Desktop R‑2R Ladder DAC & Balanced Headphone Amplifier

Featuring HiFiMAN’s Himalaya LE R‑2R ladder DAC, a robust balanced amplifier, and integrated network streaming, the EF500 delivers up to 4.5W of output and analog‑like musicality uncommon in typical DACs. With balanced and single‑ended headphone outputs, XLR and RCA pre‑outs, multiple digital inputs, and a sleek upright design, it’s equally at home driving headphones or speakers.

R2R DAC with Natural Musicality

At its core, the EF500 uses the Himalaya LE ladder DAC architecture, employing high-precision resistors and optimized algorithms for smooth conversion and low distortion (THD+N ≈ 0.0025% at –8 dB). This design delivers a relaxed, analog‐like warmth not typically found in delta-sigma chips.

Balanced desktop Power 

Equipped with both ¼″ single-ended and 4‑pin XLR balanced headphone outputs, the unit delivers up to 4.5 W per channel into 32 Ω (balanced) and 1.32 W (unbalanced).  Built-in high/low gain modes and oversampling options offer flexible control to match a wide range of headphones.

Integrated Streaming & I/O Flexibility

Behind its sleek vertical chassis lies Ethernet connectivity for network streaming, alongside USB‑B, USB‑C, and coax inputs. Additional analog preamp outputs (balanced XLR and RCA) make it easy to drive powered speakers or integrate into a stereo setup.

Product highlights

• Himalaya LE resistor ladder DAC: THD+N ≈ 0.0025%
• 4.5 W balanced / 1.32 W SE headphone output (32 Ω)
• 117 dB SNR, 131 dB channel separation
• Dual headphone outputs: ¼″ and 4‑pin XLR
• Multiple inputs: Ethernet streaming, USB‑B/C, coaxial
• Balanced XLR + RCA pre‑outs
• High/low gain and oversampling/NOS modes
• Vertical desktop design with solid base
• 1‑year HiFiMAN warranty (Audio46 standard)

Specs

• DAC: Himalaya LE R‑2R ladder architecture
• THD+N (line out): ≈ 0.0025% at –8 dB
• Channel Separation: 131 ± 3 dB
• SNR: 117 dB (A‑weighted)
• Power: 4.5 W balanced; 1.32 W single‑ended (32 Ω)
• Outputs: ¼″ SE, 4‑pin XLR; plus pre‑outs (XLR, RCA)
• Inputs: Ethernet, USB‑B/C, Coax
• Controls: Volume knob, gain toggle, oversampling selector
• Weight: ~3.37 kg
• Dimensions: Vertical desktop footprint
• Power: Mains powered; ~8.1 lb / 3.7 kg shipping weight

What’s included

• HiFiMAN EF500 unit with stand
• Power cable
• User manual