Audiolab D9 reference D/A DAC with ES9038PRO, MQA and Bluetooth

The Audiolab D9 is a new-generation D/A DAC built for listeners who want audiophile-grade digital-to-analogue conversion with precision, detail and seamless integration into demanding hi-fi systems. Building on Audiolab’s long DAC heritage (from the M-DAC onwards), the D9 sets a new benchmark in performance and features.

At its heart is the ESS Sabre32 ES9038PRO, a 32-bit reference-class chipset renowned for excellent signal-to-noise performance, ultra-low distortion and wide dynamic range. Combined with HyperStream II architecture and the Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, it delivers outstanding clarity, timing accuracy and true-to-source precision.

Format support is extensive, with PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD up to 22.5MHz (DSD512) and full MQA decoding. Users can also apply upsampling to 352.8kHz or 384kHz, and fine-tune playback via five selectable DAC reconstruction filters.

Connectivity turns the D9 into a true digital hub: 2 coaxial and 2 optical S/PDIF inputs, a USB Drive connection, plus a dedicated AES/EBU input for pro-grade systems. Coax and optical digital outputs enable expansion in the digital domain, while analogue connectivity includes both RCA and balanced XLR outputs. Wireless streaming is covered via Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD and LDAC.

For headphone listening, the D9 includes a high-power headphone amplifier with current-feedback circuitry, designed for exceptional clarity and drive across many headphone types. Control is handled via remote and a vibrant 2.8" full-colour IPS display, with multilingual menus and fast access to key functions.

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