Ferrum Audio WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/Pre-Amplifier
Usage Guide
Amplifier
CDPlayers
Computers
TVs
Streamers
Connection Guide
AES/EBU
XLR Pair
USB Type C
Toslink Optical
RCA Single
RCA Pair
HDMI Standard
Female Coax
4 Pin DC
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Item code: FERRUMWANDLA-GS2
Inc. VAT (20%) · Ex. VAT: £2,745.83 Ex. VAT · Inc. VAT (20%):
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SPEAKER CABLES:
A quantity of 2 means you will receive a pair of speaker cables e.g. for your front left and front right speakers. By entering a quantity of 1, you will get a cable for a single speaker e.g. centre speaker and this option also enables you to vary the length (and termination) of your cable for each speaker.
OTHER CABLES:
A quantity of 1 means you will receive a single cable in the case of aerial, satellite, subwoofer, digital coaxial & optical cables and a pair of cables in the case of 2 rca to 2 rca analogue audio cables.
NON-CABLE PRODUCTS:
A quantity of 1 means you will receive 1 of the specified products.
Order before 4pm (Mon–Fri) for same-day dispatch
Ferrum Audio WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/Pre-Amplifier
The Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 is a fully balanced DAC and preamplifier made in Poland. It builds on the original GoldenSound Edition, developed with the reviewer GoldenSound, and adds deeper control over how your music sounds. The hardware is the EISA award-winning WANDLA platform: an ESS Sabre ES9038PRO converter, a modified IC preamplifier tuned for WANDLA, and Ferrum's SERCE digital module, an ARM-based design that replaces five separate chips with a shorter signal path. Gen 2 keeps that foundation and rewrites the three DSP features that set the GoldenSound Edition apart. You get the transparency of a reference DAC, with the option to tailor the sound to your headphones, speakers or room.
Impact+ no longer applies one fixed bass lift. The WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 offers seven bass and dynamics profiles, from Reference and Ref+ through Smooth and Kick+ to Sub-Bass, plus two DD-Comp settings designed to compensate for dynamic-driver headphones. Each profile can be set from 10% to 130%, so you can add weight to a lean pair of headphones without muddying a full-range speaker system. Tube Mode moves on from the original's added second harmonic. It now models the character of five valve types (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3 and 7062) with harmonics reproduced up to the seventh, adjustable from 10% to 200%. That gives you valve warmth without the heat, bulk or cost of real tubes. Spatial Enhancement keeps separate headphone and speaker modes and adds Transient Compensation, or T-Comp, which reduces the effect's influence on high frequencies for more natural three-dimensional imaging. Elevated digital headroom guards against intersample overs even at full output in bypass mode, and five digital filters are available: three ESS filters and two created for Ferrum by Signalyst, the developer of HQPlayer.
Connectivity covers almost any modern source. Digital inputs comprise USB-C and I2S (both up to PCM 768kHz/32-bit and DSD512), AES, coaxial and optical S/PDIF, and an HDMI ARC input with CEC for television sound. An RCA analogue input accepts up to 9.5 Vrms. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs deliver up to 8 Vrms and 4 Vrms respectively, and a hardware voltage divider lowers output to just below 4 Vrms for amplifiers that need less gain, without adding digital volume or extra analogue components to the signal path. Volume is analogue with a bypass option. The WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 measures 21.7 x 20.6 x 5 cm, weighs 1.8 kg, and comes with a 24V power adapter and remote control. Ferrum's 4-pin Power Link connector lets it pair with the HYPSOS power supply when you are ready to upgrade.
What Ferrum say about the WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
It's all about finding your sweet spot
While keeping all great features of the original, WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 manages to improve on three great features, called Impact+, Tube Mode and Spatial Enhancement. In Gen 2 our engineers completely overhauled them and each got their own Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning! Of course the Gen 2 upgrades include ultimate customization on top of the original settings. Next to these great new features you get to keep all features of the original WANDLA (except MQA), like its SERCE DSP module, WANDLA's balanced design, the proprietary amplification, optimized digital inputs, finely tuned DA conversion, Dynamic Digital Filtering, ease of use via WANDLA's touch screen, Ferrum's Streaming Control Technology and 4TSD voltage sensing capabilities when combined with HYPSOS.
Something great just got even better.
The EISA awarded WANDLA continues to be one of the best DA converters in its league. WANDLA GoldenSound Edition managed to add three great features. One to enhance the sheer impact in the lower frequency, one to simulate the warmth of a tube stage and one to offer an enhancement in the third dimension. With WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 these three features, called Impact+, Tube Mode and Spatial Enhancement, were completely overhauled and each got their own Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning! Something great just got even better.
Three great features just got even better. Impact+, Tube Mode and Spatial Enhancement were completely overhauled and each got their own Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning!
Gen 2 Impact+
You can now control your low-end sound signature by choosing one of seven predesigned settings of bass and dynamics and adjusting its level from 10% to 130%.
Gen 2 Tube Mode
You can now choose your tube sound signature by choosing one of five popular tube designs (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3 and 7062) and adjusting the level of its effect from 10% to 200% in search of your personal perfect setting.
Gen 2 Spatial Enhancement
You can now independently toggle the spatial effect, select your output mode (Headphones/Speakers), and engage the new Transient Compensation to fine-tune the imaging in search of your preferred setting.
Gen 2 Elevated digital headroom
Higher immunity to intersample overs even in bypass mode at full output level, allowing you to play back any music free from additional distortion, and enjoy a high-quality sound.
Gen 2 New Voltage Adjustment
The WANDLA GoldenSound Edition benefits from a hardware level output voltage adjustment of standard WANDLA, allowing the user to swap between just below 10 Vrms output to a just below 4 Vrms output. This is facilitated via a dedicated hardware voltage divider, allowing the user to select lower output voltage and ensure compatibility with all amplifiers, without a need to use any digital volume control, or to have analog volume control components in the signal path.
Gen 2 Dynamic Digital Filtering
WANDLA has three ESS digital filters to choose as standard and, as a world first, two digital filters created for Ferrum by renowned filter-maker Signalyst, know for their HQPlayer app. More filters will follow after interacting with WANDLA users.
Gen 2 Proprietary amplification
Fully balanced modified IC pre-amplifier, fine tuned for WANDLA.
Gen 2 Optimized Digital inputs
Specially programmed USB, and tuned coaxial and optical S/PDIF, AES, ARC (TV) and I2S ports, optimized for audio.
Gen 2 Made for HYPSOS
WANDLA performs beautifully right out of the box, but you can take its performance above and beyond when pairing it with HYPSOS. Using the proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) connection with 4TSD voltage sensing, both components will perform to their absolute maximum, unleashing unheard-of musicality.
Gen 2 SERCE
Digital audio system module - Our optimized ARM chip offers the shortest signal path possible, making 5 chips redundant.
Impact+
Impact+ in the original GoldenSound Edition featured a base shelf and an additional peak to provide a beefier, more realistic sound signature. WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 evolves this by offering seven distinct shape settings (Reference, Ref+, Smooth, Kick+, DD-Comp, DD-Comp+, and Sub-Bass). Instead of a single fixed enhancement, you can now select from these profiles – including specialized compensation for dynamic drivers – and regulate the total impact level from 10% to 130%. This allows you to perfectly tailor the output to your specific sound system, headphones, or soundtrack. Enter Gen 2's Impact+ with Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning.
Tube Mode
Tube Mode - In the original GoldenSound Edition added the sweetness of the second harmonic. With GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 apart from adding artificial 2nd harmonic, we introduce the sound signature of five tubes (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3 and 7062) with reproduction up to the 7th harmonic. Experience the tube sound, without the associated negatives like big and bulky components, excessive heat production, not to mention the costs of tubes. To take things further, you can also regulate the levels from 10% to 200% in search of your personal perfect setting. Enter Gen 2's Tube Mode with Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning.
Spatial Enhancement
You can now independently toggle the spatial effect, select your output mode (Headphones/Speakers), and engage the new Transient Compensation to fine-tune the imaging. Spatial Enhancement originally had two modes, which were tailored for speakers and headphones separately. GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 introduces Transient Compensation, or T-Comp in short. This setting fine-tunes the spatial enhancement algorithm and reduces how it affects high frequencies, resulting in a vastly more realistic three-dimensional staging. Enter Gen 2's Spatial Enhancement with Transient Tuning.
WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
- WANDLA GoldenSound Gen2 Edition, fully balanced DAC/PREAMP
- New features include elevated digital headroom, spatial enhancement, tube mode, impact+
- Proprietary fully balanced modified IC pre-amplifier, fine tuned for WANDLA GoldenSound Gen2 Edition
- Specially programmed USB, and tuned coaxial and optical S/PDIF, AES, ARC and I2S ports, optimized for audio
- Proprietary optimized ARM chip offers the shortest signal path possible, making 5 chips redundant
- Four proprietary Signalyst filters
- Proprietary 4-pin Ferrum connector for HYPSOS
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs
- Digital and Analogue volume control
- EES Sabre ES9038PRO with selected filter
- Remote control included
Specifications
General
- Brand: Ferrum Audio
- Model: WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
- Product Type: Fully balanced DAC/preamplifier
- Country of Manufacture: Poland
Audio
- DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9038PRO
- DAC Resolution: 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512
- Volume Control: Analogue with bypass option / digital for DAC operation only
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), PRO: 8 Vrms balanced, 4 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), Red Book: 3.5 Vrms balanced, 1.75 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Voltage Adjustment: Hardware voltage divider, just below 10 Vrms or just below 4 Vrms
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 200 kHz ±0.1 dB (analogue inputs)
- DAC THD: -121 dB (0.00009%)
- DAC THD+N: -118 dB unweighted
- Analogue Input THD: -123 dB @ 2 Vrms
- Dynamic Range (A-weighted): 127 dB analogue, 119 dB digital
- Crosstalk: -120 dB at 1 kHz, better than -100 dB for 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 22 Ω unbalanced, 44 Ω balanced
DSP Features
- Impact+: 7 profiles (Reference, Ref+, Smooth, Kick+, DD-Comp, DD-Comp+, Sub-Bass), level 10% to 130%
- Tube Mode: 5 tube emulations (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3, 7062), harmonics up to 7th, level 10% to 200%
- Spatial Enhancement: Headphones and Speakers modes, Transient Compensation (T-Comp)
- Elevated Digital Headroom: Higher immunity to intersample overs, including in bypass mode
- Digital Filters: 3 ESS filters, 2 Signalyst filters
Connectivity
- USB Type-C Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256
- I2S Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256, PS Audio® compatible
- ARC Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, TV input with CEC
- AES Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Coaxial S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Optical S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 96 kHz / 24 bit (may work up to PCM 192 kHz and DoP 64, depending on optical cable and transmitter)
- Analogue Input: RCA
- Analogue Input Vmax: 9.5 Vrms (2 - 3.5 Vrms recommended)
- Analogue Input Impedance: 47 kΩ
- Line Outputs: Balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA
- Remote Control: Included
Power
- Power Inputs (22 - 30 VDC): 5.5/2.5 mm DC connector (centre positive), proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) 4-pin DC connector
- Power Adapter: 100 - 240 VAC to 24 VDC
- Power Consumption: 10 W idle, 15 W max
- HYPSOS Compatibility: Ferrum Power Link with 4TSD voltage sensing
Weight and Dimensions
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 20.6 x 5 cm (8.6 x 8.1 x 2.0 in)
- Net Weight: 1.8 kg
In the Box
- 1 x Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/pre-amp
- 1 x Power cord
- 1 x Remote control
- 1 x USB cable
- 1 x AC/DC power adapter
About Ferrum
Polish maker of DACs, headphone amplifiers and linear power supplies, designed and built in Warsaw.
Ferrum Audio is based in Warsaw, Poland, where its parent company designs and manufactures its products in-house. The range is built around the Wandla DAC and pre-amplifier, the OOR headphone amplifier and the Hypsos power supply, along with the power cables and splitter that connect them. You can build a compact system from these parts.
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The Wandla is a DAC and pre-amplifier
The Wandla combines a DAC with a pre-amplifier, so it can take digital sources and feed an amplifier or powered speakers directly. It is the centre of the range, and the other products are designed to work around it. Check the product page for its inputs and outputs.
The OOR is a fully analogue headphone amplifier
The OOR is a balanced headphone amplifier. Ferrum describes it as fully analogue, with a discrete output stage. If you want to listen on headphones with a high-quality source, it can be paired with the Wandla or another DAC. Check the product page for the connections and power requirements.
The Hypsos power supply works with its cables
The Hypsos is a hybrid linear and switching power supply that outputs 5 to 30V at up to 6A. Ferrum also sells the Power Link and DC JACK power cables and a Power Splitter, so one supply can feed several Ferrum products.
Specifications
General
- Brand: Ferrum Audio
- Model: WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
- Product Type: Fully balanced DAC/preamplifier
- Country of Manufacture: Poland
Audio
- DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9038PRO
- DAC Resolution: 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512
- Volume Control: Analogue with bypass option / digital for DAC operation only
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), PRO: 8 Vrms balanced, 4 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), Red Book: 3.5 Vrms balanced, 1.75 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Voltage Adjustment: Hardware voltage divider, just below 10 Vrms or just below 4 Vrms
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 200 kHz ±0.1 dB (analogue inputs)
- DAC THD: -121 dB (0.00009%)
- DAC THD+N: -118 dB unweighted
- Analogue Input THD: -123 dB @ 2 Vrms
- Dynamic Range (A-weighted): 127 dB analogue, 119 dB digital
- Crosstalk: -120 dB at 1 kHz, better than -100 dB for 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 22 Ω unbalanced, 44 Ω balanced
DSP Features
- Impact+: 7 profiles (Reference, Ref+, Smooth, Kick+, DD-Comp, DD-Comp+, Sub-Bass), level 10% to 130%
- Tube Mode: 5 tube emulations (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3, 7062), harmonics up to 7th, level 10% to 200%
- Spatial Enhancement: Headphones and Speakers modes, Transient Compensation (T-Comp)
- Elevated Digital Headroom: Higher immunity to intersample overs, including in bypass mode
- Digital Filters: 3 ESS filters, 2 Signalyst filters
Connectivity
- USB Type-C Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256
- I2S Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256, PS Audio® compatible
- ARC Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, TV input with CEC
- AES Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Coaxial S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Optical S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 96 kHz / 24 bit (may work up to PCM 192 kHz and DoP 64, depending on optical cable and transmitter)
- Analogue Input: RCA
- Analogue Input Vmax: 9.5 Vrms (2 - 3.5 Vrms recommended)
- Analogue Input Impedance: 47 kΩ
- Line Outputs: Balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA
- Remote Control: Included
Power
- Power Inputs (22 - 30 VDC): 5.5/2.5 mm DC connector (centre positive), proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) 4-pin DC connector
- Power Adapter: 100 - 240 VAC to 24 VDC
- Power Consumption: 10 W idle, 15 W max
- HYPSOS Compatibility: Ferrum Power Link with 4TSD voltage sensing
Weight and Dimensions
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 20.6 x 5 cm (8.6 x 8.1 x 2.0 in)
- Net Weight: 1.8 kg
In the Box
- 1 x Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/pre-amp
- 1 x Power cord
- 1 x Remote control
- 1 x USB cable
- 1 x AC/DC power adapter
We use Royal Mail 1st Class services for our Standard Delivery.
Orders received before 4.30 pm Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same day by FIRST CLASS post (unless premium postal or timed courier services are selected), subject to stock availability. This does not apply to custom-length cables and speaker cables as these require a longer timescale to terminate. This also excludes all cables selected for the burn-in service. Please note, we do not process orders on national holidays in the UK. Over 98% of our orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays.
Standard delivery is usually within 2 working days, although 98% of all orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays. In extreme cases, such as delivery to the Highlands and Islands, this may take 3 days.
All items are fully insured and come with an invoice from Future Shop. We use the Royal Mail for delivery of small packages and DPD Local or DHL for items that weigh over 2KG. Items over 2KG are fully insured and will usually be delivered within 48 hours of placing your order subject to stock availability. For international orders, we use FedEx or DHL services where customers have selected this option.
Please note, special orders for non-standard cable lengths may be subject to longer deliver time-scales. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
We offer 'Free delivery on orders over £99' subject to the following terms & conditions:
- Applies only to orders with £99 or more of items (including VAT at the UK rate), at Future Shop
- Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK (excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL).
- Applies only to deliveries to addresses within mainland UK and Northern Ireland addresses. Applies only to orders that are to be delivered to a single Mainland UK delivery address.
- You will not be eligible for free delivery on your order if any items are cancelled or returned for a refund, bringing the total order amount below £99. Where items are returned, the refund due will be the cost of the item less any postage costs.
- We reserve the right to change or discontinue 'Free delivery on orders over £99 promotion at any time.
- FREE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £99 OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO TRADE CUSTOMERS.
UK Postal & Delivery Charges - FIRST CLASS
Free UK delivery on all orders over £99*
| Weight | Price (FIRST CLASS UK POSTAGE) |
| 0g - 1000g | £3.95 |
| 1000g - 1400g | £4.95 |
| 1400g - 1800g | £5.95 |
| 1800g - 2000g | £6.95 |
| 2000g - 3000g | £8.95 |
* Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK.
Free Delivery for orders over £99 excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL.
Special Delivery UK - Guaranteed Next Working Day
We have 99.9% of the UK covered With Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery. We guarantee delivery to most UK addresses by 1pm the next working day. This includes Northern Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey. Some places take longer to deliver to but we still guarantee delivery within three working days by 5.30 PM.
Please note, Royal Mail Special Delivery for next working day may not be possible where non-standard cable lengths are ordered. If this is the case, the item will be shipped via The Royal Mail Special Delivery service as soon as the cable is custom made.
For orders weighing over 2KG, we reserve the right to ship items using Next Day Pre-Noon Courier Services where Royal Mail Special Delivery option has been selected.
Channel Islands & Northern Ireland
We accept orders from all Channel Islands including Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. Unless you select a premium service, Items weighing under 2KG are delivered using our standard UK delivery option above. For items weighing over 2KG, a surcharge may be applied for all deliveries to the Channel Islands as well as Northern Ireland.
European Countries
Deliveries to EU member states are not subject to 20% VAT after December 31st 2020 and therefore the 20% VAT on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
The customer will be liable for the VAT at the local VAT rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee if applicable. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 3 to 5 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7-10 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Economy - Item are usually delivered within 48 to 72 hours
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Worldwide - Excluding UK & Europe
Deliveries outside of the UK are not subject to 20% VAT and so the 20% tax on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
If applicable, the customer will be liable for the taxes at the local tax rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7 to 10 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 15 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability
- Where the actual weight of the package significantly exceeds the shipping cost charged on orders, we may write to you for an additional shipping charge. For larger orders, items may be shipped in multiple packets at our discretion
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ferrum Audio WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/Pre-Amplifier
The Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 is a fully balanced DAC and preamplifier made in Poland. It builds on the original GoldenSound Edition, developed with the reviewer GoldenSound, and adds deeper control over how your music sounds. The hardware is the EISA award-winning WANDLA platform: an ESS Sabre ES9038PRO converter, a modified IC preamplifier tuned for WANDLA, and Ferrum's SERCE digital module, an ARM-based design that replaces five separate chips with a shorter signal path. Gen 2 keeps that foundation and rewrites the three DSP features that set the GoldenSound Edition apart. You get the transparency of a reference DAC, with the option to tailor the sound to your headphones, speakers or room.
Impact+ no longer applies one fixed bass lift. The WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 offers seven bass and dynamics profiles, from Reference and Ref+ through Smooth and Kick+ to Sub-Bass, plus two DD-Comp settings designed to compensate for dynamic-driver headphones. Each profile can be set from 10% to 130%, so you can add weight to a lean pair of headphones without muddying a full-range speaker system. Tube Mode moves on from the original's added second harmonic. It now models the character of five valve types (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3 and 7062) with harmonics reproduced up to the seventh, adjustable from 10% to 200%. That gives you valve warmth without the heat, bulk or cost of real tubes. Spatial Enhancement keeps separate headphone and speaker modes and adds Transient Compensation, or T-Comp, which reduces the effect's influence on high frequencies for more natural three-dimensional imaging. Elevated digital headroom guards against intersample overs even at full output in bypass mode, and five digital filters are available: three ESS filters and two created for Ferrum by Signalyst, the developer of HQPlayer.
Connectivity covers almost any modern source. Digital inputs comprise USB-C and I2S (both up to PCM 768kHz/32-bit and DSD512), AES, coaxial and optical S/PDIF, and an HDMI ARC input with CEC for television sound. An RCA analogue input accepts up to 9.5 Vrms. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs deliver up to 8 Vrms and 4 Vrms respectively, and a hardware voltage divider lowers output to just below 4 Vrms for amplifiers that need less gain, without adding digital volume or extra analogue components to the signal path. Volume is analogue with a bypass option. The WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 measures 21.7 x 20.6 x 5 cm, weighs 1.8 kg, and comes with a 24V power adapter and remote control. Ferrum's 4-pin Power Link connector lets it pair with the HYPSOS power supply when you are ready to upgrade.
What Ferrum say about the WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
It's all about finding your sweet spot
While keeping all great features of the original, WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 manages to improve on three great features, called Impact+, Tube Mode and Spatial Enhancement. In Gen 2 our engineers completely overhauled them and each got their own Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning! Of course the Gen 2 upgrades include ultimate customization on top of the original settings. Next to these great new features you get to keep all features of the original WANDLA (except MQA), like its SERCE DSP module, WANDLA's balanced design, the proprietary amplification, optimized digital inputs, finely tuned DA conversion, Dynamic Digital Filtering, ease of use via WANDLA's touch screen, Ferrum's Streaming Control Technology and 4TSD voltage sensing capabilities when combined with HYPSOS.
Something great just got even better.
The EISA awarded WANDLA continues to be one of the best DA converters in its league. WANDLA GoldenSound Edition managed to add three great features. One to enhance the sheer impact in the lower frequency, one to simulate the warmth of a tube stage and one to offer an enhancement in the third dimension. With WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 these three features, called Impact+, Tube Mode and Spatial Enhancement, were completely overhauled and each got their own Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning! Something great just got even better.
Three great features just got even better. Impact+, Tube Mode and Spatial Enhancement were completely overhauled and each got their own Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning!
Gen 2 Impact+
You can now control your low-end sound signature by choosing one of seven predesigned settings of bass and dynamics and adjusting its level from 10% to 130%.
Gen 2 Tube Mode
You can now choose your tube sound signature by choosing one of five popular tube designs (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3 and 7062) and adjusting the level of its effect from 10% to 200% in search of your personal perfect setting.
Gen 2 Spatial Enhancement
You can now independently toggle the spatial effect, select your output mode (Headphones/Speakers), and engage the new Transient Compensation to fine-tune the imaging in search of your preferred setting.
Gen 2 Elevated digital headroom
Higher immunity to intersample overs even in bypass mode at full output level, allowing you to play back any music free from additional distortion, and enjoy a high-quality sound.
Gen 2 New Voltage Adjustment
The WANDLA GoldenSound Edition benefits from a hardware level output voltage adjustment of standard WANDLA, allowing the user to swap between just below 10 Vrms output to a just below 4 Vrms output. This is facilitated via a dedicated hardware voltage divider, allowing the user to select lower output voltage and ensure compatibility with all amplifiers, without a need to use any digital volume control, or to have analog volume control components in the signal path.
Gen 2 Dynamic Digital Filtering
WANDLA has three ESS digital filters to choose as standard and, as a world first, two digital filters created for Ferrum by renowned filter-maker Signalyst, know for their HQPlayer app. More filters will follow after interacting with WANDLA users.
Gen 2 Proprietary amplification
Fully balanced modified IC pre-amplifier, fine tuned for WANDLA.
Gen 2 Optimized Digital inputs
Specially programmed USB, and tuned coaxial and optical S/PDIF, AES, ARC (TV) and I2S ports, optimized for audio.
Gen 2 Made for HYPSOS
WANDLA performs beautifully right out of the box, but you can take its performance above and beyond when pairing it with HYPSOS. Using the proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) connection with 4TSD voltage sensing, both components will perform to their absolute maximum, unleashing unheard-of musicality.
Gen 2 SERCE
Digital audio system module - Our optimized ARM chip offers the shortest signal path possible, making 5 chips redundant.
Impact+
Impact+ in the original GoldenSound Edition featured a base shelf and an additional peak to provide a beefier, more realistic sound signature. WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 evolves this by offering seven distinct shape settings (Reference, Ref+, Smooth, Kick+, DD-Comp, DD-Comp+, and Sub-Bass). Instead of a single fixed enhancement, you can now select from these profiles – including specialized compensation for dynamic drivers – and regulate the total impact level from 10% to 130%. This allows you to perfectly tailor the output to your specific sound system, headphones, or soundtrack. Enter Gen 2's Impact+ with Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning.
Tube Mode
Tube Mode - In the original GoldenSound Edition added the sweetness of the second harmonic. With GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 apart from adding artificial 2nd harmonic, we introduce the sound signature of five tubes (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3 and 7062) with reproduction up to the 7th harmonic. Experience the tube sound, without the associated negatives like big and bulky components, excessive heat production, not to mention the costs of tubes. To take things further, you can also regulate the levels from 10% to 200% in search of your personal perfect setting. Enter Gen 2's Tube Mode with Ferrum Sweet Spot Tuning.
Spatial Enhancement
You can now independently toggle the spatial effect, select your output mode (Headphones/Speakers), and engage the new Transient Compensation to fine-tune the imaging. Spatial Enhancement originally had two modes, which were tailored for speakers and headphones separately. GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 introduces Transient Compensation, or T-Comp in short. This setting fine-tunes the spatial enhancement algorithm and reduces how it affects high frequencies, resulting in a vastly more realistic three-dimensional staging. Enter Gen 2's Spatial Enhancement with Transient Tuning.
WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
- WANDLA GoldenSound Gen2 Edition, fully balanced DAC/PREAMP
- New features include elevated digital headroom, spatial enhancement, tube mode, impact+
- Proprietary fully balanced modified IC pre-amplifier, fine tuned for WANDLA GoldenSound Gen2 Edition
- Specially programmed USB, and tuned coaxial and optical S/PDIF, AES, ARC and I2S ports, optimized for audio
- Proprietary optimized ARM chip offers the shortest signal path possible, making 5 chips redundant
- Four proprietary Signalyst filters
- Proprietary 4-pin Ferrum connector for HYPSOS
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA line outputs
- Digital and Analogue volume control
- EES Sabre ES9038PRO with selected filter
- Remote control included
Specifications
General
- Brand: Ferrum Audio
- Model: WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
- Product Type: Fully balanced DAC/preamplifier
- Country of Manufacture: Poland
Audio
- DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9038PRO
- DAC Resolution: 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512
- Volume Control: Analogue with bypass option / digital for DAC operation only
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), PRO: 8 Vrms balanced, 4 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), Red Book: 3.5 Vrms balanced, 1.75 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Voltage Adjustment: Hardware voltage divider, just below 10 Vrms or just below 4 Vrms
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 200 kHz ±0.1 dB (analogue inputs)
- DAC THD: -121 dB (0.00009%)
- DAC THD+N: -118 dB unweighted
- Analogue Input THD: -123 dB @ 2 Vrms
- Dynamic Range (A-weighted): 127 dB analogue, 119 dB digital
- Crosstalk: -120 dB at 1 kHz, better than -100 dB for 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 22 Ω unbalanced, 44 Ω balanced
DSP Features
- Impact+: 7 profiles (Reference, Ref+, Smooth, Kick+, DD-Comp, DD-Comp+, Sub-Bass), level 10% to 130%
- Tube Mode: 5 tube emulations (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3, 7062), harmonics up to 7th, level 10% to 200%
- Spatial Enhancement: Headphones and Speakers modes, Transient Compensation (T-Comp)
- Elevated Digital Headroom: Higher immunity to intersample overs, including in bypass mode
- Digital Filters: 3 ESS filters, 2 Signalyst filters
Connectivity
- USB Type-C Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256
- I2S Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256, PS Audio® compatible
- ARC Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, TV input with CEC
- AES Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Coaxial S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Optical S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 96 kHz / 24 bit (may work up to PCM 192 kHz and DoP 64, depending on optical cable and transmitter)
- Analogue Input: RCA
- Analogue Input Vmax: 9.5 Vrms (2 - 3.5 Vrms recommended)
- Analogue Input Impedance: 47 kΩ
- Line Outputs: Balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA
- Remote Control: Included
Power
- Power Inputs (22 - 30 VDC): 5.5/2.5 mm DC connector (centre positive), proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) 4-pin DC connector
- Power Adapter: 100 - 240 VAC to 24 VDC
- Power Consumption: 10 W idle, 15 W max
- HYPSOS Compatibility: Ferrum Power Link with 4TSD voltage sensing
Weight and Dimensions
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 20.6 x 5 cm (8.6 x 8.1 x 2.0 in)
- Net Weight: 1.8 kg
In the Box
- 1 x Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/pre-amp
- 1 x Power cord
- 1 x Remote control
- 1 x USB cable
- 1 x AC/DC power adapter
About Ferrum
Polish maker of DACs, headphone amplifiers and linear power supplies, designed and built in Warsaw.
Ferrum Audio is based in Warsaw, Poland, where its parent company designs and manufactures its products in-house. The range is built around the Wandla DAC and pre-amplifier, the OOR headphone amplifier and the Hypsos power supply, along with the power cables and splitter that connect them. You can build a compact system from these parts.
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The Wandla is a DAC and pre-amplifier
The Wandla combines a DAC with a pre-amplifier, so it can take digital sources and feed an amplifier or powered speakers directly. It is the centre of the range, and the other products are designed to work around it. Check the product page for its inputs and outputs.
The OOR is a fully analogue headphone amplifier
The OOR is a balanced headphone amplifier. Ferrum describes it as fully analogue, with a discrete output stage. If you want to listen on headphones with a high-quality source, it can be paired with the Wandla or another DAC. Check the product page for the connections and power requirements.
The Hypsos power supply works with its cables
The Hypsos is a hybrid linear and switching power supply that outputs 5 to 30V at up to 6A. Ferrum also sells the Power Link and DC JACK power cables and a Power Splitter, so one supply can feed several Ferrum products.
Specifications
General
- Brand: Ferrum Audio
- Model: WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
- Product Type: Fully balanced DAC/preamplifier
- Country of Manufacture: Poland
Audio
- DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9038PRO
- DAC Resolution: 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512
- Volume Control: Analogue with bypass option / digital for DAC operation only
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), PRO: 8 Vrms balanced, 4 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Level (@ 0 dBFS / 1 kHz sine), Red Book: 3.5 Vrms balanced, 1.75 Vrms unbalanced
- Output Voltage Adjustment: Hardware voltage divider, just below 10 Vrms or just below 4 Vrms
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 200 kHz ±0.1 dB (analogue inputs)
- DAC THD: -121 dB (0.00009%)
- DAC THD+N: -118 dB unweighted
- Analogue Input THD: -123 dB @ 2 Vrms
- Dynamic Range (A-weighted): 127 dB analogue, 119 dB digital
- Crosstalk: -120 dB at 1 kHz, better than -100 dB for 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 22 Ω unbalanced, 44 Ω balanced
DSP Features
- Impact+: 7 profiles (Reference, Ref+, Smooth, Kick+, DD-Comp, DD-Comp+, Sub-Bass), level 10% to 130%
- Tube Mode: 5 tube emulations (EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3, 7062), harmonics up to 7th, level 10% to 200%
- Spatial Enhancement: Headphones and Speakers modes, Transient Compensation (T-Comp)
- Elevated Digital Headroom: Higher immunity to intersample overs, including in bypass mode
- Digital Filters: 3 ESS filters, 2 Signalyst filters
Connectivity
- USB Type-C Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256
- I2S Input: Up to PCM 768 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 512, DoP 256, PS Audio® compatible
- ARC Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, TV input with CEC
- AES Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Coaxial S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 192 kHz / 24 bit, DoP 64
- Optical S/PDIF Input: Up to PCM 96 kHz / 24 bit (may work up to PCM 192 kHz and DoP 64, depending on optical cable and transmitter)
- Analogue Input: RCA
- Analogue Input Vmax: 9.5 Vrms (2 - 3.5 Vrms recommended)
- Analogue Input Impedance: 47 kΩ
- Line Outputs: Balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA
- Remote Control: Included
Power
- Power Inputs (22 - 30 VDC): 5.5/2.5 mm DC connector (centre positive), proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) 4-pin DC connector
- Power Adapter: 100 - 240 VAC to 24 VDC
- Power Consumption: 10 W idle, 15 W max
- HYPSOS Compatibility: Ferrum Power Link with 4TSD voltage sensing
Weight and Dimensions
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 20.6 x 5 cm (8.6 x 8.1 x 2.0 in)
- Net Weight: 1.8 kg
In the Box
- 1 x Ferrum WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/pre-amp
- 1 x Power cord
- 1 x Remote control
- 1 x USB cable
- 1 x AC/DC power adapter
We use Royal Mail 1st Class services for our Standard Delivery.
Orders received before 4.30 pm Monday to Friday are usually dispatched the same day by FIRST CLASS post (unless premium postal or timed courier services are selected), subject to stock availability. This does not apply to custom-length cables and speaker cables as these require a longer timescale to terminate. This also excludes all cables selected for the burn-in service. Please note, we do not process orders on national holidays in the UK. Over 98% of our orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays.
Standard delivery is usually within 2 working days, although 98% of all orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays. In extreme cases, such as delivery to the Highlands and Islands, this may take 3 days.
All items are fully insured and come with an invoice from Future Shop. We use the Royal Mail for delivery of small packages and DPD Local or DHL for items that weigh over 2KG. Items over 2KG are fully insured and will usually be delivered within 48 hours of placing your order subject to stock availability. For international orders, we use FedEx or DHL services where customers have selected this option.
Please note, special orders for non-standard cable lengths may be subject to longer deliver time-scales. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
We offer 'Free delivery on orders over £99' subject to the following terms & conditions:
- Applies only to orders with £99 or more of items (including VAT at the UK rate), at Future Shop
- Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK (excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL).
- Applies only to deliveries to addresses within mainland UK and Northern Ireland addresses. Applies only to orders that are to be delivered to a single Mainland UK delivery address.
- You will not be eligible for free delivery on your order if any items are cancelled or returned for a refund, bringing the total order amount below £99. Where items are returned, the refund due will be the cost of the item less any postage costs.
- We reserve the right to change or discontinue 'Free delivery on orders over £99 promotion at any time.
- FREE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £99 OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO TRADE CUSTOMERS.
UK Postal & Delivery Charges - FIRST CLASS
Free UK delivery on all orders over £99*
| Weight | Price (FIRST CLASS UK POSTAGE) |
| 0g - 1000g | £3.95 |
| 1000g - 1400g | £4.95 |
| 1400g - 1800g | £5.95 |
| 1800g - 2000g | £6.95 |
| 2000g - 3000g | £8.95 |
* Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or DHL next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK.
Free Delivery for orders over £99 excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or DHL.
Special Delivery UK - Guaranteed Next Working Day
We have 99.9% of the UK covered With Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery. We guarantee delivery to most UK addresses by 1pm the next working day. This includes Northern Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey. Some places take longer to deliver to but we still guarantee delivery within three working days by 5.30 PM.
Please note, Royal Mail Special Delivery for next working day may not be possible where non-standard cable lengths are ordered. If this is the case, the item will be shipped via The Royal Mail Special Delivery service as soon as the cable is custom made.
For orders weighing over 2KG, we reserve the right to ship items using Next Day Pre-Noon Courier Services where Royal Mail Special Delivery option has been selected.
Channel Islands & Northern Ireland
We accept orders from all Channel Islands including Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. Unless you select a premium service, Items weighing under 2KG are delivered using our standard UK delivery option above. For items weighing over 2KG, a surcharge may be applied for all deliveries to the Channel Islands as well as Northern Ireland.
European Countries
Deliveries to EU member states are not subject to 20% VAT after December 31st 2020 and therefore the 20% VAT on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
The customer will be liable for the VAT at the local VAT rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee if applicable. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 3 to 5 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7-10 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Economy - Item are usually delivered within 48 to 72 hours
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
Worldwide - Excluding UK & Europe
Deliveries outside of the UK are not subject to 20% VAT and so the 20% tax on items is automatically deducted when you log-in, register or proceed to place an order.
If applicable, the customer will be liable for the taxes at the local tax rate, duty on the import and the brokerage service fee. This may need to be paid in advance to your local Customs & Excise office or the delivery company before your order can be delivered.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 7 to 10 working days
- Royal Mail Standard International Mail Services - Items are usually delivered within 15 working days
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability
- Where the actual weight of the package significantly exceeds the shipping cost charged on orders, we may write to you for an additional shipping charge. For larger orders, items may be shipped in multiple packets at our discretion
We reserve the right to change your shipping method without notification if you select a method that we cannot use for your shipment (for instance, we cannot ship via postal services for items over 2 Kg to International destinations). If we need to change your shipping method, we will choose the least expensive shipping method for your order.
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Ferrum Audio WANDLA GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 DAC/Pre-Amplifier
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