Oriolus has recently announced the availability of their innovative OA-JC3 USB DAC and OA-JC5 headphone amplifier kits for pre-order. Tailored for audiophiles and tech enthusiasts, these devices promise a rich, warm sound experience powered by vacuum tube technology. What sets them apart is the fact that they are designed for easy assembly, making them an attractive option even for those new to DIY electronics.
The OA-JC3 DAC is a standout with its use of a resistive ladder network and a 12AU7 dual-triode vacuum tube, which expertly converts digital signals to analog audio. This USB-C DAC is versatile, supporting a range of music codecs from MP3 to DSD, MQA, and PCM. It provides a crisp audio output across a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 KHz, ensuring your favorite tunes are delivered with clarity and depth. The DAC also features a commendable signal-to-noise ratio of 83 dB and maintains low distortion for a clean listening experience.
Meanwhile, the OA-JC5 amplifier enhances audio with its use of both a 12AU7 vacuum tube and powerful transistors. This combination yields a comprehensive frequency response from 10 Hz to 80 KHz and an impressive signal-to-noise ratio of 90 dB. Designed to accommodate headphones with varying impedance from 8 to 600 ohms, it also offers adjustable gain, allowing listeners to customize their audio experience further.
For power, both kits need an external USB-C power supply compatible with USB PD, ideally rated at 20V 2.5A for optimal performance. Priced at 28,600 yen (about $190) for the OA-JC3 DAC and 24,200 yen (around $160) for the OA-JC5 amp, these kits are currently available for pre-order through Cyras Direct in Japan, with a release date set for October 21, 2024.
For those who enjoy the challenges of DIY electronics but want to forego the soldering iron, these Oriolus kits present an accessible and rewarding project. Offering both technical innovation and superior audio quality, they’re a must-have for tech-savvy music lovers looking to enhance their listening setup.
