dac8 Stereo

Highest performance, streaming-enabled stereo D/A converter

NEW: The recently released v1.6 firmware brings DoP decoding capability to SPDIF, optical and AES/EBU inputs, enabling direct playback from SACD players. Available for download below.

"The dac8 Stereo is the result of our years-long journey to extract the fullest potential from the flagship Sabre D/A chips. Though it shares the analog architecture of the dac8 PRO, the dac8 Stereo goes a step further. By combining 4+4 channels, it doubles the dynamic range and pushes measured performance to levels previously thought unattainable. Additionally, it incorporates a Raspberry Pi 4, a widely recognized, community-supported single-board computer. This enables the device to play audio from network storage or streaming services.

Our design process took an unconventional path, ultimately deviating entirely from the D/A chip manufacturer guidelines. The driving principle behind our products is that it's the implementation that truly determines performance and character."

Pavel Krasensky,  dac8 Stereo designer

Reviews and testimonials

Specifications

Inputs

USB (asynchronous, UAC2.0 compliant), up to 384 kHz / 32 bit PCM, DSD256 or DoP128
2x Optical (Toslink)
2x Coaxial (SPDIF)
AES/EBU (SPDIF compatible)
Ethernet (streaming version only)
Wi-Fi (streaming version only)

Outputs

2x XLR balanced, 2 connectors per channel
4.2 V RMS full-scale
Capable of driving power amplifiers directly
6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output

Analog performance

0.00003 % / -130 dB full-scale THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) or better
0.0001 % / 120 dB full-scale SINAD or better
131 dB dynamic range
0.00022 % / -113 dB THD+N @ 100 mW into 32 Ohms headphone output

Additional features

Per-channel volume
Choice between 7 PCM reconstruction FIR filters
Configurable auto on / auto off
Configurable display timer for auto dim/off
Remote control learning 
Trigger output (pulse / continuous)
Adjustable 2nd and 3rd order THD compensation
2x 2.42" OLED displays

Dimensions

446 x 183 x 50 mm (17.56 x 7.2 x 1.97 in) excluding user-removable feet
Weight: 4.5 kg (10 lbs)

Power

120 V AC or 230 V AC
Power rating: 15 W

Warranty

2 years

With passion for music designed and made in Prague

From CNC machining to PCB assembly, Okto Research products are crafted with care in Central Europe. We procure most of the production in-house, and for everything else, we collaborate with local suppliers and manufacturers. This approach ensures the utmost quality, a standard we firmly believe in and one that makes us proud to deliver our products to you.

Order

dac8 Stereo

Please contact us if you have an EU VAT number and want to make a purchase with VAT excluded.

Accessories and extras


Remote control

Previously offered Apple Remote is no longer in production. We are currently developing a custom-designed replacement. Until this is available, the dac8 Stereo can be paired with any remote that has a minimum of seven buttons.


Custom output voltage

Custom output voltage can enhance dynamic range in setups where the dac8 Stereo interfaces directly to the power amplifier. For more information, please refer to the "Driving Power Amplifiers Directly" chapter in the Owner's Manual. Please specify the requested value in your order note.

Frequently asked questions

Availability

Q:  Where can I buy your products? Do you have any resellers?
A:  We do not partner with any resellers and the only way to purchase our products is directly through our e-shop.

Pricing

Q:  Do the listed prices include VAT?
A:  Prices shown include VAT for EU visitors and exclude VAT for non-EU visitors.
Q: I'm from within the EU and have a valid VAT number. How can I make a VAT-excluded purchase?
A: Please contact us by email for making a VAT-excluded purchase and include your complete business billing details and shipping address.

Delivery

Q:  What is the delivery time after placing the order?
A:  Estimated delivery time is 1-2 weeks after placing an order, depending on the shipping location.
Q:  Where are our products shipped from?
A:  We ship directly from our factory in Prague, Czech Republic.

Technical

Q:  How do I connect the dac8 Stereo to a device that only has single-ended inputs?
A:  Please refer to the 'Interfacing with Legacy Devices with Single-Ended Inputs Only' section in the Owner's Manual, where three methods of signal conversion are outlined. It's essential to note that balanced-to-unbalanced cables and converters should not be used. These items contain a short that could overload the dac8 Stereo's analog stage, significantly reducing performance and potentially causing damage to the device.
Q:  What is the purpose of the two output connectors per channel?
A:  Each pair of connectors belonging to one channel is connected internally, allowing for simultaneous connection of two devices, such as a power amplifier for main speakers and an active subwoofer, or a pair of active speakers located in different rooms.
Q:  How can I convert a non-streaming unit into a streaming one?
A:  Please refer to the 'Converting a Non-Streaming Unit to a Streaming One' chapter in the Owner's Manual for a comprehensive step-by-step guide. The dac8 Stereo is compatible with the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, and even the 1 GB RAM version is sufficient for audio streaming. However, be aware that the 8 GB version may have limited compatibility with various streaming audio software.
Q:  Does the dac8 Stereo support Roon?
A:  The dac8 Stereo is equipped with an integrated Raspberry Pi single-board computer, which comes with a blank SD card, enabling you to install the streaming audio software of your choice. There are multiple 3rd party software options that can convert the dac8 Stereo into a Roon endpoint, thereby allowing streaming from your Roon core via the RAAT protocol. However, please note that, as of now, the dac8 Stereo does not have a 'Roon Ready' certification, meaning that the volume control in Roon will not be linked to the volume control on the dac8 Stereo front panel.