Moonriver Audio has developed a SPDIF DAC module for its Model 404 and Model 404 Reference integrated amplifiers . The DAC module has one coaxial cinch connection and costs just under 600 euros.

The DAC module is made for installation in a Model 404 or Model 404 Reference from Moonriver Audio and is based on the ESS Saber dac chip from the 9000 series. The SPDIF supports PCM streams up to 24-bit/192 kHz due to the limitation of the (coaxial) SPDIF specifications. The DAC module has three separate power supplies with low noise circuits, two for the ESS DAC board and a power supply for the analog circuit. The capacitor bank is huge and uses 42,000 uF (in the case of 404 Reference) of the power amplifier’s power supply.

Special care has been taken with the intonation of the analog output stage to match the dynamic and natural character of the Moonriver sound. The result is an impressive-sounding DA converter that respects the timing, space and color of the music and unfolds the dynamic contrast, i.e. the definition of every musical event.

The new SPDIF DAC module is available for a price of just under 600 euros.