Ferrum Audio, a Polish audio brand that specializes in high-quality audio equipment, has announced that a free firmware update is available for its WANDLA family of digital-to-analog converters.
WANDLA 2.0.0 features the company’s new Ferrum Streaming Control Technology (FSCT), and will be delivered to WANDLA DAC/preamp models via the Ferrum Control App, available for PC and Mac.
Among the many new features included in WANDLA 2.0.0 are:
- FSCT: Convenient control of streaming content
- Volume Synchronization: Control a WANDLA’s preamp volume directly from a computer and vice versa
- Improved User Experience: Focused on presenting relevant information in a clear and detailed display
- I2S Compatibility: Support for more devices that are connectable via I2S input
- Favorites: Highlight frequently used inputs for easy selection
WANDLA is based on Ferrum Audio’s proprietary ARM-based platform, SERCE. Running Ferrum’s software, SERCE processes all incoming digital data streams, efficiently performing the tasks of five chips to create the shortest possible signal path for audio-optimized USB, ARC, I2S, coaxial S/PDIF, and optical S/PDIF ports.
Behind the DAC is an advanced current-to-voltage (I/V) converter and an output stage based on a composite amplifier design. This elegant solution combines two amplifiers to provide the easiest load on the DAC, with a single I/V converter per channel, and a low-impedance output to maintain signal integrity.
Incorporating Ferrum’s HYPSOS power supply’s hybrid technology, multiple internal supplies provide power to both analog and digital sections to minimize interference and maximize channel separation.
The dual-core ARM chip moves beyond managing WANDLA’s functions to include signal processing. It features five digital filters — four of which were developed by Jussi Laako of HQ player — and the fifth resides in the ESS DAC.
As a preamp, WANDLA’s preamplifier section features two digitally controlled attenuators for volume control: selectable analog or digital. WANDLA’s balanced topology includes a modified IC amplifier and power section unique to the model. In addition to the six digital inputs (USB-C, coax, optical, AES, ARC, and I2S), there is one unbalanced analog input that bypasses all digital processing to remain faithful to the highest-quality analog sources.
Additional features include both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs, a configurable 12v trigger, and two DC power inputs (FPL and 5,5 x 2,5mm DC pin) compatible with the supplied power supply or Ferrum’s HYPSOS hybrid power system. Operation is managed via the supplied remote and a high-resolution touchscreen display with a wholly intuitive interface.
For more information, visit https://vanaltd.com/.
