bartók
The Bartók occupies a very special place in hi-end. It sets benchmarks and standards in so many areas. Its transparency astounds all who listen and the effortless dynamic performance awes. Add in a timeless aesthetic, exquisite British craftsmanship and you have a source that is without parallel in it’s space. We invite you to hear why we love the Bartók at The Audio Salon, or your home. Click here to book your Bartók Demonstration.
Bartók APEX DAC
The Bartók began with a singular vision: to combine dCS’s past, present and future, distilling 30 years of innovation into a beautiful, flexible and future-proof design that embodies the essence of the brand.
The Bartók APEX DAC is available in two models: the BSD which is the DAC only, and the BHD which includes a dCS designed headphone amplifier—with balanced and unbalanced outputs, suitable for high and low impedance headphones
Combining a DAC, Music Streamer, Upsampler, Pre-amp and Headphone Amplifier (BHD), it offers a remarkable experience for both headphone and stereo listeners.
Compatible with all major file formats, it provides instant access to music from a wide range of streaming services, including Roon, TIDAL, Spotify, Qobuz, Deezer and Internet Radio. It also plays files direct from personal devices or storage drives via USB, AES or S/PDIF inputs, and from Apple devices using Apple Airplay.
Its streaming interface supports all major lossless codecs, plus DSD in native and DoP formats, and ensures true 24-bit resolution audio when streaming via Ethernet. Playback is easily managed via the Mosaic app, which allows you to access music from multiple sources and adjust the settings on your system through a single, intuitive interface.
The Bartók’s custom headphone amplifier is the embodiment of an uncompromising approach to design. Starting with the dCS analogue output stage, benchmark performance is maintained with true Class A operation through its balanced and unbalanced outputs.
Along with its groundbreaking amplifier, the Bartók Headphone DAC features a unique processing platform that reimagines how sound is optimised for headphones. Expanse is an optional feature that can be engaged with a wide range of stereo recordings to provide a heightened sense of realism, and a greater sense of space and depth.
Pairs well with the Lina or Rossini Master Clocks
Bartók APEX DAC with Headphone Amplifier Key Features (for the headphone version only)
Accepts encrypted SACD data from dCS Transports via Dual AES inputs. Oversampling design with switchable DSD upsampling; user-selectable PCM and DSD filters
Multi-stage DXD oversampling design with switchable DSD upsampling; user-selectable PCM and DSD filters
Auto clocking system improves ease of use and minimises jitter
Multi-stage power regulation and twin mains transformers to isolate the DAC section from the headphone amplifier
Firmware-upgradeable for future functionality and performance upgrades
Latest generation dCS Digital Processing Platform brings state-of-the-art signal processing and flexibility
dCS Ring DAC™ fitted, as used in the dCS Vivaldi digital playback system
High-quality streaming from TIDAL, Qobuz, Deezer and internet radio via the dCS Mosaic Control app
Roon Ready, AirPlay, Spotify Connect and UPnP compatible
USB, AES, Dual AES and S/PDIF digital audio inputs
Headphone amplifier with balanced and unbalanced outputs, suitable for high and low impedance headphones
"The perfect streamer, DAC and preamplifier. It doesn't compromise in any area and allows even the most demanding sound expectations…"
"Pairing the Bartók APEX with the Lina Master Clock unlocks an even more musical experience, allowing users to confidently claim they own one of the top digital music sources available today"
Please click here to see more Bartók Awards and more Bartók Product Reviews
Creating Bartók APEX
Why is dCS unique? About the Ring Dac, Clocks and Apex!
The Bartòk Streaming DAC and its cousin, the Bartòk Headphone DAC, redefined music playback for much of the audiophile and music community and found its way into music systems across the world. Professional recordists, mastering engineers, and musicians also discovered the virtues of using Bartòk in their work. dCS has chosen to celebrate some of the professionals and artists who use Bartòk as a part of their workflow. A new series of short films, which is titled Bartòk Masters, celebrates these influential music creators’ work, histories, and passions.
The Next Generation: Bartók APEX
