{"product_id":"aqua-la-scala-mkiii-optologic-r2r-tube-hybrid-dac","title":"Aqua La Scala MkIII Optologic R2R Tube Hybrid DAC","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAqua La Scala MkIII Optologic R2R Tube Hybrid DAC Key Features: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProprietary Optologic D\/A Conversion System –\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Utilizes a pure R2R ladder DAC architecture with FPGA-based decoding, eliminating the need for digital filters and ensuring pristine sound reproduction.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e(NEW) PIBU (Pilot Buffer) Analog Module –\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e A newly developed analog module that eliminates output capacitors, enhancing signal purity and delivering exceptional musicality.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUpgraded Components –\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNow features C-core transformers and improved digital AQlink and USB card.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eValve\/MOSFET Hybrid Circuitry –\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCombines the warmth of valves with the precision of MOSFETs in a pure Class A configuration, offering a rich and engaging audio experience.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eModular Design –\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEnsures future-proofing with upgradeable components, reflecting Aqua’s commitment to sustainability and long-term value.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePremium Construction –\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFeatures an aluminum anti-resonant cabinet with a Nextel coating, designed and handcrafted in Italy, exemplifying superior craftsmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduct Description: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAqua introduces the La Scala MkIII, a significant advancement in the evolution of the La Scala DAC. True to Aqua’s philosophy, this latest iteration merges innovative technology, meticulous craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to achieving the most authentic musical reproduction.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore than just an upgrade, the La Scala MkIII integrates all prior enhancements—such as C-core transformers, digital AQlink, and an upgraded USB card—while introducing a groundbreaking development in its analog section. In addition to its VALVE\/MOSFET hybrid circuitry, the new design features a completely re-engineered analog module, the PIBU (Pilot Buffer), developed in Aqua’s laboratories.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe key advantage of the PIBU module is the removal of output capacitors, a change that distinguishes the MkIII from its predecessors. With high output current capability and exceptional driving performance, this refinement significantly enhances sonic purity and musical expression. Listening tests confirm that the updated analog board seamlessly blends cutting-edge electronics with a refined, natural sound.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEnhancements extend to the digital domain as well. The pure R2R ladder DAC now benefits from newly implemented driving circuits within the FPGA, further refining digital performance. Featuring Aqua’s proprietary Optologic DAC technology, this updated design ensures unparalleled precision in signal conversion.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe La Scala MkIII represents a major step forward in elevating an already outstanding listening experience.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn keeping with Aqua’s commitment to sustainability, the brand’s modular design philosophy allows existing La Scala DAC owners to upgrade their units to MkIII specifications. This approach ensures long-term value, enabling users to experience the latest in high-performance audio without replacing their entire system.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduct Features:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHigh performance proprietary FPGA-based digital decoding without digital filter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGalvanic and magnetic isolations between the FPGA and R2R ladder converter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDiscrete R2R ladder DACs with low noise precision resistors\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJitter free digital interface AQlink (I2S protocol), uncompromising digital connection to La Diva cd transport\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZero S\/PDIF Jitter design, digital receiver stage PLL (phase locked loop) technology\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHigh-performance AQ Discrete Regulator (MOSFET, J-FET, BJT) for analog and digital DAC’s power supply\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eValve-Mosfet direct coupling analog stage in pure class-A without negative feedback. High output current capability and the exceptional piloting performances of PIBU (Pilot Buffer) new module.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMOSFET Virtual battery circuit for analog anode supply\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSoft-start power up for extended tube life\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eetherCON RJ45 (AQlink) input connection, employs CAT6 cable can connect both RJ45 and professional etherCON RJ45\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2 separate low noise double C-core power transformers, one for the analog and one for the digital section\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMODULAR DESIGN with upgradeable multi board system\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRegulated DC filament supplies with soft start for tubes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFully discrete analog stage, not even a single Op-Amp is used\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProprietary USB Firmware \/ driver : Apple MAC OS - Linux OS : USB asynchronous native support, no need to install drivers software\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFully upgradeable asynchronous USB module with resolution 44.1kHz to 384kHz PCM up to 24 bits, DSD64, DSD128, operates with computers running OSX 10.7 and above, WINDOWS 10 , 8 , 7 and XP ASIO - WASAPI bit perfect high-speed\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDigital phase selector on front panel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHigh-quality parts selected for sound quality:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e105° long life capacitors\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003elow noise Metal Foil ultra-precision resistors\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003edouble metallized film pulse capacitor\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eultra-fast diodes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ehalogen free cables\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAluminium anti-resonant cabinet with Nextel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDesigned and handmade in Italy\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInput:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRJ45 AQlink (I2S serial bus) - PCM 24 bit \/ 384kHz – DSD64, DSD128 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBNC coax (S\/PDIF) 75 ohm  -  PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRCA coax (S\/PDIF) 75 ohm  -  PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAES\/EBU balanced 110 ohm  -  PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUSB port  -  PCM 24 bit \/ 384kHz – DSD64, DSD128 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAT\u0026amp;T (ST Fiber) -  PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP (optional)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnalog output:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRCA single-ended\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli aria-level=\"2\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eXLR balanced with transformer\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSpecifications: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital to Analog Conversion Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProprietary Optologic D\/A conversion system, Pure R2R ladder - FPGA-based without digital filter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSupported Native Sample Rates\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAQlink \/ I2S serial bus - USB PC Audio: 44.1kHz to 384kHz PCM up to 24 bits, DSD64, DSD128, Supports DSD via DoP on all inputs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDAC Architecture\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMultibit sign magnitude R2R ladder (upgradable)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAsynchronous USB (High Speed)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIsolated USB Audio Class 2 with Type B connector\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital Receiver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePLL (Phase Locked Loop) technology 128 or 256 FS internally selectable, AQlink (I2S bus), CMOS \/ LVCMOS level\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOversampling Factor\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1x\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDigital Inputs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e- RJ45 AQlink (I2S serial bus) - PCM 24 bit \/ 384kHz – DSD64, DSD128 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e- BNC coax (S\/PDIF) 75 ohm - PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e- RCA coax (S\/PDIF) 75 ohm - PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e- AES\/EBU balanced 110 ohm - PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e- USB port - PCM 24 bit \/ 384kHz – DSD64, DSD128 via DoP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e- AT\u0026amp;T (ST Fiber) - PCM 24 bit \/ 192kHz – DSD64 via DoP (optional)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnalogue Outputs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUNBAL 2 RCA Output: 2.6 V RMS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBALANCED (passive transformer symmetrical) 2 XLR Output: 3.6 V RMS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOutput Impedance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e50 ohm RCA - 600 ohm XLR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLoad Impedance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 kohm (min.) RCA - 600 ohm XLR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrequency Response\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e20Hz to 22kHz +0.5dB\/-0.5dB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhase Response\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLinear phase\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTHD + N\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026lt;0.1% 1KHz -10dB\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFront Panel\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePower, input selector, Phase Invert switch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePower Consumption\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100-115V \/ 220-240V; 50 or 60Hz - 58VA\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFront Finish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSatin Alu Silver or Satin Black\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCase Finish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrey Nextel powder coated\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions and Weight: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions (W x D x H)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e450 x 370 x 100 mm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e10 kg\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWarranty Information:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWarranty -\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1 Year\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Music Room","offers":[{"title":"Black","offer_id":51268222615833,"sku":"3087newAQUA-0002","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Silver","offer_id":51268222648601,"sku":"3087newAQUA-0001","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0844\/4225\/1545\/files\/Aqua_La_Scala_MkIII_Optologic_R2R_Tube_Hybrid_DAC_1_96bf5c0b-757b-401b-8e92-b92ca121c7b4.jpg?v=1769232761","url":"https:\/\/tmraudio.com\/products\/aqua-la-scala-mkiii-optologic-r2r-tube-hybrid-dac","provider":"The Music Room","version":"1.0","type":"link"}