It does not compute. It communes. 

A fully-discrete R2R ladder DAC built for those who value tone, tactility, and the slow craft of listening. The Apos x Community Druid R2R DAC converts digital signals into analog voltage through a hand-tuned network of resistors instead of a high-speed modulation process. The result is a sound that feels unhurried and human. This DAC is rooted in an older way of doing things.

The old ways are calling

At its core, the Druid uses a fully-discrete R2R ladder. Each resistor in the network contributes a sliver of voltage to the final waveform, recreating the analog signal with mechanical precision. There’s no delta-sigma modulation, no oversampling filters; just pure conversion through resistive weighting. 

The first R2R DAC with swappable op-amps

This idea came straight from the Apos community. When members suggested a swappable op-amp design, we built the DAC around it. The Druid’s open-top acrylic construction gives direct access to the sockets. That decision turned the Druid into something more tactile and interactive. The ability to roll op-amps without fuss makes it a living piece of hardware, one that evolves with your taste.

Tuned by ear

Inside are three Texas Instruments LM4562NA/NOPB op-amps: two for the balanced XLR outputs and one for the single-ended 3.5 mm. They were chosen through weeks of comparative listening with other contenders. There was no target signature, only the goal of being moved by what we heard. The LM4562NA stood out immediately for its midrange balance and natural smoothness. When paired with the Gremlin amplifier, it gave vocals and acoustic instruments a presence that felt both grounded and effortless.

XLR balanced outputs

For balanced chains, the Druid’s 4 V XLR outputs provide the drive and control expected of a fully differential stage. The architecture minimizes crosstalk, increases headroom, and keeps noise impressively low. It’s a natural match for balanced amplifiers, studio monitors, or any system that benefits from clean channel separation and current delivery.

3.5 mm single-ended output

Because PCB space is precious, the Druid replaces dual RCA jacks with a 3.5 mm single-ended output. A 3.5 mm-to-RCA adapter is included in the box, allowing simple integration into powered speakers or integrated amplifiers. 

XMOS XU316 USB interface

The digital stage is powered by the XMOS XU316, one of the most capable USB audio controllers available. Sixteen parallel cores handle PCM up to 768 kHz / 32-bit and DSD512 natively, maintaining precise timing and ultra-low jitter throughout. The result is bit-perfect data flow with minimal latency and no audible digital glare.

Product highlights

• True R2R ladder DAC

• Fully swappable op-amps with included lifts and puller

• Balanced XLR outputs plus 3.5 mm line output

• XMOS XU316 USB interface

• External power brick with dedicated ground wire for cleaner performance

• Smooth, mid-focused LM4562NA op-amps installed

• Compact aluminum and acrylic chassis, desktop-friendly design

• Underside LEDs with on/off jumper switch

Need help swapping op-amps? Check out our guide and video tutorial.

Availability

The Apos x Community Druid R2R DAC is available for pre-order now on Apos Audio.