stereo-link's Third Generation USB DAC is available in three versions
The SL1600 achieves outstanding "high-end" sound quality using the latest ultra-low distortion amplifier technology. This USB DAC delivers exceptional detail, bass, and accurate soundstaging from all of your digital files. And it is priced competitively. We challenge you to compare.
The 1600 DAC is offered in three basic versions, and can be customized with additional output options, such as balanced outputs (available June 2010).
To use a stereo-link DAC, all you need is a computer running a modern operating
system and equipped with a USB connection. Each unit is tested using both Windows 98SE and Windows 7 PC to ensure trouble free operation.
A 24 bit data path from the computer makes it fully compatible with the FLAC 44.1KHz 24bit format, used for the Beatles' digital USB release of the remastered albums.
All models feature our unique isolation circuitry that keeps electrical noise in your computer
from getting into your audio system, and virtually eliminates ground loop problems. The rear
panel Neutrik jacks are electrically isolated from the chassis and computer ground.
For even greater isolation and compatability with a wider range of equipment, transformer balanced outputs are available as an option.
+/-5 Analog
+/-5 Analog
3.3 Analog,
+/-8 Analog
32 ohms
150 ohms
Various lenghts
Various lenghts
Model 1600 - USB DAC with Fixed Line Out and Headphone Amplifier
is functionally equivalent to its predecessors, the 1300/1400. It features standard line level outputs on the rear panel,
and an extremely high quality headphone output, with separate volume control, on the frontpanel.
Transformer balanced outputs are now available as an option (see below).
The improved headphone amplifier features lower intermodulation and low frequency distortion
than some highly regarded separate headphone amplifiers. Running off of +/- 8V supplies,
the amplifiers are capable of delivering over 75mW to loads ranging from 32 to 150 ohms, with vanishing amounts
of distortion. It is especially suited for driving high-impedance modles such as the Sennheiser 600 series. Output is via an electrically isolated Neutrik 1/4" phone jack.
Model 1625 - USB DAC with Line Level Volume Control
is designed to be used with powered loudspeakers or any audio system that does not use a preamp or other form of volume control. It incorporates a very low noise DC coupled volume gain stage capable of driving loads as low as 600 ohms.
DC offset voltage is practically non existent.
To safeguard the speakers and prevent thumps from occurring when the DAC is powered on or off, the outputs of the 1625 are automatically muted using a relay circuit that remains “off” until the DAC is actively playing sound (USB LOCK LED is on).
Transformer balanced outputs are available as an option.
Model 1610 - USB DAC with Fixed Line Out
Our Basic DAC for use in typical audio systems with Transformer balanced outputs are available as an option.
Design Philosophy
We have been involved in designing audio converters since the early 1980s, when digital audio was just becoming mainstream. With today's technology, we know a DAC's sound quality is determined more by the analog circuit than by any particular DAC IC. To that end, the 1600 features a 4 voltage power supply built around low noise linear regulators and low ESR capacitors. Carefull PCB layout, minimal filtering, the selection of the best posible op-amps and passives for the application, allow us to achieve the most transparent sound possible. Many hours of critical listening have gone into fine tuning this design. When you listen to music through the 1600, you hear the music, not the DAC.
Over the years our customer's have confirmed again and again our success. stereo-link DACs are used in homes with modest to high-end systems, by DJs, and even in broadcasting applications.
Last updated July 11, 2010
