Ferrum Wandla DAC Review: Golden Sound's Impactful Features & Natural Sound

The Ferrum Wandla DAC, a collaborative effort between Ferrum and Golden Sound, delivers a compelling audio experience that transcends typical DAC performance. This in-depth review explores the Wandla's strengths and weaknesses, examining its build quality, measurable performance, and most importantly, its exceptional sound signature. We delve into the impact of Golden Sound's unique features – bass enhancement, spatial enhancement, and a subtle tube mode – analyzing their effect on the overall listening experience. Comparisons to other high-end DACs, including R2R designs and the DX9, provide context and highlight the Wandla's competitive edge.Beyond the core audio performance, this review also critically assesses the optional Hipsus power supply, weighing its cost against the perceived improvements in sound quality. Ultimately, we determine whether the Ferrum Wandla DAC's premium price point is justified by its combination of exceptional sound, innovative features, and convenient all-in-one design. The review concludes by identifying the ideal listener for this high-end product, considering both its strengths and potential drawbacks compared to more affordable alternatives.

Pros And Cons

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Build Quality and Initial Impressions

The Ferrum Wandla DAC, a collaboration between Ferrum and Golden Sound, boasts a build quality that's decent for its price point. While not overly impressive, it feels confidently well-made, especially when examining the internal components. The external aesthetics, however, could benefit from some design refinement. The LEDs are mismatched, the knobs and screens are inconsistent in size, and a consistent touchscreen implementation across the entire stack would enhance user experience.

The unit's measurable performance is a strong suit, and certain features elevate it beyond typical DACs. The inclusion of an analog input alongside the usual analog outputs is noteworthy and sets it apart. The ability to integrate with the Hipsus power supply is a useful option, but it's important to note that it's not a required purchase for the DAC to function effectively.

Golden Sound's Unique Features

Golden Sound's contribution is where the Wandla truly shines. The three key features—bass enhancement, spatial enhancement, and a tube mode—are tastefully implemented. 'Impact Plus' mode adds bass dynamics and a boost without muddying the sound. Spatial enhancement expands the soundstage, while the tube mode introduces even-order harmonic distortion for a warmer, more uplifting tone.

The implementation is surprisingly subtle, allowing for enjoyment without distortion. Each feature can be toggled on or off independently for customized listening experiences. The provided information button offers transparency on how each mode functions, making adjustments easy and intuitive.

Sound Quality and Comparisons

Utilizing an ESS 9038 Pro DAC chip, the Wandla defies expectations by offering a natural, highly detailed sound without excessive brightness or sharpness. This contrasts with typical ESS chip characteristics, demonstrating a remarkable achievement in sound engineering. The unit excels in detail, fidelity, and dynamic range, surpassing some much more expensive DACs in overall quality.

Compared to R2R DACs, the Wandla offers a more analytical sound with enhanced detail. Against the DX9 (with an ESS 4499 EQ chip), the Wandla boasts superior tonality and a more natural, less analytical sound. While the DX9 offers more analytical precision, the Wandla's natural sound signature makes it a more versatile and enjoyable listening experience for many.

The Hipsus Power Supply and Overall Value

The Hipsus power supply, while offering some interesting features like adjustable voltage selection (22V-30V), is expensive at $1200, plus an additional $250 for the custom splitter. The impact of this voltage adjustment on sound quality is minimal at best, which raises questions about its necessity for most users. The added cost might not justify the marginal improvement for many.

Ultimately, the Ferrum Wandla DAC offers a complete, compact solution with additional features. The Golden Sound implementations add value, but the high price point might make it unsuitable for all users. The core sound quality is exceptional, and the features are a welcome addition, but considering the cost of comparable alternative features (EQ software, etc.), it's a high-end product targeted towards users who value convenience and a specific sound profile.

Conclusion: Is the Ferrum Wandla DAC Worth It?

The Ferrum Wandla DAC is a premium product with a high price tag. While its excellent sound quality and unique features are impressive, the cost of the Hipsus power supply and the availability of free or cheaper alternatives for some features must be considered. It's not a product for everyone.

The Wandla truly shines for users seeking a compact, all-in-one solution with a natural and detailed sound profile, combined with Golden Sound's impactful and subtly implemented features. If you appreciate those aspects and are prepared to invest, the Wandla is a rewarding addition to your audio setup; otherwise, more affordable options may suffice.