A Non-NFB Reference DAC, Distilled

The Soulnote D-1N ver.2 takes the design language of Soulnote's reference converters and brings it within reach. Like every Soulnote component, it's a perfectly balanced, discrete, completely non-NFB D/A converter — engineered by ear, not for the measurement bench. A dual ES9038PRO configuration runs one chip per channel in monaural mode, unlocking a huge 140dB dynamic range and the vivid, spacious, utterly natural sound that defines the brand.

Twin ES9038PRO, Run in Mono

Using a full ES9038PRO DAC for each channel — rather than sharing a single chip across both — dramatically improves separation and lowers noise, giving the D-1N ver.2 its expansive, precisely focused soundstage. Ultra-low-jitter crystal oscillators with phase jitter under 1 picosecond clock the conversion, while a two-dimensional passive analog filter and a selectable NOS (non-oversampling) mode let you voice the presentation to your taste and your recordings.

Engineered Without Compromise

Behind the front panel sits a 260VA large-scale toroidal transformer feeding eight independent power supplies with discrete regulators — an unusually lavish arrangement for the money. High-resolution files are handled effortlessly: PCM to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD to 22.6MHz (DSD512) over USB, using Soulnote's Bulk Pet transfer method, plus coaxial and AES/EBU inputs with four-stage lock-range switching. Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs make integration simple.

Why You'll Love the D-1N ver.2

• Dual ES9038PRO (one per channel, monaural) for 140dB dynamic range
• Completely non-NFB, perfectly balanced discrete analog stage
• PCM to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 over USB, plus coax and AES/EBU
• Selectable NOS mode and ultra-low-jitter (<1ps) crystal clocking
• 260VA toroidal transformer with eight discretely regulated power supplies

Frequently Asked Questions

Which DAC chips does the D-1N ver.2 use?

Two ESS ES9038PRO converters — one dedicated to each channel in monaural mode — which improves channel separation and lowers the noise floor for a wider, cleaner soundstage.

What file formats and sample rates are supported?

Over USB, PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to 22.6MHz (DSD512). Coaxial and AES/EBU inputs accept PCM to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD64 (DoP).

What is NOS mode?

NOS (non-oversampling) mode bypasses digital oversampling for a more direct, analog-like presentation. The D-1N ver.2 lets you switch it in or out to suit your system and recordings.

D-1N ver.2 Technical Specifications