Reference Digital Performance Within Your Integrated Amplifier | Available at Trimira Audio
The Gryphon Diablo 120 DAC Module adds high-resolution digital conversion directly inside the Diablo 120 Integrated Amplifier, creating a streamlined digital front end without requiring a separate external DAC or additional equipment-rack space.
Designed specifically for the Diablo 120's internal expansion architecture, the module combines an ESS Sabre ES9018 32-bit DAC, dual-mono conversion, high-resolution PCM and DSD support, and discrete analogue output circuitry.
At Trimira Audio, we recommend the DAC Module for Diablo 120 owners seeking to consolidate digital playback within the integrated amplifier while maintaining a high-quality internal signal path.
Key Features & Technological Innovations
ESS Sabre ES9018 32-Bit DAC Architecture
The module uses the ESS Sabre ES9018 converter in a dual-mono, dual-differential configuration.
This architecture is designed to provide high dynamic range and accurate digital-to-analogue conversion.
High-Resolution PCM & Native DSD
The DAC Module supports high-resolution digital formats through its USB input, including:
- PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz
- Native DSD64
- Native DSD128
- Native DSD256
- Native DSD512
S/PDIF inputs support PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz.
Discrete Pure Class A Analogue Output Stage
Following digital conversion, the module uses discrete Pure Class A analogue output circuitry.
The analogue section operates without global negative feedback and is designed to provide a direct interface with the Diablo 120's internal preamplifier.
Local Power-Supply Regulation
Dedicated local regulation and super-capacitor energy storage provide the DAC circuitry with a controlled power supply.
This helps isolate the module's sensitive digital and analogue stages from fluctuations and noise elsewhere in the integrated amplifier.
Internal Modular Installation
The module installs directly into the Diablo 120's internal expansion architecture.
This provides several practical advantages:
- No additional chassis
- No external analogue interconnect
- Short internal signal path
- Simplified system installation
- Integrated control through the Diablo 120
Four Digital Inputs
The module expands the Diablo 120's connectivity with four digital interfaces:
- USB Type-B
- 75-ohm BNC S/PDIF
- 110-ohm AES/EBU XLR
- TOSLINK optical
This provides compatibility with computers, digital transports, streamers, and other digital source components.
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Gryphon Diablo 120 DAC Module |
| DAC Chipset |
ESS Sabre ES9018 32-Bit |
| Analogue Output Topology |
Discrete Pure Class A, Zero Global Negative Feedback |
| USB Input |
USB Type-B, Asynchronous Class 2.0 |
| S/PDIF Inputs |
1 × BNC 75 Ω / 1 × AES/EBU 110 Ω XLR / 1 × TOSLINK |
| USB PCM |
44.1–384 kHz, up to 32-bit |
| S/PDIF PCM |
Up to 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| DSD |
Native DSD64 / DSD128 / DSD256 / DSD512 via USB |
| Frequency Response (-0.1 dB) |
0 Hz–96 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio |
< −113 dB, A-weighted |
| THD + N |
<0.002% |
| Output |
Balanced / Internal Bus Native Preamp Output |
Digital System Integration
Once installed, the DAC Module allows the Diablo 120 to function as the central digital hub of a compact high-end system.
A typical configuration is:
Computer / Streamer / Digital Transport → Diablo 120 DAC Module → Diablo 120 Amplifier → Loudspeakers
USB provides the highest-resolution connection specified by the module, while BNC, AES/EBU, and optical inputs provide flexibility for dedicated digital transports and other source components.
Computer Audio & DSD
The asynchronous USB interface is designed for computer-based playback, while the module's high-resolution capability supports PCM rates up to 384 kHz / 32-bit and native DSD up to DSD512 via USB.
Trimira Audio can assist with:
- Windows USB audio configuration
- macOS setup
- DSD playback configuration
- Digital-source selection
- USB connection optimisation
- Roon and compatible playback software
- Digital transport integration
Professional Module Installation
Because the DAC Module is an internal expansion component, installation should be performed carefully to ensure correct electrical and mechanical integration.
Trimira Audio can assist with:
- Module installation
- Digital-input configuration
- Firmware compatibility
- Computer-audio setup
- Source selection
- System-level digital optimisation
Consult with the High-End Audio Specialists at Trimira Audio
The Gryphon Diablo 120 DAC Module combines an ESS Sabre ES9018 DAC, dual-mono conversion architecture, USB PCM support to 32-bit/384 kHz, native DSD512 capability, BNC/AES/EBU/optical inputs, and discrete Pure Class A analogue circuitry within the Diablo 120 chassis.
Trimira Audio can assist with professional module installation, digital-source configuration, computer-audio setup, and complete Diablo 120 system optimisation.
Contact the Trimira Audio digital specialists in Brisbane to arrange a module installation or private listening demonstration.
