Innuos PhoenixDAC Board

Output Module for STREAM3

The PhoenixDAC Board is the configuration most STREAM3 customers end up with when they want a complete digital front end in a single chassis. It was co-designed with Dr. Sean Jacobs — the same engineer behind the ARC6-CX power supply that defines the STREAM3's sound — which means the DAC stage and the power supply it draws from were developed together as a matched system, not assembled from separate design efforts.

The Architecture

Dual mono AKM DAC chips, one per channel. Each channel gets its own dedicated converter, eliminating crosstalk at the source. Clocking is handled by an OCXO plus two FemtoClocks dedicated to the audio path. The OCXO maintains extreme frequency stability regardless of temperature. The FemtoClocks provide the ultra-low jitter timing the DAC chips need. Digital and analogue stages run on fully independent power supplies throughout.

Output is via gold-plated RCA and XLR, both simultaneously available. Run balanced into a preamplifier or integrated and you have a genuinely high-end signal path without a second box on the shelf.

Our Experience

We've spent significant time with the STREAM3 and PhoenixDAC Board in-house. After break-in the upper midrange settles into a balanced, highly resolving presentation — lively and dynamic rather than polite or softened. Detail retrieval competes with standalone DACs well above the module's price. It pairs best with warmer downstream components; pair it with something analytical and the combination can lean forward. In the right system it's a genuinely special all-in-one.

Press Recognition

The PhoenixDAC Board has been reviewed as part of the STREAM3 by Hi-Fi+ and Hifi News. Jason Kennedy at Hi-Fi+ called the STREAM3 with PhoenixDAC one of the most compelling all-in-one digital front ends available, with performance that competes well above its price point when the system matching is right.

Specifications

• DAC chips: Dual mono AKM, one per channel
• Clocking: OCXO main clock plus two dedicated FemtoClocks
• Power supply: Independent supplies for digital and analogue stages, co-designed with Dr. Sean Jacobs
• Outputs: Gold-plated RCA and XLR, both simultaneously available
• PCM support: Up to 32bit/768kHz
• DSD support: Native DSD
• Compatible: STREAM3 only
• Not compatible: STREAM1, ZEN Next-Gen, ZENith Next-Gen
• Installation: Factory-fitted or retrofitted

Deciding between the PhoenixDAC Board and running an external DAC via the PhoenixUSB Board? The answer depends on what DAC you're comparing it against. Worth a conversation — reach out.