Is the AVM S-DAC a standalone DAC?

No. It is an internal upgrade module, 63 x 65 x 22 mm, that replaces the existing D/A converter inside a compatible Ovation component. The CS 8.3 S, AS 8.3 S, PAS 8.3 S, MP 8.3 S and AS XL already have it built in.

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AVM

AVM Ovation D/A-Converter S (S-DAC) Upgrade Module

Available in 1-2 Weeks

$3,599.00

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Call or text: 410-239-2020

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Availability

Typically at the shop within 1-2 weeks. For online orders, we can ship direct or coordinate a dropship from the supplier, depending on their policy.

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The AVM Ovation D/A-Converter S (S-DAC) is an upgrade module that replaces the existing D/A converter in an AVM Ovation CS, SD or MP component. Eight ESS9038PRO DAC chips work four per channel in parallel, for PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD256.

It is an internal module, not a standalone DAC. AVM requires professional installation by its factory service or an authorized dealer, and AVM's 2026 overview prices the module plus installation, so installation is charged separately.

Which AVM Models Does the S-DAC Fit?

AVM lists the S-DAC as compatible with the Ovation CS 6.3, CS 8.3, SD 6.3, SD 8.3, MP 6.3 and MP 8.3, and with the Ovation .2 series (CS, SD and MP) after a software adjustment. The current CS 8.3 S, AS 8.3 S, PAS 8.3 S, MP 8.3 S and AS XL already have the S-DAC built in.

AVM Ovation D/A-Converter S (S-DAC) Upgrade Module, exploded view showing the circuit board under the cover

What Is Inside the S-DAC?

AVM's module uses eight balanced DAC channels, four per channel connected in parallel, with a dynamic range above 124 dB and total harmonic distortion below 0.003%. AVM lists a temperature-stabilized precision oscillator, ultra-low-jitter clock generation, a massive cooling block with vibration damping, separate digital and analog power supplies and multi-stage voltage filtering. It is handcrafted in Germany.

Get in touch with Mike about fitting the S-DAC to your Ovation component.

AVM Ovation D/A-Converter S (S-DAC) Upgrade Module Specifications

Type	DAC upgrade module (internal)
DAC	8 x ESS9038PRO, 4 per channel in parallel
Sampling Rates	PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD up to DSD256 (11.3 MHz)
Resolution	Up to 32-bit
Dynamic Range	Above 124 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion	Below 0.003%
Compatibility	Ovation CS 6.3, CS 8.3, SD 6.3, SD 8.3, MP 6.3, MP 8.3; Ovation .2 series (CS/SD/MP) with software adjustment
Installation	By AVM factory service or an authorized dealer
Dimensions	63 x 65 x 22 mm (2.5 x 2.6 x 0.9 in)
Weight	91 g (3.2 oz)