Source: Press Release, Last Accessed: 2020/05/27

Schiit Audio today introduced an all-new, affordable balanced DAC: Modius. The new device offers Schiit's exclusive Unison USB input, as well as optical, coaxial, and AES inputs, in a compact, convenient, USB-powered package. Modius is available now for $199 in both silver and black finish.
“The Modius name came from the internal development name of “Modius Maximus,” which is exactly what it is - a bigger, better Modi” said Schiit's Jason Stoddard. "It uses a better AKM DAC than the Modi, it has more inputs than the Modi, it adds balanced outputs, and it brings our Unison USB input to a much more affordable price level.”
Modius is based on the AKM AK4493 D/A converter, a step up from the AK4490 used in Modi. It was chosen for its high price-performance ratio, critical for a balanced, designed-and-built-in-California DAC selling for only $199, the company says. Despite the low cost, high-quality parts are used throughout, including precision thin-film resistors and film capacitors, and separate gain stages for the balanced and single-ended outputs, to optimize the performance. A 32-bit, 200MHz-class microprocessor handles both Unison USB and system code, extending the application of Schiit's unique architecture.
According to the press release, Schiit's Unison USB is a proprietary USB Audio Class 2 architecture, with code solely developed by Schiit to run on general-purpose microprocessors. This allows Schiit to provide a very high-performance USB input that is focused on performing only a single critical task: PCM audio transmission. It also makes Schiit one of a handful of companies developing their own USB solutions, rather than relying on USB interfaces purchased from other manufacturers.
Modius is an excellent DAC for virtually any system, balanced or single-ended, but it also pairs ideally with Schiit's current and past lineup of 9-inch wide products. Stacked under any Asgard, Valhalla, Jotunheim, or Lyr, Modius provides more input flexibility than an internal DAC card, without taking up any additional desktop space.
Modius is available now at Schiit.com in both black and silver finishes for $199.

For more information: https://www.schiit.com/

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