dCS Bartók APEX DAC & Headphone Amplifier

The dCS Bartók APEX represents the pinnacle of British engineering and audiophile passion. Drawing on decades of experience from digital audio pioneers dCS, this masterpiece brings together the transparency, musical fidelity, and technical innovation of the legendary Vivaldi and Rossini ranges in a single, elegantly crafted chassis.

Created for the most demanding music lovers, Bartók APEX fuses state-of-the-art digital technology, the acclaimed dCS Ring DAC™, and an exceptional headphone amplifier with flexible streaming architecture and a wealth of connectivity. Whether as a pure DAC, an all-in-one headphone hub, or the centerpiece of a high-end audio system, Bartók APEX sets new standards in flexibility, build quality, and musical engagement.

Technical Highlights & Features

• Latest-generation dCS Digital Processing Platform with advanced algorithms for optimal signal purity and flexibility
• Exclusive dCS Ring DAC™, continuously refined and further enhanced in the APEX edition
• Seamless high-end streaming from TIDAL, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio via the dCS Mosaic Control app
• Roon Ready, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, and UPnP ensure compatibility with virtually any music source
• Comprehensive digital inputs (USB, AES, Dual AES, S/PDIF) – ideal for use with streamers, CD transports, and more
• Powerful headphone amplifier designed for both low and high impedance headphones; balanced and unbalanced outputs
• Supports encrypted SACD data from dCS Transports via Dual AES
• Multi-stage DXD oversampling, switchable DSD upsampling, and user-selectable PCM/DSD filters for fine sonic tuning
• Innovative auto clocking system for easy use and minimal jitter
• Separate power supplies with dual transformers guarantee total isolation of DAC and amplifier sections
• Firmware-upgradable – future-proof with regular software and performance updates

World-Class Sound – Redefined

Bartók APEX takes digital music reproduction to the next level. With extraordinary transparency, it reveals even the most intricate details, subtle textures, and dynamic nuances—creating a natural, effortless soundstage that redefines how music can be experienced.

From thunderous dynamic swings to the most delicate tonal shadings, it delivers absolute control and ease, making it the perfect companion for audiophile headphones, active monitors, or traditional stereo systems. Tonal accuracy, timing, and soundstage depth are as precise as they are emotionally engaging.

Exquisite Craftsmanship & Thoughtful Design

Each unit is meticulously hand-built in Cambridgeshire, England by experienced dCS specialists. The solid aluminum chassis reflects outstanding build quality and provides perfect protection for the sensitive electronics inside.

Modular architecture and advanced software ensure Bartók APEX stays ahead of the curve—not just today, but well into the future, with features and sound quality upgrades delivered seamlessly via firmware updates.

Intuitive Operation & Maximum Flexibility

The dCS Mosaic app puts you in complete control of all streaming services, digital sources, and system options from a single, intuitive interface—on any iOS or Android device.

Bartók APEX plays nearly every file format, offers native DSD and DoP support, handles all major lossless codecs, and ensures true 24-bit streaming via Ethernet. Multiple filter and upsampling options allow for personal sonic customization.

The result is a digital all-rounder that combines audiophile performance, future-ready design, and captivating musicality in perfect harmony.