Emotiva Audio Corporation continues its tradition of delivering exceptional value in high-end audio with the immediate availability of the new Differential Reference® Design Series Stack—a meticulously matched quartet of components designed for audiophiles seeking premium performance without the space demands of traditional full-width separates.
The Differential Reference Design Series Stack comprises four harmoniously styled units: the DRS-1 Streamer, DRD-1 DAC, DRP-1 Stereo Preamplifier, and DRA-1 Power Amplifier. Each component shares identical compact dimensions of approximately 10-1/2 inches wide by 10-1/4 inches deep by 2-1/4 inches high—roughly the size of a standard sheet of copy paper—allowing effortless stacking or placement alongside other gear, with or without a rack.
Fully balanced, differential signal path
At the heart of the series is a fully balanced, differential signal path that rejects noise and preserves intricate musical details from input to output. The result is lifelike vocal reproduction, taut and controlled bass, effortless dynamics, and an overall sense of transparency that belies the diminutive form factor.
The complete four-component stack is available now at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $2,599, which includes a full set of interconnect cables and represents nearly a 15% savings compared to purchasing the pieces individually. For those preferring to build incrementally or integrate select components into existing systems, the units are also sold separately.
Complete lineup
- DRS-1 Differential Reference® Streamer ($799): Powered by the acclaimed Volumio platform with a lifetime Premium license included, this streamer offers intuitive access to high-resolution services such as Qobuz, TIDAL, and Spotify. It supports stereo RCA or balanced XLR outputs, HDMI display for interface and album art on a connected monitor, multi-room synchronization (up to six devices), and remote app control for seamless whole-home audio.
- DRD-1 Differential Reference® DAC ($699): Featuring a short, fully balanced signal path for ultra-low noise and natural timbre, the DAC delivers lifelike voices and resonant, pure bass. HDMI-ARC connectivity allows easy TV audio return in stereo, simplifying integration into modern living spaces.
- DRP-1 Differential Reference® Preamplifier ($699): A clean, short-path balanced design incorporates sealed relay input switching to isolate unused sources, a precision studio-grade resistor ladder volume control for perfect channel matching, and flexible 80 Hz bass management (with low-pass to subwoofer and high-pass to mains, or full-range bypass). A balanced summed XLR subwoofer output and robust drive stage enhance system compatibility.
- DRA-1 Differential Reference® Amplifier ($799): Built around a high-performance Hypex NCORE 252-based Class D module, this stereo amp delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms (130 watts into 4 ohms) or can be bridged for monoblock operation (up to 365 watts into 8 ohms or 400 watts into 4 ohms). With exceptional efficiency, high current capability, ultra-low distortion (THD+N ≈ 0.0008%), and a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 115 dB, it provides clean, glare-free power with tight control and smooth dynamics at any listening level.
From the beginning, Emotiva’s mission has been to offer outstanding, rugged, audiophile-grade components that don’t require a sizable investment, said Dan Laufman, President of Emotiva. The Differential Reference Design Series Stack is the latest example of our commitment to this mission. From its compact dimensions to powerful output, the new series will satisfy the most demanding listeners. We couldn’t be more proud.
Ideal for space-constrained setups, secondary systems, or desktop hi-fi enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on sound quality, the Differential Reference Design Series Stack brings Emotiva’s signature balance of performance, build quality, and affordability to a new form factor. The fully balanced architecture across the lineup ensures cohesive, low-noise operation whether used as a complete system or mixed with other components.
