Dartzeel LHC-208 Integrated Amp/DAC

[cmalak]

Here's a quick description from Michael Lavorgna of Audiostram.com at the CES: darTZeel LHC-208 Integrated Streaming Amplifier | AudioStream

darTZeel introduced their new LHC-208 Integrated Streaming Amplifier ($13,000) that combines a 200wpc integrated amp with a network player. There are 4 analog and 6 digital inputs as well as a headphone amp and integrated TFT touch screen. The LHC-208 can handle up to 24/384 PCM and 2x DSD data.

At $13K, looks quite reasonably priced for what is offered. Do we know if this is Class A/B output or Class D? Also, it would be interesting to get details on the on-board DAC and if it's modularized in order to sustain upgradability in the future?

From what I gather the specs are:

200wpc into 8ohms
300wpc into 4ohms
325wpc into 2ohms

Analog Inputs: 1 BNC, 3 RCA
Digital Inputs: 1 RJ45 Ethernet Network, 1 USB, 2 RCA, 2 Toslink Optical
Analog Outputs: 1 headphone output jack
Remote: via PC or Tablet, optional separate remote available

DAC: Supports up to 24/352.8 on PCM and up to 2XDSD (not clear whether all didgital inputs are 24/352.8 capable, presumably only USB is DSD capable)

That's a lot of machine for $13K. Anyone know timing on this? This could be the perfect slim down and get best of both world's: great SQ in a one-box solution with ability to drive most speakers comfortably (not all given that it does not double down into 4 and 2 ohms but still).

[jdandy]

Cyril.......The darTZeel LHC-208 integrated amp/DAC is quite a package at that price point and will no doubt appeal to many folks looking for topnotch performance from a single box audio component. The only perceived issue I see with darTZeel is Geneva, Switzerland is a long way from the U.S.A. if a problem arises requiring it to be returned to the factory.

[cmalak]

Originally Posted by jdandy

Cyril.......The darTZeel LHC-208 integrated amp/DAC is quite a package at that price point and will no doubt appeal to many folks looking for topnotch performance from a single box audio component. The only perceived issue I see with darTZeel is Geneva, Switzerland is a long way from the U.S.A. if a problem arises requiring it to be returned to the factory.

Dan...agreed but that is likely the same issue with any non-US brand unless these brands have established after-market service and support here in the US (i.e., established a network of audio technicians approved to work on their equipment). Not sure if darTeel through their US importer, Jonathan Tinn of Blue Light Audio (also represents Evolution Acoustic speakers, Playback Design digital sources, and Wave Kinetic turntables) have done so or not

[Portugal]

It's an interesting product.
I still have mixed feelings regarding the looks. Probably better looking in person.

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by Portugal

It's an interesting product.
I still have mixed feelings regarding the looks. Probably better looking in person.

Pedro.......I'm with you on the looks. I realize the red and gold are darTZeel's signature colors like the black glass face plate is McIntosh's signature, but I have not warmed up to the darTZeel colors yet.

[asiufy]

AFAIK, delivery is mid-2014.
And it's class A/B, not D. Actually it's a scaled-down CTH-8550.

And it was sounding great in Las Vegas!

alexandre

[Cucumber_Jones]

This looks like a great unit at a fantastic price!

[bmichels]

I have great interest for the HC-208 integrated amp/DAC, but... I don't see any analog out to feed an external AMP !

Indeed, I would like to use the HC-208 DAC part to feed my Tube Headphone Amp Eddie Current 445.

Is it possible ?

[jdandy]

Looks like the DarTZell LHC-208 output stage transistors use a liquid cooled heat sink arrangement. I am surprised to find no official audio publication reviews yet.

[Car commander]

My dart amp was first quality. I doubt they go back much.