HIFIMAN Goldenwave Serenade Wireless: HYMALAYA PRO R2R DAC and Class A Balanced Headphone Amplifier

The Goldenwave Serenade Wireless sets a new standard for audiophile-grade performance, combining a state-of-the-art R2R DAC with a robust Class A balanced headphone amplifier. Its advanced features include high-resolution streaming capabilities, versatile connectivity options, and precision engineering for detailed sound reproduction.

Key Features at a Glance

• HYMALAYA PRO R2R DAC: Equivalent to two PCM1704K balanced connections, the HYMALAYA PRO uses a new FPGA algorithm and 0.01% precision resistors, achieving a THD rate of -6dB 0.0012%.
• Wi-Fi HiFi Streaming: Built-in Wi-Fi supports lossless streaming over simple home networks, allowing playback from NAS drives, portable devices, and popular music apps.
• Versatile Input and Output Options: Includes USB, coaxial, optical, RCA single-ended, and XLR balanced inputs. Outputs include 4-pin XLR balanced, 4.4mm balanced, and 6.35mm single-ended headphone connections.
• Class A Headphone Amplifier Circuit: Based on a fully discrete transistor amplifier, it delivers precise, clean sound with a sonic signature reminiscent of the acclaimed Prelude amplifier.
• Toroidal Transformer Power Supply: A 50W toroidal transformer with 30,000μF filter capacitors ensures fast, low-noise power delivery, enhancing full-range sound reproduction.
• Advanced LPF Analog Circuit: Discrete components eliminate coupling capacitors, removing non-linear distortion for pure, detailed sound output.
• Upgradeable Digital Module: Features XMOS XU316 USB interface with firmware upgradeability for extended functionality.
• High Precision Sound: FET operational amplifier and optimized signal path design deliver high accuracy and low noise for audiophile-grade sound.

HYMALAYA PRO R2R DAC Technology

At the heart of the Serenade lies the HYMALAYA PRO R2R DAC, which achieves performance levels surpassing the legendary PCM1704K. Featuring dual PCM1704K-equivalent balanced connections, a cutting-edge FPGA algorithm, and 0.01% precision resistors, this DAC delivers exceptional clarity and an ultra-low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) rate of -6dB 0.0012%.

Wi-Fi Hi-Fi for Lossless Streaming

The Serenade comes equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi card, enabling high-quality wireless streaming for lossless formats. Even with a simple home network, users can enjoy full-resolution playback of high-bitrate music.

• Key Streaming Features:
  • Stream files stored on local NAS drives.
  • Connect to mobile devices or tablets for music playback.
  • Use popular music streaming apps.

With seamless compatibility across mainstream mobile and PC operating systems, the Serenade is your gateway to a world of high-fidelity wireless audio.

Class A Headphone Amplifier Circuit

The Serenade employs a fully discrete Class A amplifier circuit, based on the acclaimed Prelude amplifier. This design enhances clarity and dynamic range, providing a warm, natural sound signature:

• Output Options:
  • 4-pin XLR Balanced
  • 4.4mm Balanced
  • 6.35mm Single-Ended

With ample power output and low noise, the amplifier supports a wide range of headphones with impeccable precision.

Precision Analog Design

The Serenade's signal path eliminates coupling capacitors, reducing nonlinear distortion caused by electrolytic components. A discrete low-pass filter (LPF) analog circuit, coupled with a legendary FET operational amplifier, ensures a clean, distortion-free sound.

Powerful Transformer for Clean Audio

The 50W toroidal transformer in the Serenade is built with a high-quality full-band iron core. Combined with a 30,000μF filter capacitor and multi-stage voltage regulation, it provides a pure and fast power supply to ensure high-fidelity performance across the frequency spectrum.

Digital Inputs and Connectivity

The Serenade supports a wide range of digital inputs, offering unmatched versatility:

• USB: PCM32bit/384kHz, DSD64–DSD256
• Coaxial and Optical: PCM32bit/192kHz, DSD DoP64
• Wi-Fi and LAN: PCM44.1kHz–PCM768kHz, DSD64–DSD512

Additionally, the device includes RCA single-ended analog input and upgradable digital modules for extended functionality.

In The Box

• Hifiman Goldenwave Serenade Wireless Desktop Amplifier and DAC (110v)
• Power Cable
• USB Cable
• User Manual

Specifications

DAC Performance

• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz, ±0.1dB @ 1kHz
• THD+N: 0.0015%, -3dBFS @ 1kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: -110dB, 0dBFS @ 1kHz
• Channel Separation: -120dB, 0dBFS @ 1kHz

Headphone Amplifier Output

• Balanced Output:
  • 4000mW @ 32Ω
  • 760mW @ 300Ω
• Single-Ended Output:
  • 2800mW @ 32Ω
  • 510mW @ 300Ω

Inputs and Outputs

• Digital Inputs: USB, Coaxial, Optical, LAN, Wi-Fi
• Analog Inputs: RCA Single-Ended
• Outputs:
  • 4-pin XLR Balanced
  • 4.4mm Balanced
  • 6.35mm Single-Ended

Power and Dimensions

• Power Supply: 50W Toroidal Transformer
• Weight: 3.9kg
• Dimensions: 300mm x 255mm x 50mm (excluding protrusions)