Mercury

Mastering D/A Converter

Mercury is the first mastering DA-converter in 120V technology. It offers seven digital stereo input sources, all of which can be synchronized with each other or with a word clock. The additional variable output qualifies Mercury as a monitor controller.

Seven Digital Sources

Mercury provides connections for a total of seven digital stereo input sources.

 

For each digital source there is a dedicated and illuminated tactile switch for quick selection and quick comparison.

The detected sample rate is shown in the display.

 

One USB input and two coaxial, two optical and two AES/EBU inputs are available. AES input 2 also supports Dual-Wire (DW) mode.

The Mid

Sync

The display shows the synchronization status and the detected sampling rate. Any source except USB can be synchronized to another source or to an external Word Clock.

 

If the sync “Source” is selected in the display, each source uses its own sync code embedded in the signal.

O dBfs

Holding the Sync button for more than two seconds Mercury will change to the 0dBfs display.

 

Mercury offers all reference levels in dBu corresponding to a 0 dBfs (full scale) digital signal: +14, +15, +16, +17, +18, +20, +22 and +24 dBu

 

Fix And Variable Outputs

Fix & Var

The FIX OUT is an analog balanced stereo output which can be calibrated to all common reference levels (see 0 dBfs).

 

Mercury offers a variable analog balanced stereo output. This output provides the same signal as the FIX OUT, but the level is continuously adjustable. Thus Mercury can also be used as a state-of-the-art monitor controller.

 

Variable Output

This analog potentiometer is used to control the level of the VAR OUT output. We use the ALPS RK27 “Big Blue” potentiometer with a nice “spoon in honey” feel and excellent channel tracking. So not only the auditory but also the haptic experience of volume control is at the highest level.

The DAC768v2 – Only the best is good enough

The converter chip in the Mercury’s digital/analog converter is the highly acclaimed AKM AK4493 SEQ VELVETSOUNDTM premium DAC chip in the latest version of the SPL DAC “DAC768v2”, which thanks to its architecture reproduces the finest sound details. It impresses with even lower distortion characteristics and a wider dynamic range than its predecessor.

 

It converts PCM audio with a resolution of 32 bits and

 

a sampling rate of up to 768 kHz, which is equivalent to 16 times CD resolution. Direct Stream Digital is also supported up to a resolution of DSD4 or DSD256.

 

The DAC768v2 features the newest version of the Spartan FPGA – Spartan 7.

In contrast to the smaller SPL DAC “DAC768xs”, it not only offers an AES/EBU digital input, but also the new, optimized SPL SLP120 with 120V technology.

The SLP120 (Super Low-Pass)

The analog output of the DAC chip must be filtered by a low pass filter. In contrast to all other DACs in the world, the low pass filters here are built using 120V technology, which provides a plus in dynamics and headroom and sound. The filter specially optimized for the new SPL DAC768v2 is called SLP120 (Super Low-Pass).

The DAC768v2 inside the Mercury is equipped with the SLP120 – an analog “Super Low-Pass” filter with 120V technology.

The 120V technology

The 120V technology is our reference technology. The 120V technology is unique in the world. It operates at a DC voltage of 120 volts. This is four times that of IC-based semiconductor op-amps.

The highest possible audio quality requires the highest possible audio operating voltage.

The 120V technology works with +/-60 V. To be able to handle such a high voltage, we have developed special proprietary operational amplifiers that can operate with a DC voltage of +/-60 V: the SPL 120V SUPRA operational amplifiers.

This high voltage would destroy conventional components and operational amplifiers.

 

The 120V technology achieves exceptional technical specifications and sonic benefits. Technically, in terms of dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio and headroom. Sonically, in terms of richness of detail and an absolutely relaxed listening experience.

By the way, the “120V” in the name of the technology has nothing to do with the local mains voltage from the mains power socket. This is about the operating voltage inside the device with which the audio signals are processed.

The mains voltage from the mains power socket is transformed to the required secondary voltage in the device’s internal linear power supply with toroidal transformer. Rectifiers convert this AC voltage into DC voltage required in the audio device.

The idea for SPL 120V technology and the SUPRA operational amplifier based on this technology were developed in the 1990s by SPL founder and chief developer Wolfgang Neumann.

 

With the goal of building the best mastering console ever, this basic technological philosophy then took shape for the first time – thus the SPL MMC1 Mastering Console for Galaxy Studios saw the light of day in 2000.

The outstanding sonic and technical features quickly got around in the scene – so further orders were not long in coming.

Besides the MMC 1, another legendary product with 120V technology was created with the PQ, the “King of Parametric Equalizers”.

Since that time, 120V technology has been the foundation for all SPL premium products. Meanwhile, not only for mastering applications, but also for the, studio or hifi use.

 

Comparison

Most audio devices work with an internal operating voltage of +/-15 volts and can thus process a maximum input level of +21.5 dBu. If a DAC, for example, has an output level of +22 dBu at 0 dBFS, level peaks of the music material would already cause overloads in the input stage of the device.

 

All components in the audio device often operate at their limits. The result is an unsteady sound that causes stress and faster ear fatigue.

SPL devices with 120V technology can handle input levels of +32.5 dBu thanks to the higher internal operating voltage of +/- 60 volts – thus offering 12 dB more headroom. All components consequently operate continuously in the optimum operating range. The result is a very pleasant, natural and relaxed sound experience. So you can enjoy your music in every detail.

 

These diagrams clearly show the superiority of the 120V technology in comparison to other circuits with lower, common operating voltages.

In the realm of professional audio mastering, precision and clarity are paramount. The SPL Audio Mercury Mastering D/A Converter is designed to meet the exacting standards of mastering engineers and audiophiles who demand the highest fidelity and uncompromised sonic integrity. Whether you’re refining mixes or preparing final masters for distribution, this converter ensures that every detail of your audio is rendered with exceptional accuracy and transparency, allowing you to make critical decisions with confidence.

One of the standout features of the Mercury Mastering D/A Converter is its exceptionally low total harmonic distortion (THD) of just 0.000992% at 0 dBu and 1 kHz. This means that the output signal remains virtually untouched by unwanted harmonic artifacts, preserving the purity of your audio and allowing subtle nuances to shine through. Coupled with a noise floor of -102.5 dBu (A-weighted) and an impressive dynamic range of 135 dB, this converter delivers a crystal-clear sound stage with remarkable depth and detail, even in the most delicate passages.

The analog inputs and outputs offer a maximum gain of 32.5 dBu, with an input impedance of 20 kΩ and output impedance of 75 Ω, providing compatibility with a broad range of professional studio equipment. This ensures that your signal chain maintains optimal levels without distortion or impedance mismatch, crucial for studio environments where signal integrity cannot be compromised. The common mode rejection of -82 dBu further minimizes interference and noise, guaranteeing a clean and balanced analog path.

On the digital front, the Mercury Mastering supports a wide array of inputs to accommodate various digital formats and sample rates. AES/EBU, coaxial SPDIF, optical SPDIF, and USB inputs handle PCM signals up to 768 kHz, as well as DSD formats up to DSD256 via USB. This extensive compatibility means you can seamlessly integrate the converter into any digital workflow, whether you’re working with standard 44.1 kHz audio or high-resolution masters at 352.8 kHz and beyond. The device’s internal DAC768 chip ensures that these signals are converted with the utmost precision, preserving the original audio quality.

Physically, the Mercury Mastering is built for professional studio environments. Its robust chassis measures 482 mm wide, 44 mm high, and 300 mm deep, fitting neatly into a standard 19-inch rack at a 1U height. Weighing just 4.5 kg, it is both sturdy and portable, allowing for flexible studio setups. The internal linear power supply with a shielded toroidal transformer provides stable and noise-free power to the analog circuitry, further enhancing sonic purity. With selectable mains voltage options (115 V or 230 V) and low power consumption of under 40 VA, it is suitable for studios worldwide without concerns about electrical compatibility or excessive heat generation.

The Mercury Mastering D/A Converter is ideal for mastering engineers, audio post-production specialists, and high-end audiophiles who need a reliable, transparent, and versatile converter. It excels in situations where critical listening and accurate sound reproduction are non-negotiable. From mastering classical music to mixing electronic tracks or restoring archival recordings, it delivers the precision and neutrality required to make informed sonic decisions. Its broad digital input range and robust analog performance make it a cornerstone of any professional audio setup.

In conclusion, the SPL Audio Mercury Mastering D/A Converter offers a compelling combination of ultra-low distortion, wide dynamic range, and versatile connectivity, all housed in a meticulously engineered chassis. For ₹328,970, it represents an investment in audio fidelity that pays dividends in the quality and accuracy of your work. When clarity, detail, and reliability matter most, the Mercury Mastering stands as a trusted partner in the pursuit of sonic excellence.