digital USB interface with external clock inputs

The Ladder Handel is a dedicated digital USB interface designed to give you control over how digital audio moves from your source to your DAC. It accepts USB input and outputs AES, coaxial, optical, and I2S, with support for external clocking in systems built around synchronization and timing accuracy.

Built to manage digital signal flow

The Handel sits between your source and your DAC when you want more options than a single USB connection allows. It lets you choose the output format that best matches your DAC, cabling, and system layout. The goal is clean digital handoff, fewer limitations, and predictable behavior in daily use.

USB input with multiple digital outputs

USB input feeds a full set of digital outputs, including AES, coaxial, optical, and I2S. AES is useful for longer runs and DACs that prioritize balanced digital connections. Coaxial and optical offer compatibility with a wide range of gear. I2S is available for DACs designed to take advantage of it, with selectable modes to support different implementations.

External clock support for synchronized systems

The Handel includes dedicated clock inputs at 45.1584 MHz and 49.152 MHz. If your system uses an external clock, these inputs allow Handel to lock to it. This matters in multi-device digital chains where timing consistency is part of the design.

Clear front-panel indicators

The front panel displays the active sampling rate using dedicated indicators. You can confirm the incoming signal format at a glance without navigating menus or software controls.

Power supply designed for stability

The internal power architecture uses multiple transformer groups, parallel MOSFET regulation, and large reservoir capacitance. Seventeen customized 2200u capacitors are specified to maintain steady voltage under load. This approach focuses on consistency rather than chasing numbers.

Independent voltage regulation

Multiple LT1763 regulators provide independent power rails for different circuit sections. Separating these rails helps prevent interaction between stages and keeps performance consistent as operating conditions change.

Temperature-controlled clock module

The clock module is built around a constant-temperature crystal oscillator powered by dual LT3045 regulators. A CNC-machined shielding enclosure isolates the oscillator to maintain stable operating conditions and predictable timing behavior.

Compact desktop format

The Handel is sized for desktop and rack-adjacent use, with a low-profile chassis that integrates easily into an existing system. Dimensions are 13.27 in (337 mm) wide, 10.43 in (265 mm) deep, and 2.24 in (57 mm) tall.

Product highlights

• Dedicated USB digital interface for DAC connectivity
  
• AES, coaxial, optical, and I2S digital outputs
  
• External clock inputs at 45.1584 MHz and 49.152 MHz
  
• Front-panel sampling rate indicators
  
• Multi-stage power supply with MOSFET regulation and large capacitance
  
• Constant-temperature crystal oscillator with shielding enclosure

Specs

• Product type: digital USB interface
  
• Digital input: USB
  
• Additional inputs: coaxial, optical, AES, clock input
  
• Digital outputs: AES 1, AES 2, coaxial, optical, I2S A, I2S C
  
• External clock inputs: 45.1584 MHz, 49.152 MHz
  
• Power supply design: multiple transformer groups, MOSFET