Audiolab
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Specs
| Type | DAC with current-feedback headphone amplifier and switchable fixed or variable analogue output |
| DAC Chip | ES9038Q2M |
| Wireless | Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX, aptX HD) |
| USB | USB playback |
| Analog Output | Balanced connectivity |
| Headphone Stage | Current-feedback headphone amplifier |
| Preamp Function | Yes |
| Display | OLED display |
| Finishes | Black / Silver |
| Dimensions | 2.2 x 7.1 x 8.2 in |
| Weight | Net: 1.42 kg (3.13 lb); Gross: 2.2 kg |
| Output Level (0dBFS, 1kHz) | 2.05Vrms (RCA), 4.1Vrms (XLR) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), DAC section | < 0.001% (1KHz @ 0dBFS) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz (+/-0.2dB) |
| Output Impedance | 120 ohm |
| Signal-to-noise Ratio (S/N) | > 115dB (A-weighted, RCA); > 117dB (A-weighted, XLR) |
| Sampling Frequency | Optical/Coaxial: 44.1kHz-192kHz; USB HDD: 44.1kHz-96kHz; PC USB: 44.1kHz-768kHz (PCM) / DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512 |
| Max. Sampling Frequency | USB HDD: 96KHz; Optical,Coaxial: 192KHz; PC USB: PCM768kHz, DSD512 |
| Headphone Amplifier THD | < 0.01% (1kHz, 50mW) |
| Headphone Amplifier Output Impedance | 2.35 ohm |
| Headphone Amplifier Load Impedance | 20-600 ohm |
| Inputs | 2 x SPDIF (Coax), 2 x SPDIF (Optical), 1 x PC USB (USB B), 1 x USB HDD (USB A), 1 x Bluetooth (aptX / aptX HD) |
| Outputs | 1 x RCA, 1 x XLR, 1 x Headphone, 2 x 12V Trigger, 1 x Optical, 1 x Coax |
| Preamplifier Function (Pre Out level) | Analogue output switchable between Fixed and Adjustable level |
| Standby Power Consumption | <0.5W |
| Power Requirements | 220-240V ~ 50/60Hz; 100-120V ~ 50/60Hz (depending on region) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 180 x 56 x 208 mm (7.09 x 2.2 x 8.19 in) |
| Decoding | MQA full decoder |
Warranty
Sold as an authorized Audiolab dealer by All Elite Audio. New Audiolab D7 units include the full Audiolab manufacturer warranty of 3 years parts and labor for the original owner. Contact us with any setup or service questions.
What's in the Box
- Audiolab D7 DAC/Headphone Amplifier
- Power supply
- Remote control
- User manual
- Warranty documentation
Overview
The Audiolab D7 is a compact digital hub that combines a high-resolution DAC, a preamplifier and a dedicated headphone amplifier in one small, well finished chassis. Built around the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M 32-bit converter, it brings the clean, controlled and balanced Audiolab character to desktop and main system listening alike. Engineered in the UK by a company established in 1983, it reflects Audiolab's long standing focus on clarity and musical honesty rather than exaggeration.
Connectivity is generous for its size. Balanced output allows the D7 to feed a wide range of amplification, while Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX and aptX HD provides convenient wireless streaming from a phone or laptop. USB playback and full MQA decoding round out the digital feature set, and an OLED display keeps status information clear and legible. A current-feedback headphone amplifier drives a broad range of headphones with authority and low noise.
The D7 is for the listener who wants a serious source that can anchor a headphone rig today and act as a preamplifier or DAC within a larger two-channel system tomorrow. Available in black or silver, it is an ideal way to modernize an existing setup or start a high-end system with a single, versatile component.
Key Features
- ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC for clean, detailed and controlled conversion
- MQA full decoder for high-resolution playback of MQA content
- Balanced connectivity for flexible integration with balanced amplification
- Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX and aptX HD for high-quality wireless streaming
- USB playback support for computer and stored digital sources
- Current-feedback headphone amplifier for authoritative, low-noise headphone listening
- Preamplifier function so the D7 can act as a system source and control point
- OLED display for clear, legible status information
- Compact chassis in black or silver finish options
How the D7 Compares
Audiolab D7 vs Audiolab D9
The D9 sits higher in the Audiolab range and steps up to the ES9038PRO DAC stage for the flagship digital experience. The D7 shares the same clean, balanced Audiolab character in a more compact form and is the natural choice when space and simplicity matter. Both serve as DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier, so the decision comes down to how much converter performance and scale you want. See the Audiolab D9.
Audiolab D7 vs Accuphase DAC-60 Digital Input Board
The Accuphase DAC-60 is an internal digital input board designed to add DAC capability inside a compatible Accuphase component. The Audiolab D7 is a standalone unit that works with any system and adds a preamplifier and headphone amplifier in one box. Choose the D7 when you want a self-contained, portable-scale source rather than a module tied to a specific host chassis. See the Accuphase DAC-60 Digital Input Board.
Recommended Amplification and Speakers
The D7 is a source, so pair it with Audiolab amplification and a set of speakers to build a complete, coherent system. These pairings keep the clean, controlled Audiolab character intact from digital input to loudspeaker.
- Audiolab 9000A Integrated Amplifier The flagship 9000A integrated gives the D7 a same-brand partner with generous power and refined control for a fully coherent Audiolab system.
- Audiolab 7000A Integrated Amplifier The 7000A is a balanced mid-range integrated that matches the D7's clarity and drives most speakers with ease for a clean, versatile setup.
- Audiolab 6000A MKII Integrated Amplifier The 6000A MKII is an efficient, no-nonsense integrated that makes an ideal entry point for a compact D7-based system.
- Gauder Akustik Arcona 40 These floorstanders reveal the resolution and control the D7 delivers, making them a strong match for a full-range listening room.
- Audioquest Rocket 22 Full Range Solid full-range speaker cable to connect your chosen Audiolab amplifier to your speakers with clean signal transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Audiolab D7?
It is a compact DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier engineered in the UK by Audiolab.
Which DAC chip does the D7 use?
It uses the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC.
Does the D7 support MQA?
Yes, the D7 is an MQA full decoder.
Does the D7 have Bluetooth?
Yes, it features Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX and aptX HD support.
Can the D7 play from a computer?
Yes, it supports USB playback for computer and stored digital sources.
Does the D7 have a headphone amplifier?
Yes, it includes a current-feedback headphone amplifier for authoritative, low-noise listening.
Can the D7 act as a preamplifier?
Yes, the D7 offers a preamplifier function so it can serve as a system source and control point.
Does the D7 have balanced outputs?
Yes, it offers balanced connectivity for flexible integration with balanced amplification.
What kind of display does the D7 have?
It uses an OLED display for clear, legible status information.
What finishes are available?
The D7 is available in black or silver.
What are the dimensions of the D7?
It measures 2.2 x 7.1 x 8.2 inches and weighs 3.1 pounds.
How does the D7 differ from the D9?
The D9 sits higher in the range with the ES9038PRO DAC stage, while the D7 delivers the same balanced Audiolab character in a more compact form.
What amplifier should I pair with the D7?
Audiolab integrateds such as the 9000A, 7000A or 6000A MKII make coherent same-brand partners.
Can I use the D7 with a separate preamp and power amp?
Yes, you can pair it with an Audiolab 9000Q preamplifier and 9000P power amplifier for a separates system.
Is the D7 suitable for a desktop setup?
Yes, its compact chassis and headphone amplifier make it well suited to desktop and near-field listening.
Does the D7 include a remote?
Yes, a remote control is included in the box.
What is the warranty on the D7?
It carries a 3 year parts and labor warranty for the original owner through Audiolab via MoFi Distribution.
Is the D7 a good starting point for a high-end system?
Yes, it is a versatile source that can anchor a headphone rig now and integrate into a larger two-channel system later.
Does the D7 have its own volume control?
Yes, because it functions as a preamplifier it provides volume control for both its outputs and headphones.
Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Audiolab dealer in MD offering expert guidance, full manufacturer warranty support and in-stock availability.
