Audia Flight FLS22 DAC

The Audia Flight FLS22 is a dual mono DAC and digital preamplifier with eight digital inputs, built around two ESS Sabre ES9038PRO converters, one dedicated to each channel. Fixed or variable XLR and RCA outputs let it feed your preamp or connect directly to a power amplifier, so one chassis can serve as the digital hub of a high-end system.

Key Features of the Audia Flight FLS22 DAC

• Dual Mono ES9038PRO Conversion: Two ESS Sabre 32-bit DACs operated in mono configuration, one for each channel.
• Crystek CCHD-950 Clock: A precision ultra-low-noise clock sets the timing for the conversion section.
• Fully Balanced Class A Output Stage: A discrete current-feedback design with four discrete low-noise voltage regulators.
• Fixed or Variable Outputs: Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA, for a preamplifier or a direct connection to a power amplifier.
• Eight Digital Inputs: I2S over HDMI, USB, AES/EBU, two S/PDIF and three Toslink, all galvanically isolated.
• Per-Input Setup: Deactivate unused inputs, rename the rest and choose the digital filter for each one.
• Three Toroidal Transformers: 80 VA for the analog section, 85 VA for the digital circuitry and 15 VA for logic and control.

Dual Mono Conversion With One ES9038PRO Per Channel

The FLS22 converts each channel on its own chip. Two ESS Sabre ES9038PRO 32-bit DACs run in mono configuration, with one DAC dedicated to each channel. A precision Crystek CCHD-950 ultra-low-noise clock provides the timing reference, and ten dedicated ultra-low-noise power supplies feed the digital circuitry.

Audia Flight says every element of the FLS22 was designed around one goal: preserving the integrity of the original recording. The design uses ultra-short signal paths in what the company describes as a highly optimized architecture.

Seven PCM Filters and Four DSD Filters

The FLS22 gives you seven PCM digital filters, each with its own roll-off frequency and slope, and you can set a different filter for each input. The options run from fast and slow roll-off in linear phase or minimum phase to apodizing, hybrid and brickwall types, with filter 4, fast roll-off minimum phase, as the default.

DSD on the USB input gets four filters in the analog domain after conversion, with roll-off at 47.44, 50, 60 or 70 kHz. PCM dithering can be switched on or off for each input, and the front panel and remote both carry a phase inversion control.

Can the FLS22 Replace Your Preamplifier?

In an all-digital system, it can. The FLS22 can run at a fixed output level as a conventional source for a preamplifier or integrated amplifier, or at a variable level connected directly to a power amplifier, where it works as a high-end digital preamplifier. The SET menu turns the volume control on or off.

When the volume control is activated, the output starts at maximum attenuation and the + and - keys set the level. When it is deactivated, the output returns to the fixed level. Maximum output is 2.5 Vrms from a 240 ohm output impedance, and the XLR and RCA outputs can be used simultaneously.

Behind those connectors is a fully balanced, discrete Class A current-feedback output stage, with four discrete low-noise voltage regulators dedicated to the output circuitry. Audia Flight recommends balanced interconnects if the amplifier is not close to the FLS22, to minimize noise.

Three Toroidal Transformers Behind the Power Supply

The FLS22 separates its power into three toroidal transformers, each dedicated to a specific function. An 80 VA transformer supplies the analog section, an 85 VA transformer powers the digital circuitry and a 15 VA transformer serves the logic and control circuits. All three sit inside a metal shield to help maintain isolation and minimize interference.

Distributed, multi-stage low-impedance capacitors and ultra-low-noise regulation support the design from there. In standby the FLS22 draws less than 1 W, and its maximum power consumption is 60 W.

Eight Digital Inputs, Each One Configurable

The eight inputs cover I2S over HDMI, USB, AES/EBU, two coaxial S/PDIF and three Toslink, and all of them are galvanically isolated to help keep noise from connected sources out of the audio circuitry. I2S and USB accept PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD up to DSD512, while the AES/EBU, S/PDIF and Toslink inputs accept 16-bit to 24-bit PCM up to 192 kHz.

Each input can be deactivated if you do not use it, and the SET menu lets you rename any input with up to 8 characters. The HDMI I2S input can draw power from the connected source, which Audia Flight names the EXTERNAL setting and prefers for sound because it decouples the source from the DAC circuitry, or from the FLS22 itself through the INTERNAL setting for sources that cannot power it.

The rear panel also has one S/PDIF digital output and a pair of 3.5 mm trigger connectors, which can synchronize on, off or standby with compatible equipment from other manufacturers.

Chassis, Display and Remote

The FLS22 is available in silver or black, in a brushed-aluminum chassis with an engraved Audia Flight logo on the top panel and a blue OLED display on the front. It measures 450 x 134 x 364 mm and weighs 14.5 kg. The box includes a power cord, the manual and a matching anodized-aluminum remote control with its own screwdriver for the battery cover.

Who Is Audia Flight?

Audia Flight is an Italian maker in Civitavecchia, and the company calls the FLS22 the culmination of decades of its experience in digital-to-analog conversion.

The Listening Room Difference

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on exceptional service and relentless passion for hifi. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale.

Audia Flight FLS22 DAC Specifications