The C201 audio motherboard is a powerhouse, with a parallel full-differential matrix DAC consisting of 8 Cirrus Logic CS43198 32-bit DAC chips. The FPGA in the N6iii main unit feeds each DAC with I²S signals individually . All DACs work in MONO mode. Four pieces of CS43198 are grouped into one stereo channel, and their outputs are paralleled to create a full-differential output channel. The power upply and peripheral circuitry for each DAC chip are fully discrete and symmetric.

This unique design offers numerous advantages :

• Higher Output Quality
• Improved Signal Stability and Reduced Distortion
• Increased Power Handling and Driving Capability
• Enhanced Channel Separation and Stereo Imaging
• Reduced Noise and Jitter through dedicated power supplies.

Using eight DAC chips in a parallel full-differential configuration ensures highly stable DAC performance. significantly improving sound density and overall audio performance.

The C201 features 4x Texas Instruments OPA1622 op-amps configured into a parallel amplification array. The OPA1622 is a low noise, low distortion dual audio operational amplifier that deliver high output-drive capability. While fully differential balanced amplification can be achived with a pair of dual op-amps, C201 doubles that number into a parallel amplification design, combined wtih buffer circuits, to increase the output current capability and lower the output impedance.

This circuit design pays homage to the headphone amplification circuit of the classic N8 DAP.

A dedicated 3.5mm line out port on the C201 lets you enjoy the C201's clean DAC output with an external amplifier.