The Audio Note (UK) DAC2.1x is engineered to provide excellent audio performance through careful selection of components, circuit design, and meticulous tuning. The goal is to achieve a natural and transparent sound reproduction, with minimal alteration or coloration of the audio signal.

The DAC2.1x does not utilize oversampling, jitter reduction, noise shaping, or re-clocking in its design. Instead, it employs an analogue domain approach for filtering and conversion processes. By eliminating digital filtering and oversampling, the DAC2.1x retains good wide-band phase-frequency response and dynamically coherent behavior in the analogue domain. This approach is believed to result in a more natural and transparent sound reproduction, with minimal alteration or coloration of the audio signal.

The filter-interface coils/transformers used in the DAC2.1x are custom designed and manufactured in-house by Audio Note (UK), and are of extremely high quality.

The Audio Note (UK) DAC2.1x Signature model features several upgraded components compared to the Standard edition. One notable upgrade is the use of Audio Note (UK) Tantalum resistors and Copper coil capacitors in key areas of the DAC2.1x Signature model. These premium components are known for their high-quality performance and are carefully selected to contribute to the overall sonic performance of the DAC.

The DAC2.1x/II Balanced model features several upgrades compared to the preceding models in the Audio Note (UK) DAC range. One notable upgrade is the use of an upgraded version of the classic Audio Note (UK) Line preamplifier output stage, which incorporates a pair of ECC82/5814a double triode valves. In addition, the DAC2.1x/II Balanced model features custom-designed and manufactured output transformers, which are known for their exceptionally wide frequency response and dynamic transfer function. 

As with other Audio Note (UK) products, the internal components of the DAC2.1x/II Standard, Signature, and Balanced models are of extremely high quality, reflecting the company’s commitment to using top-grade components in their designs. This attention to detail and quality craftsmanship is aimed at delivering a high-end audio performance for discerning audiophiles who demand the best possible sound quality from their digital-to-analog converter.