Aavik SD-188

AAVIK SD-188 – DIGITAL PURITY

With the SD-188, Aavik presents an uncompromising digital player in which streaming and DAC functionality are fused into one elegant and intuitive product. Here, innovation and musicality meet in a form that sets the details free and lets the music breathe. The SD-188 is created for the modern high-end setup, where both technology and aesthetics must be in harmony.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

• Streamer and DAC in one unit
• Fully chip-free Continuum DAC with FPGA-based DSD512 conversion
• Supports DLNA 1.5 and UPnP AV 1.0 streaming
• USB, BNC, and TOSLINK inputs with support for PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD256
• 1 x USB (asynchronous, galvanically isolated), 2 x BNC, 2 x optical inputs
• 1 pair of RCA line outputs and 1 x BNC digital output
• 36 active Tesla coils, 72 active square Tesla coils
• 3rd-generation analog dither technology
• Power consumption: <1W in standby, <30W in operation
• Dimensions: 440 x 430 x 116 mm
• Weight: 21 kg

A DAC WITHOUT A CHIP – SOUND WITHOUT BARRIERS

The heart of the SD-188 is Aavik’s exclusive Continuum DAC. Instead of a traditional chip, it uses a programmed FPGA circuit that converts all digital audio into high-resolution DSD512 – a format that closely resembles analog reproduction. A custom digital filter ensures a smooth, natural signal transition without switching, while simple analog filtering completes the signal path. The result is an uninterrupted, organic, and deeply realistic sound experience.

STREAMING ON YOUR TERMS

The SD-188 supports both DLNA 1.5 and UPnP AV 1.0 protocols, giving you the freedom to stream from a wide range of network sources and devices. Whether you play from your music server, computer, or network streamer, the signal is treated with the same respect and precision all the way to the output.

INPUTS FOR ALL YOUR DIGITAL SOURCES

The rear panel offers both flexibility and finesse. The SD-188 is equipped with two BNC inputs, two optical TOSLINK inputs, and a fully galvanically isolated USB input that supports asynchronous PCM up to 384 kHz and native DSD up to DSD256. A BNC digital output and analog RCA line outputs make integration into your system simple and uncompromising.

NOISE REDUCTION THAT MAKES AN AUDIBLE DIFFERENCE

The SD-188 is equipped with no fewer than 36 active Tesla coils and 72 active square Tesla coils. These circuits work actively to combat electrical noise and voltage spikes – creating a quiet background where even the finest nuances in the music can unfold. It is technology you do not see, but that you hear from the very first second.

DITHER TECHNOLOGY THAT OPENS UP THE SOUNDSTAGE

Aavik’s 3rd-generation analog dither technology is inspired by radar technology and sends precisely tuned counter-phase signals that significantly lower the noise floor. In the SD-188, three independent circuits are used, working purposefully to free the signal from digital artifacts and highlight the smallest details. The soundscape becomes more vivid, more three-dimensional – and more human.

POWER WITH MUSIC AT THE CENTER

The power supply in the SD-188 is developed with the same resonant mode technology known from Aavik’s amplifiers. It delivers smooth, sine-wave power and adjusts the frequency according to the load. This means extremely low noise and a clean foundation where every note rests in balance – even when the music demands sudden energy.

DESIGN THAT INSPIRES CONFIDENCE

Like the rest of the x88 series, the SD-188 is the result of the creative collaboration between Flemming Erik Rasmussen and Michael Børresen. The design is functional, intuitive, and elegant – with a focus on materials, resonance control, and visual calm. The SD-188 fits into any aesthetically conscious setup, but it will always catch the eye and signal seriousness.