High-priced musical marvel: MSB's Sentinel Digital-to-Analog Converter surpasses housing expenses
Introducing the MSB Sentinel DAC: A High-End Audiophile's Dream
The MSB Sentinel Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) has been hailed as a remarkable piece of audio technology, setting new standards in the industry. With its unique design and advanced features, the Sentinel DAC promises an unforgettable audiophile experience.
At the heart of the Sentinel DAC lies a dual ES9039Q2M DAC chip configuration and an XMOS XU-316 USB interface. This high-end setup supports ultra-high resolution audio streams up to PCM 32-bit 768 kHz and DSD512 formats. The DAC employs a dual mono design, with each mono DAC receiving a unique digital signal via the Sentinel-Link monaural fiber optic connection. This design enhances channel separation and audio fidelity.
The Digital Director handles all digital processes and acts as an intermediary between audio sources and the rest of the system. It delivers a conversion-ready signal over fibre-optic links to the Analog Converter. The Analog Converter, in turn, is equipped with 32 in-house designed hybrid DAC MKII modules, MSB's Sentinel Clock, and an analogue pre-amplifier.
The Sentinel DAC's power supply, the Sentinel Power Supply, is a testament to its high-performance capabilities. Each left and right mono DAC in the Analog Converter is powered independently by two of the three independent power supplies in the Sentinel Power Supply. The third power supply is an ultra-low noise supply that powers the Sentinel Clock.
Key specifications of the Sentinel DAC include a frequency response of 20 Hz – 40 kHz (-0.5 dB), total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of around 0.0007-0.0008% at 32 ohms, channel separation of 111 dB at 32 ohms, dynamic range and signal-to-noise ratio of 125 dB at 32 ohms (High Gain), output power of Low gain 3.3 V @ 32 ohms (340 mW), High gain 4.65 V @ 32 ohms (680 mW), output impedance of 0.8 ohm, and wireless connectivity including Bluetooth 5.0 supporting LDAC, SBC, AAC codecs.
The Sentinel DAC is not just a device; it's a system. It consists of the MSB Sentinel Digital Director, the MSB Sentinel Analogue Converter, and the MSB Sentinel Power Supply. MSB claims that the technology developed for the Sentinel DAC will trickle down to benefit its other designs in the future.
Given its advanced features and positioning as one of the world's most advanced DACs, the MSB Sentinel is generally considered a premium product likely priced in the high-end audiophile market segment. Although the exact current pricing is not publicly available, it is estimated to be around $375,000. Due to its high cost, the Sentinel DAC is not affordable to most people.
However, for those who can afford it, the Sentinel DAC offers state-of-the-art audio conversion technology with outstanding technical specifications, wireless capability, and extensive digital audio format support. It's a dream come true for audiophiles seeking top-tier performance.
The Sentinel DAC requires careful placement. It is recommended to place it in a well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight, especially in warmer climates where air conditioning is highly recommended.
For more information about the MSB Sentinel DAC, visit HiFiPig.com. The Sentinel DAC is intended for individuals who can afford its high price, making it a truly exclusive piece of audio technology.
- The MSB Sentinel DAC's unique design and advanced features, such as its dual ES9039Q2M DAC chip configuration and XMOS XU-316 USB interface, make it a standout example of technology and gadgets in the audiophile industry.
- With its state-of-the-art audio conversion technology, wireless capability, and extensive digital audio format support, the MSB Sentinel DAC is a premium gadget that caters to high-end audiophiles, embodying the pinnacle of technology in the realm of gadgets.
