John
Is this the lowest-priced native DSD-capable DAC to drop thus far*? The X-SABRE from Matrix Audio marries an XMOS USB DSP to the well-established ESS Sabre 9018 Reference decoding chip for DXD (24bit/352.8kHZ) and DSD (1bit/2.8224MHz or 5.6448MHz) joy.
Playback resolution is indicated by a series of front panel LEDs. The USB input can also decode PCM streams of up to 32bit/384kHz; as can the coaxial and AES/EBU inputs. The X-SABRE offers single-ended and balanced outputs.
A unibody chassis made from aluminium is designed to minimise vibrations and therefore optimise sound quality.
We reckon this all adds up to something quite impressive when you consider the pre-order RRP: US$1100! [Another unit to shake the Mytek tree?]
Further Information: Matrix Digital Audio USA
*UPDATE: No. The TEAC UD-501 is cheaper still at US$899.
