HiFi Rose unveiled the RS451 at the latest edition of the High End audio trade fair in Munich, held in May. The RS451 is a network player, digital-to-analog converter, and headphone amplifier with three different headphone jacks. Limited information was available on the show floor, but the manufacturer will begin shipping soon, and more information and photos are now available.
Hifi Rose RS451
First shown at the Munich High End in 2025 , the RS451 incorporates technology used in the flagship RS151 network streamer, and features separate DAC circuits for the line and headphone outputs. The power supply is linear, based on a toroidal transformer.
The RS451 is equipped with the high-quality 32-bit, 8-channel ES9027PRO DAC chips, designed with ESS Sabre's HyperStream architecture, supporting PCM signals up to 768 kHz and DSD512. Various digital filters also provide a degree of sound customization to suit different musical styles or listening preferences. By incorporating two DAC chips in its advanced circuitry, the RS451 uses one chip for the traditional pre-out stage and a separate one for the headphone output. This keeps the two signal paths completely separate.
The high-quality headphone stage consists of four individually controlled amplifiers, delivering strong and stable output even for headphones with a low impedance of 16 ohms (2700 mW balanced, 1300 mW unbalanced). HiFi Rose states that further clarity and performance are guaranteed by the isolated design of the power supply for each channel. The specified frequency response ranges from 10 Hz to 80 kHz (+/- 1 dB).
The RS451 utilizes Rose's Digital Processing Core (DPC) Module, originally developed for the RD160 DAC and subsequently implemented in the RS151. This module precisely synchronizes each digital signal received by the DAC with a highly accurate Femto clock as an I2S signal. By applying clock synchronization and locking processes, jitter is minimized, resulting in precise processing and natural, clear audio reproduction. Furthermore, by isolating this module from the rest of the CPU circuitry, it is possible to eliminate signal distortion and interference generated within the device via the digital audio path.
Everything is connected via ROSE OS, HiFi Rose's Android-based operating system. ROSE OS supports music playback over a local network in the Rose Music app, as well as CD playback and ripping via a connected optical drive. Internet radio, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, and Apple Music are also available. The RS451 is also Roon Ready and plays with Audirvána certification. The operating system also supports video playback, both locally and via the Tidal or Rose Tube apps. Music can, of course, be played from a NAS or from a connected USB storage device.
In addition to ROSE OS, the RS451 utilizes the ROSE Audio Engine, an in-house development that ensures all digital audio is sent to the DAC losslessly for precise signal processing. The upgraded 8-core CPU (Quad Core Cortex-A76 + Quad Core Cortex-A55) used in the RS451 features powerful data processing and improved graphics performance thanks to an ARM Mali-G610 MC4 GPU.
Hifi Rose RS451: use as a preamplifier
The RS451 features a clean rear panel layout, with careful consideration given to port spacing to minimize interference between devices. This simplifies installation and increases flexibility in a variety of environments.
The RS451 supports high-quality Bluetooth playback (version 5.4), Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB playback, features a high-resolution coaxial input (capable of up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD128), an optical input, an HDMI eARC connection, and traditional RCA inputs, as well as balanced and unbalanced outputs. This allows the RS451 to integrate seamlessly into most systems and potentially serve as a preamplifier.
The signature HiFi Rose aluminum cabinet, measuring 92 x 430 x 337 millimeters (H x W x D), promises reassuring quality matched with high aesthetic appeal. The front panel features a high-resolution 8-inch information display with a wide viewing angle, flanked by a trio of headphone jacks on the left side, i.e. 1 x 6.35 mm jack for asymmetrical connection and 4.4 millimeter and mini-XLR for balanced connection. A precisely machined, easy-to-reach volume knob is mounted on the right side.
Hifi Rose RS451: price and delivery information
The HiFi Rose RS451 comes in black and silver housings. The suggested retail price is just under €3,000.
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