Weiss Engineering | DAC501 | SUMMER SALE

Sale Price: $11,795.00 Original Price: $13,790.00

A flexible, approachable and compact digital front end

The DAC501 is available at
special promotional pricing
through Aug. 31, 2026

Weiss components are typically ordered through Fern & Roby as part of a broader system conversation. Current lead times vary by product and configuration. Contact us to discuss system matching, availability, and fulfillment timing before purchase.

The Weiss DAC501 is designed for listeners who want exceptional digital playback without building a rack full of separate digital components.

Combining Roon Ready network streaming, digital volume control, headphone amplification, DSP processing, and digital-to-analog conversion in a remarkably compact chassis, the DAC501 brings together capabilities that would otherwise require several dedicated components.

Built in Switzerland and refined through Weiss Engineering's decades of professional mastering experience, it offers an elegant solution for music lovers who value flexibility without sacrificing everyday usability.

What the DAC501 does in a system

The DAC501 can function as a complete digital front end:

  • Digital-to-analog conversion

  • Network streaming (Roon/UPnP)

  • Preamplifier functionality

  • Headphone amplification

  • DSP and room correction tools

Don’t be fooled by the compact half-width chassis; the DAC501 can function as a complete digital control center within a system. In many systems, it can replace a standalone DAC, streamer, digital preamplifier, and headphone amplifier while reducing component count.

Unlike many highly configurable digital components, the DAC501 is designed to remain approachable in day-to-day use. Its DSP tools can be applied heavily, lightly, or not at all depending on the system and listening preferences.

Engineering approach

The DAC501 is designed to combine exceptional digital playback with a level of flexibility that allows systems to evolve over time. It reflects Weiss' decades of experience in professional digital audio while providing playback and DSP tools designed for real listening environments.

Conversion and analog stage

The DAC501 uses a high-performance multi-channel DAC architecture paired with Weiss’ discrete analog output stage. This approach preserves low-level detail and maintains a stable, highly coherent presentation across a wide range of systems.

DSP and playback control

The DAC501 includes a broad set of DSP tools that allow playback to be adjusted in a controlled, intentional way.

That could mean subtle room correction, tonal balance adjustments, loudness compensation, headphone optimization, or other refinements tailored to a particular system.

These tools aren’t intended to overwhelm the listening experience. In many systems they are used lightly (or left off entirely), but having that level of control can be valuable as systems, rooms, and preferences evolve over time.

Streaming and integration

The DAC501 supports Roon and UPnP streaming and includes extensive digital and analog connectivity.

It is designed to integrate cleanly into a wide range of systems, whether functioning primarily as a DAC, a preamp, a headphone component, or a complete digital control center.

Who the DAC501 is for

  • Systems where digital playback is a primary source.

  • Listeners who want to consolidate multiple digital components.

  • Those interested in room correction or DSP without unnecessary complexity

  • Systems where reducing component count is a priority.

  • Listeners who expect their systems to evolve over time.

Purchasing through Fern & Roby

As an authorized Weiss Engineering dealer, Christopher works directly with clients to think through amplification, speaker pairing, DSP use, headphone integration, and overall system balance.

Our perspective

The DAC501 is at the heart of one of our primary home systems. What continues to stand out is not simply its precision, but ithe way it adapts as the rest of the system evolves.

One of the things we appreciate most about the DAC501 is how much capability Weiss has integrated into such a compact chassis. Rather than asking listeners to assemble separate components for digital conversion, volume control, headphone amplification, room correction and DSP, the DAC501 brings those functions together while remaining remarkably straightforward to live with.

One of the things we appreciate most is that you don't have to use every feature to appreciate the DAC501. Some listeners will rely on its DSP tools extensively, while others may never adjust them at all. The flexibility is there when you want it, without demanding that you change the way you listen to music.

Read Christopher’s perspective on Grimm and Weiss approaches to digital playback.

Thinking about the DAC501 in your system?

Questions around DSP, room interaction, amplification, and system integration are often just as important as the DAC itself. We help clients think through how the DAC501 fits into systems where flexibility and long-term usability are priorities.

If you'd like to discuss how the DAC501 might fit into your system, Christopher works directly with clients on configuration, integration, and ordering. Full DAC501 specifications are available on the Weiss Engineering website.

Contact Christopher at Fern & Roby about the DAC501

Explore the Weiss lineup

  • Weiss DAC204-MK2

    Looking for a dedicated digital-to-analog converter that can elevate an existing digital system? The DAC204-MK2 reflects the same thoughtful engineering found throughout the Weiss lineup in a focused component that offers exceptional value for listeners who already have a digital source they enjoy. Learn more.

  • Weiss Helios

    Looking for Weiss' flagship digital-to-analog converter? The Helios combines reference-level digital conversion with integrated Roon Ready network streaming for systems where digital playback is a primary source and reference-level is the priority. Learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are Weiss components kept in stock at Fern & Roby?

    Some Weiss components may be available for demonstration or immediate delivery, but many are configured and ordered through Fern & Roby based on system requirements and current availability. Lead times vary by product and configuration and may extend several weeks or longer. We’re always happy to discuss timing, setup, and system matching before purchase.

  • Is the DAC501 Roon Ready?

    Yes. The DAC501 supports Roon as well as UPnP streaming.

  • Does the DAC501 include a preamplifier?

    Yes. The DAC501 includes a fully integrated preamp stage and can drive power amplifiers directly.

  • Does the DAC501 include headphone amplification?

    Yes. The DAC501 includes a high-quality headphone amplifier and supports headphone-specific DSP tools including crossfeed and headphone EQ.

  • Do I need to use the DSP features?

    No. The DSP tools are entirely optional and can be used as needed or bypassed completely.

  • Can the DAC501 replace a separate DAC and streamer?

    In many systems, yes. The DAC501 combines streaming, conversion, volume control, headphone amplification, and DSP functionality into a single chassis.

A flexible, approachable and compact digital front end

The DAC501 is available at
special promotional pricing
through Aug. 31, 2026

Weiss components are typically ordered through Fern & Roby as part of a broader system conversation. Current lead times vary by product and configuration. Contact us to discuss system matching, availability, and fulfillment timing before purchase.

The Weiss DAC501 is designed for listeners who want exceptional digital playback without building a rack full of separate digital components.

Combining Roon Ready network streaming, digital volume control, headphone amplification, DSP processing, and digital-to-analog conversion in a remarkably compact chassis, the DAC501 brings together capabilities that would otherwise require several dedicated components.

Built in Switzerland and refined through Weiss Engineering's decades of professional mastering experience, it offers an elegant solution for music lovers who value flexibility without sacrificing everyday usability.

What the DAC501 does in a system

The DAC501 can function as a complete digital front end:

  • Digital-to-analog conversion

  • Network streaming (Roon/UPnP)

  • Preamplifier functionality

  • Headphone amplification

  • DSP and room correction tools

Don’t be fooled by the compact half-width chassis; the DAC501 can function as a complete digital control center within a system. In many systems, it can replace a standalone DAC, streamer, digital preamplifier, and headphone amplifier while reducing component count.

Unlike many highly configurable digital components, the DAC501 is designed to remain approachable in day-to-day use. Its DSP tools can be applied heavily, lightly, or not at all depending on the system and listening preferences.

Engineering approach

The DAC501 is designed to combine exceptional digital playback with a level of flexibility that allows systems to evolve over time. It reflects Weiss' decades of experience in professional digital audio while providing playback and DSP tools designed for real listening environments.

Conversion and analog stage

The DAC501 uses a high-performance multi-channel DAC architecture paired with Weiss’ discrete analog output stage. This approach preserves low-level detail and maintains a stable, highly coherent presentation across a wide range of systems.

DSP and playback control

The DAC501 includes a broad set of DSP tools that allow playback to be adjusted in a controlled, intentional way.

That could mean subtle room correction, tonal balance adjustments, loudness compensation, headphone optimization, or other refinements tailored to a particular system.

These tools aren’t intended to overwhelm the listening experience. In many systems they are used lightly (or left off entirely), but having that level of control can be valuable as systems, rooms, and preferences evolve over time.

Streaming and integration

The DAC501 supports Roon and UPnP streaming and includes extensive digital and analog connectivity.

It is designed to integrate cleanly into a wide range of systems, whether functioning primarily as a DAC, a preamp, a headphone component, or a complete digital control center.

Who the DAC501 is for

  • Systems where digital playback is a primary source.

  • Listeners who want to consolidate multiple digital components.

  • Those interested in room correction or DSP without unnecessary complexity

  • Systems where reducing component count is a priority.

  • Listeners who expect their systems to evolve over time.

Purchasing through Fern & Roby

As an authorized Weiss Engineering dealer, Christopher works directly with clients to think through amplification, speaker pairing, DSP use, headphone integration, and overall system balance.

Our perspective

The DAC501 is at the heart of one of our primary home systems. What continues to stand out is not simply its precision, but ithe way it adapts as the rest of the system evolves.

One of the things we appreciate most about the DAC501 is how much capability Weiss has integrated into such a compact chassis. Rather than asking listeners to assemble separate components for digital conversion, volume control, headphone amplification, room correction and DSP, the DAC501 brings those functions together while remaining remarkably straightforward to live with.

One of the things we appreciate most is that you don't have to use every feature to appreciate the DAC501. Some listeners will rely on its DSP tools extensively, while others may never adjust them at all. The flexibility is there when you want it, without demanding that you change the way you listen to music.

Read Christopher’s perspective on Grimm and Weiss approaches to digital playback.

Thinking about the DAC501 in your system?

Questions around DSP, room interaction, amplification, and system integration are often just as important as the DAC itself. We help clients think through how the DAC501 fits into systems where flexibility and long-term usability are priorities.

If you'd like to discuss how the DAC501 might fit into your system, Christopher works directly with clients on configuration, integration, and ordering. Full DAC501 specifications are available on the Weiss Engineering website.

Contact Christopher at Fern & Roby about the DAC501

Explore the Weiss lineup

  • Weiss DAC204-MK2

    Looking for a dedicated digital-to-analog converter that can elevate an existing digital system? The DAC204-MK2 reflects the same thoughtful engineering found throughout the Weiss lineup in a focused component that offers exceptional value for listeners who already have a digital source they enjoy. Learn more.

  • Weiss Helios

    Looking for Weiss' flagship digital-to-analog converter? The Helios combines reference-level digital conversion with integrated Roon Ready network streaming for systems where digital playback is a primary source and reference-level is the priority. Learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are Weiss components kept in stock at Fern & Roby?

    Some Weiss components may be available for demonstration or immediate delivery, but many are configured and ordered through Fern & Roby based on system requirements and current availability. Lead times vary by product and configuration and may extend several weeks or longer. We’re always happy to discuss timing, setup, and system matching before purchase.

  • Is the DAC501 Roon Ready?

    Yes. The DAC501 supports Roon as well as UPnP streaming.

  • Does the DAC501 include a preamplifier?

    Yes. The DAC501 includes a fully integrated preamp stage and can drive power amplifiers directly.

  • Does the DAC501 include headphone amplification?

    Yes. The DAC501 includes a high-quality headphone amplifier and supports headphone-specific DSP tools including crossfeed and headphone EQ.

  • Do I need to use the DSP features?

    No. The DSP tools are entirely optional and can be used as needed or bypassed completely.

  • Can the DAC501 replace a separate DAC and streamer?

    In many systems, yes. The DAC501 combines streaming, conversion, volume control, headphone amplification, and DSP functionality into a single chassis.

Additional Information

Updated Half-Width DAC, Preamp, Headphone Amp, UPnP/Roon Streamer, DSP

Digital Signal Processing

The DAC501 uses a built-in digital signal processing (DSP) chip for its audio processing. These algorithms are included:

  • Room Equalizer – to suppress room modes for more accurate bass reproduction.

  • Creative Equalizer – a tone control with low boost/cut, high boost/cut, and mid boost/cut. Very useful to correct those recordings which do not quite sound right.

  • De-Essing – the automatic removal of overly bright sibilances from human voices. The sibilance effect can be more or less pronounced depending on your speakers or room acoustics.

  • Constant Volume – adjusts the audio volume (loudness) to a constant value across all tracks played. Useful for “party mode” when the volume control should stay untouched.

  • Vinyl Emulation – get that special sonic character of a record player based playback chain. We also employ an emulation of the DMM-CD procedure offered by the Stockfisch label.

  • Crosstalk Cancelling (XTC) – for the playback of dummy head recordings or live recordings via speakers for an incredible live sensation. Dummy head recordings usually are listened to via headphones because they only work properly if the left channel goes to the left ear only and the right channel to the right ear only. With speakers this is difficult to achive as the left channel goes to the left and the right ear. But with some clever signal processing of the speaker channels is is possible to suppress the crosstalk, i.e. the audio going from the left speaker to the right ear and vice versa. If that works properly then the recording sounds as if one would be in the space where the recording has taken place. All the reverberation and 3D representation of the sound sources is there.(For speaker based playback only.)

  • Loudness Control – a listening volume dependent equalization of the audio.

  • Headphone Equalizer – to adapt any headphone to the listener’s ears in terms of frequency response.

  • Crossfeed – to emulate a speaker based playback impression on headphones.

Looking to Upgrade?

Do you have an older version of the DAC 501 or DAC 502? Contact us to learn how to upgrade your DAC to the latest model.

Digital Inputs

There are a total of five inputs:

  • AES/EBU or S/PDIF via XLR, Toslink and RCA sockets.

  • UPnP/DLNA via Ethernet.

  • USB.

  • Roon Ready.

Accepted formats: PCM 44.1kHz up to 384 kHz, DSD 64x / 128x.

Future formats can be accommodated via software updates.

Analog Outputs

Line out unbalanced on RCA connector.

  • Line out balanced on XLR connector.

  • Headphone out on 1/4″ jack.

Discrete output stages for both line and headphone outputs are employed.

The output levels can be set in a coarse manner with four steps to adapt for the amplifier or headphone connected. The levels can be set independently for line and headphone outputs. No sound degrading servo mechanisms are used.

Power Supply

A powerful non-switching power supply is used. All sensitive voltages have their own regulators which are separated between left and right channels. The result is an analog output free of “digital noise” and channel crosstalk.

The power switch activates a semiconductor relay which only switches on or off at zero crossings of the mains voltage. This assures a glitch-free power switching. The two mains transformers are toroidal types.

Mains voltage selection is done automatically by measuring the mains voltage before power is applied to the rest of the electronics.

Dimensions

IR Remote Control
Depth: 2.1 cm / 0.83 inches
Width: 4.5 cm / 1.78 inches
Height: 16.6 cm / 6.53 inches

DAC501
Depth: 30 cm / 11.8 inches
Width: 18.8 cm / 7.4 inches
Height: 6.6 cm / 2.6 inches
Height with feet: 7.2 cm / 2.83 inches

Reviews

Michael Lavorgna: Twittering Machines