HiFi Rose RS451 Black

The RS451 adopts an unusual technical layout with two ES9027PRO converters operating completely independently. This chip from ESS Technology, based on the fourth generation of HyperStream technology, delivers a dynamic range of +124 dB and total harmonic distortion of -114 dB. Each converter features its own power supply circuits and dedicated grounding, eliminating any form of mutual interference.

The first DAC is dedicated exclusively to the pre-amplified outputs, ensuring flawless integration into traditional high-fidelity systems. The balanced XLR outputs provide an output impedance of 1.5 Ω and can deliver up to 10 Vrms, while the unbalanced RCA outputs offer 5 Vrms with an impedance of 1.3 Ω. The signal-to-noise ratio reaches 129 dB in balanced mode, with a linear frequency response from 10 Hz to 80 kHz.The second converter works exclusively for the headphone section, operating alongside four amplification circuits arranged in parallel. This topology maintains consistent power even with high-impedance headphones above 600 Ω. The exceptional slew rate of 1300 V/µs guarantees accurate reproduction of transients and the finest dynamic shifts. Performance measurements reveal substantial output power: 2700 mW into 16 Ω in balanced mode, 650 mW into 300 Ω, and 350 mW into 600 Ω, with total harmonic distortion below 0.0009%.

ROSE NRA Filter: Controlled Analog Signature

The analog output stage integrates the proprietary ROSE NRA (Noise Reduction Analog) filter, developed specifically to preserve an absolutely linear frequency response, even at the lowest registers. This technology eliminates the roll-off effect usually observed at the frequency extremes, safeguarding the integrity of original high-resolution signals. Precision MELF components and WIMA film capacitors contribute to this clarity, minimizing distortion and improving linearity.

Multiplying Processing Power

At the heart of the RS451 lies the next-generation RK3588 processor, an octa-core chip combining four Cortex-A76 cores with four Cortex-A55 cores. This configuration provides four times the processing power of previous models, while the Mali-G610 MC4 GPU multiplies graphical capabilities by a factor of eight. Equipped with 8 GB LPDDR4X memory and 32 GB eMMC storage, the RS451 can smoothly manage even the largest music libraries, with a theoretical capacity exceeding one million tracks.

This abundance of power translates into an immediate, responsive user interface and seamless playback of the most demanding files, from PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz to native DSD512. The 8.8-inch IPS touchscreen allows intuitive navigation through menus and streaming services, while also supporting 4K HDR video playback via HDMI 2.0 output.

The rear panel of the RS451 reveals a wealth of connections, confirming its universal character. Digital inputs include USB-B 2.0 (supporting up to 768 kHz/32-bit and DSD512), coaxial and optical (up to 384 kHz and DSD128 via DoP), as well as an HDMI eARC input for seamless integration into a home cinema system. An analog line input completes the set for traditional sources.

Digital outputs include three USB-A 3.0 ports for external storage, along with coaxial and optical outputs. The device also supports the installation of an internal 2.5-inch SSD via SATA 3.0, enabling the creation of an extensive local music library. Network connectivity is ensured through a Gigabit Ethernet port, Wi-Fi via USB dongle, and Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX support.

Software compatibility covers all modern streaming protocols: Roon Ready for premium users, AirPlay for the Apple ecosystem, Spotify Connect, DLNA/UPnP for NAS access, as well as native integration of Tidal, Qobuz, and Apple Music. The Rose Connect app, available for iOS and Android, unifies control with a refined interface reminiscent of Roon’s ergonomics.

A Chassis Designed for Performance

The mechanical construction of the RS451 reflects an attention to detail rarely found in this price category. The brushed aluminum chassis, available in silver or black finish, combines structural rigidity with effective heat dissipation. With compact dimensions of 430 × 337 × 92 mm and a weight of 7 kg, it fits easily on a desktop or a traditional audio rack.

The linear power supply, equipped with a toroidal transformer and protected by a 3-amp thermal breaker, ensures stable and silent power delivery. Energy consumption is efficient, with just 20 watts during playback, 5 watts in idle mode, and 0.5 watts in standby—demonstrating an environmentally responsible design. The clean front panel is dominated by the 8.8-inch capacitive touchscreen, flanked by a large volume knob and an output selector. Three headphone jacks (balanced XLR, balanced 4.4 mm Pentaconn, and unbalanced 6.35 mm) are positioned on the left side, ensuring maximum compatibility with virtually every headphone type on the market.