After being totally convinced by the high level of sound quality that Aqua Acoustic Quality products create from CD replay with their La Diva Mk2 transport and the La Scala Mk2 Optologic DAC, we have recently received our Formula xHD Rev 2 DAC.
The Formula is their reference DAC and, like the other aqua models, is a digital filter-less DAC. They are convinced that, despite the measurements showing that upsampling/oversampling DACs can be superior, they are rarely able to produce a sound with the same emotional and realistic results.
The Formula DAC is the first in the Aqua’s production to have this proprietary D/A conversion system, that they call Optologic. This is now implemented in the
La Scala Mk2 and, because of the very favourable reaction to these Aqua products from our customers, we decided to invest in the Formula DAC.
All Aqua Acoustic Quality products require a very long burn-in time compared to other brands we represent. This is of the order of 500+ hours. Whilst the new Formula has not had anything approaching that number at the time of writing, it is clear this has the characteristic Aqua sound, and it is already showing the potential of very superior sonic qualities. The sense of scale, the rhythmic speed, and the ability to hear into the musical interpretations are all there. A high level of transparency and low colouration means every performer’s nuances are revealed accurately.
Once fully run in we will be doing a close comparison to the La Scala Mk2 DAC and report on the differences. The Formula is a totally solid state design whereas the La Scala incorporates a pair of ECC81 valves in the output stages.
Visit our demonstration room
4 Zephyr House Calleva Park | Aldermaston | Berkshire RG7 8JN
Demonstrations by appointment Monday – Saturday: 10:00am to 6:00pm.
Telephone or Zoom consultations are available and can be booked at mutually convenient times
