Aqua is excited to announce the launch of the La Scala MkIII, a significant advancement of our La Scala DAC. Staying true to Aqua’s tradition, this new model blends innovative technology, meticulous craftsmanship, and our steadfast commitment to delivering the most authentic music reproduction experience.

The La Scala MkIII is more than just an upgrade. It incorporates all recent enhancements—such as C-core transformers, digital AQlink, and USB card—while also introducing a new analog module, PIBU (Pilot Buffer), developed entirely in our laboratories. In addition to the VALVE/MOSFET hybrid circuitry, the new analog board eliminates output capacitors, a change made possible by PIBU. This, combined with PIBU’s high output current capability and outstanding performance, results in significant improvements. Listening tests confirm that the new analog board delivers both cutting-edge electronics and exceptional musicality.

Enhancements have also been made to the digital section. The pure R2R ladder now features new driving circuits within the FPGA, further improving the La Scala’s digital performance with our proprietary Optologic DAC technology and a pure FPGA-based R2R ladder DAC.

The MkIII thus marks a major step forward in refining the already impressive sound quality of the La Scala.

As always, Aqua remains committed to sustainability. Our modular design philosophy allows existing La Scala DAC owners to upgrade to MkIII specifications, ensuring continued access to the latest in audio technology.

FEATURES:

• High-performance, proprietary FPGA-based digital decoding without a digital filter


• Galvanic and magnetic isolation between the FPGA and R2R ladder converter


• Discrete R2R ladder DACs using low-noise, precision resistors


• Jitter-free digital interface AQlink (I2S protocol) for uncompromising digital connection to La Diva CD transport


• Zero S/PDIF jitter design with digital receiver stage PLL (phase-locked loop) technology


• High-performance AQ Discrete Regulator (MOSFET, J-FET, BJT) for both analog and digital DAC power supplies


• Valve-MOSFET direct-coupled analog stage in pure class-A, without negative feedback; features high output current capability and exceptional performance from the new PIBU (Pilot Buffer) module


• MOSFET virtual battery circuit for analog anode supply


• Soft-start power-up for extended tube life


• etherCON RJ45 (AQlink) input connection, compatible with CAT6 cable and both RJ45 and professional etherCON RJ45 connectors


• Two separate low-noise double C-core power transformers: one for the analog section, one for the digital section


• Modular design with an upgradeable multi-board system


• Regulated DC filament supplies with soft start for tubes


• Fully discrete analog stage—no Op-Amps used


• Proprietary USB firmware/driver:
  
  • Apple macOS and Linux OS: USB asynchronous native support, no driver installation required


• Fully upgradeable asynchronous USB module supporting resolutions from 44.1kHz to 384kHz PCM up to 24 bits, DSD64, DSD128; compatible with computers running OSX 10.7 and above, Windows 10, 8, 7, and XP (ASIO, WASAPI, bit-perfect, high-speed)


• Digital phase selector on the front panel


• High-quality components selected for sound quality:
  
  • 105° long-life capacitors
  
  
  • Low-noise metal foil ultra-precision resistors
  
  
  • Double metallized film pulse capacitors
  
  
  • Ultra-fast diodes
  
  
  • Halogen-free cables


• Aluminum anti-resonant cabinet with Nextel finish


• Designed and handmade in Italy

Inputs:

• RJ45 AQlink (I2S serial bus): PCM 24-bit / 384kHz, DSD64, DSD128 via DoP


• BNC coax (S/PDIF) 75 ohm: PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP


• RCA coax (S/PDIF) 75 ohm: PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP


• AES/EBU balanced 110 ohm: PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP


• USB port: PCM 24-bit / 384kHz, DSD64, DSD128 via DoP


• AT&T (ST Fiber) (optional): PCM 24-bit / 192kHz, DSD64 via DoP

Analog Outputs:

• RCA single-ended


• XLR balanced with transformer

SPECIFICATIONS