Aqua Acoustic Quality - La Scala MkIII - DAC / D/A Converter

The La Scala MkIII takes Aqua’s renowned musical approach to digital playback and pushes it even further with major advancements in both analog and digital performance. Built around Aqua’s proprietary Optologic R2R conversion system and a newly developed PIBU analog module, the MkIII delivers exceptional realism, tonal richness, and effortless musical flow.

What makes the La Scala MkIII especially engaging is how naturally it presents music. The hybrid valve/MOSFET Class A output stage combines warmth, texture, and dimensionality with outstanding control and speed, while the capacitor-free analog output stage improves transparency and dynamic expression. Backgrounds remain quiet and spacious, allowing instruments and vocals to emerge with convincing depth and emotional weight.

With its modular architecture, advanced FPGA-based decoding, and carefully refined power supply design, the La Scala MkIII offers a deeply immersive listening experience that feels organic rather than digital. It’s a DAC built for listeners who value musical connection as much as technical performance.

Available in Satin Silver or Satin Black finishes.

FEATURES

• Proprietary Optologic D/A Conversion System
• Pure R2R Ladder FPGA-Based Architecture Without Digital Filter
• Galvanic and Magnetic Isolation Between FPGA and R2R Ladder Converter
• Discrete R2R Ladder DACs with Low Noise Precision Resistors
• Jitter Free AQlink (I2S Protocol) Digital Interface
• Zero S/PDIF Jitter Design with PLL Technology
• High-Performance AQ Discrete Regulator Power Supply
• Valve-MOSFET Direct Coupled Analog Stage in Pure Class A Without Negative Feedback
• PIBU (Pilot Buffer) Analog Module
• Capacitor-Free Analog Output Stage
• High Output Current Capability
• MOSFET Virtual Battery Circuit for Analog Anode Supply
• Soft-Start Power Up for Extended Tube Life
• etherCON RJ45 AQlink Input Connection Compatible with CAT6 Cable
• 2 Separate Low Noise Double C-Core Power Transformers
• Upgradeable Modular Multi-Board System
• Regulated DC Filament Supplies with Soft Start for Tubes
• Fully Discrete Analog Stage with No Op-Amps
• Proprietary USB Firmware and Driver Architecture
• USB Asynchronous Native Support for Apple Mac OS and Linux OS
• Upgradeable Asynchronous USB Module
• Digital Phase Selector on Front Panel
• 105° Long Life Capacitors
• Low Noise Metal Foil Ultra-Precision Resistors
• Double Metallized Film Pulse Capacitors
• Ultra-Fast Diodes
• Halogen Free Internal Cabling
• Aluminium Anti-Resonant Cabinet with Nextel Finish
• Designed and Handmade in Italy
• New FPGA Driving Circuits for Improved Digital Performance
• Hybrid Valve / MOSFET Circuitry
• Upgradeable Legacy Platform Design

SPECIFICATIONS

• Digital to Analog Conversion Type: Proprietary Optologic D/A Conversion System
• DAC Architecture: Multibit Sign Magnitude R2R Ladder (Upgradeable)
• Digital Conversion Method: Pure R2R Ladder FPGA-Based Without Digital Filter
• Supported Native Sample Rates: 44.1kHz to 384kHz PCM up to 24-Bit
• Supported DSD Formats: DSD64 / DSD128 via DoP
• USB Interface: Isolated USB Audio Class 2 with Type-B Connector
• Digital Receiver: PLL Technology 128 or 256 FS Internally Selectable
• AQlink (I2S Bus): CMOS / LVCMOS Level
• Oversampling Factor: 1x
• Digital Inputs:
  • RJ45 AQlink (I2S Serial Bus) – PCM 24-bit / 384kHz, DSD64 / DSD128 via DoP
  • BNC Coax (S/PDIF) 75 Ohm – PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP
  • RCA Coax (S/PDIF) 75 Ohm – PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP
  • AES/EBU Balanced 110 Ohm – PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP
  • USB Port – PCM 24-bit / 384kHz, DSD64 / DSD128 via DoP
  • AT&T (ST Fiber) – PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP (Optional)
• Analog Outputs:
  • Unbalanced RCA Output: 2.6V RMS
  • Balanced XLR Output: 3.6V RMS
• Output Impedance: 50 Ohm RCA / 600 Ohm XLR
• Load Impedance: 1k Ohm Minimum RCA / 600 Ohm XLR
• Frequency Response: 20Hz to 22kHz +0.5dB / -0.5dB
• Phase Response: Linear Phase
• THD + N: <0.1% @ 1kHz -10dB
• Front Panel Functions: Power, Input Selector, Phase Invert Switch
• Power Consumption: 100-115V / 220-240V, 50 or 60Hz – 58VA
• Dimensions: 450 x 370 x 100 mm
• Weight: 10 kg
• Front Finish: Satin Alu Silver or Satin Black
• Case Finish: Grey Nextel Powder Coated