Cayin iDAC-8 Dual Timbre DAC

Name: Cayin iDAC-8 Dual Timbre DAC
SKU: iDAC-8
Availability: InStock

$2,799.00 inc GST

The Cayin iDAC-8 Dual Timbre DAC is a high-performance digital-to-analogue converter designed for audiophiles who want exceptional decoding performance combined with the ability to tailor the character of their system.

Featuring a flagship AKM DAC chipset and selectable tube or solid-state output modes, the iDAC-8 delivers both precision and musicality in a compact, beautifully engineered desktop component.

Choose Colour:

Black

Silver

⭐ 1,800+ verified reviews on the products we sell, not just our store

Real feedback from real buyers, across the exact products you’re considering. Read the latest reviews.

💲 Shop with Price Confidence

We’ll match the delivered price on a competitor’s website for most items. To request a price match, please contact us by 092744515 or [email protected]. Items must be identical to what Rapallo sells and be in stock at Rapallo or the manufacturer for immediate shipping. We reserve the right to decline to match a price at anytime.

🎓 Need help choosing? Talk to a Rapallo AV expert

Our customers tell us that they count on our team for more than just knowledge: they’re always friendly & ready to help with all their questions. Contact our team CJ, Bensan or Toki on 092744515 or via [email protected]

SKU: iDAC-8 Categories: Rapallo, Audio Systems, HiFi Components, DAC EAN: 6957914911875 GTIN / EAN / UPC: 6957914911875 Brand: Cayin Audio

Description
Product Size & Weight

Description

About the Cayin iDAC-8 Dual Timbre DAC

The Cayin iDAC-8 Dual Timbre DAC really stands out because it lets you tailor the sound of your system.

With the press of a button you can switch between vacuum tube timbre and solid-state timbre, giving you the option of warm, musical analogue character or a more neutral and precise presentation depending on the music and system pairing.

Built around a fully balanced architecture and high-resolution decoding capability, the iDAC-8 supports PCM up to 32-bit / 768kHz and native DSD512, ensuring compatibility with modern high-resolution streaming services and digital music libraries.

What we particularly like is the engineering behind the DAC stage. Cayin uses AKM’s flagship AK4191 + dual AK4499EX architecture, with each DAC chip operating in mono mode for improved channel separation and detail retrieval.

The result is a DAC that delivers a spacious soundstage, excellent dynamics and exceptional clarity when paired with a quality amplifier and speakers.

Download Manual >> View Cayin Products >>

Frequently Asked Questions

What DAC chip does the Cayin iDAC-8 use?
The DAC uses AKM’s AK4191 digital modulator combined with dual AK4499EX DAC chips, operating in mono mode for improved performance.
What does “Dual Timbre” mean on the iDAC-8?
It means you can switch between vacuum tube and solid-state analogue output stages, allowing you to tailor the sound signature of your system.
Does the Cayin iDAC-8 support high-resolution audio?
Yes. It supports PCM up to 32-bit / 768kHz and native DSD512 playback.
Can the iDAC-8 be used as a preamplifier?
Yes. The DAC includes a variable output mode, allowing it to function as a preamp for power amplifiers or active speakers.
What systems is the Cayin iDAC-8 best suited for?
It works beautifully in high-end headphone systems, digital Hi-Fi setups and streaming-based music systems.

What the Experts Say

Headfonics – they note that the iDAC-8 improves on Cayin’s earlier designs with a more natural and spacious sound signature, reflecting Cayin’s evolving house sound.
Son-Vidéo – When paired with matching Cayin components, the iDAC-8 delivers dynamic, detailed sound with excellent transparency and clarity across the frequency range.

Features

Ideal For

High-resolution digital Hi-Fi systems
Audiophile streaming setups
Premium headphone listening systems

Dual Timbre Output Modes

The iDAC-8 allows you to switch between vacuum tube and solid-state analogue output stages, letting you customise the sound signature of your system.

Flagship AKM DAC Architecture

The DAC uses AK4191 digital modulator with dual AK4499EX DAC chips operating in mono mode for improved performance and channel separation.

Fully Balanced Circuit Design

A fully balanced analogue architecture helps minimise noise while preserving detail and dynamic range.

High-Resolution Audio Support

Supports PCM up to 32-bit / 768kHz and DSD512, making it suitable for modern high-resolution music libraries and streaming platforms.

Integrated Pre-Amplifier Mode

The DAC can operate as either a fixed line-level output or variable pre-amp, allowing it to drive power amplifiers or active speakers directly.

Premium Power Supply

A 45W toroidal transformer with extensive capacitor filtering ensures clean and stable power delivery for the analogue and digital stages.

Specifications

Brand: Cayin
Model: iDAC-8
Product Type: Dual Timbre DAC / Preamplifier

DAC Architecture:

AK4191 Digital Modulator
Dual AK4499EX DAC chips (mono mode)

Supported Formats:

PCM up to 32-bit / 768kHz
DSD64 – DSD512

Output Modes:

Vacuum tube timbre
Solid-state timbre

Analog Outputs:

Balanced XLR
RCA stereo

Digital Inputs:

USB Audio
AES/EBU
Optical
Coaxial (RCA / BNC)
I²S HDMI

Volume Control: NJW1195AV analog volume control

Display: 3.12-inch OLED screen

Power Supply: 45W toroidal transformer

Dimensions: approx. 270 × 215 × 70 mm
Weight: approx. 4.6 kg

MPN: IDAC-8
SKU: Cayin-IDAC8

EAN / UPC / GTIN: 6957914911875

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 amplifier matching
✔ Carefully curated range of premium Hi-Fi components
✔ Free NZ shipping on orders over $299