Antelope Audio Zodiac Platinum DSD DAC/Headphone Amp Debuts at CES

The Zodiac Platinum, features a 256X upsampling mode where DSD64 and DSD128 are upsampled to DSD256 which Antelope say will deliver new standards in accuracy, transparency, imaging, and dynamics. The new DSD DAC ships with an entirely new, second-generation Voltikus power supply and an aluminum remote control.

“We have created an algorithm that we believe is the best sounding and most authentic in reconstructing the wave using the DSD,” says Igor Levin (Antelope Audio CEO). “And the precision with which we are carrying this out is three times higher than what is typically done on the DAC chip. It is a more accurate calculation, and this is what makes the difference when you are computing the missing points.”

“Even in cases where the original material was not recorded at higher rates, we can still use the same mathematics that we use in the upsampling with the PCM in order to produce higher sample rate DSD – and that is going to make a big difference when the DSD is reconstructed,” he added. “So in a way, I would go so far as to say that we’ve created the best DSD that’s ever been built by improving it through this upsampling process.”

In addition to the custom-built USB chip capable of carrying DSD128 and up 24-bit, 384 kHz PCM files, the Zodiac Platinum boasts a wide range of connectivity options, including AES/EBU and S/PDIF I/O, a couple of TOSLINK inputs (PCM only), a set of balanced and unbalanced analog outs, as well as an unbalanced RCA input.

The Platinum is complimented with two audiophile grade headphone outputs fed by dual-stage drivers and controlled by a precision stepped relay attenuator, coming as a welcome addition to those that prefer to be immersed in a more intimate high-end audio appreciation.

Finally, the device features Antelope’s 64-bit Acoustically Focused Clocking and is also equipped with a 10MHz input for Antelope’s 10M Rubidium atomic clock.

The Zodiac Platinum, which ships with Voltikus power supply, is priced at US $5,500 / EUR 5,500, UK £4,250.