Musician Pegasus II DAC User Manual

1. Uvod

The Musician Pegasus II is a high-performance Digital-to-Analog Converter designed for discerning audio enthusiasts. It incorporates advanced R2R and DSD decoding architectures to deliver exceptional sound fidelity. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Pegasus II DAC.

Slika 1.1: Prednja strana view of the Musician Pegasus II DAC, showcasing njegovim elegantnim dizajnom i kontrolama na prednjoj ploči.

Slika 1.2: Pod uglom view of the Pegasus II DAC, highlighting the input selection and sampling rate indicators.

2. Ključne karakteristike

2.1 Proprietary R2R + DSD Architecture

The Pegasus II utilizes a true balanced 24-bit R2R and 6-bit DSD architecture with a 32-step FIR filter. This discrete resistor network decoder, controlled by high-speed FPGAs, converts digital signals to analog signals, offering a flexible approach to audio processing that surpasses the limitations of chip-based decoders.

Slika 2.1: Gotovoview of the proprietary R2R + DSD architecture, emphasizing its discrete design and 32-step FIR filter.

The device incorporates an STM32F446 dedicated USB audio solution, an upscaling function supporting up to 16x, and features 0.005% accuracy resistors for precise signal handling. It achieves an impressive Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) of 123dB (A weighting) with a Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD+N) of 0.002%.

Figure 2.2: Technical diagram illustrating the STM32F446 USB audio solution, 16x upscaling capability, and the use of high-accuracy resistors.

Figure 2.3: Performance metrics showing a 123dB SNR and support for high-resolution audio formats up to DSD 1024 and PCM 1536kHz via USB/I2S inputs.

2.2 Advanced Componentry

The Pegasus II incorporates an ALTERA high-efficiency chip for distortion-free audio signal transmission, meeting HiFi standards. Each channel features independent high-speed FPGAs controlling 4 sets of R-2R networks, ensuring low distortion and minimal background noise. The power delivery is optimized with a customized power tailstock using multiple single crystal copper wire wraps and a high-quality toroidal core transformer for stable power and reduced noise. An encapsulated linear power supply further enhances performance.

Slika 2.4: Krupni plan view of the ALTERA Cyclone V high-efficiency chip, responsible for robust audio signal processing.

Slika 2.5: Interni view of the Pegasus II DAC, showing the R2R arrays, toroidal core transformer, and encapsulated linear power supply, all contributing to superior sound quality.

3. Podešavanje

3.1 Connections and Inputs

The Pegasus II offers a comprehensive array of digital input options and analog outputs to integrate seamlessly into your audio system. Connect your source devices to the appropriate digital inputs and your amplifier or active speakers to the analog outputs.

• Digitalni ulazi: Coaxial, Optical, AES, USB, I2S
• Analogni izlazi: RCA single-ended, XLR balansiran

Figure 3.1: Rear panel of the Pegasus II DAC, illustrating the layout of all digital input and analog output ports.

Figure 3.2: Connection diagram detailing how to connect various audio sources and output devices to the Pegasus II DAC.

3.2 Instalacija drajvera

For Mac OS and Linux operating systems, the Pegasus II is plug-and-play, requiring no additional driver installation. For Windows users, a licensed Thesycon USB driver is required for optimal performance. Please refer to the official AOSHIDA webstranica za preuzimanje drajvera i upute za instalaciju.

Figure 3.3: Compatibility information for Mac, Linux, and Windows operating systems regarding driver requirements.

4. Operativni

4.1 Odabir ulaza

Use the 'INPUT' button on the front panel to cycle through the available digital inputs (Coaxial, Optical, AES, USB, I2S). The selected input will be indicated by an LED on the front panel.

4.2 Supported Audio Formats

The Pegasus II supports a wide range of high-resolution audio formats:

• USB and I2S Inputs: Support up to DSD 1024 and PCM 1536kHz. The audio source must be compatible with the native interface.
• Coaxial, Optical, AES Inputs: Support DSD64 (DoP) and PCM up to 24 bits/192kHz.

4.3 I2S Pin Configuration

The Pegasus II features 8 adjustable I2S modes to ensure compatibility with a wide range of devices. The DAC automatically adjusts allocation based on different devices and does not require manual pin configuration. If you experience no sound or a hissing noise, it indicates an incorrect I2S mode. Continue to adjust to the next mode until clear audio is achieved. Always ensure the selected mode is compatible with your source device.

Figure 4.1: I2S Pin Configuration table, showing the 8 available modes and their corresponding pin diagrams for compatibility adjustment.

5. Održavanje

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Musician Pegasus II DAC, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• čišćenje: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, as they may damage the finish.
• ventilacija: Osigurajte da je uređaj postavljen u dobro prozračenom prostoru kako biste spriječili pregrijavanje. Ne blokirajte ventilacijske otvore.
• Okruženje: Keep the DAC away from direct sunlight, heat sources, excessive dust, and moisture.
• Snaga: Always disconnect the power cable from the wall outlet before cleaning or if the unit will be unused for an extended period.

6. Otkrivanje problema

If you encounter issues with your Pegasus II DAC, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Nema napajanja: Ensure the power cable is securely connected to both the DAC and a working power outlet. Check the power switch on the rear panel.
• Nema zvuka:
  • Verify that the correct input source is selected on the DAC.
  • Check all audio cables (digital input and analog output) for secure connections.
  • Osigurajte svoje amplifier ili aktivni zvučnici su uključeni i postavljeni na ispravan ulaz.
  • If using I2S, try cycling through the different I2S modes as described in Section 4.3.
• Distorted Sound/Noise:
  • Provjerite ima li labavih kablovskih veza.
  • Ensure the source device's volume is not excessively high, causing clipping.
  • If using USB on Windows, ensure the correct Thesycon driver is installed.
  • Try a different digital input cable or source device to isolate the issue.
• Computer Not Recognizing DAC (USB):
  • Restart your computer and the DAC.
  • Pokušajte s drugim USB priključkom ili USB kabelom.
  • For Windows, ensure the Thesycon USB driver is correctly installed and updated.

If the problem persists after attempting these steps, please contact AOSHIDA customer support for further assistance.

7. Specifikacije

8. Garancija i podrška

The Musician Pegasus II DAC comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific details regarding warranty coverage, duration, and terms, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official AOSHIDA website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or warranty claims, please contact AOSHIDA customer service through their official channels.