Audio T Verdict
The Audiolab D7 is an impressively versatile compact DAC, capable of improving digital sources while also serving as a preamplifier and dedicated headphone amplifier.
Its ES9038Q2M conversion stage supports high-resolution computer audio, while USB storage playback, Bluetooth, four conventional digital inputs and selectable filters cover a broad range of listening requirements.
Fixed or variable RCA and balanced XLR outputs allow the D7 to work with an integrated amplifier, power amplifier, active speakers or external DAC. It is a particularly strong choice where full-size equipment would be impractical.
Audiolab D7 Compact DAC
The Audiolab D7 is a compact digital-to-analogue converter, preamplifier and headphone amplifier inspired by the company’s original M-DAC.
It uses an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC with proprietary Audiolab clocking, power-supply and analogue-filter circuitry.
Digital sources can connect through two optical inputs, two coaxial inputs, PC USB, USB storage or Bluetooth 5.1. Analogue output is available through conventional RCA sockets or fully balanced XLR connections.
ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC
The ES9038Q2M is a 32-bit digital-to-analogue converter using ESS HyperStream II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator technology.
A DAC chip does not determine performance by itself, so Audiolab surrounds it with dedicated clocking, independent low-noise power supplies and a carefully developed analogue output stage.
This implementation supports PCM signals up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512 through the compatible PC USB input.
Four Conventional Digital Inputs
Two coaxial and two optical S/PDIF inputs are provided for digital source equipment.
Suitable connections can include:
- CD transports
- Network music streamers
- Televisions configured for stereo PCM
- Games consoles
- Digital radio tuners
- Blu-ray and DVD players
- Compatible set-top boxes
The optical and coaxial inputs accept sampling frequencies from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
Set Television Audio to PCM
The D7 does not decode Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos or DTS multichannel soundtracks.
When connecting a television through optical or coaxial, select PCM Stereo or PCM 2-channel in the television’s audio settings.
PC USB Audio
The rear USB Type B input allows a compatible Windows computer or Mac to connect directly to the D7.
PCM playback is supported at sampling frequencies from 44.1kHz to 768kHz, with native DSD support extending through:
- DSD64
- DSD128
- DSD256
- DSD512
A supported Windows computer may require Audiolab’s current USB audio driver. Compatible Mac systems can normally use the operating system’s built-in USB audio facilities.
Roon Tested
The D7 is Roon Tested for compatible PC USB operation.
This means Audiolab and Roon have tested the DAC with supported computers and operating systems.
Roon Tested is different from Roon Ready. The D7 does not contain Wi-Fi, Ethernet or its own Roon network endpoint, so it requires a computer or separate network player to provide the audio signal.
USB Storage Playback
A rear USB Type A socket allows compatible music files to be played from a USB storage device.
The supplied remote can be used to browse folders, select tracks, start or pause playback, search within tracks and choose repeat or random modes.
Folder Play can restrict playback to the selected folder or allow music to continue through files stored elsewhere on the drive.
Compatible USB Storage
The connected storage device must use one of the following file systems:
Devices formatted using an unsupported file system may not be recognised.
Large mechanical drives or enclosures that require more power than the USB connection can provide may need their own external power supply.
USB File Compatibility
Audiolab specifies support for:
WAV and FLAC files can be played at sampling frequencies up to 96kHz, while the maximum USB storage sampling rate is 96kHz.
PC USB remains the appropriate connection for PCM above 96kHz or native DSD playback.
One USB Socket, Two Functions
The rear USB Type A socket is used for both compatible music storage and official firmware updates.
It is separate from the USB Type B computer-audio input.
Bluetooth 5.1
Bluetooth 5.1 provides convenient wireless playback from compatible smartphones, tablets and computers.
The latest Audiolab manual lists support for:
The codec selected during playback depends on the transmitting device and its current settings.
Bluetooth Is Not Network Streaming
The D7 contains a Bluetooth receiver but does not include Wi-Fi, Ethernet, internet radio or an integrated music-streaming platform.
For network libraries, app-based streaming services, AirPlay or Roon Ready playback, connect a separate music streamer through an optical, coaxial or USB input.
Five Selectable Digital Filters
The D7 provides five DAC reconstruction filters:
- Linear Phase Fast Roll-Off
- Linear Phase Slow Roll-Off
- Minimum Phase Fast Roll-Off
- Minimum Phase Slow Roll-Off
- Hybrid Fast Roll-Off
Linear Phase Slow Roll-Off is selected as the factory default.
The audible differences can be subtle and may depend on the source material, amplifier, headphones, loudspeakers and personal preference.
Digital Upsampling
Compatible S/PDIF and PC USB signals can be automatically upsampled to 352.8kHz or 384kHz.
Upsampling can also be switched off through the menu.
The preferred setting will depend on the recording and complete system, so it is worth comparing both options rather than assuming that upsampling will always be preferable.
Adjustable DPLL
The Digital Phase Lock Loop setting changes the DAC’s tolerance of jitter from the optical and coaxial inputs.
Normal is the recommended setting for correctly functioning digital sources.
Wide can be selected if the D7 has difficulty locking to a source with unusually high jitter.
Balanced XLR Outputs
One stereo pair of balanced XLR outputs is provided.
Balanced connection can offer improved rejection of electrical interference, particularly with longer interconnects or systems containing several mains-powered products.
The maximum published output level is 4.1V through XLR. One balanced interconnect is required for each channel.
Unbalanced RCA Outputs
One conventional stereo RCA output allows the D7 to connect to almost any integrated amplifier, preamplifier, power amplifier or suitable pair of active speakers.
The maximum published RCA output level is 2.05V.
Use a normal line-level input such as AUX, CD or Line. Do not connect the D7 to a Moving Magnet or Moving Coil phono input.
Fixed Output Mode
Fixed mode sends the analogue signal at its maximum output level.
This is normally the correct setting when connecting the D7 to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier whose own volume control will be used.
Turn the receiving amplifier down before changing from Adjustable to Fixed output.
Adjustable Output Mode
Adjustable mode activates the D7’s internal volume control and is selected as the factory default.
This allows the RCA or XLR outputs to connect directly to a suitable power amplifier or compatible active speakers.
The available volume range is -78dB to 0dB.
Take Care with Direct Power-Amplifier Connections
Confirm that Adjustable mode is selected and begin at a low volume before starting playback.
Accidentally changing to Fixed output while connected directly to a power amplifier could produce an unexpectedly high listening level.
Power-On Volume Limit
A configurable power-on limit helps prevent unexpectedly loud playback when the D7 leaves standby.
The unit returns to the previous listening level or the selected limit, whichever is lower.
Available limit settings include -40dB, -35dB, -30dB, -25dB, -20dB or Off.
Balance Adjustment
The left and right analogue output balance can be adjusted through the setup menu.
This can help where the listening position is not central or the room causes one side of the system to appear stronger.
Begin from the central setting and make only small adjustments.
Coaxial and Optical Digital Outputs
The D7 provides one coaxial and one optical digital output.
These allow it to pass compatible digital audio to an external DAC, digital amplifier or another product with a suitable input.
This can be useful when comparing the D7’s internal conversion stage with another DAC while retaining its broad input selection and USB storage facilities.
Dedicated Headphone Amplifier
A 6.3mm headphone socket is positioned on the front panel.
The dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier is designed for loads between 20 and 600 ohms.
Its published output impedance is 2.35 ohms, helping it partner a broad selection of conventional wired headphones.
Headphones fitted with a 3.5mm plug require a suitable 6.3mm adaptor.
Headphone Output Muting
Connecting headphones mutes the RCA and balanced XLR analogue outputs.
This prevents the main amplifier, active speakers or power amplifier from continuing to play during private listening.
Remove the headphone plug to restore the main analogue outputs.
OLED Display
The front panel uses a clear monochrome OLED display.
It can show:
- Selected input
- Volume level
- Incoming sampling frequency
- USB folder and track information
- Playback status
- Menu settings
- Firmware information
Display brightness can be adjusted through ten levels.
Front-Panel Controls
Two rotary controls provide direct access to the D7’s principal functions.
The source selector changes input and navigates the menu, while the volume control adjusts output level and provides muting when pressed.
A separate standby button and front-panel headphone socket complete the main control layout.
System Remote Control
An Audiolab system remote handset is included.
It provides control over:
- Standby
- Source selection
- Volume and muting
- Menu navigation
- Digital-filter settings
- USB folder browsing
- Play, pause and stop
- Previous and next track
- Fast reverse and fast forward
- Repeat and random playback
- Display options
Two AAA batteries may be supplied where permitted by local import and transport regulations.
Two 12V Trigger Outputs
Two trigger outputs allow compatible amplifiers and other system components to switch between standby and operation with the D7.
This can be useful when the D7 is connected directly to one or two power amplifiers or forms part of a larger coordinated system.
Suitable 3.5mm trigger cables are required and are not included.
External 12V Power Supply
The D7 uses the supplied external 12V DC power adaptor rather than an internal mains transformer.
Use only the correct Audiolab-specified supply and regional mains plug.
The separate supply contributes to the DAC’s compact dimensions while keeping the mains conversion circuitry outside the main audio chassis.
Automatic Standby
Automatic standby can be set to:
- 20 minutes
- 60 minutes
- Never
Standby power consumption is below 0.5 watts.
Installation
Place the D7 on a solid, level and stable surface.
Keep its ventilation openings clear and avoid positioning it directly on top of a warm-running amplifier.
Allow sufficient rear clearance for the Bluetooth antenna, power adaptor, XLR or RCA cables, digital connections, USB devices and trigger leads.
System Power Sequence
Switch the D7 on before the amplification stage.
When shutting the system down, switch the amplifier or active speakers off before placing the D7 into standby.
This sequence reduces the possibility of unwanted start-up or shutdown noises reaching the loudspeakers.
D7 or D9?
The D7 provides an ES9038Q2M DAC, balanced and unbalanced outputs, USB storage, Bluetooth, PC USB audio and headphone playback within a compact cabinet.
The higher-level Audiolab D9 uses more substantial full-width construction and circuitry developed around the flagship ES9038PRO DAC.
The D7 is ideal where space and value are priorities, while the D9 is intended for more ambitious full-size systems.
D7 or an Integrated Amplifier with DAC?
An integrated amplifier such as the Audiolab 6000A MKII or 7000A combines digital conversion and loudspeaker amplification in one cabinet.
The D7 is more appropriate where the existing amplifier has no DAC, where a separate digital source hub is preferred or where direct connection to active speakers or a power amplifier is required.
Its balanced outputs, USB storage and digital outputs also provide upgrade flexibility not found on every integrated amplifier.
Finish Options
The Audiolab D7 is available in:
Its compact aluminium chassis is designed to coordinate with Audiolab’s 6000 and 7000 Series products.
Key Features
- Compact DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier
- ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC
- Two coaxial digital inputs
- Two optical digital inputs
- S/PDIF support up to 24-bit/192kHz
- USB Type B computer-audio input
- PCM support up to 32-bit/768kHz through PC USB
- Native DSD support up to DSD512
- Roon Tested
- USB Type A storage playback
- WMA, MP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC and APE support
- USB storage playback up to 96kHz
- FAT16, FAT32 and exFAT storage compatibility
- Bluetooth 5.1
- aptX, aptX HD and LDAC support
- Five selectable DAC reconstruction filters
- Optional digital upsampling
- Adjustable DPLL
- Balanced XLR analogue outputs
- Unbalanced RCA analogue outputs
- Fixed or Adjustable output operation
- Coaxial and optical digital outputs
- Dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier
- 20–600-ohm headphone compatibility
- 6.3mm headphone socket
- Two 12V trigger outputs
- Monochrome OLED display
- Ten display-brightness levels
- System remote control included
- External 12V DC power adaptor
- Compact 180mm-wide chassis
- Black or Silver finish
- Three-year extended warranty when registered within 90 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product the Audiolab M-DAC?
No. The current product listed on this Audio T page is the newer Audiolab D7 Compact DAC, although the page address and browser title retain an older M-DAC reference.
What does the D7 do?
It converts digital audio into analogue sound and can also operate as a volume-controlled preamplifier and headphone amplifier.
Which DAC chip does it use?
It uses the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC.
Can it connect to a conventional integrated amplifier?
Yes. Use its RCA or balanced XLR outputs and select Fixed output so the integrated amplifier controls volume.
Can it connect directly to a power amplifier?
Yes. Select Adjustable output, begin at a low volume and confirm the system is configured safely before starting playback.
Can it connect directly to active speakers?
Yes, provided the speakers accept a compatible line-level input and the D7 is set to Adjustable output.
Does it have balanced outputs?
Yes. It provides one stereo pair of balanced XLR outputs.
What is the maximum XLR output level?
The maximum published balanced output level is 4.1V at 0dBFS.
Does it have RCA outputs?
Yes. One stereo pair of conventional RCA analogue outputs is included.
What is the maximum RCA output level?
The maximum published unbalanced output level is 2.05V at 0dBFS.
Does it have optical and coaxial inputs?
Yes. It provides two optical and two coaxial S/PDIF inputs.
What resolution do the optical and coaxial inputs support?
They accept sampling frequencies from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
Can a television connect to the D7?
Yes, through a compatible optical or coaxial output. Set the television to PCM Stereo because the D7 does not decode multichannel soundtracks.
Does it have HDMI ARC?
No. Television audio must use optical, coaxial or another compatible external connection.
Does it support computer USB audio?
Yes. A compatible Windows computer or Mac can connect to the USB Type B input.
What is the maximum PC USB resolution?
PC USB supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512.
Is it Roon Ready?
No. It is Roon Tested for compatible computer USB use but does not contain a networked Roon Ready endpoint.
Can it play music from USB storage?
Yes. The USB Type A port supports compatible FAT16, FAT32 and exFAT storage.
Which USB storage formats are supported?
Audiolab lists WMA, MP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC and APE.
What is the maximum USB storage sampling rate?
WAV and FLAC playback is supported up to 96kHz. Higher PCM rates require the PC USB input.
Does the USB Type A port install firmware?
Yes. The same port is used for compatible music storage and official firmware updates.
Does it include Bluetooth?
Yes. The latest manual specifies Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, aptX HD and LDAC.
Does it include Wi-Fi or network streaming?
No. A separate network music streamer is required for internet services, network libraries and Roon Ready playback.
Does it provide digital outputs?
Yes. One coaxial and one optical output allow connection to another compatible DAC or digital amplifier.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier feeds the front-panel 6.3mm socket.
Which headphone impedances are supported?
Audiolab specifies headphone loads between 20 and 600 ohms.
What happens when headphones are connected?
The RCA and balanced XLR analogue outputs are muted.
Does it have selectable digital filters?
Yes. Five filter options are provided, with Linear Phase Slow Roll-Off selected by default.
Can it upsample digital audio?
Yes. Compatible S/PDIF and PC USB signals can be upsampled to 352.8kHz or 384kHz.
What is DPLL?
It adjusts the DAC’s tolerance of jitter from optical and coaxial sources. Normal is recommended unless the D7 struggles to lock to a particular source.
Does it provide balance control?
Yes. Left and right analogue output balance can be adjusted through the menu.
Does it have 12V triggers?
Yes. Two trigger outputs can control compatible power amplifiers or other system components.
Does it use an internal mains supply?
No. It uses the supplied external 12V DC power adaptor.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. A full Audiolab system remote handset is supplied.
Are remote batteries included?
The manual states that two AAA batteries are supplied where permitted by local import and transport regulations.
What are its dimensions?
The current Audiolab product page specifies 180mm wide, 56mm high and 208mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
The net weight is approximately 1.42kg.
Which finishes are available?
The Audiolab D7 is available in Black and Silver.
Does it currently support MQA?
MQA is not listed on Audiolab’s current D7 product specification or latest manual, so it should not be presented as a guaranteed current feature.
What warranty is included?
Audiolab offers an extended three-year warranty when the product is registered online within 90 days of purchase. Without registration, cover is one year or the applicable statutory period, whichever is longer.
Related Audiolab Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Audiolab DAC demonstrations
- Help comparing the Audiolab D7 and D9
- Integrated-amplifier, power-amplifier and active-speaker setup
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection advice
- Optical and coaxial digital-cable guidance
- PC USB audio and driver support
- USB storage formatting and file-compatibility help
- Bluetooth pairing assistance
- Headphone matching advice
- 12V trigger setup
- Warranty-registration assistance
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss adding the Audiolab D7 to your system.