High-resolution Audio DAC

The Schumann is a desktop DAC built around FPGA-based decoding, designed for systems that prioritize signal integrity, low noise, and straightforward control. It supports USB, coaxial, optical, I2S, and AES digital inputs, with both XLR and RCA analog outputs, covering common home and studio use without unnecessary extras.

FPGA-based digital decoding

The Schumann uses an FPGA to handle its digital decoding and processing rather than relying on a fixed-function DAC pipeline. This approach allows tighter control over timing and data handling and supports jitter suppression at the hardware level. The result is stable decoding across sources and formats, without leaning on software correction after the fact.

High SNR for low-key detail

The design emphasizes a high signal-to-noise ratio, which matters when the rest of your chain is quiet enough to reveal it. With sensitive amplifiers or speakers, background noise stays controlled and low-level information remains intact. This is especially relevant for near-field and low-volume listening.

Digital inputs that cover common sources

The input selection is practical and complete—USB for computers and streamers, coaxial and optical for transports and TVs, I2S for compatible sources, and AES for professional or studio gear. Multiple sources can stay connected at once, reducing cable swapping and simplifying daily use.

Balanced and unbalanced analog outputs

The Schumann provides both XLR and RCA outputs, making it easy to integrate into balanced or single-ended systems. XLR is useful for longer cable runs or noise-sensitive setups, while RCA keeps compatibility with traditional integrated amps and preamps.

Direct front-panel control

Physical buttons on the front panel handle power, input selection, and operating modes. OS/NOS switching is available without menus or apps, allowing you to change oversampling behavior quickly. The control layout is functional and deliberately minimal.

Dual crystal oscillator clocking

The internal clocking uses a double crystal oscillator design to manage different sampling rates more precisely. This helps maintain consistent timing as you move between sources and formats, supporting accurate signal reconstruction without additional intervention.

Compact desktop footprint

With a width of 11.61 in (295 mm), Schumann fits comfortably on a desk, shelf, or equipment rack. It’s sized for real-world systems where space matters, whether paired with a headphone amp or integrated into a two-channel setup.

Product highlights

• FPGA-based decoding architecture
  
• High SNR design for low noise floor
  
• Digital inputs: USB, coaxial, optical, I2S, AES
  
• Analog outputs: XLR and RCA
  
• Front-panel OS/NOS control
  
• Double crystal oscillator clocking

Specs

• Type: high-resolution audio DAC
  
• Digital inputs:
  • COAX ×1
    
  • OPT ×1
    
  • USB ×1
    
  • I2S ×1
    
  • AES ×1
    
• Analog outputs:
  • XLR out
    
  • RCA out
    
• AC input: 115V/60Hz
  
• AC input: 230V/50Hz
  
• Dimensions: 11.61 × 10.00 × 2.20 in (295 × 254 × 56 mm)

What’s included

• LADDER Schumann high-resolution audio DAC