Rockna Wavedream Signature DAC: D/A Converter with USB Input
The Ultimate Sound: Innovation, Precision, and Sonic Purity
The Rockna Wavedream Signature DAC represents the pinnacle of digital audio reproduction. Designed as the brand’s flagship model, this digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is built with cutting-edge technology, ensuring a sound quality that exceeds even the most demanding expectations.
Following in the footsteps of its predecessor’s legacy of excellence, the Wavedream Signature not only pushes the limits of performance and sound quality but also introduces innovations that establish it as a reference in high-end audio.
Below, we explore its key technologies and features.
Wavedream Signature vs. Edition: Key Differences
The Signature Edition incorporates RD-0 DAC modules, an exclusive 27-bit structure that significantly enhances the analog output compared to the Edition version (RD-1, 26-bit).
4x lower harmonic distortion than the Edition version.
Improved signal-to-noise ratio of 132 dB (vs. 122 dB in the Edition).
Greater transparency and resolution in digital-to-analog conversion.
With these improvements, the Wavedream Signature guarantees a more detailed sound experience, delivering greater fidelity and a more natural sonic presentation.
Software-Defined Architecture: An Evolving DAC
The Wavedream Signature is based on a fully programmable architecture, allowing it to adapt and evolve over time through firmware updates.
FPGA-based system – Instead of using off-the-shelf DAC chips, Rockna has designed a custom FPGA architecture, providing total control over digital processing.
Hardware upgrades via software – Unlike conventional DACs, updating the Wavedream firmware modifies its internal hardware, adding new features and improving performance.
Future-proof design – Thanks to its flexibility, the Wavedream remains up to date with the latest innovations in digital-to-analog conversion.
Femtovox Clock System: Extreme Precision
The clock is the heart of any digital audio system, and its accuracy largely determines the final sound quality.
The Femtovox system, developed exclusively for the Wavedream, introduces a revolutionary approach to clock management:
Ultra-low jitter of 300 femtoseconds at the DAC input.
Clock synthesis directly at the converter input, eliminating the need for intermediate conditioning and ensuring total stability.
Precision control of 1 ppb, optimizing digital audio fidelity.
The result is a smooth, natural playback experience free from digital artifacts, achieving a truly analog-like sound.
Custom Digital Filters: Precision in Every Detail
The Wavedream Signature employs a unique fixed 16x oversampling strategy, optimizing digital-to-analog conversion for a precise and natural output.
Internal sampling frequency: 705.6 kHz or 768 kHz, depending on the input.
DSP processing with 58 dedicated blocks and a 15 GMACS processing capacity.
The filtering system was developed exclusively for this DAC, avoiding standard Nyquist filters in favor of a superior Parks-McClellan filter, offering three user-selectable options:
Linear-phase filter – Symmetrical energy distribution before and after the impulse.
Minimum-phase filter – All impulse energy is concentrated after the initial attack.
Hybrid filter – A combination of both responses, with minimal pre-ringing.
These optimized filters ensure clean, detailed playback with a natural transient response.
High-Precision Digital-to-Analog (DAC) Conversion
At its core, the Wavedream Signature features RD-0 modules, based on a hybrid discrete sign-magnitude ladder architecture.
27-bit structure for higher precision.
Maximum sampling frequency of 6 MHz – the highest in the industry.
Upgradeable firmware to enhance performance and add new features.
The DAC output is buffer-free, ensuring total transparency and sound reproduction without coloration or distortion.
Analog Output Stage: Transparency and Dynamics
The final output stage of the Wavedream Signature is critical to its sound integrity.
Discrete Class A design with J-FETs and bipolar transistors.
Output impedance of less than 1 ohm.
Ultra-low input noise of 1 nV, ensuring maximum sound resolution.
The result is a dynamic, detailed presentation with unparalleled naturalness.
Power Supply: Complete Isolation of Digital and Analog Signals
Power delivery is a critical factor in DAC performance, and the Wavedream Signature is designed with meticulous attention to detail.
Three independent transformers, preventing interference between sections.
Fully linear power supply, with no switching power sources, eliminating electrical noise.
20 low-noise linear regulators, with dedicated circuits for each critical section.
This architecture guarantees clean and stable current delivery, minimizing any impact on sound purity.
Advanced Features and Customization
The Wavedream Signature offers an advanced configuration menu, allowing users to personalize their listening experience.
Integrated Preamplifier – 256-step volume control (0.5 dB per step) for direct connection to power amplifiers.
Absolute Phase Selection – Phase inversion for optimal adaptation to various audio setups.
Filter Selection – Switch between three filtering options or disable oversampling (NOS mode).
Clock Configuration – Two PLL response modes (Flow and Local) for optimized digital clock stability.
Ultrasonic Dither – Applied to the last 4 bits of the 24-bit word, improving R2R conversion linearity.
Premium Build and Internal Design
The Wavedream Signature is built with the highest level of engineering and aesthetics.
Fully symmetrical design, optimizing signal path efficiency.
LVDS connections, reducing interference and improving transmission speed.
Black anodized aluminum chassis, with a 20mm-thick front panel.
Ruthenium black-finished switches, adding a luxurious touch.
The Ultimate Listening Experience
The Rockna Wavedream Signature DAC is a masterpiece of digital-to-analog engineering, delivering an uncompromising sonic experience.
Advanced FPGA processing, fully upgradable.
27-bit DAC conversion with extreme precision.
Reference-grade power supply and clock system for pure, natural sound.
Luxury design and premium craftsmanship.
With these features, the Wavedream Signature sets a new benchmark in high-fidelity digital playback.
Technical Specifications
Digital Inputs
Optical S/PDIF: 24-bit / 44.1 - 192 kHz PCM, DoP DSD64.
Coaxial AES/EBU: 24-bit / 44.1 - 192 kHz PCM, DoP DSD64.
USB: PCM 32-bit / 44.1 - 384 kHz, DSD64 - DSD512.
HD-Link1 / HD-Link2 (LVDS): PCM 32-bit / 44.1 - 384 kHz, DSD64 - DSD512.
Outputs
THD+N: 0.0008% (-102 dB at -6 dB).
Signal-to-noise ratio: 132 dB.
Dynamic range: 132 dB.
Output impedance: 0.5 ohms.
Maximum voltage: 20 Vpp (XLR).
