Zesto Audio Unveils Athena Tube DAC at AXPONA 2025
By HiFi Editorial24 February 2026
Key Highlights
Combines modern ROHM chip with tube analog circuitry for exceptional audio clarity and warmth.
Supports formats up to PCM 24-bit/384kHz and DSD256 with seven digital input options for versatility.
Avoids filters and negative feedback, preserving original audio resolution and dynamic range.
Zesto Audio has unveiled the Athena, a state-of-the-art tube-based digital-to-analog converter (DAC) at AXPONA 2025 in Chicago. This latest offering from the US-based company seamlessly blends innovative digital technology with classic tube analog circuitry, aiming to deliver an unparalleled listening experience. The Athena harnesses a modern ROHM chip at its core, ensuring that every nuance of the audio spectrum is reproduced with exceptional clarity and precision.
Engineered for versatility, the Athena DAC supports a wide array of formats, including PCM up to 24-bit/384kHz and DSD up to DSD256. It features seven digital inputs such as USB, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, and I2S, providing seamless integration into various audio setups. One of the standout features of the Athena is its commitment to preserving the integrity of the audio signal. By avoiding the use of digital or analog filters, the DAC maintains the original audio resolution, resulting in a sound that is as close to the source as possible.
