C10 Reference DAC System
Cutting-edge from Inception
The C10 Reference DAC marks the beginning of your journey to CH Precision’s ultimate digital front‑end. Built on our modular and component‑additive design ethos, this two‑piece DAC redefines what’s possible for digital systems—even in its simplest form. The C10 Reference DAC is a complete, stand‑alone converter for those seeking ultimate performance in a compact, self‑contained configuration. For those who wish to go further, its expandable architecture allows it to be precisely configured and upgraded to match the individuality of each system—and the ambition behind it. (Explore the C10 upgrade journey →)
The C10 advances CH Precision’s proven R‑2R conversion architecture to an entirely new level of refinement. Its dual‑differential DSQ™ Phase Array employs sixteen precision resistor networks—four handling each polarity per channel—directed by our proprietary PEtER algorithm, a 32‑bit fixed‑point DSP engine that prepares the signal for final 24‑bit conversion. Data is fed sequentially across the array, a topology that demands absolute timing discipline and algorithmic control. Following conversion, a CH‑engineered Bessel filter preserves the analog signal’s temporal integrity, maintaining constant group delay with a tolerance measured in femtoseconds. With oversampling extended to 64×, the C10 sets a new benchmark for time‑domain accuracy and musical naturalness.
Spline Filters and the Art of Timing
At the heart of the C10 Reference DAC lies a fundamental belief: musical realism lives in the time domain. Timbre, space, articulation, and emotion all emerge from timing relationships—subtle and complex—that digital systems often smear or diminish. The C10 Reference DAC was engineered to preserve those relationships with unprecedented precision, thanks in large part to CH Precision’s proprietary spline interpolation filter.
Even the most expensive digital converters—costing well into six figures—require the listener to choose between multiple filter options, each favouring either the suppression of pre-ringing or post-ringing artifacts, but never both. CH Precision’s spline-based approach resolves this compromise entirely, optimising both simultaneously. Developed fully in-house, our proprietary upsampling method—Polynomial Equations to Enhance Resolution, or PEtER—bypasses conventional zero-padding and low-pass filtering in favour of a more elegant solution that mirrors the way sound propagates in the real world. The result is a reconstruction that retains every original sample value while dramatically reducing the spurious energy introduced by traditional filters—energy that blurs transients, veils low-level detail, and flattens harmonic structure.
The outcome is unmistakable. You hear it in the natural decay of instruments, the bloom of harmonics, the breath behind a voice. The C10 doesn’t merely reconstruct a waveform—it restores the pulse of performance.
Differential Conversion, Perfectly Controlled
At the core of the C10 Reference DAC’s DSQ™ Phase Array architecture are sixteen precision R-2R resistor networks—eight per channel, four handling the non-inverted signal and four the inverted counterpart. Each network is fabricated on a common silicon substrate, ensuring absolute geometric and thermal consistency across all elements. This shared foundation eliminates the micro-variations in temperature and spacing that can introduce non-linear behaviour or drift over time, securing long-term stability and channel symmetry.
The entire array operates under the direct control of CH Precision’s proprietary PEtER algorithm. Beyond its role in upsampling and filtering, PEtER continuously manages the switching sequence of each ladder, balancing element use and current flow to maintain perfect dynamic equilibrium. This real-time supervision prevents the subtle mismatches that give rise to harmonic distortion and noise modulation in conventional R-2R arrays.
The result is a conversion process of extraordinary precision and coherence—one that preserves the full envelope of the signal, from the immediacy of the transient to the lingering decay. It is this combination of thermal uniformity, algorithmic control, and differential symmetry that defines the C10’s character: a digital source that marries mathematical rigour to musical naturalness.
Tailored for Your System.
Designed for Your Future.
The C10 Reference DAC’s modular architecture gives you the power to configure your digital front-end exactly the way you want it. Three identical input slots allow seamless customization to suit your system’s needs. Every C10 comes equipped with CH Precision’s proprietary Digital input HD board (DIG_HD_IN) as standard, leaving two additional slots available for easy expansion.
The C10 can be equipped with an optional Ethernet Streaming HD board, enabling high-resolution playback from networked sources via UPnP or Roon, as well as direct access to online streaming services including Qobuz, TIDAL, and Internet radio. Unlike many DACs that rely on third-party modules, CH Precision’s proprietary streaming architecture preserves signal integrity, timing precision, and musical coherence. Three additional input options via expansion boards allow users to tailor connectivity without compromising flexibility. For USB audio playback, the dedicated USB board (USB_IN) can be added. An optional Clock Board (CLOCK_SYNC) provides one clock input and two outputs via high-quality BNC connectors, enabling seamless integration with external time references, such as CH's T10 Time Reference. The third slot can also be used for an additional Digital input HD board if desired.
Together, these options transform the C10 into a truly bespoke digital hub—precisely configured to your system, your preferences, and your path forward.
Advancing the Reference:
The C10 Upgrade Journey
While the C10 Reference DAC on its own establishes the reference standard for digital-to-analog conversion, its architecture also lays the foundation for further advancement. Recognizing that absolute performance is achieved not only through exceptional engineering but also through strategic system expansion, we created a path to elevate the C10’s already state-of-the-art capabilities even further.
The first step in the upgrade path is the addition of the C10 Conductor. In this configuration, the DAC boards and analog circuitry move into a dedicated chassis, while the original unit assumes full responsibility for digital processing, source management, and clock control. The two chassis communicate via CH Precision’s ultra‑low‑noise CH‑Link interface, enabling digital tasks to be performed independently before the signal reaches the dedicated DAC stage.
With this configuration, the models' names change to reflect the new architecture: the C10 Conductor, responsible for all digital processing, and the C10 Master DAC, dedicated solely to digital‑to‑analog conversion. The C10 already galvanically isolates and separately powers its digital and analog stages, minimizing shared noise and ground interaction within a single chassis. Splitting the system simply extends this principle. By relocating all digital circuitry into its own enclosure and linking the units via the ultra‑low‑noise CH‑Link interface, each domain gains complete physical, electrical, and power isolation. This further reduces high‑frequency switching noise and ground disturbance, yielding greater low‑level resolution, tighter microdynamics, enhanced spatial definition, and more coherent musical timing.
The C10 Master DAC & The C10 Conductor:
The Architecture of Advancement
Separating the domains in this way produces clear, measurable, and audible gains. With digital activity fully contained, the analog stage operates in an even quieter electrical environment, reducing noise and jitter while improving resolution, timing accuracy, and overall realism. The C10 Conductor employs its own dedicated external power supply—the same architecture used for the C10 but assigned exclusively to the Conductor. The result is a true four‑box front end: Conductor, Conductor PSU, Master DAC, and Master DAC PSU. Each unit is powered and isolated independently, maximizing noise rejection and preserving the lowest possible noise floor.
The C10 Conductor can be purchased with the C10 Master DAC as a complete four‑chassis front end or added later via a simple field upgrade. Either route delivers identical performance, with no financial penalty for building the system in stages.
The C10 Master DAC Mono:
The Architecture of Total Power Separation
The final upgrade for the C10 Conductor and C10 Master DAC system is the addition of a second power supply dedicated to the Master DAC. This step separates the left‑ and right‑channel power feeds by moving two of the original connections from the first PSU to a newly added, identical unit. With each channel now powered independently, the Master DAC achieves full left/right electrical isolation. This refinement also increases the number of isolated ground planes from three to four, further reducing noise and improving channel separation.
The sonic benefits are immediate and musically significant: greater dynamic expression, improved image stability, and enhanced spatial resolution. These gains become even more apparent when paired with fully dual‑mono amplification systems such as CH Precision’s L10 Mono preamplifiers. At this stage, the system becomes a complete five‑chassis digital front end, requiring three power cables and delivering the C10 platform at its absolute highest level of performance.
Precision at the Core.
Progression by Design.
For listeners who value physical media, the D10 Reference Transport can be added at any stage, providing reference‑grade CD, SACD, and MQA‑CD playback via CH’s proprietary MORSE mechanism—engineered for exceptional mechanical stability and precise data retrieval.
For systems built around clock‑capable transports—such as the D10 or D1.5—or modern streamers and servers that support external reference input, adding the T10 Time Reference delivers a clear and immediate step forward. By supplying an ultra‑stable 10 MHz master reference through CH Precision’s all‑digital DPLL architecture, the T10 lowers phase noise, stabilizes long‑term timing, and improves overall temporal coherence. The result is a more focused spatial image, increased transparency, and a heightened sense of musical flow—benefits shared across every compatible source.
The CH Precision 10‑Series was conceived not as a single solution, but as a digital system—built to evolve with your system and your ambitions. That journey begins with the C10 DAC, delivering benchmark temporal accuracy, tonal purity, and musical insight even in its most essential form. Individually, each 10‑Series component is a statement of engineering; together, they form a fully integrated reference digital front end, embodying CH Precision’s core principles: sound science, precision engineering, modular expansion, and lasting relevance. The 10‑Series digital path is not about obsolescence; it is about building, refining, and elevating—step by step.
Document and Firmware Downloads
A resource built with the same precision and care that define our instruments, the CH Precision Downloads area provides access to the most recent manuals, firmware updates, spike installation guides, and product brochures. Each document reflects our engineering culture—meticulous in detail, exact in purpose, and designed to ensure that every component performs precisely as intended.
These materials are intended to support owners and partners in configuring, maintaining, and optimising their CH systems. Should you have any questions or require further assistance, we encourage you to contact your authorised CH Precision dealer or reach out directly through our Technical Support form. Our teams are committed to providing the same standard of excellence in service that we apply to our engineering—so that every listening experience remains true to the performance we envisioned.
Specifications
General
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Type: Dual-chassis digital-to-analog converter
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Options:
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Additional digital input HD board
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USB audio board
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Ethernet streaming HD board
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Clock sync board
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Upgrade path:
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Dual-mono DAC (Separate left and right power supplies, 3 chassis)
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Stereo master DAC (Separate processing unit from actual DAC, 4 chassis)
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Dual mono master DAC (5 chassis)
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Reference clock (T10)
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Color: Silver (standard), Anthracite or Champagne (option)
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Dimensions: 440 x 440 x 133 mm (W x D x H), all units (DAC, Conductor, Power Supply)
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Weight: 20kg (DAC, conductor) + 23kg (power supply)
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Operating conditions: 5°C<T<35°C, 5%<humidity<85% no condensation
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Power supply: Selectable 100V, 115V or 230V AC, 47Hz to 63Hz
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Power consumption: <0.5W standby, 120W max in operation
User interface
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Display: 800 x 480 pixels, 24 bit RGB AMOLED
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Control: 5-button interface, Infrared remote control, Android app (iOS app to be released)
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Firmware update: via USB flash drive or the Internet
Digital input
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Type:
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1x CH Link HD, 1x AES/EBU (XLR), 1x S/PDIF (RCA), 1x S/PDIF (TOSLINK) per Digital input board (1x standard)
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1x USB type B per USB input board (optional)
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1x RJ-45 on Streaming HD input board (optional)
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Sampling rate:
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CH Link HD: PCM 44.1kHz to 768kHz, DSD 2.8224MHz to 22.5792MHz
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S/PDIF, AES/EBU: PCM 44.1kHz to 192kHz, DSD 2.8224MHz (DoP format)
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Ethernet: PCM 44.1kHz to 768kHz, DSD 2.8224MHz to 22.5792MHz
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USB: PCM 44.1kHz to 384kHz, DSD 2.8224MHz to 5.6448MHz (DoP format)
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Bit depth: PCM 16 to 32 bit, DSD 1 bit
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MQA: Full MQA decoding (unfolding and rendering) at 24bit/352.8-384kHz
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File Format:
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PCM: WAV, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC, AAC and MP3
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DSD: DSF and DFF
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Services:
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Local: UpnP/DLNA, Roon ready, Audirvana compatible
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Streaming: Qobuz connect, Tidal connect, Web radio
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DAC
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Conversion type: DSQ R-2R, 24 bit / 2.8224 MHz, 8 DAC per channel
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Upsampling filter: Proprietary ultra-short, low-ringing, time-optimized, synchronous, 32-bit fixed-point PEtER algorithm
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Clocking option: clock master or synchronization to reference clock or optical disc transport
Analog Output
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Type: 1x Balanced XLR, 1x single-ended RCA per channel
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Level: High (5VRMS), Mid (2.5VRMS) or Low (1VRMS) on RCA output (twice as much on XLR output), user selectable
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Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise: <0.003% (@ 20Hz-20kHz, A-weighted)
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Bandwidth: DC to 155kHz (-3dB)
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Signal-to-noise ratio (@ 20Hz-20kHz, A-weighted):
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>121dB, High output level
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>120dB, Mid output level
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>117dB, Low output level
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Noise (on XLR output):
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<9μVRMS, High output level
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<5μVRMS, Mid output level
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<3μVRMS, Low output level
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A Platform for Discovery.
A Portal to Music.
The C10 DAC stands as a state‑of‑the‑art digital converter—an apex of CH Precision’s engineering, time‑domain research, and conversion architecture. But its significance extends beyond its stand‑alone performance. The C10 is the foundation of a digital system designed to grow, evolve, and elevate in ways no fixed design can.
Every stage of the C10 upgrade path builds on that foundation. Each addition—the Conductor, the T10 Reference Clock, the second C10 Power Supply—enhances the system not by replacing parts, but by extending the C10’s inherent strengths. The result is an additive, time‑aligned architecture in which every component reinforces the precision, stability, and musical coherence established by the C10 DAC itself.
From its proprietary spline‑based filter to its rigorously isolated power architecture, the C10 is engineered to preserve temporal integrity and reveal the full expressive depth of recorded music. Integrated into the complete 10‑Series front end, it offers a listening experience defined not by technical spectacle, but by emotional connection, spatial realism, and enduring relevance.
In a world of fleeting formats and constant change, the C10 system stands apart. It is built to endure, to evolve, and to inspire—today and in the years ahead.