LAiV Harmony 2 R-2R DAC is a digital-to-analog converter from LAiV’s Harmony line, designed around a discrete, fully balanced R-2R architecture. The product is listed as available for pre-order and combines a ladder conversion section, a discrete Class A analog stage and several PCM signal-processing modes. The configuration is intended for Hi-Fi systems in which the DAC must handle different digital sources and offer precise control over the conversion behavior.

Discrete, balanced R-2R architecture

In the LAiV Harmony 2 R-2R DAC, conversion is handled by an R2R ladder network made with discrete components. The structure is also fully balanced, a characteristic that applies to the overall design of the conversion path and output. Rather than offering a single operating mode, the DAC allows users to choose between three PCM modes: NOS, proprietary oversampling and hardware SRC.

The NOS mode, an acronym commonly used to indicate operation without oversampling, enables use of the path intended for this type of processing. Proprietary oversampling, on the other hand, is a mode developed internally by LAiV, while hardware SRC uses sample-rate conversion performed at the hardware level. The availability of these three options makes it possible to choose the PCM mode best suited to one’s configuration and listening preferences, without restricting use of the DAC to a single process.

Discrete Class A output stage

The DAC integrates a new discrete Class A output stage, designed with low output impedance. The circuit is the point of passage between digital-to-analog conversion and connection to downstream electronics. The stated low output impedance helps define the interfacing conditions with preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers or other devices equipped with compatible analog inputs.

A notable feature is the ability to use the XLR and RCA outputs simultaneously. This configuration offers greater flexibility when setting up the system, as it allows two analog paths to be connected in parallel when the rest of the chain permits it. The available specifications indicate an output voltage of 4.15 Vrms and an impedance below 50 Ω for the XLR output. These figures describe the balanced output and help assess matching with the system’s inputs.

PCM and DSD management

Through the USB and I²S inputs, the LAiV Harmony 2 supports PCM signals up to 768 kHz and DSD up to DSD256. These values indicate the maximum stated resolution for the two main digital formats handled by the device. Actual compatibility with a given source naturally depends on the output available on the source itself and on the configuration used.

A specific path is provided for DSD: the signal is converted directly to multi-bit without oversampling. This mode is distinct from the three options available for PCM. In this way, the DAC keeps management of the two types of digital content separate, with a dedicated mode for DSD and a choice between NOS, proprietary oversampling and hardware SRC for PCM.

The presence of USB and I²S makes the product suitable for digital systems with different sources. The USB input is also used for firmware updates via USB-C, as indicated for the product. Update support allows the device software to be modified using the procedure specified by the manufacturer, without confusing this function with an additional audio-input mode.

Isolation and system connections

The design includes complete digital isolation, as stated in the product description. In a Hi-Fi system, isolation concerns the separation provided in the digital path and must be considered together with the source, cables and connected devices. The specification alone does not identify the behavior of the entire system, but it describes a precise design choice in the DAC.

Integration features include a direct input for a 10 MHz master clock. This connection is intended for systems that use an external master clock compatible with this reference. The product also has a 12 V trigger, useful for integration with system components that provide this type of control connection. The availability of these functions expands the possibilities for integrating the DAC into complex Hi-Fi configurations, without automatically attributing undeclared characteristics to the connected devices.

Display and everyday use

The front panel features a color TFT LCD display with a resolution of 960 × 400 pixels. The color surface and stated resolution are intended to provide clearly readable DAC operating information while selecting inputs and available settings. The display is also a distinctive element of the product interface, together with the controls and configuration functions provided.

The Harmony RCX remote control is listed among the included items. The package also includes a welcome card with Certificate of Authenticity, as reported in the product information. Firmware can be updated via the rear USB-C port. The rear position of the port is indicated in the available documentation and makes it part of the DAC’s connection panel.

Installation and dimensions

The dimensions of the LAiV Harmony 2 R-2R DAC are 255 × 250 × 50 mm. With the spikes installed, the stated height reaches 75 mm. These measurements help verify the space required on a shelf or in a Hi-Fi cabinet before installation. Sufficient space should be left for cables and the proper arrangement of connections, also considering the presence of the spikes when determining the usable height.

The weight is not indicated in the available data and is therefore not reported. The compact width and depth should be considered together with the position of the connections and the system configuration. Before connecting, it is also necessary to verify the electrical compatibility of the intended power supply in the installation environment.

Power supply and consumption

The DAC supports 100–127 VAC or 220–240 VAC power, with a mains frequency of 50/60 Hz. The selection must correspond to the electrical network being used and the configuration intended for the product. Stated operating consumption is 14.7 W, while standby consumption is 2.5 W.

These values distinguish power consumption during operation from that in standby mode. For everyday management, it is therefore possible to consider both listening consumption and consumption when the DAC remains in standby. Commissioning must be carried out in accordance with the instructions concerning the mains supply and system connections, particularly when triggers, a master clock or multiple analog outputs are used simultaneously.

Warranty and availability

LAiV specifies a 24-month warranty for Harmony 2. The product belongs to the Harmony line and its category is DAC.

Overall, the LAiV Harmony 2 R-2R DAC combines fully balanced discrete R2R conversion, a discrete Class A output stage, selectable PCM management and support for PCM up to 768 kHz and DSD256 via USB and I²S. Simultaneously usable XLR and RCA outputs, the 10 MHz master-clock input, 12 V trigger, color TFT display and USB-C firmware updates complete a feature set focused on integration flexibility in Hi-Fi systems.

Key features

• Availability status: Pre-order
• Conversion architecture: Fully balanced discrete R2R ladder
• Dimensions: 255 × 250 × 50 (75 with spikes) mm
• Display: Color TFT LCD, 960 × 400
• Operating consumption: 14.7 W
• Output stage: Discrete Class A buffer, low impedance

Technical specifications

Availability status	Pre-order
Conversion architecture	Fully balanced discrete R2R ladder
Dimensions	255 × 250 × 50 (75 with spikes) mm
Display	Color TFT LCD, 960 × 400
Operating consumption	14.7 W
Output stage	Discrete Class A buffer, low impedance
PCM modes	NOS, proprietary OS and hardware SRC
Power supply	100–127 VAC / 220–240 VAC, 50/60Hz
Product category	DAC
Product line	Harmony
Standby consumption	2.5 W
Warranty	24 months
XLR output impedance	<50 Ω
XLR output voltage	4.15 Vrms

Technical insights

The specifications provided help compare the product’s configuration, compatibility and performance.

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Frequently asked questions

Which conversion architecture does the LAiV Harmony 2 R-2R DAC use?

It uses a discrete, fully balanced R2R ladder architecture.

Which modes are available for PCM signals?

Three PCM modes are available: NOS, proprietary oversampling and hardware SRC.

What are the stated values for the XLR output?

The XLR output has a voltage of 4.15 Vrms and an impedance below 50 Ω.

Which formats and maximum rates does it support?

Via USB and I²S, it supports PCM up to 768 kHz and DSD up to DSD256. DSD is converted directly to multi-bit without oversampling.

What are the dimensions, consumption and warranty?

The dimensions are 255 × 250 × 50 mm, or 75 mm in height with the spikes. Operating consumption is 14.7 W, standby consumption is 2.5 W and the warranty is 24 months.