NuPrime Evolution DAC-2 Digital-to-Analog Converter

Nine Ways In, and a Preamp on the Way Out

The NuPrime Evolution DAC 2 is built around two ES9038Q2M converters, one decoding each channel independently. That is dual-mono in the literal sense, and it is the reason the back panel can be as crowded as it is without the two channels interfering.

Count the inputs: USB, two coaxial, two optical, AES/EBU, two I2S and an extension port. Almost nothing in a modern rack has to be unplugged to make room for something else.

The Volume Control Is a Real One

NuPrime calls this a reference-class preamp and backs it with the parts: MUSES8820 op-amps and a MUSES72320V electronic volume control working as a resistance ladder. That combination is what lets the Evolution drive a power amplifier directly without a preamplifier in between.

Output voltage is generous with it. The RCA pair delivers 4Vrms and the balanced XLRs 8Vrms, with output impedance under 50 ohms, so even a long run to a monoblock is comfortably within reach.

Each Input Takes What It Can Carry

USB is the widest road: PCM from 44.1kHz to 768kHz, with DSD512 on Windows and DoP256 on a Mac. The AES/EBU and first coaxial inputs handle PCM to 384kHz with MQA, and the optical inputs to 192kHz.

I2S, for When the Transport Supports It

Two I2S inputs handle PCM to 384kHz and DSD256. I2S keeps clock and data on separate lines instead of recovering the clock from the data stream, which is why transports that offer it usually sound best through it.

The measurements are what you would hope for at this level. Signal-to-noise is better than 110dB, distortion below 0.0005%, and frequency response holds within 0.3dB. The chassis is 430mm wide, 375 deep and 57 tall, at 5.2kg.

Who Is This DAC Best For?

• Your rack has outgrown most DACs — nine inputs including two I2S mean the streamer, the transport, the television and the computer all stay connected at once.
• You want to lose the preamplifier — a MUSES ladder volume control and 8V balanced output drive a power amp directly, so that box and its cables come out.
• You own a transport with an I2S output — two of them are fitted, which is rare, and it is the connection that keeps clocking where it belongs.
• Your library runs to the extremes — PCM to 768kHz and DSD512 over USB mean nothing gets downconverted on the way in.
• If you listen in headphones, budget for an amplifier — the Evolution DAC 2 is line level only, with no headphone socket. Pair it with one of our Headphone Amplifiers and the RCA output feeds it directly.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Computer on USB, streamer on AES/EBU, a compatible transport on I2S, and the television and disc player across the optical and coaxial inputs. Run balanced XLR to your power amplifier where you can, and use the volume control as the system's own. Nothing else needs to sit in the signal path.

One box, and the front end is settled.

Pairs Well With

Building a system around the Evolution DAC 2? These are the natural companions:

• Music Streamer: Puts your library on the AES/EBU or coaxial input — see our Music Streamers.
• Interconnects: Balanced XLR cables to use the 8V output — see our Interconnect Cables.
• Headphone Amplifier: The box the line outputs are looking for — see our Headphone Amplifiers.
• Audio Rack: A settled home for a busy back panel — see our Audio Racks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which digital inputs does it have?

USB, two coaxial, two optical, AES/EBU, two I2S and an extension port. Nine in total.

What does the USB input support?

PCM from 44.1kHz to 768kHz, with DSD512 on Windows and DoP256 on macOS.

Which inputs decode MQA?

The coaxial, optical and AES/EBU inputs. The coaxial and AES inputs handle PCM to 384kHz alongside it.

Can it replace my preamplifier?

Yes. The MUSES72320V volume control and 8V balanced output are designed to drive a power amplifier or active speakers directly.

What are the output voltages?

4Vrms from the unbalanced RCA outputs and 8Vrms from the balanced XLRs, with output impedance under 50 ohms.

See It in Action

Stjernholm Reviews spends time with the Evolution 2:

Why Audio Advisor?

• 40+ Years of Expertise — Since 1981, we've helped over a million music lovers find the right gear.
• 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Take your time. Listen, enjoy, and make sure it's right for you.
• Real Experts, Real Help — Our team is here to answer your questions at 800-942-0220, weekdays 9am–6pm EST.
• Free Shipping — On orders over $49, delivered to your door.
• Flexible Payment Options — Financing available so you can start listening now.

Learn More

Want to learn more about DACs, I2S connections, or running a system without a preamplifier? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.