Dual ES9038Q2M Chips in Nu-Vista DAC: A New Era of Pristine Dual Mono Sound - HiFi.Fan
Dual ES9038Q2M Chips in Nu-Vista DAC: A New Era of Pristine Dual Mono Sound
By HiFi Editorial24 February 2026
Key Highlights
Incorporates Nuvistor 7586 triode tubes into a Class A amplifier buffer for warm, authentic sound.
Uses dual ES9038Q2M DAC chips for pristine dual mono sound and supports high-res audio up to DSD512.
Features extensive connectivity, including RCA, XLR, USB, AES/EBU, and I2S inputs for versatile setups.
London, UK - In a significant move that blends the old with the new, Musical Fidelity has announced the launch of its latest masterpiece, the Nu-Vista DAC. This flagship digital-to-analog converter harmoniously merges the revered Nuvistor tube technology with cutting-edge digital innovation, setting a new benchmark in the high-fidelity audio landscape.
Embracing the Past, Enhancing the Future
At the heart of the Nu-Vista DAC is the ESS 32-bit HyperStream II DAC architecture, revered for its precise audio processing capabilities. What truly sets it apart is the incorporation of Nuvistor 7586 triode tubes in each channel, a nod to the classic era of tube sound that audiophiles have long cherished. These tubes are part of a fully balanced Class A amplifier buffer, ensuring a warm and authentic audio reproduction.
Expansive Connectivity for the Modern Audiophile
Understanding the diverse needs of today's listeners, Musical Fidelity has equipped the Nu-Vista DAC with an array of connectivity options. It features RCA and XLR outputs, multiple SPDIF inputs, USB and AES/EBU inputs, and an I2S input for future compatibility with a Nu-Vista CD-player. This array of inputs and outputs ensures the Nu-Vista DAC's versatility in various audio setups.
The Technical Edge
Musical Fidelity doesn't stop at nostalgic tube technology. The Nu-Vista DAC uses two ES9038Q2M chips in a dual differential mode, a design choice that caters to pristine dual mono sound. It can handle high-resolution audio files up to 768 kHz in PCM and native DSD512 via USB, covering almost any digital file available for purchase or streaming today. Additionally, the improved SPDIF inputs now support MQA and DSD, further enhancing its capability.
Unparalleled Audio Experience
The Nu-Vista DAC's low-noise, low-dropout regulator, optimized for high-resolution audio, and the inclusion of a Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, result in a superb signal-to-noise ratio and total harmonic distortion plus noise performance. The listeners are treated to an unbelievably detailed and smooth transient response, a quality often sought but rarely found in digital audio devices.
Design and Build: A Testament to Durability and Elegance
Musical Fidelity's dedication to quality is evident in the build of the Nu-Vista DAC. The robust, vibration-resistant construction, featuring a massive aluminum case, acts as a Faraday cage, protecting the sensitive internals from electromagnetic interference. This solid construction not only ensures longevity but also enhances the audio performance by isolating it from environmental disturbances.
The Nu-Vista Legacy
Musical Fidelity's journey with Nuvistor tubes began in the 1990s and continues to be a labor of love. The use of these tubes, known for their reliability and exceptional sound quality, in conjunction with modern digital technology, showcases Musical Fidelity's commitment to innovation while respecting the rich heritage of audio design.
In Conclusion
The Nu-Vista DAC represents a bold step forward for Musical Fidelity, blending the best of vintage audio technology with the advancements of the digital age. It's more than just a DAC; it's a bridge between the warm, lush sound of the past and the crisp, detailed audio of the future. For the discerning audiophile, the Nu-Vista DAC is not just a piece of equipment but a gateway to an immersive, high-fidelity auditory experience.
