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."

Read more here

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.