c|AQWO 2 D/A Converter
Métronome’s reference D/A converter: choose between flagship AKM and ESS conversion architectures, with a dedicated external power supply and optional tube output and streaming modules. Handcrafted in France.
Key Features
- Two user-selectable conversion processors: AKM AK4499EX and ESS ES9039MPRO
- Independent conversion architectures offering two complementary sonic presentations
- Optional tube analogue output stage, selectable alongside the standard solid-state output
- USB input supporting PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit and native DSD512
- Two I²S inputs supporting PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit and native DSD256
- S/PDIF, AES/EBU and TOSLINK digital inputs
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analogue outputs
- Optional integrated high-resolution network streamer
- Seven-inch colour touchscreen with 1024 × 600 resolution
- Dedicated external linear power supply
- Designed as the matching converter for t|AQWO 2
- Available in silver and black finishes
- Hand-soldered and assembled in France
Design & Build
c|AQWO 2 places two flagship conversion platforms inside a purpose-built reference architecture. Its AKM and ESS processors operate with their own associated circuitry, allowing the listener to select the conversion character best suited to the recording, system or personal preference.
The converter and power supply occupy separate full-width enclosures, isolating sensitive clock, digital and analogue circuits from transformer noise. An optional tube output stage adds switchable valve and solid-state analogue paths. Electronic boards are hand-soldered, and every unit is assembled and tested by Métronome Technologie’s technicians in France.
System Pairing
c|AQWO 2 is the natural converter for t|AQWO 2, connected through I²S for high-resolution PCM and native DSD. Its comprehensive input array also accommodates streamers, music servers, CD transports, televisions and computers.
The balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs connect to a preamplifier or integrated amplifier. Optional tube outputs and network streaming allow the converter’s functionality and sonic presentation to be tailored to the system.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Dual-architecture D/A converter with external power supply |
| Converter / DAC | AKM AK4499EX and ESS ES9039MPRO, user-selectable |
| Dynamic range | AKM: 135 dB; ESS: 137 dB |
| THD+N | AKM: –124 dB; ESS: –122 dB |
| Digital inputs | 2 × I²S, S/PDIF, AES/EBU, TOSLINK, USB |
| I²S inputs | PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit; native DSD64–DSD256 |
| S/PDIF input | PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit; DSD64–DSD128 via DoP |
| AES/EBU input | PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit; DSD64–DSD128 via DoP |
| TOSLINK input | PCM up to 192 kHz/32-bit; DSD64 via DoP |
| USB input | PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit; native DSD64–DSD512 |
| Analogue outputs | RCA unbalanced; XLR balanced |
| Output impedance | RCA: 100 ohms; XLR: 150 ohms |
| Maximum output level | 3 V at 0 dB |
| Display | Seven-inch colour touchscreen, 1024 × 600 resolution |
| Power supply | Dedicated external linear power supply |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | Main unit: 420 × 120 × 425 mm; power supply: 420 × 85 × 425 mm |
| Weight | Main unit: 11.6 kg; power supply: 12.8 kg |
| Power consumption | 65 W; 45 W standby |
| Finish options | Silver, black |
| Optional upgrades | Analogue tube output stage; integrated network streamer |
