
Description
The new Aune S18 EVO reference desktop DAC features a dedicated conversion stage with no headphone amplifier on board, engineered around clocking precision that is rare anywhere near its price.
The S18 EVO features two AKM AK4497 chips run in a precisely synchronized, mirrored dual-mono configuration, governed by Aune's third-generation full clock synchronization PLL with femtosecond-level jitter. A BNC input even lets you slave the S18 EVO to a 10MHz master clock such as the Aune SC1 EVO.
The S18 EVO features an XMOS XU316 USB interface that accepts PCM up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD512, while coaxial, optical and AES/EBU inputs handle up to 24bit/192kHz. Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX HD is re-clocked through the in-house PLL stage before conversion. Outputs cover balanced XLR and single-ended RCA, with two selectable digital filter modes.
The S18 EVO features vanishingly low noise and distortion: 0.00022 percent THD+N from the XLR outputs, 127dB SNR and a noise floor measured in microvolts. The result is a jet-black background with effortless resolution, precise imaging and natural tonal weight.
The S18 EVO also features an arc shaped all aluminum chassis that houses a front display and ships with Aune's RC1 all-aluminum remote control. Output level is 4.9Vrms balanced and 2.2Vrms single-ended, ready for any preamp, integrated amp or active monitors. The unit measures 211 x 288 x 63 mm and weighs 5kg.
SPECIFICATIONS:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| DAC Chips | 2x AKM AK4497, synchronized dual mono |
| USB Interface | XMOS XU316 |
| PCM Support | Up to 32bit/768kHz |
| DSD Support | Up to DSD512 |
| Inputs | USB-B, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, Bluetooth, BNC 10MHz clock input |
| Outputs | Balanced XLR, single-ended RCA |
| Bluetooth Codecs | LDAC, aptX HD |
| THD+N | 0.00022 percent (XLR) |
| SNR | 127dB |
| Output Level | 4.9Vrms XLR, 2.2Vrms RCA |
| Dimensions | 211 x 288 x 63 mm |
| Weight | 5kg |
| Colors | Silver, Black |
Includes:
- Aune S18 EVO
- Power cable
- USB cable
- RC1 aluminum remote control