Review sample provided by LAiV Audio
Retail prices:
Harmony uDAC 994 USD + VAT (1190 Euro in EU)
Harmony RCX IR Remote Control – 194 USD (229 Euro in EU)
Singapore-based manufacturer LAiV is on a roll!
When I reviewed the LAiV Harmony DAC in September last year, the company announced many more products as part of the Harmony range, including the uDAC. The uDAC (Micro DAC) is based on key functionality of the Harmony DAC but in a much smaller enclosure. The uDAC is now available, alongside all other announced products, except for the NET2 streamer.
Harmony Range
The complete Harmony range consists of the Harmony DAC, HP2A Preamp/Headphone Amp, LExt IN2 Input Extension Interface, LExt Phono Input Extension Interface (not reviewed), uDDC D-D Reclocker, and GaNM Mono Power Amplifiers (just released). The final pending introduction is for the Net 2 Streamer, which is scheduled for Q3 2025.
In this review, I will cover the uDAC.
uDAC Description
The Harmony µDAC is an ultra-compact, high-performance D-A Converter that fits the full LAiV Harmony R-2R Ladder Network Architecture and a discrete Class A output buffer in a beautifully sculpted seamless unibody enclosure milled from solid aluminum.
A remote control is not included, presumably, to reach a sub-1000-USD price tag. The beautiful and super-ergonomic RCX handset (the same as included with the Harmony DAC) can be purchased separately.
Optional milled-from-solid aluminum RCX Remote Control.
Arguably, a cheap plastic remote handset could have been included, but from everything LAiV has been doing so far, I don’t think they want to include anything but premium quality accessories, and milled-from-solid remote controls are not cheap to produce. In their defense, it can be argued that a remote control is not really needed for a device without volume control.
Indeed, the uDAC is complete, especially for such a small device, but the rotary dial is only a function selector. The big selling point is that the uDAC offers a subset of the Harmony DAC’s functionality, using some of the same components, the most important one being the R2R D-A Conversion, at a third of the cost.
LAiV’s balanced discrete R-2R architecture uses carefully arranged individual resistors with a tolerance of 0.05%.
Balanced XLR outputs.
Galvanic isolation between digital and analog using OptoCouplers.
Advanced Accusilicon AS318-B Ultra-Low Phase Noise FEMTO Oscillator, and the ability to integrate seamlessly with I²S master clocks.
The Discrete Class A Output Buffer provides consistent linearity and low distortion, and is designed to provide superior impedance matching, ensuring optimal signal transfer between the DAC and the connected amplifier or headphones. Maintaining a low output impedance minimizes signal degradation and allows longer cable runs without loss of fidelity. As with all Class A circuits, the buffer operates with continuous current draw, resulting in a higher operating temperature than more energy-efficient designs.
Discrete Class-A Output Buffer
As with all LAiV devices, user comfort and seamless functionality are highly prioritized. An interesting feature of the uDAC is its dot-matrix display, which provides clear and detailed visual feedback that is easily readable with my aging eyes, even from a 6-meter distance. Unlike basic segmented displays, the dot-matrix screen allows for dynamic text rendering (scrolling text), making it easy to monitor input selection, sample rates, and operational status at a glance.
Next: Review Context, Listening, and Conclusion
I bet with a real-world PSU like Farad Super3 or Ferrum Hypsos which has adaptable voltage, you will get a other DAC. I transformed SMSL SU-1 with Farad and Cardas Clear to a 2K€ DAC
I’m not a betting man, but like you, I’m confident that an upscale power supply would make a significant difference.
Hi Christiaan,
Thanks for a great review for this Laiv uDAC! I wonder if it’s compared to like Chord Qutest which one more superior? Let’s say both were use with upscale power supply. Thanks
Hi Henry, I have not heard the Qutest, or any other Chord DAC, so I can’t say.
Thanks again Christiaan
Which you prefer this or Denafrips ares?
And what about the new Teac 507 cd transport, is there any plan to review it?
Kind regards and best wishes
It’s hard to say without having heard them side by side. But the Ares is more precise (and analytical), while the uDAC is a more musical (and less finely resolving).
Thanks
So what’s about ares 12th-1 which is now renamed Enyo 15th which I have?
And I hope you audition new Teac 507 cd transport
Kind regards
I had the 12th but no longer have it. 15th is a little different on the inside, but I don’t know if it also sounds (very) different. The Teac 507 CD transport looks interesting, and I will see if I can review it. Can’t promise anything, though.
Thanks
Also please check Marantz cd60 it’s truly uniqe for the price especially in noise floor and analog feel.
I had many cd players from Pioneer and Yamaha and onkyo also I use Sony dvd player and Panasonic blu ray as transport but this new Marantz outperforms them easily.
I’m wondering how it compares to high-end model from Jay’s Audio and Teac and CEC.
It’s worth the audition.
Marantz says in their Japanese website the mechansim was developed in house.
Kind regards and best wishes