California-based NuForce, Inc. announced the availability of its pretty, oh-so-fancy gold-plated digital audio converter, the uDAC-2 Signature Gold Edition (SGE).

The uDAC-2 Signature Gold Edition is a high-performance 24-bit, 96 kHz USB digital audio converter that combines a USB DAC and a headphone amp in one compact, portable device. According to NuForce, the new uDAC-2 Signature Gold Edition is perfect for those seeking high-performance audio from their digital music files.

The gold edition borrows the features and classic look of the company's original uDAC-2, and steps it up a notch with a genuine Swarovski crystal on the volume control and a lustrous 24K gold-plated chassis with stainless steel front and back panels. The uDAC-2 Signature Gold Edition would pair well with designer watches and fast cars.

According to the manufacturer, the uDAC-2 SGE was designed for the refined consumer that desires audio products with exquisite design, while retaining superior sound quality. The uDAC-2 SGE connects a user’s personal computer to their home stereo system, desktop sound system, or headphones and delivers superior-sounding audio. Its compact size, power, and performance make the uDAC-2 SGE the ideal companion for any discerning music enthusiast, NuForce says.

When the uDAC-2 SGE is connected to a computer via the included USB cable, it processes incoming music data files via its USB audio receiver and then uses a high-performance D/A converter chip to translate the data into analog signal, which is then piped out to the connected stereo component, active speakers, or headphones. Use this DAC to hear your digital music the way it was meant to be heard.

The headphone amplifier within the uDAC-2 SGE enables users to plug in their favorite headphones into its 3.5 mm jack. What's more, this amplifier can enhance the auditory performance in a pair of headphones by properly powering them.

The uDAC-2 SGE comes packaged with a protective leather case, USB cable, cleaning cloth, and carrying pouch.

Check the specs:

• Inputs: USB (USB 1.1, 2.0 compatible)
• Outputs: Analog RCA; digital output: coaxial RCA; 3.5 mm headphone
• Double jitter-reduction mechanism at data level and oversampling filter stage
• High voltage 2V analog output
• High-quality analog volume control
• No capacitors in any of the audio signal paths
• Low power consumption: USB self-powered, no external power supply required
• Dimensions: 2.68" x 1.50" x .82"

NuForce is now shipping the uDAC-2 SGE for $399 (MSRP). For more information, visit nuforce.com.