EMM Labs (2006–2012)
A Canadian manufacturer of high-end digital audio components, including preamplifiers, DACs, and CD/SACD players.
Overview
EMM Labs, based in Calgary, Canada, produced a line of premium audio equipment centered around digital playback and conversion. The brand is associated with models such as the PRE and PREi preamplifiers, the DAC2X and DA2 DACs, and the XDS1 and CDSA SE CD/SACD players. These units were designed for high-resolution audio, with some models supporting 16xDSD signal processing. EMM Labs components were recognized for their extended, detailed treble and use in reference-grade systems.
Specifications
| Product type | Preamplifier, Digital-to-Analog Converter, Transport, CD/SACD Player |
| Production year (model name) | CDSD Signature, 2006 |
| Production year (model name) | DAC 2, 2009 |
| Production year (model name) | DAC 2X, 2012 |
| Original price | EMM Labs TSD1 Transport ($11,000) |
| Original price | EMM Labs DAC2X Stereo D/A Converter ($15,500) |
| Original price | XDS1 CD/SACD system ($15,500; TSDX + DAC2X: $30,000) |
| Meitner PRE S/N ratio | Better than 116 dB at 4V RMS |
| EMM Labs XDS1 outputs | Analog balanced (5V), unbalanced (2.5V), AES/EBU, Optilink |
| EMM Labs TXi Transport inputs | 16-bit / 44.1 kHz CD playback |
| EMM Labs DV2 inputs | AES/EBU XLR, S/PDIF RCA, TosLink, USB, EMM Optlink |
| Warranty | DAC2X: Five years parts and labor |
Design
The PREi features a fully discrete, dual-balanced design, built on the heritage of EMM Labs' reference preamplifier. The DA2 DAC supports 16xDSD signal processing, and the CDSA SE uses microscopically smooth copper traces to reduce skin effect. The TSD1 Transport uses the same Austrian transport mechanism as earlier models.
Context
EMM Labs developed digital audio components regarded as among the best CD/SACD playback systems. The TSD1 Transport replaced the earlier CDSD SE. Models like the XDS1 were used as transports in high-end setups, and the company offered factory updates involving complete rebuilds to current specifications. Legacy products, including discontinued models, are noted for setting industry standards.
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