Sony UDA-1 Operating instructions

USB DAC AMPLIFIER UDA-1
How to Use
About the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
Features of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
Features of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER [1]
Supported environment
System requirements for computers connected to the USB DAC AMPLIFIER [2]
Supported driver and application
Driver for the USB DAC AMPLIFIER [3]
Hi-Res Audio Player [4]
Preparations and connections
Preparations
What you need to do before starting to use the USB DAC AMPLIFIER [5]
Prep 1. Connecting speakers [6]
Prep 2. Connecting to a computer [7]
Prep 3. Turning on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER [8]
Prep 4. Installing the driver on a computer [9]
Hi-Res Audio Player [10]
Supplied accessories [11]
Preparing the remote control [12]

Standby mode [13]
Connections
Connecting speakers [14]
Connecting to a computer [15]
Connecting a smartphone [16]
Connecting a Walkman that supports High-Resolution Audio [17]
Connecting other playback equipment [18]
Connecting headphones [19]
Playing audio files
Playback
Compatible audio formats [20]
Enjoying music [21]
Sound quality settings
Using the DSEE function [22]
Setting the equalizer [23]
Parts and controls
Main unit
Names and descriptions of parts of the front panel [24]
Names and descriptions of parts of the rear panel [25]
Remote control
Names and descriptions of parts of the remote control [26]
Announcements
Specifications
Compatible audio formats [27]
Specifications [28]

Supported devices [29]
Notes
About the Protector function [30]
Precautions for use [31]
Trademarks
Trademarks [32]
Inquiries
Customer support websites [33]
Troubleshooting
Dealing with problems
General
The power is automatically turned off. [34]
The remote control does not work. [35]
The lamps on the front panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER flash. [36]
Sound input from the LINE IN jacks of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER does not output through the LINE
OUT jacks. [37]
Sound
No sound is output. [38]
There is severe humming or noise. [39]
DSD audio files cannot be played on a Mac. [40]
There are turn on/off pops or noise. [41]
If the problem is not solved
Customer support websites [42]

[1] How to Use About the USB DAC AMPLIFIER Features of the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER
Features of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
Easy playback of music on your computer
Just complete Preps 1 to 4 in this Help Guide to connect your computer to the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
Then you are ready to enjoy music on your computer.
Playback of high-quality sound
The USB DAC AMPLIFIER can play High-Resolution Audio files such as PCM 192 kHz/32 bit and DSD
(Direct Stream Digital) audio files.
Furthermore, the USB DAC AMPLIFIER gives a more natural and expansive sound to compressed audio
files, such as MP3s, by restoring high-frequency sound and almost imperceptible sounds during fade-
out, which are usually lost due to compression.
Playback of music on a smartphone or Walkman that supports
High-Resolution Audio
Audio file formats for Android devices and smartphones such as iPhone or for Walkman devices that
support High-Resolution Audio are also supported by the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.

[2] How to Use About the USB DAC AMPLIFIER Supported environment
System requirements for computers connected to the
USB DAC AMPLIFIER
To output sound played back on a computer via the USB DAC AMPLIFIER, download the required
driver, then install it on your computer.
Note
When you use Mac OS X, if you want to play back DSD audio files, you must install the required
driver.(*)
To play back only PCM audio files, the driver is not required.
*To play back DSD audio files (DSD Native playback), Hi-Res Audio Player (version 1.1.0 or later) is also
required.
OS
Windows 8.1 (32 bit/64 bit)
Windows 8 (32 bit/64 bit)
Windows 7 (SP1, 32 bit/64 bit)
Windows Vista (SP2, 32 bit/64 bit)
Mac OS X v10.7, 10.8, 10.9, 10.10
Device
USB port (USB 2.0 compliant)
Note
One of the above operating systems should be installed by default. Upgraded operating systems and
multi-boot environments are not supported.
We do not guarantee operation for all computers even if they meet the above system requirements.
Furthermore, the following systems are not supported:
Personally constructed computers or operating systems
Upgraded operating systems
Multi-boot environments
Multi-monitor environments
[3] How to Use About the USB DAC AMPLIFIER Supported driver and application
Driver for the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
Install the required driver on your computer, then you can output sound played back on the computer via

the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
Note
When you use Mac OS X, if you want to play back DSD audio files, you must install the required
driver.(*)
To play back only PCM audio files, the driver is not required.
*To play back DSD audio files (DSD Native playback), Hi-Res Audio Player (version 1.1.0 or later) is also
required.
Downloading the required driver
Download the driver from the following websites:
Models for the USA and Canada:
http://esupport.sony.com/swu/8757
Models for Europe:
www.sony.eu/support
[4] How to Use About the USB DAC AMPLIFIER Supported driver and application
Hi-Res Audio Player
“Hi-Res Audio Player” is player software that allows you to play back high-quality audio files with just a
simple operation. You can play back High-Resolution Audio files, such as DSD files, purchased in music
distribution websites, etc., simply by connecting the USB DAC AMPLIFIER to your computer, and
making simple software settings.
Downloading Hi-Res Audio Player
Download Hi-Res Audio Player from the following websites:
Models for the USA and Canada:
http://esupport.sony.com/swu/8810
Models for Europe:
www.sony.eu/support
Hint
You can also playback audio files other than High-Resolution Audio files using “MediaGo.”
[5] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
What you need to do before starting to use the USB
DAC AMPLIFIER
After you purchase the USB DAC AMPLIFIER, you must connect any external equipment and install the
required driver on your computer before you listen to music.

1. Prep 1. Connecting speakers
2. Prep 2. Connecting to a computer
3. Prep 3. Turning on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
When you have made all connections with other devices, then turn on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
4. Prep 4. Installing the driver on a computer
Install the required driver on your computer, then you can output sound played back on the
computer via the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
5. Enjoying music
Play back music files stored on the computer.
[6] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Prep 1. Connecting speakers
Connect speakers to the USB DAC AMPLIFIER, then connect the supplied AC power cord (mains lead).
Note
Make sure that the AC power cord (mains lead) of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is unplugged when
connecting any other cord.
1. Connect speakers to the SPEAKERS terminals on the rear panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER as
shown in the illustration below.
: SPEAKERS terminals
: Speaker cords (not supplied)
: Speaker (R)
: Speaker (L)
2. Firmly connect the supplied AC power cord (mains lead) to the AC IN jack on the rear panel of the
USB DAC AMPLIFIER, then connect the plug to a wall outlet (mains).

Note
Switch the EQUALIZER switch to “BYPASS” when you use speakers other than the recommended
SS-HA3 speakers (not supplied).
[7] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Prep 2. Connecting to a computer
Connect a USB port of your computer to the (USB) port on the rear panel of the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER using the USB cable (supplied), then start up your computer.
Note
Make sure that the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is turned off when you connect a USB cable.
When a signal of a format not supported is input, the USB REAR lamp flashes. Inputting such a signal
may produce noise or even damage the speakers or headphones if played at a high volume.
: USB port of a computer
: USB cable (supplied)
: (USB) port of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
[8] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Prep 3. Turning on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER

When you have made all connections with the other devices, then turn on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
1. Press the button to turn on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
The lamp lights up in green.
[9] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Prep 4. Installing the driver on a computer
Install the required driver on your computer first, then you can output sound played back on the
computer via the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
By connecting your computer to the (USB) port on the rear panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER using
the USB cable (supplied), and playing back various sound files stored on your computer with the music
player software you are currently using, you can play back and enjoy sound with high quality.
1. Download the required driver from the following websites:
Models for the USA and Canada:
http://esupport.sony.com/swu/8757
Models for Europe:
www.sony.eu/support
2. Install the required driver on your computer.
Install the driver by following the instructions provided on the download websites above.
Note
While installing the driver, do not disconnect the USB cable, and do not turn the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER off.
[10] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Hi-Res Audio Player

“Hi-Res Audio Player” is player software that allows you to play back high-quality audio files with just a
simple operation. You can play back High-Resolution Audio files, such as DSD files, purchased in music
distribution websites, etc., simply by connecting the USB DAC AMPLIFIER to your computer, and
making simple software settings.
Downloading Hi-Res Audio Player
Download Hi-Res Audio Player from the following websites:
Models for the USA and Canada:
http://esupport.sony.com/swu/8810
Models for Europe:
www.sony.eu/support
Hint
You can also playback audio files other than High-Resolution Audio files using “MediaGo.”
[11] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Supplied accessories
Main unit (1)
AC power cord (mains lead) (1)
Remote control (1)
USB cable (1)
Quick Start Guide (1)
Reference Guide (1)
[12] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Preparing the remote control
Before using the remote control for the first time, remove the insulation film.
The battery is installed in the remote control at the factory.
Replacing the lithium battery
The working distance of the remote control shortens as the battery becomes exhausted.
Replace the battery with a new one following the procedure below.
1. Take out the battery case as shown below.

2. Replace the lithium battery CR2025 with a new one, with the + side facing up.
3. Place the battery case back in position.
Note
Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children.
Should the battery be swallowed, immediately consult a doctor.
[13] How to Use Preparations and connections Preparations
Standby mode
If you switch the AUTO STANDBY switch on the rear panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER to “ON, ” when
you are not using the USB DAC AMPLIFIER or there is no digital signal input to the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER for 20 minutes, the unit is automatically turned off and enters standby mode to reduce the
power consumption.
Before the USB DAC AMPLIFIER switches to standby mode, the lamp flashes for 1 minute, and
then the lamp turns off.
Note
If a very short audio signal of only a few seconds duration is input, the sound may not be detected as
an audio input, and the USB DAC AMPLIFIER may switch to standby mode.

Even when no digital audio is input, the USB DAC AMPLIFIER may not switch to standby mode due
to the operation of other devices connected, or due to connection/disconnection of the cables.
Hint
When the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is in standby mode, you can start the USB DAC AMPLIFIER only by
pressing the button on the remote control or the unit.
[14] How to Use Preparations and connections Connections
Connecting speakers
Connect speakers to the USB DAC AMPLIFIER, then connect the supplied AC power cord (mains lead).
Note
Make sure that the AC power cord (mains lead) of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is unplugged when
connecting any other cord.
1. Connect speakers to the SPEAKERS terminals on the rear panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER as
shown in the illustration below.
: SPEAKERS terminals
: Speaker cords (not supplied)
: Speaker (R)
: Speaker (L)
2. Firmly connect the supplied AC power cord (mains lead) to the AC IN jack on the rear panel of the
USB DAC AMPLIFIER, then connect the plug to a wall outlet (mains).

Note
Switch the EQUALIZER switch to “BYPASS” when you use speakers other than the recommended
SS-HA3 speakers (not supplied).
[15] How to Use Preparations and connections Connections
Connecting to a computer
Connect a USB port of your computer to the (USB) port on the rear panel of the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER using the USB cable (supplied), then start up your computer.
Note
Make sure that the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is turned off when you connect a USB cable.
When a signal of a format not supported is input, the USB REAR lamp flashes. Inputting such a signal
may produce noise or even damage the speakers or headphones if played at a high volume.
: USB port of a computer
: USB cable (supplied)
: (USB) port of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
[16] How to Use Preparations and connections Connections
Connecting a smartphone
You can connect an Android device or iPhone to the (USB) port on the front panel of the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER using a USB cable (not supplied) and enjoy playback from that device through the speakers
or headphones. For details on the devices compatible with this function, see “Supported devices.”
Note
When you connect a device that is not compatible with this function, the USB FRONT lamp flashes
slowly. Disconnect the device.
When an abnormal current is being input to the (USB) port on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER, the USB

FRONT lamp flashes quickly. Check whether there is a problem with the device connected.
Music files stored on a USB thumb drive, etc., cannot be played back.
Hint
The device is charged when connected to the USB DAC AMPLIFIER while the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
is turned on.
If a device that is not supported has a headphone output jack, you may be able to play back music
files by connecting the headphone output jack of the device and the LINE IN jacks of the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER. For details on how to connect the device to the USB DAC AMPLIFIER, see “When
connecting through LINE IN jacks” in “Connecting other playback equipment.”
: USB port of a smartphone
: USB cable (not supplied)
: (USB) port of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
[17] How to Use Preparations and connections Connections
Connecting a Walkman that supports High-Resolution
Audio
You can enjoy playback of High-Resolution Audio sources from a Walkman that supports High-
Resolution Audio.
Connect a Walkman that supports High-Resolution Audio to the (USB) port on the rear panel of the
USB DAC AMPLIFIER using a High-Resolution Audio USB Adaptor WM-PORT Cable (WMC-NWH10,
not supplied) and output High-Resolution content digitally.
Note
The High-Resolution Audio USB Adaptor WM-PORT Cable (WMC-NWH10, not supplied) is not sold
in some countries or regions. You cannot enjoy playback of High-Resolution Audio from your
Walkman without this cable.
Walkman devices that do not support High-Resolution Audio are not supported.
The Walkman is not charged when connected to the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
Playing time of a Walkman connected with the USB DAC AMPLIFIER will be shorter than when not
connected.

: Walkman that supports High-Resolution Audio
: WM-PORT (22 pin)
: High-Resolution Audio USB Adaptor WM-PORT Cable (WMC-NWH10, not supplied)
: USB cable (supplied)
: (USB) port of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
[18] How to Use Preparations and connections Connections
Connecting other playback equipment
You can connect other playback equipment such as the Super Audio CD player to the USB DAC
AMPLIFIER and enjoy playback from that equipment through the speakers or headphones of the USB
DAC AMPLIFIER.
Note
Make sure that the AC power cord (mains lead) of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is unplugged when
connecting any other cord.
Only the LPCM 2ch audio format can be played when the signal is input through the COAXIAL or
OPTICAL jack. Playing other formats may produce noise or even damage the speakers or
headphones if played at a high volume. When a signal of a format not supported is input, the
COAXIAL or OPTICAL input indicator lamp flashes.
Connect another audio player to the COAXIAL jack, OPTICAL jack or LINE IN jacks on the rear panel of
the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.

When connecting through the COAXIAL jack
: COAXIAL jack of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
: Coaxial digital cable (not supplied)
: Coaxial digital output jack of other equipment
When connecting through the OPTICAL jack
: OPTICAL jack of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
: Optical digital cable (not supplied)
: Optical digital output jack of other equipment
When connecting through LINE IN jacks
: LINE IN jacks of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
: Audio cord (not supplied)
: Analog output jack of other equipment
[19] How to Use Preparations and connections Connections
Connecting headphones
You can connect headphones to the PHONES jack on the front panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
Note
When headphones are connected, no sound is output from the speakers.
Connect headphones to the PHONES jack on the front panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER as shown
below.

: PHONES jack of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
: Headphones
[20] How to Use Playing audio files Playback
Compatible audio formats
The audio formats that the USB DAC AMPLIFIER can decode depend on the digital audio input jacks of
the equipment connected.
The USB DAC AMPLIFIER supports the following audio formats.
USB REAR (USB-B jack)
PCM (Sampling frequency: 44.1 k/48 k/88.2 k/96 k/176.4 k/192 kHz, data bit length: 16/24/32 bits)
DSD (2.8 M/5.6 MHz)
USB FRONT (USB-A jack)
PCM (Sampling frequency: 32 k/44.1 k/48 kHz, data bit length: 16 bits)
COAXIAL jack
PCM (Sampling frequency: 32 k/44.1 k/48 k/88.2 k/96 k/176.4 k/192 kHz, data bit length: 16/24 bits)
OPTICAL jack
PCM (Sampling frequency: 32 k/44.1 k/48 k/88.2 k/96 kHz, data bit length: 16/24 bits)
[21] How to Use Playing audio files Playback
Enjoying music
You can output audio played back on a computer or device connected via the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
1. Press the INPUT SELECTOR button on the USB DAC AMPLIFIER repeatedly to select the input
source.
You can also select the input source by pressing the input selector buttons on the remote control.
When you want to output music files stored on the computer, select USB REAR.

2. Turn on the equipment and start playback.
When you want to play back music files stored on the computer, play back those music files with
the music player software you are currently using.
3. Turn the VOLUME +/– control to adjust the volume.
You can also adjust the volume by pressing the VOLUME +/– button on the remote control.
Note
Sound may be interrupted when the sampling frequency or audio format is changed.
[22] How to Use Playing audio files Sound quality settings
Using the DSEE function
When the DSEE (Digital Sound Enhancement Engine) function is activated, the USB DAC AMPLIFIER
restores high-frequency sound and almost imperceptible fine fade-out sound, which are usually lost due
to compression. This gives a natural and expansive sound to compressed audio files.
Note
The DSEE function works only for PCM format sound input via the digital connector.
The DSEE function works with audio sources in compressed formats other than PCM, such as MP3,
because they will be converted to PCM automatically by your music playback software.
The DSEE function does not work for DSDIFF, DSF format files.
The DSEE function does not work for sound input from devices that are connected to the LINE IN
jacks of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER.
Hint

DSEE stands for Digital Sound Enhancement Engine, a high range compensation technology
developed independently by Sony.
1. Press the DSEE button on the remote control.
During playback using the DSEE function, the DSEE lamp is lit.
To cancel the DSEE function, press the DSEE button again.
Note
When you select an input source or input signal that is not supported, the DSEE function setting
cannot be changed. If you press the DSEE button when the DSEE function setting cannot be
changed, the DSEE lamp flashes three times.
[23] How to Use Playing audio files Sound quality settings
Setting the equalizer
By switching the EQUALIZER switch on the rear panel of the USB DAC AMPLIFIER to “TUNED FOR
SS-HA3,” you can enjoy sound quality tuned for the recommended SS-HA3 speakers (not supplied).
Select the setting you prefer, because the actual sound quality may vary depending on how the
speakers have been installed.
“BYPASS” (Equalizer through) is selected as the factory default setting.
[24] How to Use Parts and controls Main unit
Names and descriptions of parts of the front panel

1. (ON/STANDBY) button
Turns the USB DAC AMPLIFIER on and off.
2. Power lamp
When the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is turned on, this lamp lights up in green.
The lamp turns off when the USB DAC AMPLIFIER is in standby mode.
3. Input indicator lamps
The lamp of the input source selected lights up.
4. INPUT SELECTOR button
Press this button repeatedly to select an input source.
5. MUTING lamp
Lights up in amber when the muting function is active.
6. DSEE lamp
Lights up in blue when the DSEE function is active during playback.
7. PHONES jack
Connect headphones here.
8. (USB) port (Type A jack)
Connect a smartphone such as an Android device or an iPhone, etc., here using a USB cable (not
supplied).
You can play music on mobile devices supported by the USB DAC AMPLIFIER (sampling
frequency up to 48 kHz).
You can charge mobile devices.
PC connection is not supported.
USB flash drive connection is not supported.
To open the cover, pull it down.
9. PCM sampling frequency indicator lamp
The appropriate lamp for the frequency of the PCM High-Resolution Audio file being played back
lights up in white.
10. DSD lamp
Lights up in white when DSD audio is played back.
11. VOLUME +/– control
Adjusts the volume.
12. Remote sensor