Zodiac Digital to Analog Converters

Antelope is best known for its clocking technologies. The Zodiac, Zodiac Plus and Zodiac Gold represent their first foray into the world of fully-functional DACs with USB interfaces for computer audio.

Custom clocking
Taken from the Antelope Trinity and already used in the most demanding professional environments, AFC (Acoustically Focused Clocking) is now integrated into Zodiac. Now in its 4th generation, AFC is based on Antelope’s 64-bit timing engine, which guarantees sublime performance from the custom converter chips. AFC is a hybrid of advanced engineering and exhaustive listening tests designed to deliver immense sound.

Extended Connectivity
A choice of 8 input sources with auto detection of active channels and infra-red remote control* gives you the freedom and convenience to connect virtually any device. The custom designed USB controller chip streams data at 480 Mbits, allowing audio up to 384kHz* with native drivers, thus breaking the 96kHz barrier. Cross-integrating the Toslink receiver with the AFC architecture eliminates jitter through a multi-stage filter process, making even optical connections suitable for demanding applications. Output level trims allow precision level matching to connected equipment. Ordinary connections with extraordinary performance!

Cutting-Edge Design
Separate analog and digital power supplies virtually eliminate digital cross-talk. This separation is further enhanced by keeping analog and digital circuits on two separate PCBs. These gold-plated boards utilize large internal ground plains, canceling noise and voltage shifts.

To preserve the full bit resolution of the DAC, the volume adjustment is done entirely in the analog domain. Precision metal film resistors and stepping relays* with gold-plated contacts yield 0.001dB accuracy, keeping the stereo image solid over the entire volume range.

Dual-stage headphone driver architecture delivers smooth sound at both high and low levels. The output impedance is configurable for superior matching with professional headphone coils. Anti-thumping speaker and ear protection on power up and source change reveals attention to design and contributes to a smooth and enjoyable user experience.

Antelope’s vision of superior sound, solid engineering, custom technology and strong aesthetics come together in Zodiac. These stylish units will continue to impress!

*Zodiac Gold only