Focal Unveils Inaugural DAC

Focal Unveils Inaugural DAC & Amplifier, Arche – Feb 12, 2019 – New York, USA (Techreleased) – Focal – a recognized leader on the global stage for high fidelity products – is announcing its first foray into the DAC and amplifier market with the launch of Arche, an audiophile DAC and amplifier that is entirely designed and manufactured in France.

An All-In-One Solution for Headphones

Arche is a unique electronic solution developed by Micromega for Focal. It combines a digital-analog converter, as well as two pure class-A amplification modes (voltage and hybrid) designed especially for headphones. Arche also offers presets for every set of Focal headphones to make sure you get the absolute best from the combination.

The Ultimate in High-Fidelity

Upon entry of the digital signal, Arche offers a resolutely audiophile design through its uncompromising dual mono construction, from signal processing to amplification. This way, the design reduces crosstalk to an absolute minimum. The two premium digital-analog balanced AK 4490 converters take care of the left and right-hand channels, respectively. Each converter has a dedicated regulated power supply. Each amplifier operates at pure class-A, the ultimate in High-Fidelity, regardless of the impedance of the headphones used. With 2 x 1W, Arche powers the headphones easily, providing extremely high impedances. And in addition to the extremely low distortion, this choice means it is also outstanding in terms of transient signals.

Electronics and Acoustics: A Carefully Considered Combination from the Outset

With Arche, there is the option to select two amplifier types using the multifunctional rotary potentiometer located on the front panel. A pure current amplifier is available in the “Amplifier” section under the designation “Voltage”. This mode provides an output impedance of just 0.1 Ohm, which results in major listening dynamics. The second “Hybrid” integrated amplifier is similar to a power amplifier as it benefits from a higher output impedance.

Performance, Versatility and Aesthetics

Arche comes with a solid aluminum headphone mount, inspired by the brand’s logo.  Accessing and storing the headphones is therefore quick and easy, as well as looking incredible and saving on space! The rear panel is dedicated to the connection of sources via an analog input (RCA) and three digital inputs (USB, toslink and coaxial).

Arche’s front panel lets you connect up to two pairs of headphones via 1/4” (6.35mm) unbalanced stereo jack outputs and a balanced 4-point XLR. The multifunctional rotary potentiometer enables total control of the system. As well as the selection of inputs and volume control, the output level can also be optimized in relation to the impedance of the headphones connected.