STEREO GUIDE verdict
The Violectric DHA V226 is a versatile headphone DAC that can also be used as a preamplifier. Its sound is coherent and high-resolution, and the workmanship is excellent.
Pros
- Outstanding, transparent sound
- Unrestricted suitability for all headphones
- Wide range of applications
Cons
- No remote control
- No other digital inputs apart from USB-C
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Sound quality9.7
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Usability/Connectivity9.4
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Price/Performance9.3
Those who want to drive their high-quality passive headphones optimally are usually faced with the question of whether they want an analog headphone amplifier, a preamplifier or a D/A converter with headphone output. This is not the case with the Violectric DHA V226, because it is all in one.
The three different output sockets on the compact desktop device with the distinctive volume control are particularly eye-catching: for classically wired headphones, this is the 6.3 mm jack socket; for fully balanced cables, both a 4-pin Canon/XLR and a Pentaconn are available. The latter is designed as a jack connection with a diameter of 4.4 millimeters.
Violectric is backed by the same development team as the well-known pro audio brand Lake People. In view of the prestigious “Made in Germany” lettering on the back and the wide range of possible applications, the price of 1,600 euros is more than reasonable. The only limitation in practical use that immediately caught our eye: there is no remote control for source selection and volume, so the owner has to operate the device manually.
Wide range of applications
You only really learn to appreciate the wiring options and operating modes beyond simple digital-to-headphone operation when you use the device for a longer period of time. In addition to the digital USB input, it also has two analog RCA pairs for other sources and an analog output.
The latter can either run via the volume control – something to address active loudspeakers – or deliver a fixed level to a hi-fi amplifier, which then turns the V226 into a DAC for a classic system. As far as the analog control is concerned, Violectric relies on high-quality ingredients. The Alps potentiometer with its precisely manufactured aluminum volume knob can be optimally used by adjusting the amplification factor on the rear panel to the sensitivity of the headphones in 6 dB steps between -18 and +18 dB using two DIP switch strips. A helpful guideline for the correct power reserve: at a normal listening level, the volume control should ideally be in the 12 o’clock position.
The fact that Violectric draws from the full is also reflected in the linear power supply with a low stray field toroidal transformer and buffering by electrolytic capacitors with a generously dimensioned total capacity of 22,000 μF. This means that the DHA V226 has no shortage of power for the balanced headphone amplifier.
Digital part at its best
The data sheet of the Violectric DHA V226 boasts astonishing resolutions in the digital domain: 32-bit resolution and 384 kHz maximum sampling frequency for PCM as well as DSD256 for 1-bit data streams. Most users, even audiophile specialists, will probably not have data available in such resolutions. Nevertheless, it is good to know that the internal Cirrus CS43131 D/A converter is capable of this. Of course, it also provides its qualities at the usual data rates of 44kHz/16 bit (CD resolution) to 96kHz/24 bit (typical Hi-Res streaming).
In contrast to its predecessors, the V226 already has a “modern” USB-C input. This not only eliminates the need for the typical adapter cables of the old USB world, but also the installation of drivers in the vast majority of cases. While most music listeners are likely to dock a laptop or PC as a supplier, it also works with most modern smartphones, tablets and even some servers.
If it does not work straight away to use the Hi-Res DAC with the smartphone, it is almost certainly due to the USB cable. Many connections are optimized for maximum charging power and are unsuitable for audio transmission. As most of these cables are not labeled, the rule of thumb is “the proof of the pudding is in the eating”. A good approach is to use USB connections for headphones such as the Dyson OnTrac. The DAC was ready to play music from Apple Music or Qobuz as soon as I connected it to my iPhone 16 Pro.
This is what the versatile Violectric DHA V226 sounds like
The studio background of the brand from Lake Constance is not only noticeable in the look and feel of the Violectric DHA V226. The sound signature also bears the signature of professionals. Instead of acoustic bling-bling, the headphone DAC delivers extremely authentic sound colors. It is therefore not only recommended for immersing yourself particularly deeply in the recording, without any gimmickry. If some of its competitors sound more sober, this is not because the DHA V226 sounds warm. It simply refrains from any coolness. This makes recordings such as “Slave To The Rhythm (Feat. Lady Blackbird)” (Trevor Horn: “Echoes”) from the STEREO GUIDE Qobuz playlist “Audiophile Voices” sound as if they have been cast from a single mold.
In the sound test with headphones such as the Beyerdynamic T5 P or the in-ear Beyerdynamic Xelento 2 (here the review of the active version, which can also be operated at the headphone output), the Violectric DHA V226 proved to be a real power source for demanding headphones. With a gain level of +6 dB, the Heilbronn over-ear headphones, which have a certain voltage requirement despite their low impedance, performed with impressive dynamics. The combination of amplifier and headphones produced a sound signature that was convincing in terms of both power and precision.
The way in which the V226 handled impulses was particularly impressive. The touch of piano keys was reproduced with a clarity and directness that made every subtlety of the touch dynamics palpable. The notes literally sparkled from the drivers, while the amplifier ensured with effortless control that the energy of the sounds never tipped over into shrillness or exaggeration. The V226 reproduced the decay of the piano strings with equal attention to detail – the finest overtones were audibly traced right into the silence, which ensured exceptional sensitivity in the reproduction.
For your own sound test: STEREO GUIDE Audiophile Voices, die Playlist auf Qobuz
The overall sound characteristics were characterized by impressive transparency. The V226 played neutrally and clearly without coming across as analytical or too sober. The highs were airy and finely defined, while the mids scored with a natural presence and warmth. In the bass range, the amplifier revealed a dry, precise tuning that traced contours cleanly and did not allow any booming or uncontrolled resonance.
For listeners who value speed, resolution and absolutely precise reproduction, the V226 is a real discovery. Despite its unassuming, functional design, this solidly built black box proves to be an audiophile powerhouse that brings music to life with the utmost meticulousness and impressive control.
Violectric DHA V226: Conclusion and alternatives
It starts with a high level of tactile quality with a smooth-running, solidly crafted volume control or crisp metal switches, continues with connectivity that leaves nothing to be desired and culminates in an extremely natural, finely detailed sound with a solid bass foundation. The compact Violectric DHA V226 can not only be used as a high-end headphone amp or hi-res USB DAC. It is also suitable as a powerful and precise purist preamp – ideal for a space-saving, yet powerful-sounding desktop audio system with active monitors such as the Econik Six or the Nubert nuZeo 4.
Violectric DHA V226: Technical specifications
- Manufacturer’s recommended retail price: 1,600 euros
- Type: USB headphone DAC
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 16.5 x 5.4 x 22.8 cm
- Weight: 3 kg
- Special features: USB-C input, RCA output with switchable volume control, Pentaconn, 6.3 mm jack and 4-pin Canon/XLR headphone outputs
