Since the launch of their first streamer not so long ago, HiFi Rose has become a name to be reckoned with. In record time, they have established themselves as a serious and highly successful alternative in the market for network streamers – or just streamers.
In quick succession they have launched both more expensive and cheaper streamers, and it wasn’t long before they also launched amplifiers.
Now they are launching their first digital converter, the RD160. A DAC that can be connected to a HiFi Rose streamer and has enough inputs for all the digital audio sources you might have.
The front is covered by a large AMOLED screen that comes to life at the touch of a button. It can display all sorts of both useful and useless information. For example, the signal path from input to output as in the picture above.
It is built around an AKM DAC in collaboration with Muses. The AKM DAC is isolated from the analogue circuitry to eliminate interference. It also has three power supplies, each with their own tasks, and uses J-FET transistors in the analogue output stage.
The DAC won’t go on sale until August and the price is not clear, but it is estimated at €5,000, which would be relatively expensive. But as mentioned, it has everything built in to be a digital control centre in the system. Seven digital inputs, including HDMI, should go a long way.
If anything like the HiFi Rose RS130 Network Tranport, it will be every penny worth the money and then some! Can’t wait to check it out!