FSA 24Bit 192Khz Asynchronous USB DAC ILOVETW

FSA 24Bit 192Khz Asynchronous USB DAC ILOVETW

Firestone Audio's I Love Taiwan 24 Bit / 192 kHz Asynchronous-capable USB DAC delivers audiophile quality music via USB with performance capabilities up to 24 Bit /192 kHz.  At the heart of the ILTW is the highly regarded Wolfson's WM8740 DAC chip set with a host of other high quality components makes the ILTW DAC an outstanding value at just $367.

The ILTW DAC is capable of performing in both Adaptive and Asynchronous USB transfer modes with Adaptive as factory default setting.  An internal jumper setting switches between the two modes and Asynchronous mode requires special drivers.  Upsampling selectable to 96kHz or 192kHz. Additional i2s over RJ-45 also provided.

High-Resolution Audio Support

The DAC supports audio formats up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution via its USB input, which was a significant feature at its time of release.

Asynchronous USB Mode

It can operate in asynchronous USB mode, allowing the DAC to take control of the data flow and manage the timing with its internal clock. This is crucial for reducing jitter (timing errors) and achieving optimal sound quality with high-resolution files. A switch inside the case allows for a change to adaptive mode if needed.

LED Indicators

The front panel includes a series of LEDs that indicate the sample rate of the incoming audio, from 16-bit 44kHz right up to 24-bit 192kHz.

Compact "Cute Series" Design

The unit belongs to Firestone's "Cute Series," featuring a small, dinky chassis (approx. 10cm x 8cm x 5cm), making it easy to integrate into a desktop setup or tuck away out of sight. The robust chassis is made of solid extruded aluminum.

Input/Output Connections

• Inputs: It is an exclusively USB-focused DAC, though it also includes an i2S input, a less common connection for potential future equipment expansion.
• Outputs: It provides a standard stereo analog RCA output for connecting to a home stereo system or separate headphone amplifier.

Simple Operation

It requires no additional software or drivers for standard operation on some systems (though specific drivers might be needed for asynchronous mode on certain Windows versions)

Specifications

Amplifier Structure: Low pass filter with 2Vrms output

Power Structure: High frequency switching DC-DC regulator

USB Support Format:16 Bit : 44.1kHz / 48kHz / 88.2kHz / 96kHz / 176.4kHz / 192kHz, 24 Bit : 44.1kHz / 48kHz / 88.2kHz / 96kHz / 176.4kHz / 192kHz

Digital Interface: Direct I2S data format transmission (MAX support up to 192kHz-24bit over 1 meter CAT-5E cable)

Operation Mode: Support Adaptive and Asynchronous mode for audio stream transmission

Circuit Protect: Output short / over current protect

DAC Chip: WOLFSON - WM8740

USB Chip: TENOR - TE8802

LPF OP: NS - LM4562

Audio Performance: 1kHz sine wave, 2Vrms output, 24-bit / 48kHz) USB Input

dB-Weighed Frequency response (From 40Hz to 15kHz): 40Hz +0.02dB, 15kHz -0.12dB

Total frequency response: from < 20Hz till far over 20khz

Noise level (1kHz, A-Weighted): -106.7dB

Dynamic range (1kHz, A-Weighted): 106.7dB

THD%: 0.012%

Stereo crosstalk: -102.7dB