Innovating the Art of Listening
SERENADE
DAC and Headphone Amplifier
PROFESSIONAL DIGITAL TO ANALOG CONVERTER
Featuring HIMALAYA PRO technology
Front Panel Introduction
The front panel of the HIFIMAN Serenade provides access to key functions and outputs.
Front Panel Layout:
The front panel features several headphone outputs:
- XLR 4-Pin Balanced Headphone Output
- 4.4mm Balanced Headphone Output
- 6.35mm Single-ended Headphone Output
It also includes controls for:
- Volume Control (MIN to MAX)
- Input Selector button
- SELECT button
- Output Selector button
The display panel shows the Current Signal Format, Current Signal Sampling Rate, and Current Input Selected. The Current Output Mode is also indicated.
Input Selector:
The INPUT Selector button allows users to choose from five digital signal inputs and one analog signal input. The available inputs are:
- Digital Inputs: Standard USB, COAX (COAXIAL), OPTI (OPTICAL), BT (Bluetooth), and NET (Network).
- Analog Input: AUDIO IN (single-ended signal input).
When a digital input is active, the display shows the signal format and sampling rate. For analog input, "AUDIO IN" is displayed. For Bluetooth (BT) input, users should enable Bluetooth on their device, search for "Goldenwave Audio", and select it. For Network (NET) input, connect the Serenade to the network router via a network cable. On the source device or software, select "Goldenwave" to access music files stored on a NAS drive.
SELECT Function:
The SELECT button is used to adjust the display brightness. Pressing SELECT enters the selection menu. Use the INPUT button to decrease brightness and the OUTPUT button to increase it. Press SELECT again to exit the menu. Future firmware updates may add more features to this button.
OUTPUT Selector:
The OUTPUT Selector button allows users to choose the output mode. The options are DAC, H-AMP, and P-AMP.
- DAC Mode: The headphone outputs are muted. The XLR and RCA outputs on the rear panel provide a fixed-level analog signal.
- H-AMP Mode: The headphone outputs are active. The XLR and RCA outputs on the rear panel provide an analog signal that follows the headphone volume control.
- P-AMP Mode: The headphone outputs are muted. The XLR and RCA outputs on the rear panel provide a variable-level analog signal, functioning as a pre-amplifier output.
Rear Panel Introduction
The rear panel provides various connection options for audio sources and outputs.
Rear Panel Layout:
The rear panel includes:
- Single-ended Analog Signal Output (RCA)
- Balanced Analog Signal Output (XLR)
- Coaxial Digital Signal Input
- Bluetooth Antenna connector
- Plug/Switch for power input (supports 110V or 220V selection)
- Optical Digital Signal Input
- Network Connector (RJ45)
- USB Connector (Type B)
- Fuse holder (FUSE: 2A/250V, 5*20mm)
Design Block Diagram:
The internal design utilizes an upgradeable digital module card. The signal flow starts from various inputs: LAN, USB, COAX, OPTI, BT, and ANALOG IN (RCA). These inputs are processed by the XMOS XU316 chip, supporting PCM up to 384KHz and DSD up to 256 for USB, and PCM up to 768KHz and DSD up to 512 for LAN/ROON. The digital signal is then converted by the DAC, featuring the HIMALAYA PRO DAC converter. The signal path continues through OUTPUT SELECT, potentially to a PREAMP OUT stage with impedance matching, or directly to the HEADAMP OUT stage, which is a Balanced Class-A Amplifier. The final outputs include DAC OUT (XLR 4.5V, RCA 2.2V), PREAMP OUT (XLR & RCA Output), and HEADAMP OUT which supports 4-Pin Balanced, 4.4 Balanced, and 6.5 Single-ended headphone connections.
Important Usage Notes:
Caution:
Listening at high volumes for extended periods may damage hearing. Always set the volume to minimum when first powering on the Serenade, whether using headphone or pre-stage outputs.
Important:
- Always place the device on a dry, stable, and firm surface.
- Ensure the product is used in a well-ventilated environment for heat dissipation.
- Turn off the Serenade before connecting or disconnecting the power plug.
- Replace the fuse only with the specified type. Short-circuiting with a bar will void the warranty. Unplug the power cord before replacing the fuse.
- Avoid continuous 24-hour "burn-in" operation, as it can negatively affect the product.
Connecting Audio Devices:
The SERENADE is equipped with five digital and one analog signal input, allowing connection to various audio sources. Input selection is managed via the INPUT button on the front panel. The single-ended RCA analog signal output and the XLR balanced interface are accessible simultaneously and cannot be adjusted independently. The output signal can be switched using the OUTPUT button on the front panel.
Specifications and Package Contents
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20KHz, ±0.1dB@1KHz |
| THD+N | 0.0015%, -3dBFS@1KHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | -110dB, 0dBFS@1KHz |
| Channel Separation | -120dB, 0dBFS@1KHz |
| DAC Output Level | 4.5V/XLR, 2.2V/RCA, 0dBFS@1KHz |
| Headphone Amplifier Power Output (THD+N<0.07% @1KHz) |
|
| Weight | ~3.9KG |
| Dimension | 300*255*50mm (excluding protrusions) |
Package Contents
- Serenade DAC/Amp x1
- Power Cable x1
- USB-B Cable x1
- Bluetooth Antenna x1
HIFIMAN Limited Warranty
The HIFIMAN Serenade is covered by a one-year limited warranty from the original date of purchase. An additional six months warranty is provided for users who join the official HIFIMAN group on Facebook. For assistance, please contact HIFIMAN customer service.
Your dated sales or delivery receipt serves as proof of purchase and may be required for warranty service.
If your product malfunctions under warranty, contact HIFIMAN customer service or your authorized dealer. HIFIMAN may provide a warranty repair or replacement at its discretion.
Caution: Do not disassemble or modify the product. Tampering will void the warranty.
This Limited Warranty does not cover:
- Defective or discolored parts due to fluids, dirt, missing keys, broken plastic parts, or improper use.
- Damage caused by misuse with another product.
- Use of the product for purposes other than its intended use, or failure to follow the "Owner's Guide".
- Damage from accident, abuse, neglect, or misuse.
- Lack of a valid dated receipt showing proof of purchase.
- Damage caused by unauthorized service, repairs, or modifications by anyone other than HIFIMAN or an authorized dealer.
- Damage caused by self-repair or if the unit has been disassembled or modified.
HIFIMAN aims for customer satisfaction. For questions or concerns, contact your authorized dealer or HIFIMAN directly. If a return is necessary, a Return Authorization (RA#) will be issued. Return shipping costs to HIFIMAN or an authorized service facility are the owner's responsibility.
The warranty is valid for the original purchaser and is non-transferable. For warranty service, contact your authorized HIFIMAN dealer or email customerservice@HIFIMAN.com.
For further information or questions, please contact your authorized HIFIMAN dealer or email HIFIMAN directly at customerservice@HIFIMAN.com.
HIFIMAN ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
Address: 2602 Beltagh Ave, Bellmore, NY 11710, USA
Connect with HIFIMAN:
- Facebook: facebook.com/hifimanelectronics
- Twitter: twitter.com/hifimanofficial
- Website: www.hifiman.com








