Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 DAC/Amp and Hypsos Power System
Best high-end desktop solution for discerning audiophiles seeking pure, refined sound.
This desktop powerhouse transforms high-end headphones into a truly visceral experience by pairing a sophisticated, balanced DAC with a dedicated external power supply. You sacrifice desk space for this dual-chassis footprint, but the resulting clarity and authority make it an essential upgrade for those who refuse to compromise on signal purity.
$3445.00
at
Audio46
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking uncompromising clarity and immersive soundscapes
- Listeners demanding maximum performance through optimized power delivery
- Collectors owning diverse headphones requiring versatile, high-power amplification
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over extreme high-end performance
- Minimalists requiring compact, single-unit desktop audio solutions
- Casual listeners who may not perceive subtle, high-end sonic refinements
Performance breakdown
Power Delivery
The Hypsos integration provides exceptionally clean, stable current for demanding headphones.
Resolution Clarity
The ESS Sabre chip delivers surgical precision across high-resolution audio formats.
Drive Capability
Balanced output effortlessly handles even the most power-hungry planar magnetic headphones.
Signal Integrity
Advanced I/V conversion ensures a vanishingly low noise floor and distortion.
Versatility
Comprehensive digital and analog inputs accommodate a wide range of sources.
Build Quality
Compact, robust chassis design reflects high-end European engineering standards.
Key Specs
Headphone Output Gain
Balanced -5.8 dB, +6 dB, +17.8 dB; Single-ended -11.8 dB, 0 dB, +11.8 dB
Operation
Fully balanced proprietary IC power amplifier
Power Inputs
5.5/2.5mm DC connector with positive center; Proprietary 4-pin FPL connector (FPL)
Analog Inputs
RCA (REDbook level 2 V RMS recommended, PRO level supported)
Digital Inputs
USB-C (MQA, up to PCM 32 bits/768 kHz, DSD512, DoP256); S/PDIF coaxial (MQA, up to PCM 24 bits/192 kHz, DoP64); S/PDIF optical (MQA, up to PCM 24 bits/96 kHz guaranteed, should work up to PCM 24 bits/192 kHz and DoP64; depends on optical cable and user transmitter)
DAC Chip
ESS Sabre ES9028PRO
PCM Sampling Frequencies
44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 / 352.8 / 384 / 705.6 / 768 kHz
DSD Sampling Frequencies
2.8224 / 3.072 / 5.6448 / 6.144 / 11.2896 / 12.288 / 22.5792 / 24.576 MHz
DAC Resolution
PCM up to 768k at 32 bits; DSD up to 512 (22.6 MHz / 24.6 MHz)
MQA
Decoder and renderer (USB, OPTO, and COAX inputs)
Know before you buy
Still have a question?
Ask Metto anything about the Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 DAC/Amp and Hypsos Power System before you decide.
