M20 - Q. What DAC chip is used? Does the analogue input get digitised and run through the DSP engine before being converted back to analogue?
Answer:
There is no DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter) as such as the M20 amplifier operates in the digital domain. Digital input signals are acquired by a digital multiplexer, which then routes them directly to a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) for equalisation. The DSP applies equalisation according to the set room position and sets the listening volume. The resultant digital signals are then formatted by the DSP into bitstreams that will be boosted by a separate high power bridge to directly drive the speakers. There is no requirement in this signal path for any down-conversion of digital signals into an analogue format or for a traditional D/A converter. Analogue signals are digitally encoded at the input of the amplifier, then follow the same path as digital signals through the digital domain to the speaker.