SDA-1 Streaming DAC & Headphone Amp

SDA-1 - Streaming DAC with a headphone amplifier

The all new SDA-1 is the culmination of years of feedback from users of Gato Audio equipment all over the world. We have combined the very best and most sophisticated D/A converter technology with our unique analogue circuits and a balanced headphone amplifier, creating perhaps the most versatile Gato Audio product for years. Enjoy the latest formats from your favorite hardware source, external streamer or from the built-in streaming board, directly into your hi-fi setup... or a pair of quality headphones.

SABRE DAC

We have chosen the ESS9038PRO chip for this new DAC, as it has become the industry standard for the very best and most expensive DAC's and CD players on the market - and for good reason. With a careful implementation utilizing a super precise femto clock, seven low noise voltage regulators and refined analog circuits, we managed to obtain a sonic performance that is unbelievably detailed and yet musical and smooth - like warm Lurpak butter.

Formats

Both via the USB port and through the optional streaming module, the SDA-1 offers all the best of the current available formats such as DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, MQA, and up to 24bit /384kHz PCM. Optical and Coaxial inputs accept up to 24bit/192kHz.

MOSFET headphone amp

The SDA-1 features both balanced and unbalanced headphone amplifiers, directly accessible from the front panel. It even features an analog input for connecting analog sources like turntables, phono stages, or for simply bypassing the built-in DAC. The fully balanced analog volume attenuation is not only leagues ahead of what you'd normally find on most cheaper DACs with "volume control", but also easy to operate directly on the front panel or via the remote. This makes the SDA-1 very convenient to use as a preamp for your power amplifier(s).

Built-in streaming

Our new, more powerful streaming board offers a variety of lossless streaming services such as Tidal Connect and Spotify Connect without the need of a third party app. This of course goes hand in hand with a Roon Ready certification, support for Qobuz, internet radio and more. A high quality Bluetooth receiver is added to further enhance the daily usability.

Bespoke Cover

As standard we offer top covers in high gloss black, white and real walnut veneer to match the finish of our loudspeakers. But what if you prefer to have your SDA-1 NPM match another brand of speakers or a piece of furniture or the color of your Lamborghini? Gato Audio offer to make bespoke top covers for you. We can paint them in virtually any color. So contact us at hello@gato-audio.com and tell us what you have in mind.

Features:

• Sabre DAC, ESS9038PRO chip
• MQA support
• DSD up to 256
• 24bit/384kHz PCM
• Analog input
• Variable or fixed line outputs (can be used as preamplifier together with a power amplifier)
• Fully balanced design, including headphone preamp
• Balanced MOSFET line stage
• Both balanced (6,3mm jack) and unbalanced (XLR jack) headphone outputs
• Supported streaming services: Roon Ready, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, Internet radio, DNLA/UPNP, MQA, DSD
• 12V standby trigger - in & out
• Remote controlled
• Designed, developed and built in Copenhagen, Denmark