Flagship DAC Genes, One Box: Soulnote D1N Performance DAC

The Soulnote D1N Performance DAC brings Soulnote's completely non-NFB digital philosophy to a single-box converter — and it doesn't hold back. Built around ESS's flagship ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC in monaural mode, it hits world-class figures (140 dB dynamic range) and supports every high-resolution format you can throw at it, up to 32-bit/768 kHz PCM and 22.6 MHz DSD (DSD512). Hand-built in Japan by ex-Marantz engineer Norinaga Nakazawa's team, it makes digital sound vivid and alive.

Non-NFB, Straight From the Current Source

Where most DACs lean on op-amp output stages, the D1N uses Soulnote's original discrete non-NFB amplifier, operating up into the MHz region and taking up to 120 mA directly from the DAC's powerful current output. The result is energy-filled, dynamic playback that conventional op-amp circuits simply can't match — the immediacy that defines the Soulnote sound.

Connect Everything

USB, twin coaxial (S/PDIF) and AES/EBU inputs cover every digital source, feeding balanced XLR (5.6 Vrms) and single-ended RCA (2.8 Vrms) outputs. Whether it's a streamer, a computer or a CD transport, the D1N gives it a first-class conversion.

Why You'll Love the Soulnote D1N

• ESS ES9038PRO in monaural mode — world-class 140 dB dynamic range
• Discrete non-NFB output — 120 mA current drive, no op-amps, up into the MHz region
• Hi-res everything — PCM to 768 kHz, DSD to 22.6 MHz (DSD512)
• Full connectivity — USB, 2 × coaxial, AES/EBU inputs
• Balanced & single-ended out — XLR (5.6 V) and RCA (2.8 V)
• Hand-built in Japan — Premium Silver or Premium Black

Frequently Asked Questions

What resolutions does the D1N support?

Up to 32-bit/768 kHz PCM and 22.6 MHz DSD (DSD512) over USB, plus PCM to 192 kHz over its coaxial and AES/EBU inputs — covering virtually any hi-res source.

Why is a non-NFB, discrete output stage a big deal?

It avoids the negative feedback and op-amps most DACs rely on, taking current directly from the DAC chip for a faster, more dynamic and lifelike sound — the hallmark of Soulnote's design.

What inputs does it have?

USB Type-B, two coaxial S/PDIF, and AES/EBU.

Soulnote D1N Technical Specifications