The Ferrum Audio ERCO DAC combines award-winning HYPSOS technology and OOR magic, featuring ESS Sabre ES9028PRO chip, fully balanced design, and versatile connectivity. Enjoy superior sound with balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, multiple digital inputs including USB-C, S/PDIF, and optical, and headphone outputs. Ideal for high-end personal audio, ERCO offers ultra-wideband ICs, transparent sound, and compatibility with Ferrum’s HYPSOS for ultimate performance.
The Ferrum Audio ERCO Gen 2 is a high-performance digital-to-analogue converter, balanced headphone amplifier and analogue preamplifier designed to bring exceptional versatility to modern high-end audio systems.
Building on the original ERCO, the second generation introduces an improved current-to-voltage (I/V) conversion stage, an upgraded digital signal processing engine, a new HQ Apodizing digital filter and extended high-resolution audio support.
At its heart is the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC, supporting PCM playback up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512 through the compatible USB input.
Combining Ferrum’s fully balanced audio architecture, powerful headphone outputs, dedicated analogue volume control and Ferrum Power Link connectivity, ERCO Gen 2 is designed for both demanding headphone listening and high-quality stereo systems.
Available from Chameleon Audio, Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 offers an attractive solution for audiophiles seeking a premium DAC and headphone amplifier with a clear upgrade path through the Ferrum HYPSOS power supply.
Closer to the Music: The Ferrum Philosophy
Ferrum Audio developed ERCO by combining expertise gained from its HYPSOS Hybrid Power System and OOR headphone amplifier with decades of experience in digital-to-analogue conversion.
The second-generation model refines this foundation with improvements to the digital and analogue conversion stages.
The name ERCO comes from Esperanto, a language developed by Ludwik Lejzer Zamenhof, who lived near the company’s roots in the Warsaw area.
Ferrum draws inspiration from the idea of bringing people together through music, with a design philosophy focused on clear, involving and natural reproduction.
Marcin Hamerla, Founder and CEO of HEM, has described this philosophy as part of the company’s approach to creating audio products.
What Is New in Ferrum ERCO Gen 2?
The ERCO Gen 2 DAC retains the flexibility of the original ERCO while introducing several important engineering improvements.
Improved I/V Converter
The current-to-voltage conversion stage has been refined as part of the second-generation analogue architecture.
This stage is particularly important in the signal path following the ESS DAC chipset, converting the DAC’s current output into a suitable voltage signal for subsequent analogue amplification.
Improved Digital Signal Processing Engine
Ferrum has updated the digital signal processing architecture to support the ERCO Gen 2’s enhanced conversion capabilities.
HQ Apodizing Digital Filter
The second generation introduces Ferrum’s improved HQ Apodizing digital filter, expanding the digital processing options available in the new design.
Higher Resolution Support
The USB input supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to DSD512, subject to source software and playback compatibility.
Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 uses the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO digital-to-analogue converter.
Ferrum combines this DAC with its proprietary digital input implementation, upgraded I/V conversion circuitry and balanced analogue amplification.
The design is intended to offer high-resolution playback with low distortion, precise detail retrieval and controlled analogue output performance.
The DAC accepts audio from compatible computers, digital transports, CD players and network streamers through its available digital connections.
Three Digital Inputs and One Analogue Input
The ERCO Gen 2 provides a flexible selection of digital and analogue sources.
USB-C: PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD512 and DoP256
Coaxial S/PDIF: PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz and DoP64
Optical S/PDIF: PCM up to 24-bit/96kHz guaranteed; higher rates depend on the optical source and cable
Analogue RCA: Stereo line-level input
This allows ERCO Gen 2 to operate as the centre of a compact desktop system or as a digital and analogue source controller within a larger hi-fi installation.
Note: ERCO Gen 2 is not itself a network streamer. Network music playback requires a suitable external streaming source or transport.
Fully Balanced Analogue Architecture
Balanced XLR and Unbalanced RCA Outputs
The Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 is built around a fully balanced internal analogue signal architecture.
When using the DAC, the signal is processed through the manufacturer’s balanced analogue circuitry.
Signals received through the unbalanced analogue RCA input are also handled within this balanced circuit architecture.
The rear panel includes both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs.
The nominal full-scale line output levels are:
Balanced XLR: 4V RMS
Unbalanced RCA: 2V RMS
These outputs make ERCO Gen 2 suitable for connection to compatible integrated amplifiers, power amplifiers and active loudspeakers.
High-Power Balanced Headphone Amplifier
Beyond its digital-to-analogue conversion capabilities, the Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 Headphone Amplifier provides substantial output power for compatible headphones.
The amplifier offers two front-panel headphone connections:
Balanced: 4.4mm Pentaconn headphone output
Single-ended: 6.35mm headphone output
The balanced headphone output provides up to 6.1W into 50 ohms and 1.2W into 300 ohms, according to Ferrum’s published specifications.
The single-ended output provides up to 1.7W into 50 ohms and 300mW into 300 ohms.
These output ratings offer flexibility across many headphone designs. Suitable gain settings and safe listening levels remain essential.
Adjustable Headphone Gain
ERCO Gen 2 offers selectable headphone amplifier gain settings to accommodate different headphone sensitivities and system requirements.
Balanced Headphone Output Gain
-5.8dB
+6dB
+17.8dB
Single-Ended Headphone Output Gain
-11.8dB
0dB
+11.8dB
Choosing an appropriate gain setting helps optimise the available volume-control range and listening comfort.
Analogue Volume Control and Preamplifier Functionality
Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 includes an analogue volume control for headphone listening and suitable line-level system configurations.
A volume bypass function is also provided for the line outputs, allowing ERCO Gen 2 to operate with fixed-level output where appropriate.
Important: Volume bypass applies to the line outputs, not the headphone outputs.
When connecting ERCO directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeakers, confirm the intended volume-control mode before starting playback.
Proprietary Headphone Amplification Circuitry
Ferrum uses its proprietary integrated-circuit headphone amplification architecture in ERCO Gen 2.
The design combines high-performance integrated circuitry with carefully developed analogue stages and a fully balanced signal path.
Ferrum’s stated objective is to achieve wide frequency response, low distortion and a transparent presentation suitable for demanding personal audio systems.
Ferrum HYPSOS Power Supply Compatibility
Upgrade with Ferrum Power Link
The Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 is supplied with a compatible external DC power adapter and can operate independently of HYPSOS.
For an optional upgrade, ERCO Gen 2 can be connected to the Ferrum HYPSOS Hybrid Power System.
The connection uses Ferrum’s proprietary four-pin Ferrum Power Link (FPL) interface.
With a compatible FPL cable and HYPSOS configuration, Ferrum’s four-terminal voltage sensing architecture can regulate the supply closer to the powered component.
The Ferrum Power Link cable is available separately.
Ferrum Power Link uses a four-wire arrangement consisting of two power-delivery conductors and two voltage-sensing conductors.
When connected to a compatible HYPSOS power supply, the sensing pair helps compensate for voltage drop along the supply cable.
This architecture is designed to provide carefully regulated DC power at the connected equipment.
The HYPSOS power supply, Ferrum Power Link cable and associated accessories are separate from the standard ERCO Gen 2 package unless otherwise specified in the selected offer.
Designed for High-End Headphone and Desktop Audio
The Ferrum Audio ERCO Gen 2 DAC is suitable for several different audio system configurations.
Desktop Headphone System
Connect a compatible computer to the USB-C input and listen through the balanced or single-ended headphone output.
Network Streaming System
Connect a compatible external streamer or digital transport to one of ERCO’s digital inputs and use its DAC and analogue line outputs.
Active Loudspeaker System
Use the balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA outputs to connect compatible active speakers, ensuring that the volume-control settings are appropriate.
Hi-Fi Preamplifier System
Connect suitable analogue and digital sources and use ERCO Gen 2 as a combined DAC and analogue preamplifier with a compatible power amplifier.
Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 Key Features
High-end DAC, headphone amplifier and analogue preamplifier
Second-generation Ferrum ERCO design
ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC chip
Improved current-to-voltage converter
Improved digital signal processing engine
HQ Apodizing digital filter
PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz via USB
DSD up to DSD512 via USB
Three digital inputs: USB-C, coaxial and optical
One stereo analogue RCA input
Fully balanced analogue signal architecture
Balanced 4.4mm headphone output
Single-ended 6.35mm headphone output
Up to 6.1W balanced headphone output into 50 ohms
Selectable headphone gain settings
Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs
Analogue volume control
Line-output volume bypass option
MQA decoding and rendering support as specified by Ferrum
Ferrum Power Link for compatible HYPSOS connection
External DC power adapter included
Compact premium chassis
Ferrum Audio ERCO Gen 2 Technical Specifications
Manufacturer
Ferrum Audio
Model
ERCO Gen 2
Type
DAC / Headphone Amplifier / Preamplifier
DAC Chipset
ESS Sabre ES9028PRO
USB Input
USB-C
Maximum USB PCM
32-bit / 768kHz
Maximum USB DSD
DSD512
Coaxial S/PDIF
Up to PCM 24-bit / 192kHz
Optical S/PDIF
PCM 24-bit / 96kHz guaranteed
Analogue Input
Stereo RCA
Analogue Input Impedance
47kΩ
Balanced Line Output
XLR, 4V RMS nominal at 0dBFS
Unbalanced Line Output
RCA, 2V RMS nominal at 0dBFS
Balanced Headphone Output
4.4mm TRRRS
Single-Ended Headphone Output
6.35mm TRS
Balanced Power at 50Ω
6.1W
Balanced Power at 300Ω
1.2W
Single-Ended Power at 50Ω
1.7W
Single-Ended Power at 300Ω
300mW
Balanced Headphone Gain
-5.8 / +6 / +17.8dB
Single-Ended Headphone Gain
-11.8 / 0 / +11.8dB
Headphone Output Impedance
Less than 0.3Ω
Frequency Response
10Hz–30kHz (±0.05dB)
Extended Frequency Response
10Hz to above 200kHz (±1dB)
Analogue Volume Control
Yes
Line Output Volume Bypass
Yes
MQA
Decoder and Renderer
Power Input
5.5/2.5mm DC, centre positive; Ferrum Power Link
Power Adapter
100–240V AC to 22–30V DC
Idle Power Consumption
Less than 15W
Dimensions (W × D × H)
217 × 206 × 50mm
Weight
1.8kg
Technical specifications are based on Ferrum’s ERCO Gen 2 documentation. Maximum digital resolution varies by input. Headphone power ratings depend on the connected load.
Why Buy from Chameleon Audio?
At Chameleon Audio, we specialise in high-end audio systems, digital-to-analogue converters, headphone amplification and carefully selected components for demanding music enthusiasts.
Free Worldwide Shipping with Full Transport Insurance
All brand-new products purchased from Chameleon Audio include FREE SHIPPING WITH FULL TRANSPORT INSURANCE.
Your audio equipment is carefully packed and insured during transportation for additional peace of mind.
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The Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 is a high-end digital-to-analogue converter, balanced headphone amplifier and analogue preamplifier featuring the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC.
What is the difference between ERCO and ERCO Gen 2?
ERCO Gen 2 introduces an improved I/V converter, upgraded DSP engine, HQ Apodizing digital filter and extended high-resolution audio support.
Which DAC chip does ERCO Gen 2 use?
Ferrum uses the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO digital-to-analogue converter.
Does ERCO Gen 2 support DSD512?
Yes. The USB-C input supports DSD512 with compatible software and playback equipment.
Does ERCO Gen 2 support PCM 768kHz?
Yes. The USB input supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz.
Does Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 have a balanced headphone output?
Yes. It includes a 4.4mm balanced headphone output alongside a conventional 6.35mm single-ended connection.
How powerful is the headphone amplifier?
The balanced output is rated at 6.1W into 50 ohms and 1.2W into 300 ohms. The single-ended output is rated at 1.7W into 50 ohms and 300mW into 300 ohms.
Does ERCO Gen 2 have balanced XLR outputs?
Yes. It provides balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA stereo line outputs.
Can I connect active speakers directly?
Yes, provided the active speakers have compatible analogue inputs and the ERCO volume-control configuration is correctly selected.
Can ERCO Gen 2 act as a preamplifier?
Yes. ERCO Gen 2 includes analogue volume control and line outputs suitable for compatible power amplifiers and active loudspeakers.
Does Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 support MQA?
Ferrum specifies MQA decoding and rendering support. Practical use depends on the source material and current playback software.
Does ERCO Gen 2 include a network streamer?
No. It requires a compatible computer, network streamer, CD transport or another suitable source.
Can I use Ferrum HYPSOS with ERCO Gen 2?
Yes. ERCO Gen 2 supports connection to a compatible HYPSOS power supply using Ferrum Power Link and the appropriate cable.
Is a power supply included?
Yes. ERCO Gen 2 comes with an external DC power adapter. HYPSOS and the Ferrum Power Link cable are optional separate products.
Where can I buy the Ferrum ERCO Gen 2?
Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 is offered by Chameleon Audio, with advice on headphone matching, DAC connectivity and suitable HYPSOS upgrades.
The Ferrum Audio ERCO Gen 2 DAC and Headphone Amplifier combines high-resolution digital conversion, a fully balanced analogue architecture and powerful headphone amplification in one versatile high-end component.
With its upgraded digital processing, improved I/V conversion, selectable headphone gain and optional HYPSOS power supply compatibility, ERCO Gen 2 is designed for listeners who value flexibility, performance and carefully engineered audio reproduction.
Contact Chameleon Audio for availability, headphone matching, DAC integration and international delivery information.
Specifications
Headphone output gain: balanced -5.8 dB, +6 dB, +17.8 dB; single ended -11.8 dB, 0 dB, +11.8 dB
Operation: fully balanced, proprietary IC power amp
Power inputs: 5.5/2.5 mm DC connector center positive; proprietary FPL 4-pin DC connector (FPL)
Analog inputs: RCA (Consumer level; Pro option with future software update)
Digital inputs: USB-C (MQA, up to PCM 32-bit/384 kHz, DSD256, DoP128); S/PDIF coaxial (MQA, up to PCM 24-bit/192 kHz, DoP64); S/PDIF optical (MQA, up to PCM 24-bit/96 kHz guaranteed, should work up to PCM 24-bit/192 kHz and DoP64 – depends of user’s optical cable and transmitter)
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