Audio: γ2 DAC

Introduction

The γ2 is a small audio digtial-to-analog converter with features typically only found on higher-end units. It features Wolfson's top-of-the-line WM8741 DAC IC for the D/A stage, followed by an op-amp balanced-to-unbalanced output stage. An asynchronous reclocking IC reduces the effect of jitter in the input signal and upsamples everything to 96 kHz for optimal digital filter performance. It can be driven from USB or S/PDIF (either coaxial or optical) sources, with a switch on the front panel to select the input.

It was designed by AMB Labs and the schematics, build instructions, and boards are available to the DIY audio community. For more technical details, see the original γ2 page.

My build is more or less a standard configuration. I spent the most time working on the end panels. I used the stock panels supplied with the BOX Enclosures B2-080 case. The text is laser-engraved. The black anodized aluminum turns bright white when lasered, resulting in high-contrast, high-resolution labels that almost look screen-printed. To make the openings for the connectors, I taught myself how to use a small desktop CNC mill, then machined the panels with hand-written G-code.

Front panel
My γ2 build, front panel.

Back panel
My γ2 build, back panel.

Empty case
Empty case, with work on the panels completed.

Impressions

I only recently finished putting my γ2 together, so I haven't listened to it extensively yet. I like what I've heard so far, though. I'm also very pleased with the way the enclosure and panel design turned out.