Like all dCS streaming DACs, Lina was designed with upgradability in mind. Flexible firmware provides unlimited scope for future improvement, with new features and enhancements delivered via simple software updates.
With Lina 1.1, we have implemented dCS’s digital volume control. Users can access the volume control using Lina’s touch panel or via the latest version of dCS Mosaic.
Lina can now be used in systems without a preamp, driving a power amplifier directly. This approach eliminates unnecessary redundancy - reducing the number of volume controls, gain stages, and interconnects in the signal path - a strategy that provides extraordinary purity and transparency.
The DAC’s output can also now be better matched with the input specifications of a connected preamp or headphone amplifier, allowing an analogue volume control to be used in its ideal operational region.
Volume Lock
With Lina 1.1, it is now possible to set and lock the volume level. The output level can be custom configured for use with a vast range of preamplifiers, power amps, or headphone amplifiers. With this feature, the volume can be locked to the desired level.
Whether the volume control is in variable mode driving an amplifier directly as a part of a high-performance two-channel system, or used in locked mode in conjunction with a preamplifier, integrated amp, or headphone amplifier, the Lina 1.1 is fully up to the task.
High Performance and Extreme Flexibility
Lina’s exceptional musicality and transparency make it ideal for use in a traditional, two-channel audio system, especially for installations where space is limited.
Whether your primary focus is headphone listening, two-channel audio, or both, a Lina system can be built component by component. The system can begin with the Lina Streaming DAC. Later, the Lina Master Clock or the Lina Headphone Amplifier can be added.
The Lina Clock also makes a superb companion to the Bartók APEX, improving its musical performance even further.
Lina 1.1
Available March 21, 2023
Lina updates are facilitated via dCS Mosaic. On Mosaic, navigate to Support/Versions/Check for Updates.
Please allow 30 minutes for the update to complete. Do not power off Lina during the update.
To access the dCS variable volume control remotely, dCS Mo- saic must be updated to version 1.41 (see below for more information).
If you have questions, you are welcome to contact dCS service and support at [email protected].
Mosaic 1.41
dCS Mosaic is a carefully assembled collection of hardware and software modules that, when combined, provide a listener with easy and intuitive access to a vast catalogue of digital music.
Mosaic also provides access to dCS settings, such as Mappers, Filters, and Upsampling configurations.
Mosaic 1.41 now includes the Lina volume controls and settings.
Additionally, Rossini owners can now access and adjust dCS Expanse and crossfeed settings using dCS Mosaic. (Rossini v2.1 is required to access dCS Expanse.)
dCS Mosaic now supports HTTP live streaming, and can play HLS streams.
