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Metrum Onyx Digital Analog Converter (DAC) Selling my Metrum Onyx R2R DAC.Balanced NOS DAC using 2x DACTWO transient chips per channel. Upgrade your home sound system. With the goal of creating a mid range and affordable, yet superior DAC in mind Metrum Acoustics designed the ONYX. It was an unprecedented challenge, which was eventually solved by using an entirely new chip, which has been exclusively developed by Metrum Acoustics and was first used in the PAVANE.The parallel FPGA driven R2R ladder networks as used in the 4x DACTWO modules performs on a higher level. These modules split up the
Is AUD 1,900 a smart buy for this Metrum Onyx DAC? At that price, it's smack in the middle of recent comparable used listings—our database pegs the median at AUD 1,873, with the 25th percentile at AUD 1,343 and 75th at AUD 2,969. That's fair market value for a solid digital performer like the Onyx, assuming good condition; no bargain steal, but far from ambitious if it's low hours and original packaging.
Before committing, verify the output stage—Metrum's NOS design can show subtle jitter or warmth loss from aging R2R ladders, so demand recent test tones or measurements. Check for the stock power supply and remote; missing accessories often signal heavier use, and at this price, expect both plus original boxes.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Metrum Acoustics, operating under All-Engineering BV, traces its roots to the Netherlands, where it began in 1989 with pioneering work in electrostatic speaker drivers. Over the decades, the company shifted focus under designer Cees Ruijtenberg, evolving into a specialist in digital-to-analog conversion technology. This heritage of acoustic innovation and electronic expertise has defined its path from speaker field experiments to cutting-edge DAC engineering.
The brand concentrates exclusively on high-performance DACs, emphasizing non-oversampling (NOS) designs that prioritize musicality and natural sound reproduction. Signature products like the Sonnet Pasithea, with its four DACs per channel and -160dB noise floor, and the Morpheus MKII exemplify their commitment to low-noise, precise conversion. Integrated DAC/amplifiers such as the Amethyst further extend this lineup, catering to desktop and hi-fi enthusiasts without venturing into speakers, amps, or other categories.
Positioned as a niche boutique in the high-end market, Metrum Acoustics commands respect among audiophiles for its transparent, engaging presentation, as lauded in international hi-fi communities. Dutch craftsmanship ensures premium build quality, though prices reflect this specialization—ranging from accessible entry points around $1,300 to flagship models for discerning systems. For buyers seeking uncolored digital playback, Metrum stands as a confident, low-profile leader.
See all Metrum Acoustics listings on RADAR.
audio-markt.de
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