Apos - Druid R2R DAC

The Old Ways Are Calling Built around a fully-discrete R2R ladder, the Druid converts digital data into analog waveforms through a precise network of resistors rather than a high-speed modulation process. Each resistor contributes a tiny part of the signal, forming a sound that feels natural, human, and grounded in something older than silicon. This DAC does not compute. It communes. The first R2R DAC with swappable op-amps The idea came straight from the community: give the upcoming R2R DAC swappable op-amps. What started as a suggestion turned into one of our favorite parts of the Druid. The open-chassis design made perfect sense for it: no case to crack open, no hidden screws, just clear access to the sockets. We’re glad the community pushed us on this one, because it made the Druid into an even more satisfying product. Need help swapping op-amps? Op-Amp Restrictions If you're planning to roll op-amps, please note the current draw restrictions. Given the Druid's compact design, no single op-amp may draw more than 10mA. Exceeding this risks overheating, unwanted noise, or potential damage to the unit. Always be sure to check the DC characteristics of the op-amp you intend to use before installing it in the Druid. Any single op-amp that requires more than 10mA of current will not perform properly. Tuned by ear Inside are three swappable op-amps: two for the balanced XLR outputs and one for the single-ended 3.5mm. When it came to choosing the stock op-amps, we didn't start with any particular sound or spec sheet advantage in mind—just a price point and the goal of being wowed. We tested everything we could get our hands on, and the Texas Instruments LM4562NA/NOPB stood out immediately. It handled the midrange with an easy, natural smoothness that made vocals and acoustic instruments feel alive. Especially paired with the Gremlin, it brought a smile to our faces. XLR balanced outputs For those running balanced chains, the Druid provides a 4V XLR output that delivers all the current and control you’d expect from a fully differential stage. The result is lower noise, higher headroom, and tighter channel separation: everything you want when driving balanced amplifiers or powered monitors. 3.5mm single-ended output Because PCB space is sacred, the Druid uses a 3.5mm line out instead of dual RCA jacks. A 3.5mm-to-RCA adapter is included in the box, letting you run the Druid into any single-ended amplifier or powered speaker chain. XMOS XU316 USB interface At the heart of the Druid’s digital stage is the XMOS XU316, one of the most capable USB controller chips available today. It handles data transfer with rock-solid stability and ultra-low latency, ensuring every bit arrives exactly as intended. With sixteen cores running in parallel, it keeps high-resolution audio streams (PCM 768kHz, DSD256) moving effortlessly, without adding timing errors or background noise. Product highlights R2R ladder DAC Fully swappable op-amps with included lifts and puller Balanced XLR outputs and 3.5mm line output RCA compatible: 3.5mm line out to RCA adapter included XMOS XU316 USB interface External power brick–style adapter with dedicated ground wire for cleaner, quieter performance Smooth, mid-focused LM4562NA op-amps installed Compact aluminum and acrylic chassis, desktop-friendly design Underside LEDs with on/off jumper switch Need help swapping op-amps? Specs DAC architecture: Fully discrete R2R resistor ladder Op-amps: Three swappable Texas Instruments LM4562NA/NOPB (two for balanced XLR, one for single-ended 3.5mm) Note: Given the Druid's compact design, no single op-amp may draw more than 10mA. Exceeding this risks overheating, unwanted noise, or potential damage to the unit. Op-amp support: Standard DIP-8 sockets, includes three lifts and puller tool Outputs: Balanced XLR (4V RMS) Single-ended 3.5mm line out (adapter to dual RCA included) Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz (+/- 0.5dB) Signal to noise ratio: 90dB Minimum distortion: 0.04% (1KHz) Separation degree: 82dB (1KHz) Digital inputs: USB Type-C (XMOS XU316 controller) Supported formats: PCM up to 768kHz / 32-bit, DSD256 (native) Power supply: 12v external brick-style adapter with dedicated ground wire Lighting: Underside LEDs with on/off jumper switch on PCB What’s included 1x Druid R2R DAC 3x LM4562NA/NOPB op-amps (installed) 3x op-amp lifts 1x op-amp puller tool (black) 1x power adapter 1x manual 1x 3.5mm to RCA adapter