T+A DAC 200
High-end DAC and preamplifier
The German T+A 200 series, a high-end midi-sized lineup, builds on the great success of the previous 8 series and takes performance to unprecedented levels. In the previous series, the DAC (DAC 8 DSD) was one of the best DACs we had ever heard, and with the DAC 200, T+A has significantly improved upon an already outstanding standard. This is top-tier German engineering and craftsmanship. Forget any assumptions about compact-sized electronics—T+A’s 200 series delivers high-end performance that rivals and surpasses larger and more expensive competitors.
Dedicated 1-Bit DSD DAC
The T+A DAC 200 is for those who demand the absolute best in digital-to-analog conversion, regardless of source format. While most manufacturers handle DSD files by converting them to PCM within the chipset, the DAC 200 features a true 1-bit DSD converter. Instead of degrading the signal before processing, all information is preserved in 1:1 quality. Even DSD1024 (49.2MHz or 1024 times CD quality) is reproduced with the exact fidelity of the original recording.
PCM conversion with 8 DAC circuits
The same meticulous approach applies to standard PCM files. They are processed through a completely separate Quadruple DAC circuit, thanks to T+A’s Path Separation Technology, which routes data based on format. This ensures optimal signal processing, as the 1-bit chip exclusively handles DSD while the PCM chip is dedicated to PCM. The PCM decoding DAC is built with eight separate 32-bit Burr-Brown chipsets, reducing background noise by 6 dB. The result is exceptional dynamics and linearity, combined with a remarkably silent background free from any noise. It is not the cheapest way to do things, but T+A has never aimed for the lowest cost—its goal is the highest possible performance for the price.
De-Jitter MasterClock Both
DAC circuits benefit from T+A’s proprietary De-Jitter MasterClock, which significantly reduces jitter, particularly when connected to a computer. Signal optimization occurs in multiple stages, beginning with an analysis via microprocessors. The signal is then sent to the MasterClock, but only if its frequency and stability meet the strictest requirements. Otherwise, it is rerouted to a PLL (Phase-Locked Loop) stage, which reduces residual jitter by a factor of four. In short, unwanted noise is eliminated, leaving only pure, unaltered music. To deliver an analog output of the highest quality, T+A has developed its own Digital Analog Separation System, which galvanically isolates the analog and digital circuits. Both the signal-carrying circuits and their power supplies are fully separated.
Extensive digital inputs
The DAC 200 is equipped with an impressive selection of digital inputs, including two coaxial S/PDIF, two optical TosLink, a BNC input, an AES/EBU input, and a USB port for computer connection. There is even an analog input, allowing a turntable to be connected if you wish to use the DAC 200 as your primary preamplifier. An optional HDMI input with ARC is also available for TV connection (additional cost: 3,000). On the output side, both single-ended RCA and balanced XLR options are provided. The T+A DAC 200 is designed with meticulous attention to detail, using only premium components. This is complemented by its sleek, high-end design. The aluminum chassis features a solid front panel with volume control, input selection buttons, and, not to be overlooked, two elegant meters displaying temperature, level, and other vital information. The DAC 200 is equipped with E2 Link for seamless integration with the A 200 power amplifier. A remote control is included. A 4.4mm balanced headphone output is positioned on the front, featuring a discrete amplifier stage operating in Class A up to 200mA at 6 ohms. DSD512 and DSD1024 are supported on Windows PCs with the appropriate driver installed.
About the 200 Series
T+A’s 200 series consists of four separate high-end products that, when combined, deliver a first-class music experience at a price point below the company’s HV series. At the heart of the series are the DAC 200 and HA 200, serving as a reference-class digital converter/preamplifier and headphone amplifier, respectively. The DAC 200’s outstanding digital processing, preamp functionality, and output stage make it the core of a classic high-end music system. The HA 200 fulfills the same role but for a high-end headphone setup of the highest caliber. The MP 200 is a state-of-the-art streamer that can deliver music from virtually any source, including FM and DAB radio, Tidal, Qobuz, and Roon. It even features a built-in CD drive for top-quality playback of compact discs. The powerhouse of the 200 series is the A 200, a compact yet powerful amplifier delivering an impressive 250 watts into 4 ohms. While each product in the 200 series can be used individually, the system has been designed with seamless integration and user-friendly operation in mind. As with all T+A products, the 200 series is designed with the company’s philosophy of timeless aesthetics. Each component shares a unified design language while maintaining its unique characteristics and personality. For over twenty years, this philosophy has guided T+A’s product development. The beveled front panels give the products a distinctive character reminiscent of T+A’s iconic M series from the 1990s. Clean lines and stylish details create an illusion of compactness, while the heat sinks and VU meters hint at the power and performance within—even when turned off.
Measurements | 10 × 32 × 34 cm |
Weight (net) | 6,5 kg |
Input, optical (TosLink) | 2 |
Input, coaxial (S/Pdif) | 2 |
Input, USB | 2 |
Input, BNC | 1 |
Input, AES/EBU | 1 |
Input, Stereo RCA | 1 |
Output, Stereo RCA | 1 |
Output, Stereo XLR | 1 |
Output, Headphone | 4.4 mm balanced |
Audio decoding | DSD64 / 2.8 MHz, DSD128 / 5.6 MHz, DSD256 / 11.2 MHz, DSD512 / 22.5 MHz, DSD1024 / 49.2 MHz, DXD |
Supported sample rates, kHz | 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352, 384, 768 |
Supported bit depth | 16 bit, 24 bit, 32 bit |
Audio chipset (DAC) | T+A True 1-bit / 8 x 32-bit Burr Brown |
Upsampling | Yes |
Oversampling | Yes |
In the box | Remote control, Power cable, Users guide |