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The LAiV Crescendo Verse is a high-end, all-in-one audio solution combining a discrete R-2R DAC, a discrete buffered output preamplifier, and a discrete headphone amplifier in a single compact and versatile device. It is based on LAiV's proprietary R-2R architecture, designed to deliver natural tonal reproduction and detailed precision, as well as native 1bit DSD processing combined with an integrated sample rate converter for flexible handling of PCM and DSD formats up to PCM 32bit 768kHz / DSD256, ensuring extensive compatibility with modern high-resolution audio sources.
Compact yet comprehensive, the Crescendo Verse offers a wide range of connections with USB, optical, coaxial and I2S inputs, balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analog outputs, as well as balanced and single-ended headphone outputs, with an amplifier capable of delivering up to 1100mW per channel in balanced output and 290mW in single-ended output, suitable for both sensitive headphones and power-hungry models. The front panel features a matrix LED display and comprehensive controls, while the entire system is designed to fit easily on a desk or into a main audio system.
At the heart of the Crescendo Verse is LAiV's proprietary R-2R DAC architecture, based on a network of high-precision resistors for natural, smooth, and detailed sound reproduction, offering minimal coloration and excellent dynamics.
The internal processor, powered by an Altera® Cyclone® FPGA chip, also handles advanced digital processing, including native 1bit DSD modes, which allow DSD to be played in its native format without conversion, as well as an integrated sample rate converter that offers PCM and DSD resampling options for optimal compatibility with different sources and audio libraries.
Native 1bit DSD processing allows DSD streams to be played back without prior conversion to PCM. This approach fully respects the nature of the DSD signal, preserving its temporal structure, precision, and original sound signature throughout the processing chain. Designed for audiophiles seeking the most faithful reproduction of DSD recordings, this mode ensures a direct, unaltered signal path from the source to the analog output.
DSD processing modes
| Function | DSD Native | DSD Multibit |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | True 1bit DSD | DSD converted to multibit |
| Signal Path | Direct, unaltered | Optimized for stability |
| Best For | Pure DSD albums | Mixed sampling rate libraries |
| Track Switching | May produce pop with rate change | Smooth, silent transitions |
| Recommended Use | Critical listening | Daily listening, playlists |

Despite its compact size, the Verse offers a full range of digital inputs:
In terms of output connectivity, the Crescendo Verse features a discrete preamplifier with buffered output that delivers both balanced XLR outputs (~4Vrms) and single-ended RCA outputs (~2Vrms). These outputs can operate simultaneously, facilitating integration into multi-component audio systems, whether with active speakers, external power amplifiers, or other analog components.


The headphone section of the Verse uses a discrete topology with a gain selector (Low/Medium/High), suitable for both sensitive and demanding headphones. In high gain mode, it delivers up to 1100mW per channel via the balanced 4.4mm jack output. In single-ended 6.35mm jack mode, it provides up to 290mW per channel, enough to drive very demanding headphones. Integrated protection circuits ensure reliable everyday use.
The LAiV Crescendo Verse features a built-in analog volume control, designed to offer precise, gradual, and perfectly controlled adjustments without sudden level changes. It comes with a remote control, allowing for comfortable adjustment with both sensitive headphones and a complete audio system. Thanks to this analog volume control, the VERSE can be connected directly to active speakers or used as a preamplifier in combination with an external power amplifier, eliminating the need for an additional device.


| 1 | ON/OFF button |
| 2 | Screen |
| 3 | Balanced 4.4mm jack headphone output |
| 4 | Single-ended 6.35mm jack headphone output |
| 5 | Menu button |
| 6 | Back button |
| 7 | Multifunction button |
| 8 | Single-ended RCA output |
| 9 | Balanced XLR output |
| 10 | I2S input via HDMI |
| 11 | Toslink optical input |
| 12 | Coaxial input |
| 13 | USB-B input |
| 14 | 15V 2A DC jack power port |
Technical characteristics
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Product type | DAC Preamplifier Headphone amplifier |
| DAC architecture | Proprietary discrete R-2R |
| FPGA | Altera Cyclone IV |
| Inputs | 1x USB-B input 1x Optical Toslink 1x Coaxial 1x I2S input via HDMI |
| Outputs | 1x Single-ended RCA output 1x Balanced XLR output 1x Single-ended 6.35mm jack headphone output 1x Balanced 4.4mm jack headphone output |
| Supported sampling rates | USB and I2S: PCM up to 32bit 768kHz, DSD up to DSD256 Toslink and Coaxial: PCM up to 24bit 192kHz, DSD DoP64 |
| DSD processing | Native 1bit DSD (no PCM conversion) |
| Digital processing | Selectable native DSD or multibit conversion |
| Oversampling | PCM: 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, 16x DSD: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512 (native DSD mode only) |
| Volume control | Integrated analog volume control |
| Preamplifier output specifications | |
|---|---|
| Output level | Balanced XLR output: ≈ 4 Vrms, 82Ω Single-ended RCA output: ≈ 2 Vrms, 41Ω |
| THD+N (preamplifier) | 0.0045% |
| Crosstalk | Balanced XLR output: ≥ 120dB Single-ended RCA output: ≥ 110dB |
| Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) | Balanced XLR output: ≥ 120dB Single-ended RCA output: ≥ 110dB |
| Noise level (preamplifier) | Balanced XLR output: ≤ 25µVrms Single-ended RCA output: ≤ 72µVrms |
| Headphone output specifications | |
|---|---|
| Output level | Balanced 4.4mm headphone output: ≈ 11Vrms, 5.1Ω Single-ended 6.35mm headphone output: ≈ 5.5Vrms, 2.6Ω |
| Output power (High) | ≤ 1100mW (balanced) ≤ 290mW (single-ended) |
| THD+N | 0.008% |
| Crosstalk | ≥ 110dB (balanced) ≥ 100 B (single-ended) |
| Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) | ≥ 110dB (balanced) ≥ 100dB (single-ended) |
| Noise level | ≤ 30µVrms (balanced) ≤ 65µVrms (single-ended) |
| Frequency response | 20Hz – 80kHz (± 3dB) |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Power supply | 15V DC 2A via 5.5/2.5mm DC jack |
| Dimensions | 168 x 188 x 40mm (without feet) 168 x 188 x 50mm (with feet) |
| Weight | Approx. 0.9kg |
| Color | Silver |
| Package contents | 1x LAIV Crescendo VERSE 1x Remote control |
| Input | SPDIF |
| Input | I2S via HDMI |
| Input | USB |
| Input | Optical |
| Output | Jack 6.35mm |
| Output | XLR |
| Output | Jack 4.4mm |
| Output | RCA |
| DAC / ADC Chip | R2R LADDER DAC |
| Max sampling rate | DSD256 |
| Max sampling rate | 768kHz |
| Color | Silver |
| Networking | No |
| Remote Control | Yes |