Featuring six selectable digital inputs, Digital Volume Control, and our DirectConnect technology, the 521 Digital to Analog converter offers the best of all worlds. Connect your personal computer, media server, iTransport, digital tuner etc... the 521 is ready for today's digital world.

The Wadia 521 Decoding Computer introduces an enhanced main decoding circuit design featuring DigiMaster(tm) 2.5 Upsampling software, 24-bit Burr-Brown 1704 DACs, and SwiftCurrent(tm) 3 Discrete (SC-3D), The Wadia 521 Decoding Computer will unveil the richness and magic that make music an essential form of human communication.

Design

Direct Drive
The 521 Decoding Computer takes full advantage of the latest version of Wadia's Digital Volume Control and DirectConnect(tm) technology. Simply connect your 521 directly to your power amplifier, bypassing the losses inherent in any preamplifier, select your source from one of your six digital inputs, adjust the volume to taste, and enjoy. When the drive is right the soundstage ignites.

Technology

Digital Muscle
The 521 Decoding Computer utilizes two signal processors feeding a programmable gate array to form a formidable processing engine. Coupled with our patented DigiMaster 2.5 upsampling software, the 521 generates a data rate of 1.4112 million samples per second at 24 bits of resolution. DigiMaster(tm) allows us to generate this amazing amount of data with accuracy in the frequency and particularly in the time domain. A discreet implementation of our SwiftCurrent(tm) technology (SC-2D) was invented to exploit the extraordinary data rate generated in the digital section. Current exiting the converters is mirrored and driven with a zero global feed back Class A throughput stage. Signals remain time and phase coherent throughout the entire system. Why is this important? When accuracy in the time domain is achieved the resulting 3-dimensional sonic image leaves you with the uncanny sensation of being there.

Future Now
Connect your personal computer, media server, multiple format disc transport, digital tuner... the 521 is ready for today's digital world. Should a new format come along, Wadia components are designed to readily accommodate future technology. Modular architecture featuring software-updateable circuitry, and a changeable rear panel insert, allow for input or output hardware to be added should it be required. When new technology arrives, Wadia 521owners will be prepared. The Wadia 521 Decoding Computer will change the way you listen to music!

See Technology for more information on Wadia innovations.

Specifications

Digital Processing:
24-bit

DAC Sample Rate:
1.4112 MHz

Digital Inputs:
2 Glass Fiber Optic (ST)
2 SPDIF (BNC),
1 Plastic Fiber Optic (TOSLINK)
1 AES/EBU (XLR)
All inputs accept and decode standard digital audio formats, from 32 kHz to 96 kHz, and from 16-24 bits

Analog Outputs:
1 pair of Balanced (XLR)
1 pair of Unbalanced (RCA)
Both sets may be used simultaneously

Volume Control:
via the remote control in 100 discrete 0.5 dB steps

Maximum Output Voltage:
Can be adjusted via the internal switches from 0.25V and 4.2V to match system sensitivity

Output Impedance:
Less than 51 Ohms

Power Consumption:
30 Watts

Weight:
32 lbs.,14.6kg

Dimensions (HWD):
4 .125 x 17 x 16 inches
10.5 x 43.2 x 40.5 cm

Finish Options:
Black or Silver Anodized Aluminum

View Wadia 521 e-brochure