1543 MKIII DAC

Yes, it’s true!  The new 1543 MKIII DAC is now in production!  

Like the original CAD 1543 DAC, the new CAD 1543 MKIII DAC is optimized to work with a computer-based source. When the original CAD 1543 DAC was launched almost 15 years ago, we were all using laptops and mini computers as there were no audio specific “servers” available.  Nowadays there is a large selection of audio servers available at all price points.  Our experience working in the computer based audio market for all this time has made the 1543 MKIII DAC unlike any other DAC on the market.

The first review of the 1543 MKIII DAC is out!  Editor’s Choice Award!

Jason Kennedy, The Ear – 1543 MKIII DAC Review

The main objective of the MKIII update was to keep the basic sound quality of previous CAD 1543 DAC models, but improve dynamics, low frequency control, pace, rhythm and timing, detail and musical flow.

The changes for the new MKIII Version are substantial:

• Five independent, fully discrete power supplies, completely redesigned
• Five bespoke oversized EI power transformers, replacing the previous toroidal power transformers
• Custom-made choke used in DC rectification
• 110,000uF of the finest quality Japanese filter/reservoir audio capacitors
• USB Interface updated with new layout and new low “close in” phase noise oscillators
• Twenty Philips TDA1543 Digital to Analogue ICs, increased from sixteen
• Redesigned mains power conditioning circuitry
• Improved I2S isolation circuitry
• New Duelund Coherent Audio Output Capacitors
• New attached Krion feet

The CAD 1543 MKIII DAC uses a NOS (Non Over-Sampling) Resistor Ladder architecture. We remain convinced that NOS, R2R DAC designs achieve a more realistic natural musical experience than over-sampling and/or Sigma Delta DAC technology. The CAD 1543 MKIII DAC is so-called because it uses twenty vintage Philips TDA1543 DAC Resistor Ladder Integrated Circuits.

The CAD 1543 MKIII DAC also employs an Asynchronous USB Interface, which controls the timing and clocking of data transfer independently of the audio server.  This reduces timing (jitter) and noise issues.  We use Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) technology for our USB Interface because it uses substantially less current, operates at lower speed and produces less noise compared to XMOS and other USB designs we have tested.  The new oscillators in our USB Interface have exceptionally low phase noise of -100dBc/Hz @ 10Hz minimum.  We use three independent EI Transformers and three fully discrete (no IC regulators) power supply designs just to power our USB Interface.

The CAD 1543 MKIII DAC is specifically designed to work with USB connected Audio Servers and Streamers, and we believe our 15 years of circuit and power supply design behind our USB Interface is unique.  If you are using an Audio Server with a USB connection, we guarantee you will hear a difference.

Some DACs require the +5Vdc power from the Audio Server for the operation of the USB Interface of the DAC.  This +5Vdc is supplied by the USB Cable connected to the Audio Server. The quality and noise level of this +5Vdc power varies from one audio server to another.  The 1543 MKIII DAC does not use this power in any way.  CAD also uses proprietary galvanic isolation that stops any current from the audio server from entering the twenty TDA1543 DAC ICs.

The objective is to reproduce a more natural “analogue” sound typical of high quality turntables and reel to reel tape machines.

All components come from the finest manufacturers in the world, customized to our proprietary designs that we have refined over the last 15 years. We work closely with specialist manufacturers in the UK, USA, Japan and Europe and have sourced only the highest quality best sounding components possible.

The 1543 MKIII DAC case is still hand-built in the UK entirely from laser cut 10mm thick acrylic. We do not use acrylic just to be different. We use acrylic because its mechanical and electrical properties offer sonic benefits over other materials.

The 1543 MKIII DAC will work with almost all Linux based audio servers such as: Innuos, Auralic, Melco, Aurender, Antipodes, Fidata, Roon, etc. Any Windows based servers such as WADAX and Taiko Audio will work once our Windows USB Driver is installed from our website.

The 1543 MKII DAC must be heard to fully understand.  Contact a dealer near you.

Custom colours and finishes are available please contact us for more information.