TEAC UD701N

The TEAC UD-701N occupies a particular place: it does not merely convert a digital stream into an analogue signal. To the function of USB DAC are added a network player, a full analogue preamplifier and a headphone amplifier, brought together within a single chassis. The unit can therefore serve as the convergence point of a system, between a computer, a home network, traditional analogue sources and a power amplifier or headphones.

Its conversion relies on a discrete delta-sigma circuit developed by TEAC, paired with a dual mono architecture carried through to the very end: two separate toroidal transformers each feed their own channel, and the separation extends right through to the conversion section and the analogue output stage. With each channel having its own signal chain, interactions between the left and right channels are avoided, which benefits the clarity of the soundstage. Level adjustment is made in steps of 0.5 dB, a fine level of control that is useful for precisely setting the listening level whether driving speakers or headphones.

The connectivity reflects this dual digital and analogue nature:

The 4-pin XLR balanced headphone output can operate at fixed or variable level, allowing it to be fitted into different configurations. With 700 mW per channel in balanced mode against 500 mW on the 6.3 mm jack, the headphone stage targets models that demand power headroom. In terms of footprint, the unit measures 11.1 cm in height, 44.4 cm in width and 33.4 cm in depth, for 11.8 kg on the scales: a full-size hi-fi component format that requires a stable, well-ventilated piece of furniture.

This type of unit suits anyone wishing to reduce the number of links in the chain: dematerialised via network or USB, analogue sources retained thanks to the RCA and XLR inputs, output to a power amplifier or headphone listening at the end of the day. The balanced and unbalanced outputs leave the choice of cabling open depending on the rest of the system.