MUSICIAN Draco III | R2R True Balanced Desktop DAC | I2S / USB / Coaxial / Optical / AES

MUSICIAN Draco III — R2R True Balanced Desktop DAC

The Draco III brings MUSICIAN's proprietary R2R + DSD architecture and ALTERA ARM decoding to a refined desktop form—delivering true balanced output with a full suite of digital inputs including I2S over HDMI.

The MUSICIAN Draco III is a high-performance desktop DAC built around a proprietary R2R + DSD architecture powered by ALTERA ARM high-performance decoding chips. It supports a comprehensive range of digital inputs—USB Type-A, Optical (SPDIF), Coaxial, and HDMI (I2S)—and delivers true balanced audio via both XLR and RCA outputs. PCM decoding extends to 32-bit / 192kHz, while DSD support reaches DSD512 (22.5792 MHz). Housed in a solid metal chassis and available in Silver and Black, the Draco III is engineered for audiophiles who demand reference-grade R2R conversion in a desktop system.

Key Features

• Proprietary R2R + DSD Architecture: The Draco III uses MUSICIAN's own discrete R2R ladder DAC design combined with a dedicated DSD decoding path—delivering the natural, analogue-like tonality and low-noise floor that R2R architecture is renowned for, without the digital artefacts associated with delta-sigma designs.
• ALTERA ARM High-Performance Decoding Chips: Powered by ALTERA ARM processors, the Draco III handles complex decoding tasks with precision and low latency—supporting PCM up to 32-bit / 192kHz and DSD up to DSD512 (22.5792 MHz) across all inputs.
• True Balanced XLR Output: Fully balanced signal path from input to output, with both XLR (balanced) and RCA (single-ended) outputs available—ideal for pairing with balanced preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, or power amplifiers.
• Comprehensive Digital Inputs — Including I2S over HDMI: USB Type-A, Optical (SPDIF), Coaxial, and HDMI (I2S) inputs provide maximum system flexibility. The I2S input via HDMI offers the lowest-jitter connection for compatible transports and streamers.
• DSD512 Native Decoding: Full native DSD support from DSD64 (2.8224 MHz) through DSD512 (22.5792 MHz) ensures compatibility with the highest-resolution DSD libraries and streaming sources available today.
• Solid Metal Chassis — Silver & Black: The Draco III's all-metal enclosure provides excellent electromagnetic shielding and a premium desktop aesthetic. Available in Silver and Black to match your existing system.

Specifications

⚠️ The Draco III does not include a power cable or remote control. Please ensure you have a compatible IEC power cable prepared before use. Once configured, all settings are accessible via the three front-panel buttons.