Hifi Rose RS451 Network Player

Hifi Rose RS451 Network Player

The RS451 is a new-generation network player designed by HiFi Rose. It leverages several technical solutions familiar from the RS151 model but is adapted for desktop use. The device features an advanced headphone section and offers extensive processing capabilities in a compact form factor.

Dual-DAC Architecture

The RS451 employs an exceptional technical architecture with two completely independent ES9027PRO converters. This ESS Technology chip, based on fourth-generation HyperStream technology, delivers a dynamic range of +124 dB and total harmonic distortion of -114 dB. Each converter has its own power circuits and separate grounding, eliminating any inter-interference.

The first DAC is exclusively dedicated to the preamplifier outputs, ensuring seamless integration into traditional high-end systems. The balanced XLR outputs have an output impedance of 1.5 Ω and are capable of 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 a balanced configuration, and the frequency response is linear between 10 Hz and 80 kHz.

The second converter exclusively serves the headphone section, where it works in conjunction with four parallel-connected amplifier circuits. This topology enables stable power even with high-impedance headphones exceeding 600 Ω. An exceptional slew rate of 1300 V/µs ensures accurate reproduction of transients and the most subtle dynamic changes. Measurements indicate impressive power: 2700 mW into 16 Ω balanced, 650 mW into 300 Ω, and even 350 mW into 600 Ω, with total harmonic distortion remaining below 0.0009%.

ROSE NRA Filter: Controlled Analog Signature

The analog output stage includes the proprietary ROSE NRA (Noise Reduction Analog) filter, developed to ensure a perfectly linear frequency response down to the deepest bass. This technology eliminates the roll-off phenomenon typically observed at extreme frequencies, thus preserving the pristine original signal of high-resolution sources. Precision components such as MELF resistors and WIMA film capacitors support this sonic transparency by minimizing distortion and improving signal linearity.

Multiplied Processing Power

At the heart of the RS451 beats a new-generation RK3588 processor, an octa-core chip with four Cortex-A76 and four Cortex-A55 cores. This configuration provides four times the processing power compared to previous models, and the Mali-G610 MC4 graphics processor multiplies display capabilities by eight. 8 GB of LPDDR4X memory and 32 GB of eMMC storage enable smooth management of extremely vast music libraries, with a theoretical capacity exceeding one million tracks.

This power translates into a responsive user interface and uninterrupted playback of even the heaviest audio files, whether it's PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz or native DSD512 playback. The 8.8-inch IPS touchscreen offers intuitive navigation through menus and streaming services, and also allows for 4K HDR video playback via an HDMI 2.0 connection.

Comprehensive Connectivity for All Needs

The rear panel of the RS451 reveals abundant connectivity, highlighting the device's universal nature. Digital inputs include USB-B 2.0 (compatible up to 768 kHz/32 bit and DSD512), coaxial and optical (up to 384 kHz and DSD128 in DoP mode), and an HDMI eARC input for home theater integration. For traditional sources, an analog line input completes the ensemble.

Digital outputs comprise three USB-A 3.0 ports for external storage, as well as coaxial and optical outputs. The device also supports the internal installation of a 2.5-inch SSD via a SATA 3.0 interface, allowing for the creation of a significant local music library. Network connections are based on a gigabit Ethernet port, Wi-Fi via a USB dongle, and Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX support.

Software compatibility covers all modern protocols: Roon Ready for users of this premium platform, AirPlay for the Apple ecosystem, Spotify Connect, DLNA/UPnP for accessing NAS servers, and local integration of Tidal, Qobuz, and Apple Music. The Rose Connect app, available for iOS and Android, centralizes control into an elegant user interface reminiscent of Roon's ergonomics.