$499.95
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Ultra-high performance, next-generation fully balanced DAC with headphone amp and volume control. Turn your Raspberry Pi into the ultimate Hi-Fi music player.
Product Documents
All About The Orchard Audio PecanPi+ DAC …
The PecanPi+ DAC is an ultra-high-performance digital-to-analog converter designed for builders, audio hobbyists, and music lovers who want reference-grade sound in a flexible, customizable format. Built around AKM’s acclaimed VELVETSOUND architecture, the PecanPi+ DAC delivers exceptional clarity, natural tonality, and lifelike musical detail — all in a compact board-level design that invites experimentation and integration into your own projects.
Engineered with Orchard Audio’s ultra-low-noise proprietary analog stage, precision clocking, and balanced output architecture, the PecanPi+ DAC reveals micro-detail, imaging, and texture that bring your music to life. Whether used as a standalone DAC in a traditional audio system or paired with a Raspberry Pi to create a powerful DIY streamer, it offers true audiophile performance with the freedom to build it your way.
What Makes the PecanPi+ DAC Special?
The PecanPi+ DAC stands out because it combines true high-end engineering with the flexibility and openness that DIY builders value. Unlike typical DAC HATs that depend on the Raspberry Pi for functionality, the PecanPi+ DAC is a fully capable standalone DAC — the Raspberry Pi is optional, not required.
Here’s a snapshot of the key highlights:
- AKM VELVETSOUND DAC architecture for natural, detailed, and musical playback
- Ultra-low-jitter clocking for precise timing and improved clarity
- Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs for flexible system integration
- High-performance headphone amplifier built directly into the board
- Low-noise, high-resolution proprietary analog stage engineered for transparency
- Standalone DAC operation — ideal for custom enclosures and DIY builds
- Optional Raspberry Pi integration for a compact, high-performance streaming solution
- Compatible with Volumio, Moode, Roon Bridge, and other Pi-based platforms
This combination of digital precision, analog refinement, and DIY-friendly design makes the PecanPi+ DAC one of the most capable and musical compact DACs available today.
Designed for Real-World Music Loving DIYers, Engineers, and System Builders
The PecanPi+ DAC is built for enthusiasts who want both high‑fidelity sound and hands‑on flexibility. Its design focuses on:
- Clean, natural tonality
- Excellent imaging and soundstage
- Smooth, fatigue‑free presentation
- Accurate transient response
- Vanishingly low noise and low distortion
- Easy integration into custom projects
Whether you’re assembling a desktop DAC, building a Raspberry Pi streamer, or integrating it into a larger DIY audio system, the PecanPi+ DAC preserves the nuance and emotional impact of your recordings.
How the Orchard Audio PecanPi+ DAC Fits Into Your System
The PecanPi+ DAC integrates seamlessly into a wide range of DIY and traditional setups:
As a standalone DAC
Perfect for custom enclosures or system upgrades. Connect directly to:
- Preamps
- Power amplifiers
- Integrated amplifiers
- Active speakers
Its balanced outputs and low-noise design make it suitable for both consumer and studio environments.
As a Raspberry Pi DAC HAT
Attach a Raspberry Pi to create a compact, powerful streaming solution using:
- Volumio
- Moode
- Ropieee (roon bridge)
- DietPi
- piCorePlayer
- OSMC
- Others
This flexibility allows you to build the system you want — from a desktop headphone rig to a full-scale audiophile setup.
The Reviewers Are Raving About the Orchard Audio PecanPi+DAC and Streamers
The audiophile press is raving about the Orchard Audio Valencia. Here’s what they have to say…
Greg Handy – Future Audiophile (September 2025)
"The Orchard Audio PecanPi+ Premium offers true high-end audio for the devoted audio enthusiast at a real-world price… the PecanPi+ Premium can be likened to a cult winery: small, without a typical distribution path, with limited awareness among mainstream consumers, yet yielding decadent results. With Orchard Audio, you must be “in the know” of one of audio’s best-kept secrets (you know now), and that is just pure fun. With its updated yet offbeat appearance, the PecanPi+ Premium is sure to spark interest among friends and family when they see it… Collectively, if these attributes are not a reason to care about the Orchard Audio PecanPi+, I don’t know what would be."
Ric Mancuso – Enjoy the Music (January 2025)
"…when it comes down to enjoying the music with the highest level of entertainment experience, look no further than the PecanPi+ Streamer Premium."
Matt Bonaccio – SoundStage Hi-Fi (October 2024)
"Orchard Audio embraces a philosophy and a build that prioritizes performance over comfort and convenience. This is a proven paradigm, one that has certainly served Lotus well. In fact, I’m sure that the same sort of people who appreciate the focused design of a Lotus hypercar would also appreciate the focused design of the PecanPi+ Streamer Premium (that is, when they’re not busy chasing down Porsches and Ferraris). I’m sure many others will too."
Who is the Orchard Audio PecanPi+ DAC Best Suited For…?
The PecanPi+ DAC is ideal for:
- DIYers seeking an extremely high-performance DAC board for custom builds
- Audiophiles wanting a standalone DAC with balanced outputs and single ended outputs
- Raspberry Pi users who want a true audiophile-grade DAC HAT
- Systems built around balanced or single-ended preamps
- Headphone listeners wanting a clean, powerful onboard amplifier
- Anyone upgrading from entry-level DACs or Pi HATs
It pairs beautifully with Orchard Audio amplifiers or any system where transparency and musicality are the goal.
Want to Learn More?
In a world full of DACs that prioritize convenience over fidelity, the PecanPi+ DAC stands out by delivering real high-end performance with the freedom to build, customize, and integrate it however you choose. With its AKM’s flagship AK4499EXEQ switched resistor VELVETSOUND DAC, balanced outputs, and precision analog design, it excels as both a standalone DAC and a Raspberry Pi–powered streaming solution.
Product Specifications
Full product specifications at this link:
Read more here
Warranty / Return Policy
One (1) year warranty included.
Return / Refund Policy
Customs Disclaimers (for non-U.S. customers):
Any customs fees are the customer's responsibility.
We won't under-value merchandise or mark the item as a gift on customs forms. Doing that is against U.S. and international laws.
Shipping Information
| Weight | 3 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8 × 8 × 6 in |
Farhad K. –
Sound quality is good and easy to use in most DIY projects, but i think the price is unreasonably higher than competitors.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for your review and feedback.
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William S. –
As a 35+ year, career audio engineer and systems integrator, I have heard a lot of DACs. In this day and age, it’s pretty easy to build a good DAC. If you buy a flagship chip from one of the several key players in the game, follow the recommendations and put it in a solid case, it’s all but guaranteed to measure well and sound good. You can increase those odds when you buy two and incorporate some sort of dual mono topology. What Leo has done here goes way beyond following the standard industry modus operandi. He has created something truly special. So special that I would say, in the sub $5k territory, you will not find another DAC that sounds as good. And in the DIY world, nothing comes close. At any price. I can’t imagine ever looking for another DAC. Unless there is a dramatic technology shift, or if Leo tells me he’s bested this one, This is my endgame. Orchard Audio is at the absolute peak of diminishing returns.
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Leo A. –
William, thank you very much for the a detailed review. I am glad to hear you are enjoying your purchase.
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ETK L. –
Leo is super good guy to do business with, and he made a really top performing dac board. I hope to see more great products from him in the future
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Leo A. –
Thank you. I always aim for 5 start service and support.
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Eric G. –
Amazing sound. Pairs nicely with my CSS Audio speakers
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Steven M. –
Simple to assemble, Outstanding sound, simply superb addition to my stereo
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Chor C. –
I like the natural analogue sound. Very warm sounding. It eliminated almost all the brightness and rough edges. A bit lack of sound stage and depth. Overall, pleasant to listen to over long hours. This is what listening music is all about – easy listening.
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Gavin B. –
I was really hoping DSD playback was possible, intended to use it with HQPlayer Desktop to DSD Up-sampling.
As noted in datasheet only PCM is possible, and only 1 AKM4499 chip is used.
PCM playback is much harder in nature and DSD with HQPlayer is vastly more musical.
Other DAC’s :
Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE
Chord Qutest
Soekries Dual-mono DAM1021 with eRED-DOCK
Dual 9023 Raspberry Pi-HAT
Tested with HQPlayer Desktop 5. 82 to both Raspberry Pi 5 and USB via Amanero COMBO 768/IAN CANADA BridgePi.
Found powering from 9V power supply via GPIO pin, provided audible noise (high pitch buzz) on RASPBERRY PI CM4IO BOARD with CM4. (problem remedied by switching to Raspberry Pi 5). So assume CM4IO board has poor power plane.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for your feedback. You are correct that native DSD playback is not supported. The device will play DSD files, with conversion to PCM.
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Muuko –
After trying all the “hyped” DACs from different companies, I found the PecanPi+ DAC from Orchard Audio.
I gave it a try and was blown away by the quality and the clarity of the sound in my +€10,000 system. With a fair price (+import tax in Europe) it is really a steal. Better than that, you can communicate with the founder/designer of the product. He helped me a lot with setting it up. Maybe it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the modern DACs but sonically it can compete with those that cost 3-4 times more. Cannot recommend it more.
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Leo A. –
“Wow, that’s fantastic to hear! We strive to deliver exceptional sound at an accessible price, so your feedback on the PecanPi+’s clarity and value means a lot. I’m thrilled I could help with setup too. While features are nice, sonic performance is our focus. Thanks for recommending us!”
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Pierre S. –
Pecan Pi v3 : My best DAC ever when I want my system to drive amazing Earthly Rocking Parties for friends.
Pecan Pi+ : My best DAC ever when I want my system to play the music alike I love to discover it in real parisien concert halls (Opera Bastille, Opera, Salle Pleyel, Théâtre du Châtelet,…).
I owned, before, lots of “high end DACs” but, from yet, I know that my “audiophile DACs psychoacoustic doubt is over. I will just have to wait for the next ORCHARD’s one, if one and else I will stay happy with both those ones.
Congratulations for this amazing achievement, Leonid.
Kind Regards,
Pierre
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Leo A. –
Pierre, thanks for the fantastic review! I’m thrilled the PecanPi+ DAC brings the Parisian concert hall experience right to your living room. Music discovery deserves a stage as wide as its potential, and I’m glad we can play a part. Here’s to many more audiophile adventures!
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Gabriel G. –
After using the PecanPi rev 2 for two years with a lot of satisfaction it was to my surprise what a difference the PecanPi+ is. As you would expect with other DACs that are using the AKM AK4499EXEQ and AK4191EQ combo the sound is detailed, opening up the soundstage. But that doesn’t mean it’s over analytical, rather the music is presented realistically. The original PecanPi is more earthy sounding, instruments are closer together. I still enjoy that one as well, but the PecanPi+ is a clear step up. And also a clear step up from the previous streamer and DAC combo I was using. So heartily recommended!
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Leo A. –
“I’m thrilled to hear about your positive experience with the PecanPi+! It’s wonderful to know that the upgrade has brought a noticeable improvement in sound quality, with enhanced details and a more realistic presentation. We’re dedicated to delivering top-notch audio experiences, and your satisfaction is our priority. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiastic recommendation. If you have any further feedback or questions, feel free to reach out. Happy listening!”
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Koray P. –
Well, I already has Pecan Pi V3 and wanted another source where I can customize and box is as I want. I don’t use XLR since I don’t use long cables so I use RCA only. Very happy with the sound, 3d, dynamic, organic. I used to have Audio Note DAC 2 signature, i can comfortably say that it’s even better. I wish I was able to solder cables of my RCA . My only complaint.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for your feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you’re enjoying the PecanPi+ DAC for its exceptional sound quality and customization options. It’s fantastic that you find it even surpasses your previous Audio Note DAC 2 Signature. We appreciate your suggestion regarding soldering RCA cables and will consider it for future improvements. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out. Happy listening!
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Richard Y. –
Installed PecanPi+ and RPi4 stack in Gravlasr plastic case. Using streaming XLR output from Volumio and Moode (with Camilla DSP PEQ) to Cayin IHA6 amp driving HiFiman HE6SE headphones. More resolving and neutral than my existing streamer (PI2AES SPDIF+RPI4+Topping E70 Velvet DAC). Only issue…I had to repair a GPIO pin solder joint that I damaged fiddling with GPIO riser height to clear the RPI4 USB ports. Suggest adding a warning in installation instructions not to pull on the GPIO riser.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for your detailed review! We’re thrilled to hear about the enhanced audio quality with the PecanPi+. Your feedback is invaluable, contributing to ongoing improvements. Enjoy your upgraded audio experience!
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Zoltan V. –
All Orchard products are a great quality/price value.
I have the Pecan Pie streamer/DAC and 2 Starkrimson Monoblocks feeding
KEF LS50s. It really sounds great and I believe you couldn’t match the sound quality for 4 times the price.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for your fantastic feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that our Orchard products, especially the Pecan Pie streamer/DAC and Starkrimson Monoblocks, have enhanced your audio experience. Delivering exceptional sound quality at a great value is our mission, and we appreciate your affirmation. Enjoy the musical journey with your KEF LS50s, and thank you for choosing Orchard for your audio needs!
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Josef H. –
The PecanPi+ is, at least for me, one of the best sounding DACs i’ve ever heard.
Regarding the price, you simply can’t go wrong with it!
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Leo A. –
Thank you Josef. I am glad you are happy with your purchase.
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鍾源 葉. –
I was a version 2.0 user. Got it yesterday and tested it on Limehouse Blues right away. Wow! The sound stage was expanded like magic! Can’t believe my ears. Let’s see what else I can find out. My HiFi experience just take a big step forward. Thanks to Leo!
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