CH Precision C10 DAC

C10 Digital to Analog Converter

The C10 is a twin-chassis design, with separate boxes for audio and power supply. Like other CH components, it is modular, upgradable, and future-proof. It shares features with the C1.2, including a fully differential design and the proprietary PEtER Spline Filter algorithm. It also uses CH-LINK HD, which supports DSD, MQA, and high-res PCM formats. However, the C10 introduces significant updates, including improved power supply, new grounding arrangements, and a redesigned DAC architecture, which enhance both its design and performance.

The heart of the C10: precision DAC design

At the core of the C10 is the PCM 1704 R2R DAC chip. It’s paired with the sophisticated PEtER over-sampling algorithm, which runs at 32-bit fixed point and converts to 24-bit output. The C10 uses 16 DACs in a dual-differential, sequential DSQ™ Phase Array topology. Each channel has four dedicated DAC chips, improving precision. The system achieves data output rates of up to 64x Fs (2.8224/3.072 MHz), a huge leap from the C1.2’s 16x Fs (705.6/768 kHz). This high level of performance requires precision and a sophisticated clock system.

Improved topology for ultra-low noise

To maintain stable operation and maximize processing rates, we completely redesigned the C10’s electrical and physical layout. The power supply includes four independent, highly regulated DC feeds. These power the digital processing, clock, and DACs. The audio chassis has a mirror-imaged layout, with symmetrical clock feeds benefiting both DACs. The C10 also features a third-order Sallen-Key Bessel filter, which reduces propagation errors from nanoseconds to under two femtoseconds, improving overall sound quality.

Pure DAC for ultimate performance

The C10 focuses entirely on digital-to-analog conversion. Unlike the C1.2, it lacks variable output and analog inputs. To get the best sound, pair it with a high-quality preamplifier like the L10. The C10 offers selectable output levels (1, 2.5, or 5V) and switchable feedback for fine-tuning performance. The inputs are modular and configurable, supporting various formats like CH-LINK HD, AES/EBU, S/PDIF, and TosLink optical inputs. You can also upgrade to a USB input or connect to external clocks for enhanced precision.

A simple path to the C10 mono

The C10 is designed for upgrades. Moving from a C10 to a C10 Mono is simple: just add an extra power supply. The modular design and separate DC feeds allow us to bypass the need for a six-box system, offering a significant performance upgrade with fewer components. This streamlined solution makes the C10 Mono easier to integrate into high-end systems.

Why the C10 sets a new standard

The C10’s innovative DSQ™ Phase Array DAC and advanced power supply offer a new level of performance. Like the C1.2, it is future-proof and can be upgraded as technology advances. The C10 sets a new standard in both musical performance and practicality, offering a rewarding, long-term listening experience.

Key features

• Four DSP engines for fast, efficient processing.
• Proprietary 32-bit fixed point synchronous data over-sampling.
• Direct DSD to 705.6kHz and PCM conversion with full MQA decoding.
• 16 R2R DACs per channel in a 64x FS configuration.
• Dual mono symmetrical circuit topology and regulated power supplies for superior performance.

Audio outputs

• Class A, fully symmetrical, DC-coupled output stage.
• Balanced XLR, single-ended RCA, and BNC outputs.
• Third-order Sallen-Key Bessel filter for high-frequency precision.

Control and connectivity

• 5-button interface and infrared remote control.
• Ethernet control via the CH-Control app.
• Supports CH-LINK HD, AES/EBU, S/PDIF, TosLink, and USB inputs.
• Streaming services compatibility with Ethernet In HD board.

Power supply

• External power supply with three transformers.
• Cascaded linear regulators and shunt topology for critical stages.
• Independent power feeds for low noise.

Clock sync

• Synchronization with external clock sources like the CH T10 Time reference.
• Selectable clock output and input impedance (50Ω or 75Ω).