separation is 125+/-3dB, and THD+N (line out) is between 0.002% and 0.004%.
Maximum power output is extraordinarily robust at 4.4 WPC (watts per channel), giving the EF400 the power to drive the majority of low-efficiency planar headphones, including HIFIMAN Electronics’ flagship model, Susvara.
The EF400 DAC/amplifier will be available in March at a suggested retail price of $599. It will be available from authorized HIFIMAN dealers and the company’s online store.
