Sonnet Digital Audio

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Overview

Sonnet Digital Audio BV manufactures high-end non-oversampling R2R digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and network streamers designed by Cees Ruijtenberg. The company targets audiophiles seeking elevated performance through sophisticated engineering, with products like the Morpheus DAC noted for high value. It operates alongside related ventures including Metrum Acoustics and Acelec, run by founders Cees Ruijtenberg and Lion Kwaaijtaal.¹³⁵

History

Sonnet Digital Audio BV was founded by Lion Kwaaijtaal and Cees Ruijtenberg following the 2018 sale of Metrum Acoustics, where Ruijtenberg had been involved. After dissatisfaction with post-sale customer support, Ruijtenberg reacquired Metrum Acoustics while launching Sonnet in mid-2019 to develop next-generation DAC designs. The Morpheus DAC achieved strong reception, enabling the release of the flagship Pasithea DAC. The founders also manage Acelec for loudspeakers.¹⁴⁷

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Morpheus DAC	Entry-level R2R DAC	$3,000 - $4,000
Pasithea DAC	Flagship R2R DAC with volume control	$9,000 - $10,000
Hermes DAC	Mid-range R2R DAC	$2,500 - $3,500
Kratos Streamer	Network audio streamer	$2,000 - $3,000

Manufacturing

Products are designed by Cees Ruijtenberg in the Netherlands. Manufacturing details are not specified, but the company is based in 's-Hertogenbosch, indicating likely in-house or local production for high-end audio equipment.¹³⁵

Notable Products

Morpheus DAC - Well-received non-oversampling R2R DAC providing high value and performance.
Pasithea DAC - Flagship DAC with lossless variable voltage volume control for direct amplifier connection.
Hermes DAC - Mid-tier non-oversampling R2R digital-to-analog converter.
Kratos - Network streamer compatible with high-end audio systems.

Reputation

Sonnet Digital Audio is perceived positively by audiophiles for delivering well-engineered, high-value R2R DACs that succeed Metrum Acoustics designs. Enthusiasts praise the Morpheus and Pasithea for their performance without unnecessary aesthetics, aligning with the 'no bling bling' philosophy. It maintains a niche reputation in high-end audio, running parallel to Metrum without noted major criticisms.¹²³

Sources (8)