Reference-level precision
At the heart of the D9 is the ESS Sabre32 ES9038PRO – a top-tier DAC with 32-bit resolution, extremely low distortion, and an outstanding signal-to-noise ratio. In combination with HyperStream II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, the D9 guarantees precise, noise-free signal processing with impressive spatiality, dynamics, and detail resolution.
High-resolution audio & full MQA decoding
The D9 processes PCM up to 768 kHz / 32 bit and DSD up to DSD512 (22.5 MHz) via the USB-B input. In addition, it is a full MQA decoder – the three-stage unfolding takes place entirely within the device. This provides the D9 with maximum playback fidelity for MQA content from streaming services or local files.
Versatile connectivity options including AES/EBU
With 2 × coaxial and 2 × optical digital inputs, USB-B, USB-A for storage devices, AES/EBU (XLR) and Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX, aptX HD, LDAC), the D9 offers maximum flexibility. Output can be via RCA, XLR, optical or coaxial. In addition, 2 × 12V triggers are available for system integration. USB-A supports formats up to 96 kHz.
Individually adjustable filters & upsampling
Five digital filters and optional upsampling to 352.8 or 384 kHz allow for precise sound tuning to the source, recording, and system. This way, even the finest details can be optimally audible.
Sophisticated headphone playback
The integrated headphone amplifier with current-feedback circuitry offers high performance, a wide frequency range, and control over a variety of headphones. Thanks to its high slew rate, the D9 also performs at the highest level in the head-fi sector.
Operation via color display & remote control
A 2.8-inch IPS color display (480 × 640 px) clearly presents all information – including filter selection, source, file format, and metadata during USB-HDD or Bluetooth playback. The intuitive menu navigation is multilingual, and all settings can be made directly or via the remote control. The aluminum housing ensures stability and optimal shielding.
Audiolab at the highest level
The Audiolab D9 combines technical sophistication with exceptional sound and maximum versatility – as the heart of a high-end system or as an uncompromising DAC for the highest demands. A device that sets standards.
Technical data
| Model | D9 |
| General Description | DAC |
| Design Philosophy and Core Technology | ES9038Pro 32-bit DAC MQA Full decoder (PC USB, Coax / Optical) 2.8" 480x640 large size full view IPS LCD Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX / aptX HD / LDAC) streaming Dedicated Current-Feedback Headphone Amp VU Digital / VU Analogue Meter USB HDD Playback with MP3/WMA/AAC/WAV/FLAC/APE compatibility USB Firmware Upgrade |
| Inputs | 2 x SPDIF (Coax), 2 x SPDIF (Optical), 1 x PC USB (USB B), 1 x USB HDD (USB A), 1 x Bluetooth (aptX / aptX HD), 1 x AES3/EBU |
| Outputs | 1 x RCA, 1 x XLR, 1 x Headphone, 2 x 12V Trigger, 1 x Optical, 1 x COAX outputs |
| Sampling Frequency | Optical/Coaxial: 44.1kHz → 192kHz USB HDD: 44.1kHz → 96kHz PC USB: 44.1kHz → 768kHz (PCM) / DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512 |
| DAC | |
| D to A Converter | ES9038Pro |
| Output Level (0dBFS, 1kHz) | 2.05Vrms (RCA), 4.1Vrms (XLR) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | < 0.001% (1kHz @ 0dBFS) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz–20kHz (+/-0.1dB) |
| Output Impedance | Not specified |
| Max. Sampling Frequency | USB HDD: 96kHz Optical, Coaxial: 192kHz PC USB: PCM768kHz, DSD512 |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N) | > 118dB (A-weighted, RCA) > 123dB (A-weighted, XLR) |
| Headphone Amplifier | |
| Total Harmonic Distortion(THD) | < 0.01% (1kHz, 50mW ) |
| Output Impedance | 2.35 ohm |
| Load Impedance | 20-600 ohm |
| General | |
| Standby Power Consumption | <0.5W |
| Net Weight | 4.2 kg |
| Gross Weight | 5.8 kg |
| Dimensions (mm) (W x H x D) | W: 315 x H: 88.3 x D: 277mm |
| Carton Size (mm) (W x H x D) | W: 409 x H: 220 x D: 451mm |
| Finish | |
| Power Requirements (depending on region) | 220-240V ~ 50/60Hz 100-120V ~ 50/60Hz |
| Standard Accessories | Power Cord, Remote Control, User Manual, etc. |
