Kalista DreamPlay S and SC: High-End Streamers With and Without DAC

Elevate your audio system with Kalista DreamPlay's uncompromising streamers, designed for superior digital sound with or without built-in DAC.

A New Era of High-Class Network Audio

When French audio artisans at Métronome Technologie unveiled the latest from their prestigious Kalista line—Kalista DreamPlay S network transport and Kalista DreamPlay SC network streamer—at Hifideluxe 2026 in Vienna, it was clear that streaming was stepping into the realm of haute couture audio gear. These new additions push the DreamPlay series squarely into the high-end network audio domain, marrying impeccable craftsmanship with cutting-edge digital tech.

The DreamPlay S is a network transport sans DAC, tailored for those who already own a top-tier external digital-to-analog converter. Meanwhile, the DreamPlay SC packs a reference-level DAC inside, creating a powerhouse combo of streamer and DAC in one sleek chassis.

Craftsmanship Meets Digital Mastery

Kalista's philosophy shines through both models. These devices aren’t just functional components; they’re sculptural masterpieces meant to be centerpieces in any audiophile setup. Handmade in France, they sport the brand’s signature artistic enclosures, built from premium materials and designed with meticulous attention to power supply integrity.

The DreamPlay S streams PCM audio files up to a staggering 32-bit/384kHz and handles DSD from DSD64 to DSD256. Connectivity is versatile: S/PDIF and AES/EBU outputs support PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to DSD128 in DoP mode, while I2S output allows native DSD up to DSD256.

Inputs and outputs include Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB 2.0 for external drives, I2S, S/PDIF, and AES/EBU, giving audiophiles freedom to integrate into a variety of systems seamlessly.

DreamPlay SC: An All-in-One Digital Powerhouse

The DreamPlay SC steps things up by integrating a stellar DAC powered by ESS Technologies’ ES9039MPRO chip. This DAC boasts impressively low distortion (THD+N below -122 dB) and a massive dynamic range of 137 dB, promising crystal-clear, lifelike sound.

Beyond digital outputs (I2S, S/PDIF, AES/EBU), the SC flaunts analog outputs in both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR formats, making it an adaptable centerpiece for any audiophile rig.

Seamless Streaming for the Modern Audiophile

Both models support a wide range of popular streaming services and protocols that today’s audio enthusiasts demand, including DLNA/UPnP, Audirvana, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready, Deezer, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and vTuner. MQA Renderer support up to 32-bit/384kHz ensures high-resolution streaming with detail and depth.

Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) and Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) provide rock-solid network connections. Services like Qobuz Connect and TIDAL Connect allow direct streaming from servers to the player, eliminating the smartphone as a middleman. Integration with Roon Ready offers compatibility with sophisticated multi-room and library management setups.

Timeless Elegance in Two Finishes

Available in two exquisite finishes—Black Pearl and Diamond—the DreamPlay S and SC continue Métronome Technologie’s tradition of blending art and tech.

Though pricing and availability dates remain under wraps, these models underscore the company's vision of elevating streaming from a mere add-on to a standalone, premium digital source for the most demanding audiophiles.

“Kalista treats the digital source not simply as a functional device, but as an integral part of the audio system with expressive design and carefully crafted construction.”
— Métronome Technologie

Final Notes: Is Your System Ready for a Kalista?

If you cherish your high-fidelity setup and crave a streamer that matches its caliber—whether you prefer a dedicated transport or a full DAC/streamer combo—the Kalista DreamPlay S and Kalista DreamPlay SC are prime contenders. Their blend of elegant French craftsmanship, state-of-the-art digital technology, and broad streaming compatibility makes them irresistible to anyone serious about audio quality.

FAQ

• What formats do the Kalista DreamPlay streamers support?
  Both models support PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD from DSD64 to DSD256, with some variations in output formats depending on the model.
• Does the DreamPlay S include a built-in DAC?
  No, the DreamPlay S is a network transport only, designed for use with an external high-end DAC.
• What DAC chip is used in the DreamPlay SC?
  The DreamPlay SC uses the ESS Technologies ES9039MPRO chip, known for its low distortion and wide dynamic range.
• Are these players compatible with popular streaming services?
  Yes, both support major services like Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Deezer, and are Roon Ready.
• What connection options are available?
  Both models offer Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi, USB 2.0, I2S, S/PDIF, and AES/EBU digital connections; the SC also provides analog outputs via RCA and XLR.

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