Thank You

All of us at Wadia would like to offer thanks and congratulations to you for purchasing the Wadia 381/381i CD Player. We sincerely believe that your Wadia 381/381i CD Player will bring you many years of musical pleasure and satisfaction.

While every new owner is anxious to begin listening, we encourage you to take a few minutes to read this manual and familiarize yourself with the full capabilities of the Wadia 381/381i CD Player.

If you are in a hurry to begin listening, please read the sections of this manual where the symbol at

!

right is shown.

 

Wadia Digital – A Brief History

Wadia Digital, founded in 1988, is one of the original companies dedicated to high performance digital audio reproduction. Wadia was formed by a team of engineers from the Minneapolis based 3M Corporation (Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing) who shared many years of experience in advanced digital telecommunications research and development. In the early 1980’s, these engineers became intrigued by the emerging compact disc technology. Disappointed with the sound quality of early CD players, they examined the workings and designs of these early components and found them to be unsophisticated when compared with the technology available in other areas of digital design. In response, they founded Wadia Digital – a company based on the philosophy of applying advanced technology to improve the performance of digital audio components. Wadia’s first product, the Wadia 2000 Decoding Computer, was an absolute breakthrough in digital audio. For many discerning listeners, it proved that Digital Audio was a musically responsive, evolving, and engaging format.

Building on a tradition of excellence, Wadia continues to develop innovative technology; refining, listening, engineering, and improving along the way. Since the Wadia 2000, new generations of industry-leading designs have been introduced and embraced by listeners around the world. Each step of the way, Wadia has consistently raised the standard for performance of Digital Audio playback.

Here is a brief list of the technological innovations the Wadia engineers have pioneered over the past 20 years:

•DigiMaster™ patented algorithm (filter optimized for reproducing music)

•ClockLink™ proprietary jitter reduction technology

•SwiftCurrent™ current to voltage conversion technology

•First outboard Digital-to-Analog converter

•First to apply glass fiber-optics to home audio

•First to recognize jitter as a source of audible distortion

•First to perfect digital volume control

•First high-end CD player competitive with expensive separates

•First company to provide bit perfect digital audio output from the iPod

Although Wadia’s digital expertise and track record exceed those of any audio company, technology alone does not guarantee musical performance. Wadia designs are born of a delicate balance of technology shaped by a passion for music.

Wadia is proud to introduce the Wadia 381/381i CD Player, a breakthrough in sonic performance and value, and a strong statement of our years of dedication to music.

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Wadia Digital 381I operation manual Thank You, Wadia Digital a Brief History
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381I, 381 specifications

Wadia Digital has long been synonymous with high-fidelity audio reproduction, and their models 381 and 381i epitomize this legacy. The Wadia 381 and 381i are both premium digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and serve as transport devices that reflect the brand's commitment to superior sound quality and build excellence.

One standout feature of the Wadia 381 is its sophisticated digital signal processing technology. This model utilizes advanced algorithms to provide exceptional audio performance, delivering a sound that is both accurate and engaging. The 381 is equipped with a proprietary Wadia digital filtering system that helps to minimize distortion while maximizing dynamic range. This results in a listening experience that captures the nuances and subtleties of the original recording, preserving the integrity of the audio.

Both models feature high-resolution audio capabilities, accommodating a wide range of digital formats. The Wadia 381 supports PCM rates up to 192kHz/24-bit, ensuring compatibility with high-definition recordings. The 381i takes this a step further by incorporating DSD (Direct Stream Digital) playback, which is becoming increasingly popular in the audiophile community. This versatility allows users to enjoy an extensive library of music with unyielding fidelity.

The construction of the Wadia 381 and 381i reflects the brand's high standards in engineering. Both models boast a solid aluminum chassis that not only contributes to their striking aesthetics but also helps isolate the internal components from external vibrations, enhancing overall performance. The front panel features an intuitive user interface, making navigation and selection a breeze, even for those new to high-end audio equipment.

Connectivity options are another key aspect of the Wadia 381 and 381i. They come equipped with a range of inputs, including USB, Coaxial, and Optical, providing users with flexible connectivity to computers, network players, and other digital sources. Balanced and unbalanced outputs ensure compatibility with various audio systems, allowing for seamless integration into any setup.

In conclusion, the Wadia Digital 381 and 381i are remarkable examples of high-end audio engineering. With their innovative technologies, exceptional build quality, and user-friendly design, they cater to audiophiles seeking an uncompromised listening experience. Whether you are a seasoned listener or just beginning your high-fidelity journey, Wadia's offerings promise to deliver sound that is rich, detailed, and profoundly immersive.
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