Metrum Acoustics ONYX

Unlike standard DACs that use digital filtering to smooth out the signal, the ONYX uses a non-oversampling R2R ladder architecture. This approach aims to preserve the raw timing and transient response of the original recording, resulting in a more natural, organic sound that many audiophiles prefer for its realism.

Yes, it features both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs. The balanced XLR outputs provide a maximum of 4 Volts RMS, which is ideal for connecting to high-end amplifiers that support fully balanced signal paths.

This proprietary module is designed to address the linearity issues often found in R2R DACs. By using FPGA technology to correct the signal, the ONYX achieves a lower noise floor and better dynamic range, ensuring that subtle details in your music remain clear and precise.

Absolutely. The ONYX is equipped with four distinct inputs: USB, optical, coaxial, and AES/EBU. You can connect multiple digital sources at once and switch between them, making it a versatile hub for a complex audio system.

The USB input supports sampling rates up to 384 kHz and a bit depth of 24 bits. This covers the vast majority of high-resolution audio files available today.

The dual-mono design means that the left and right channels are processed independently, each with its own circuitry. This significantly improves channel separation, which helps create a wider, more accurate soundstage where instruments are placed precisely within the mix.