Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 Tube Dac

Description

About the Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 Tube Dac

At Rapallo, the Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 is a standout DAC for customers who want the ability to shape their sound.

The selectable tube or solid-state output stage allows you to switch between a warm, organic tube character and a more precise, neutral solid-state presentation depending on your system and musical preferences.

With support for high-resolution PCM and DSD formats, balanced outputs and a beautifully engineered analogue stage, the Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 becomes a powerful digital source for streaming systems, headphone setups and two-channel Hi-Fi systems.

What makes the iDAC-6 MK2 particularly appealing is its versatility. Whether you’re pairing it with a headphone amplifier, integrated amplifier or high-resolution streamer, it delivers excellent detail, spacious imaging and musical engagement. For listeners who enjoy experimenting with sound character while maintaining serious digital performance, this DAC is a superb choice.

 

Download Manual

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes the Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 different from other DACs?
   The DAC features both tube and solid-state output stages, allowing listeners to choose between different sound signatures.
2. What audio formats does the iDAC-6 MK2 support?
   It supports high-resolution PCM up to 768kHz / 32-bit and native DSD512 playback.
3. Can the Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 connect to balanced systems?
   Yes. It includes balanced XLR outputs, making it suitable for fully balanced Hi-Fi systems.
4. Does the iDAC-6 MK2 work with headphone amplifiers?
   Yes. It pairs perfectly with headphone amplifiers such as the Cayin IHA-6.
5. Is the Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 good for high-resolution streaming systems?
   Yes. Its advanced DAC architecture and high-resolution support make it an excellent choice for modern digital music systems.

 

What the Experts Say

• Head-Fi – praise the iDAC-6 MK2 for its excellent flexibility and refined analogue stage, highlighting the ability to switch between tube warmth and solid-state precision.
• HiFi Pig – The DAC is noted for its rich musical presentation, strong dynamics and impressive digital decoding performance, making it a versatile choice for serious Hi-Fi systems.

 

Features

Ideal For

• High-resolution streaming systems
• Two-channel Hi-Fi setups
• Audiophile digital playback

Selectable Tube or Solid-State Output

The iDAC-6 MK2 features both vacuum tube and solid-state analogue output stages, allowing users to switch between different sound signatures.

Dual DAC Architecture

Two high-performance DAC chips are used in a dual-mono configuration, improving channel separation and audio accuracy.

High-Resolution Audio Support

Supports PCM up to 768kHz / 32-bit and native DSD512, ensuring compatibility with the highest resolution music formats.

Fully Balanced Circuit Design

Balanced XLR outputs and a symmetrical circuit design improve signal integrity and reduce noise.

High-Quality Analogue Stage

Carefully designed analogue circuitry delivers detailed, natural sound with excellent dynamic range.

Wide Range of Digital Inputs

Multiple digital inputs allow connection to streamers, computers, CD transports and other digital sources.

 

The DAC Chip

The Cayin iDAC-6 MK2 Tube DAC uses the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC chipset.

DAC chip details

• DAC Chip: ESS ES9028PRO
• Type: High-end delta-sigma DAC from ESS Technology
• Architecture: Used in a dual-mono configuration for improved channel separation and lower noise.

What this chip is known for

The ES9028PRO is a premium Sabre DAC chip designed for high-resolution audio systems and supports:

• PCM up to 32-bit / 768 kHz
• Native DSD up to DSD512
• Very high dynamic range and low distortion performance.

Interesting design feature in the iDAC-6 MK2

The DAC combines this modern ESS chip with two selectable analogue output stages:

• Vacuum tube output for warmer sound
• Solid-state output for more neutral and precise playback.

✔ This hybrid approach is why the iDAC-6 MK2 is popular in audiophile systems, as it blends modern digital accuracy with classic tube tonality.

 

Specifications

Brand: Cayin
Model: iDAC-6 MK2
Product Type: Tube DAC

DAC Architecture: Dual DAC design

Supported Formats:

• PCM up to 768kHz / 32-bit
• DSD up to DSD512

Output Modes:

• Vacuum tube output stage
• Solid-state output stage

Analogue Outputs:

• Balanced XLR
• RCA stereo

Digital Inputs:

• USB
• Optical
• Coaxial
• AES/EBU

Headphone Output:

• 6.35mm headphone output

Dimensions: approx. 240 × 252 × 69 mm
Weight: approx. 3.8 kg

MPN: IDAC-6MK2
SKU: Cayin-IDAC6MK2

EAN / UPC / GTIN: 6923267100420

 

Why Buy From Rapallo

✔ New Zealand Hi-Fi specialists since 2005
✔ Authorised Cayin dealer with genuine products and full manufacturer warranty
✔ Expert advice on DAC and headphone amplifier matching
✔ Free NZ shipping on orders over $299