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Violectric DHA V226
The headphone amplifier and DAC for the big moments
The Violectric DHA V226 is a high-quality compact solution for demanding hi-fi tasks. The high-resolution converter unit accepts digital audio with up to 32 bit at 384 kHz and DSD 256 via USB-C. The converted signal is then output by a headphone amplifier in top Violectric quality to balanced or unbalanced headphones via 4-pin XLR, 4.4 mm Pentaconn or 6.3 mm jack. The innovative circuit enables the operation of a wide variety of headphone types, from high-impedance models to low-impedance versions and magnetostats. Lowest noise and minimal distortion allow an exceptionally clear, detailed reproduction. Two analog RCA inputs and an analog RCA output integrate the DHA V226 effortlessly into a hi-fi setup and make it the central hub.
Inputs & outputs
Inputs analog, stereo:
-> 1x RCA unbalanced
-> 1x XLR female, balanced
Inputs digital:
-> 1x USB-C
+++ Inputs switchable to front with switch +++
Outputs headphones:
-> 1x jack 6.3 mm, unbalanced
-> 1x XLR 4-pin, female, balanced
-> 1x Pentaconn 4.4 mm, balanced
Outputs analog, stereo:
-> 1x RCA unbalanced
+++ Outputs switchable on front with switch (Head / OFF / Line) on rear with button (Line Pre / Post) +++
Built-in top-class digital-to-analog converter
Connect the Violectric DHA V226 headphone amplifier directly to your digital streamer or mobile player via USB-C and enjoy your digital music collection or Internet radio quickly and directly.
Convenient switching between sources and outputs
The Violectric DHA V226 is equipped with 2 stereo inputs (balanced via XLR and unbalanced via RCA) and an additional line output (unbalanced via RCA) - on the rear of the device. This allows you to connect 2 independent playback devices such as streamers, CD players, etc. directly to the headphone amplifier and use it as a preamplifier and also drive active speakers.
Balanced headphone output
When listening to music via loudspeakers, you are part of the auditorium. When listening via “normal” headphones, you take the place of the conductor. When listening with “balanced” headphones, you are part of the orchestra.
If headphones are operated symmetrically, the channel separation is increased even further. Balanced headphones usually have a 4-pin XLR connection or a Pentaconn plug.
True balanced operation requires a great deal of effort in the form of four built-in power amplifiers.
PRE-GAIN
7-way adjustable amplification for optimum adaptation to all sources and headphones (Backside, -18, -12, -6, 0, +6, +12, +18 dB).
The headphone amplifier is positioned between the music source and the headphones. The source can have different levels of power and the headphones can have different levels of sensitivity.
The Violectric PRE-GAIN serves to compensate for these differences and to optimize the headphone amplifier for every conceivable combination. This results in minimal noise, the lowest distortion factor and the best channel balance.
Superior sound reproduction
The Violectric DHA V226 has been carefully designed to preserve sound fidelity in its purest form. The advanced audio technology ensures high-resolution and distortion-free sound reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum.
Whether you want to explore subtle nuances in your music or create precise mixes, this headphone amplifier allows you to hear every detail clearly.
Violectric's unique technology
- Lowest Noise - through a very small internal gain. This makes the amplifier's own noise inaudible.
- High output voltage - due to an internal 50 volt operating voltage. Therefore ideally suited for high-impedance headphones.
- High output power - thanks to powerful amplifiers that can deliver far more power than even the most demanding headphones require. Therefore ideally suited for headphones with low impedances and magnetostats.
- High damping factor - due to the lowest output impedance. Therefore ideally suited to drive even the most difficult headphones without interference. The advantage for an uncompromising frequency response.
Violectric - The brand for music lovers
- Violectric brings decades of expertise and the uncompromising quality standards of professional Lake People products to the world of hi-fi - with passion! Music lovers all over the world rave about the seamless integration into their systems: from a convenient and versatile input section to precisely adjustable gain control and digital interfaces with first-class converter technology at broadcast level - no wish remains unfulfilled here.
- The entire Violectric portfolio impresses with intuitive operability that is otherwise only known from professional audio technology. And there are no compromises when it comes to quality: Every single component is carefully selected to guarantee maximum sound fidelity.
- However, Violectric not only stands for outstanding technology, but also for timeless elegance. The products are integrated into an elegant, high-quality housing and fit perfectly into any sophisticated hi-fi setup. For audiophile perfectionists who don't want to compromise, the Niimbus series offers the ultimate - both visually and technically at the very highest level.
Features
- balanced inputs via gold-plated Neutrik XLR sockets
- unbalanced inputs via gold-plated RCA sockets
- 1 digital input, USB-C, with up to 32 bit and up to 384 kHz for PCM signals, DSD 64 - 256
- PRE-GAIN: amplification can be adjusted in 7 stages on the back
- Powerful balanced stereo amplifier (4 output stages)
- Compact and extremely robust aluminum housing
- Made in Germany
Dealers selling Violectric near you
Violectric DHA V226
Violectric DHA V226 is a compact desktop DAC/headphone amp that pairs studio-grade control with refined musicality. Its standout quality is a remarkably transparent, powerful sound driven by a toroidal transformer that delivers exceptional headroom and dynamics. The Cirrus CS43131 DAC and USB‑C input support PCM up to 384kHz/32‑bit and DSDx4, while balanced 4‑pin XLR and 4.4mm Pentaconn outputs give tighter grip and control. Reviewers at HiFi News (Andrew Everard) praised its instrumental detail, natural midrange, and spacious orchestral imaging. Built like a pro-audio unit with an ALPS attenuator and solid aluminium control, it suits listeners who want a desktop hub to drive everything from easy dynamics to demanding planars. For those seeking a compact, high-resolution solution with flexible gain and preamp options, the DHA V226 is a compelling choice.
Pros
- Exceptional dynamics and headroom capable of driving even the most demanding headphones cleanly and with control.
- Highly resolving, transparent presentation with striking instrumental detail and a natural midrange.
- Versatile desktop feature set — Cirrus CS43131 DAC with USB‑C (384k/32, DSDx4), plus balanced XLR and 4.4mm headphone outputs and flexible gain/DIP-switch control.
- Robust, studio-influenced build with an internal toroidal transformer, ALPS RK27 attenuator and solid aluminium volume knob for precise control.
&
Cons
- Digital inputs are limited to USB‑C — there are no optical, coaxial or USB‑B connections.
- Analogue inputs and the variable preamp are unbalanced RCAs only; there are no balanced line-level outputs for a fully balanced chain.
Sound Quality
92/100
Reviewers note excellent headroom and control driven by a hefty toroidal transformer, with percussion that 'really hits hard' and the ability to drive demanding headphones cleanly at extreme levels. The amp delivers strong transient punch and coherent micro/macro dynamics across material.
Noise Floor
88/100
Though the review does not explicitly call out a 'dead-quiet' background, measured specs (dynamic range >131dB, SNR < -102 dBu) and very low output impedance (<0.5Ω balanced / 0.25Ω unbalanced) indicate a very quiet unit suitable for most IEMs. Score is conservative-high to reflect excellent technical specs despite lack of explicit 'black background' phrasing in the review.
Headphone Compatibility
92/100
The reviewer states the rated output is 'sufficient to drive all types' and that it will make demanding headphones play louder than your ears will stand, and the spec sheet shows very low output impedance — all signs it will handle IEMs through power-hungry planars. Balanced and single-ended headphone support is noted, giving it broad compatibility.
Build Quality
92/100
HiFi News highlights a chunky, purposeful, rugged build with logical studio-influenced controls and an ALPS RK27 attenuator/solid aluminum volume knob — a no-nonsense, durable desktop design. Internal toroidal transformer and internal AC supply add to perceived solidity and quality.
Features Connectivity
90/100
The unit includes a built-in Cirrus CS43131 DAC and USB-C input (PCM up to 384/32, DSDx4), balanced and single-ended headphone outputs and a variable-gain preamp; however, analogue I/O is unbalanced RCA only and there are no optical/coax digital inputs. Feature tally (DAC + USB + balanced headphone output + gain + line out) yields a well-featured desktop amp, though not a full streamer/DAC hub.
Value for Money
86/100
The review states the V226's price (noted as £1,230 in the article) but offers no explicit value judgement; given the strong performance and build described, a neutral-to-positive value rating is warranted but not overstated without multiple reviewer endorsements calling it a 'bargain' or 'giant killer.'
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