LAiV Crescendo VERSE

R-2R DAC, digital & analog all-in-one hub with preamp and headphone amplifier

LAiV Crescendo VERSE is an R-2R DAC and an all-in-one digital/analog hub designed for audiophiles who value sound fidelity.

Compact, refined, and purpose-built, VERSE packs LAiV’s core engineering philosophy into a versatile component, equally at home on a desktop or in a main system.

Key strengths

1) LAiV R-2R digital core

Natural tone. True detail. Long-session comfort. Built around LAiV’s R2R ladder DAC architecture to preserve musical texture and tonal accuracy, delivering a presentation that feels organic and emotionally engaging.

2) Total control over digital playback

Shape the sound to match your system and preferences. By combining native 1-bit DSD processing with an integrated sample-rate converter (SRC), VERSE lets you resample PCM and DSD formats with ease.

3) One component. Three roles.

DAC, preamplifier, and headphone amplifier in balanced harmony. With a discrete buffered preamp output stage and a fully discrete headphone stage, VERSE integrates confidently into both personal headphone rigs and speaker-based systems.

4) Power with precision. Silence with control.

From sensitive IEMs to demanding full-size headphones. Selectable gain, multiple headphone outputs, and comprehensive protection circuits make VERSE powerful, quiet, and safe for everyday use.

Internal architecture

At the heart of Crescendo VERSE is LAiV’s proprietary R-2R ladder DAC architecture. The design targets tonal precision, stable imaging, and a natural sense of flow that stays enjoyable over long listening sessions.

Discrete, balanced R2R architecture

An advanced audio design using carefully arranged, tightly matched individual resistors (0.05% tolerance) to achieve clear, accurate reproduction and an immersive listening experience with exceptional detail and fidelity.

Compact form, full connectivity

Despite its compact footprint, Crescendo VERSE does not compromise on digital inputs. Designed to fit neatly on a desk or in a stackable system, it still provides a complete range of connections for both modern and legacy sources.

All inputs are designed to support high-resolution playback up to PCM 768 kHz and DSD256 (depending on input), ensuring compatibility with today’s highest-quality digital sources without sacrificing space or flexibility.

Total control: DSD modes & resampling

VERSE is built to give you full control over how your music is processed and presented. Whether you prefer maximum signal purity or smooth playback across mixed formats, VERSE lets you choose the approach that best fits your listening style, system synergy, and library.

Native 1-bit DSD processing

VERSE supports native 1-bit DSD playback without converting to PCM, preserving the timing, structure, and sonic character of DSD throughout the playback chain.

Important note: In DSD Native mode, switching from PCM/DSD tracks to DSD tracks with different sample rates may produce a brief pop noise. This is normal behavior of native DSD processing. For frequent mixed-rate playback, DSD Multibit is recommended for a smoother experience.

SRC with resampling options

VERSE also includes an integrated sample-rate converter (SRC), enabling precise control for both PCM and DSD playback. With multiple resampling choices, you can tune playback to your system and preferences.

• PCM resampling: 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, 16x (up to 768 kHz / 705.6 kHz)
• DSD resampling: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512 (only in DSD native mode)

Preamp & outputs

VERSE’s discrete output buffer is designed to provide superior impedance matching, helping maintain signal integrity between the DAC and the connected amplifier, including over longer interconnect runs.

Simultaneous balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs: thanks to its discrete output stage, VERSE can drive both outputs at the same time without compromise—ideal for fully balanced chains, traditional single-ended amps, and active speakers.

Effortless volume control

VERSE features intuitive, finely calibrated volume control. With the included remote, adjustments are smooth and precise for sensitive headphones and full-system playback alike. The integrated analog volume control allows direct connection to active speakers or use as a preamp for external power amps.

Discrete headphone amplifier

Designed for power without noise and detail without fatigue. With selectable gain (LOW / MED / HIGH), VERSE adapts easily from highly sensitive IEMs to demanding full-size headphones.

In high-gain mode, VERSE delivers up to 1100 mW per channel via the balanced output (approx. 11 Vrms) and up to 290 mW via the single-ended output (approx. 5.5 Vrms). Built-in safety circuits (temperature, overload, DC protection) support reliable long-term use.

Technical specifications