A Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) is composed of three crucial elements: an input stage, a digital-to-analog conversion stage, and an output stage.

Traditionally, DACs have relied on off-the-shelf chips from a handful of manufacturers, prioritizing the customization of the analog output stage to achieve the ‘house sound’. This approach is akin to seasoning a pre-prepared dish before serving it to guests.

We recognized that true steps forward can be taken in reimagining the digital-to-analog conversion process itself. By focusing on selecting the finest ingredients and refining our own cooking techniques, we set out to revisit DAC technology.

Our quest led us to develop a proprietary, state-of-the-art quasi non-oversampling scheme, leveraging cutting-edge signal processing methods. This unique approach utilizes a dual-mono, 27-bit differential resistor ladder, featuring over 430 precision resistors with a remarkable 0.01% tolerance.

Using a listening panel of musicians and seasoned audio enthusiasts, we identified timing precision as paramount to achieving exceptional tone, spatiality, and inner detail. By implementing comprehensive jitter rejection mechanisms and re-clocking all inputs, our DAC design retains the utmost fidelity to the original music.

Remarkably, the conversion engine operates as a self-sufficient voltage source, eliminating the need for a traditional analog output stage. This represents an unprecedentedly short signal path and the result defies expectations.

The Model II is the answer to a persisting question: what happens as power delivery approaches perfection?

The Model II physically separates the power supply, uses three custom transformers to feed three individual power channels, and employs just short of two thousand Farad of filtering capacitance. That is over two-hundred thousand times the usual values used for these voltages. While the care in implementation needs to be great, the result is a better, cleaner window into the music.

At the heart of our ethos is a reverence for the act of listening to music, coupled with a commitment to integrity often elusive in modern digital components. With industrial design by architect Inês Moreira and designer Miguel Moreira of IM Collective, the Galle DAC's minimalist and timeless chassis represents a departure from the mundane, mass-produced, and impersonal designs prevalent in the industry.

Crafted from robust sand-cast aluminum and bronze, the Galle DAC exudes a distinctive texture and finish, achieved with minimal intervention and machining. Each piece is unique as the small differences in the millenary casting process are not removed or hidden.

The result is truly liberating: the Galle DAC simply exists. Free from superfluous buttons and small screens, multicolored lights, or convoluted menus, it offers a pure connection between you and your music.

Internally, the Galle DAC boasts three oversized regulated linear power supplies, each fueled by an equally oversized and meticulously shielded transformer. The filtering stage employs state of the art super capacitors and off-line control logic to ensure smooth operation on power on/off. Every element rests upon an engineered cork and rubber composite with exceptional mechanical damping properties. The internal wiring comprises premium tinned copper, chosen for its neutrality.

On the rear panels, you'll find a fused IEC power connector and a set of top-tier Neutrik signal connectors. The panel is customizable with a selection of over 50 sustainably sourced wood veneers, meticulously sealed with beeswax and oil for a classic finish.

Power between the supply and signal chassis is delivered via three individual power lines, with an XLR type connector. Our power umbilicals are shielded, with a mix of pure raw cotton and pvc over tinned copper, providing a perfect mechanical and electric connection.

The massive bronze top is a damped inverted pendulum. It sits gently suspended by a viscoelastic polymer adhesive, providing exceptional vibration damping throughout the chassis. Complementing this, the bronze base ensures a robust connection to any surface while facilitating seamless stacking of Galle units. Every surface is hand waxed with a polycrystalline compound, safeguarding against staining and corrosion.

The massive metal body acts as a shield, safeguarding the internal components from external interference, ensuring operation free from environmental noise.

1xUSB input: up to DSD256, PCM 384KHz, 24bit

1xSPDIF (RCA) input: PCM 192KHz, 24bit

1x pair single ended RCA outputs

1x pair balanced XLR outputs

35cm x 35cm x 12cm / 13.7″ x 13.7″ x 4.7″ (w x d x h)

49 lbs. / 22 kg