If you have further questions not answered here, you can contact us here, or visit the dCS forum for help and advice regarding dCS products.
What is APEX?
APEX is the latest generation dCS Ring DAC™ analogue board, released in March 2022. Following extensive research and development, we’ve made several enhancements to the Ring DAC’s hardware. The APEX board represents our latest thinking on analogue gains stages and voltage regulation, and delivers a number of sonic and measured improvements.
You can find out more about the dCS Ring DAC™ APEX here.
We’ve also created an article providing more detailed information on the changes we’ve introduced with our new hardware, and the benefits it delivers for listeners. Click here to read the full article, which features insights from dCS Managing Director David Steven and Director of Product Development Chris Hales.
How do I get the Ring DAC APEX?
As of March 4, all dCS Vivaldi DACs, Rossini DACs, Rossini Players, and Bartóks will be fitted with the dCS Ring DAC hardware as standard.
Existing Rossini, Vivaldi and Bartók owners can also purchase APEX upgrades through our upgrade programme. (See below for more information.)
How do I order an APEX edition product?
dCS products are available through our network of specialist retailers and distributors.
We recommend contacting your nearest dCS dealer or distributor to discuss. You can search for dCS dealers and distributors via our online dealer locator tool.
If you’re having trouble finding a dCS dealer or distributor in your region, you can contact our dedicated customer service team here.
How do I arrange an audition?
We have already begun shipping demonstration units to our network of dealers and distributors. Please contact your nearest dCS retailer to arrange a demo.
How much do the new APEX models cost?
Your local dealer or distributor will be able to advise on pricing - please contact them for details.
What is the current lead time on orders?
Please contact your local authorised dCS dealer for current lead times and scheduling.
What is the difference between a Vivaldi APEX DAC, Rossini APEX DAC, Rossini APEX Player or Bartók APEX versus older models?
Our APEX models feature the dCS Ring DAC™ APEX analogue board as standard. Older models feature our previous generation Ring DAC™ analogue board. Whilst both offer an exceptional technical and sonic performance, the Ring DAC™ APEX board reduces noise and distortion even further, and is around 12dB more linear than previous generations. These improvements in measured performance have allowed us to enhance further the musical performance of our products, resulting in an even more compelling and engaging experience for listeners.
Aside from the new Ring DAC APEX hardware, our products are identical to previous generation models. They are constructed with meticulous attention to detail, using the same high-quality parts and components, and offer all of the key features and benefits that people would expect from a dCS system.
Can I still purchase a previous generation Vivaldi, Rossini or Bartók?
No. The prior model has been discontinued and replaced with our new APEX models.
Which dCS products are eligible for an APEX upgrade?
dCS is offering APEX upgrades to existing owners of Rossini DACs and Players, Vivaldi DACs, Vivaldi One, Bartók BSD and BHD. Upgraded units are identical to the new APEX models.
How do I purchase an upgrade?
Please contact your dCS dealer for more information or to request an upgrade.
What do I get if I purchase an upgrade?
Customers who purchase an upgrade will receive the new APEX hardware, plus a new APEX escutcheon. dCS will also issue a one-year warranty on APEX parts and labour for each upgraded unit.
When will APEX upgrades be available?
The upgrade programme is open and current.
What is the cost of the upgrade?
Please check with your local dCS retailer for details of pricing and availability.
Why do I have to pay for an APEX upgrade?
Whilst we regularly offer software upgrades free of charge, there is a fee for hardware upgrades. This is due to the various costs associated with delivering major hardware updates such as APEX - from research and development expenses, to the cost of manufacturing and shipping new APEX boards for upgraded units, and performing the physical upgrade itself.
How does the upgrade process work?
Once you have ordered an upgrade, you will receive a scheduled date for the upgrade to be performed. Adhering to a schedule allows dCS and our upgrade partners to minimise the length of time you are without your system.
On the specified date, your component will be shipped either to our headquarters in Cambridgeshire, England, or to one of our trusted service partners in the US and Asia, where it will be upgraded under strict conditions. All upgrades will be carried out to the highest standards by qualified personnel with extensive experience dealing in complex electronics, and assembling / disassembling dCS systems. Once upgraded, your new APEX unit will be thoroughly tested and returned to you.
