Quloos MUB5 is an amazing discrete R2R DAC/Amp that shatters the conventional stereotypes that R2Rs are low resolution and muddy. The MUB5 features an R2R segmented architecture, splitting the 24-bit digital signal into low 19-bit + high 5-bit. This segmented architecture is found often only in extremely high-end DACs and eliminates zero-crossing distortion and significantly reduces the reliance on resistor precision. That said, the MUB5 still uses 178 resistors that are matched to 0.01% tolerance.
With a custom-written Oversampling (OS) filter, the MUB5's sound is precise, very wide and large whilst retaining the classic R2R density and body. Switch to the no-oversampling NOS mode (indicated as M1 filter) for a more mid-forward, relaxed listen that still retains the large and wide stage. Â
Battery life is approximately 7-8 hours. The MUB5 can be battery-bypassed with a DC-in 12V, unlocking the full 2.5W per channel power.Â
