The Story
FSA 24Bit 192Khz Asynchronous USB DAC ILOVETW
Firestone Audio's I Love Taiwan 24 Bit / 192 kHz Asynchronous-capable USB DAC delivers audiophile quality music via USB with performance capabilities up to 24 Bit /192 kHz. At the heart of the ILTW is the highly regarded Wolfson's WM8740 DAC chip set with a host of other high quality components makes the ILTW DAC an outstanding value at just $367.
The ILTW DAC is capable of performing in both Adaptive and Asynchronous USB transfer modes with Adaptive as factory default setting. An internal jumper setting switches between the two modes and Asynchronous mode requires special drivers. Upsampling selectable to 96kHz or 192kHz. Additional i2s over RJ-45 also provided.
High-Resolution Audio Support
The DAC supports audio formats up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution via its USB input, which was a significant feature at its time of release.
Asynchronous USB Mode
It can operate in asynchronous USB mode, allowing the DAC to take control of the data flow and manage the timing with its internal clock. This is crucial for reducing jitter (timing errors) and achieving optimal sound quality with high-resolution files. A switch inside the case allows for a change to adaptive mode if needed.
LED Indicators
The front panel includes a series of LEDs that indicate the sample rate of the incoming audio, from 16-bit 44kHz right up to 24-bit 192kHz.
Compact "Cute Series" Design
The unit belongs to Firestone's "Cute Series," featuring a small, dinky chassis (approx. 10cm x 8cm x 5cm), making it easy to integrate into a desktop setup or tuck away out of sight. The robust chassis is made of solid extruded aluminum.
Input/Output Connections
- Inputs: It is an exclusively USB-focused DAC, though it also includes an i2S input, a less common connection for potential future equipment expansion.
- Outputs: It provides a standard stereo analog RCA output for connecting to a home stereo system or separate headphone amplifier.
Simple Operation
It requires no additional software or drivers for standard operation on some systems (though specific drivers might be needed for asynchronous mode on certain Windows versions)
Specifications
Amplifier Structure: Low pass filter with 2Vrms output
Power Structure: High frequency switching DC-DC regulator
USB Support Format:16 Bit : 44.1kHz / 48kHz / 88.2kHz / 96kHz / 176.4kHz / 192kHz, 24 Bit : 44.1kHz / 48kHz / 88.2kHz / 96kHz / 176.4kHz / 192kHz
Digital Interface: Direct I2S data format transmission (MAX support up to 192kHz-24bit over 1 meter CAT-5E cable)
Operation Mode: Support Adaptive and Asynchronous mode for audio stream transmission
Circuit Protect: Output short / over current protect
DAC Chip: WOLFSON - WM8740
USB Chip: TENOR - TE8802
LPF OP: NS - LM4562
Audio Performance: 1kHz sine wave, 2Vrms output, 24-bit / 48kHz) USB Input
dB-Weighed Frequency response (From 40Hz to 15kHz): 40Hz +0.02dB, 15kHz -0.12dB
Total frequency response: from < 20Hz till far over 20khz
Noise level (1kHz, A-Weighted): -106.7dB
Dynamic range (1kHz, A-Weighted): 106.7dB
THD%: 0.012%
Stereo crosstalk: -102.7dB
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Description
FSA 24Bit 192Khz Asynchronous USB DAC ILOVETW
Firestone Audio's I Love Taiwan 24 Bit / 192 kHz Asynchronous-capable USB DAC delivers audiophile quality music via USB with performance capabilities up to 24 Bit /192 kHz. At the heart of the ILTW is the highly regarded Wolfson's WM8740 DAC chip set with a host of other high quality components makes the ILTW DAC an outstanding value at just $367.
The ILTW DAC is capable of performing in both Adaptive and Asynchronous USB transfer modes with Adaptive as factory default setting. An internal jumper setting switches between the two modes and Asynchronous mode requires special drivers. Upsampling selectable to 96kHz or 192kHz. Additional i2s over RJ-45 also provided.
High-Resolution Audio Support
The DAC supports audio formats up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution via its USB input, which was a significant feature at its time of release.
Asynchronous USB Mode
It can operate in asynchronous USB mode, allowing the DAC to take control of the data flow and manage the timing with its internal clock. This is crucial for reducing jitter (timing errors) and achieving optimal sound quality with high-resolution files. A switch inside the case allows for a change to adaptive mode if needed.
LED Indicators
The front panel includes a series of LEDs that indicate the sample rate of the incoming audio, from 16-bit 44kHz right up to 24-bit 192kHz.
Compact "Cute Series" Design
The unit belongs to Firestone's "Cute Series," featuring a small, dinky chassis (approx. 10cm x 8cm x 5cm), making it easy to integrate into a desktop setup or tuck away out of sight. The robust chassis is made of solid extruded aluminum.
Input/Output Connections
- Inputs: It is an exclusively USB-focused DAC, though it also includes an i2S input, a less common connection for potential future equipment expansion.
- Outputs: It provides a standard stereo analog RCA output for connecting to a home stereo system or separate headphone amplifier.
Simple Operation
It requires no additional software or drivers for standard operation on some systems (though specific drivers might be needed for asynchronous mode on certain Windows versions)
Specifications
Amplifier Structure: Low pass filter with 2Vrms output
Power Structure: High frequency switching DC-DC regulator
USB Support Format:16 Bit : 44.1kHz / 48kHz / 88.2kHz / 96kHz / 176.4kHz / 192kHz, 24 Bit : 44.1kHz / 48kHz / 88.2kHz / 96kHz / 176.4kHz / 192kHz
Digital Interface: Direct I2S data format transmission (MAX support up to 192kHz-24bit over 1 meter CAT-5E cable)
Operation Mode: Support Adaptive and Asynchronous mode for audio stream transmission
Circuit Protect: Output short / over current protect
DAC Chip: WOLFSON - WM8740
USB Chip: TENOR - TE8802
LPF OP: NS - LM4562
Audio Performance: 1kHz sine wave, 2Vrms output, 24-bit / 48kHz) USB Input
dB-Weighed Frequency response (From 40Hz to 15kHz): 40Hz +0.02dB, 15kHz -0.12dB
Total frequency response: from < 20Hz till far over 20khz
Noise level (1kHz, A-Weighted): -106.7dB
Dynamic range (1kHz, A-Weighted): 106.7dB
THD%: 0.012%
Stereo crosstalk: -102.7dB
