DACs
There are many models of this technique on the Russian market today. Therefore, so that the user does not make a mistake in choosing a DAC, the following parameters must be taken into account before buying:
- Inputs. This setting depends on what devices will be used as the audio source. Newer models are connected to a computer via a USB connector. In addition, optical and coaxial standards are used. There are also wireless models available on the market.
- Outputs. The set of outputs depends on the particular use of the converter. If purchased for listening to audio through headphones, a 3.5 mm jack is required. In other cases, line and coaxial outputs are required;
- Sampling and bit rates. These parameters affect the audio quality. For CD-format, the bit depth is 16 bits, and for Hi-Res - from 24. And the sampling parameter for CD is 44.1 kHz, for Hi-Res - from 96.
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- Dimensions. This parameter depends on the purpose of the device. Models with small sizes are now relevant. These converters fit in a pocket and are primarily used with tablets or smartphones.
- Additional functions. Among other functions, it is necessary to note the control of the device using the remote control and the presence of a headset jack. It is also desirable that the device has analog inputs and the ability to operate the device in the preamplifier mode.
- Manufacturer. Many buyers advise buying audio DACs from trusted brands. Among the famous manufacturers, the following companies are noted: Cambridge Audio, AudioQuest, Dynavox, etc.
- Price. The price of the device depends not only on the user's budget but also on what kind of sound equipment the converter will use. For example, it is not recommended to buy an expensive audio DAC if it will work with a weak audio system or with a telephone.
TOP DACs 2021
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| image credit: audioquest |
AudioQuest DragonFly Red/Black
The 1.5 Black model belongs to the third generation of DragonFly, which supports the energy consumption standards of smartphones. Now, through the Apple Camera Kit or USB OTG adapter for Android, you can turn a powerful hi-fi upgrade to your dialers and tablets. Let's consider the features of the device in order.
Although they say that DragonFly resembles a USB flash drive, picking up the 1.5 Black, you understand that there is something more serious inside: the module weighs just over 20 grams. The novelty is easy to distinguish from the previous version 1.2 - by the anodized USB connector. In order to reduce consumption, the USB microcontroller was replaced from a Texas Instruments TAS1020B with a Microchip PIC32MX. For the same purpose, the output voltage has been reduced from 1.8 to 1.2 Volts.
Awards.
What Hi-Fi? Awards 2018 winner.
Specifications.
Compatibility Desktop: Windows 7 / 8.1 / 10; Apple OS X; Linux (no support provided)
Mobile: Apple iOS 5 and newer; Android 4.1 and newer
Use with mobile devices requires adapters (available separately)
Connectors Digital Input: 1 x USB Type-A; male
Analog Output: 1 x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS stereo; female
DSP 32-bit ESS 9016
Bit Depth 24-bit playback
Sample Rates 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
Audio Output 2.1 V
Volume Control 64-bit digital control
Dimensions 0.5 x 0.7 x 2.4" / 12.0 x 19.0 x 62.0 mm
Weight Not specified by Manufacturer
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| image credit: audiolab |
Audiolab M-DAC
M-DAC has many features and settings is to say nothing. The DAC can receive signals with a resolution up to 24bit / 192kHz; the user has the opportunity to choose any of the seven digital filters to his taste; The DAC is equipped with a screen that displays any information you want, as well as a full set of inputs of various types, adjustable output, which makes it possible to use the DAC also as a pre-amplifier. Oh yes - I almost forgot! - he also has a remote control. Given the complexity of the device, I recommend that you read the user manual before turning it on.
Taking the device out of the box, one cannot but pay attention to its decent weight - 4.95 kg. The front panel is dominated by a large round knob in the center, on one side of which there is a screen, and on the other - buttons for menu control, input selection and filter, a power on/off button, and a headphone jack (which, by the way, has its own circuit on discrete components ).
M-DAC Awards.
• 2011: What Hi-Fi? Sound And Vision – Product Of The Year
• 2011: What Hi-Fi? Sound And Vision – 5* Award
• 2012: Hi-Fi Choice – 5* Award
• 2012: Hi-Fi Choice – Editors Choice
• 2012: What Hi-Fi? Sound And Vision – Best Digital Headphone Amp
• 2012: Hi-Fi News – Outstanding Product
• 2013: Hi-Fi Choice – Group Test Winner
• 2013: Hi-Fi Choice – 5 Globe Award
• 2014: What Hi-Fi? Sound And Vision – Best DAC £500 – £700
• 2015: What Hi-Fi? Sound And Vision – 5*
Specifications.
General description Digital-to-analogue converter
DAC ESS Sabre32 9018 chip
Resolution 32 bits
Maximum Sampling Frequency 84.672MHz
Digital input 2 x 24-bit/192kHz coaxial
2 x 24-bit/96kHz Toslink optical, 1 x 24-bit/96kHz USB
Digital output 1 x coaxial
1 x Toslink optical
Output voltage RCA: 2.25V RMS,XLR: 4.5V RMS
Total Harmonic Distortion RCA: <0.002%
XLR: <0.0008%
Frequency response 20Hz - 20kHz (± 0.2dB)
Dynamic range RCA: >115dB
XLR: >122dB
Crosstalk RCA: <-120dB
XLR: <-130dB
Dimensions (H x W x D) 59 x 250 x252mm
Colour Black, Silver
Standard accessories power cord, remote control handset, batteries, user manual
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| image credit: schiit |
Schiit Modi 3+
Schiit Modi 3 is the third generation of the legendary budget DAC from Schiit. Unlike Modi 2, the new device 3 has three digital inputs (and not the only USB), the AK4490 D / A chip is used with active filtering and power supply via the USB bus or from an external unit. 5 Volt AC adapter and USB Micro cable included
Specifications.
Inputs: USB, Toslink SPDIF, Coaxial SPDIF
Sample Rates and Bit Depths: 16/44.1 to 24/192 via USB, Coax, and Optical
Input Receiver:
Modi 3+ USB: Schiit Unison USB™
Modi Multibit USB: C-Media CM6631A
SPDIF: AKM 4113
D/A Conversion IC:
Modi 3+: AKM AK4490
Modi Multibit: Analog Devices AD5547
Analog Summing, Active Filtering:
Modi 3+: Based on OPA1662 with precision thin-film resistors, DC-coupled
Modi Multibit: Based on AD8512 with precision thin-film resistors, DC-coupled with DC servo
Output: RCA Stereo Analog (single-ended)
Output Impedance: 75 ohms
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20KHz, +/-0.1dB
Maximum Output: 2.0V RMS
THD:
Modi 3+: <0.0003%, 20Hz-20KHz, 0dB
Modi Multibit: <0.006%, 20Hz-20KHz, 0dB
IMD:
Modi 3+: <0.0004%, CCIR
Modi Multibit: <0.007%, 20Hz-20KHz, CCIR
S/N:
Modi 3+: >116dB, referenced to 2V RMS, unweighted
Modi Multibit: >106dB, referenced to 2V RMS, unweighted.
Crosstalk: Greater than -120dB, 20-20kHz
Power Supply:
Modi 3: USB powered with +/-5V switching rail generator; auxiliary USB power input for 0mA USB power draw devices (like phones and tablets)
Modi Multibit: Included 14-16VAC wall-wart with 100% linear power supply
Size: 5 x 3.5 x 1.25”
Weight: 1 lb
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| image credit: iFiaudio |
iFi Zen DAC v2
The device is light in weight, about a kilogram, very pleasant to look at and touch, the front panel is made of milled aluminum. The volume knob has edges that are imperceptible at first glance, and a very pleasant, smooth movement with little effort, and under it, there is a color indicator that tells you exactly which format is entering the device - PCM, MQA, or DSD). On the left, there are 2 buttons, as it turned out, of the same degree of usefulness (although I assumed that there was only one, there was a prejudice about the TrueBass button that it was something like MegaBass in pop non-audiophile boomboxes and players and in general "phi", but it surprised me a lot, which is below). But the PowerMatch button will be very useful for owners of headphone collections - thanks to this button, the power on the headphone output changes, which allows you to connect the "ears" with resistance from 12 to 300 Ohm to the jack 6.3 mm and up to 600 Ohm to the 4.4 Pentaconn connectors. We figured out the front part, now let's move on to the back - there is also something interesting there:
Awards.
Eisa award Best Product
What Hi-Fi? Awards 2021 winner
Specifications.
Input USB3.0 B Socket
(USB2.0 compatible)
Formats PCM (384/352.8/192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1kHz)
DSD (256/128/64), DXD(384/352.8kHz),
MQA (Decoder)
DAC Bit-Perfect DSD & DXD DAC by Burr-Brown
Line Section
Output Audio RCA (SE) — 2.1V fixed
1V / 3.3V max. (variable)
4.4mm Pentaconn (BAL) — 4.2V fixed
2V / 6.2V max. (variable)
Zout <= 200 Ohm (BAL)
<= 100 Ohm (SE)
SNR < -116dB(A) @ 0dBFS (BAL/SE)
DNR > 116dB(A) @ -60dBFS (BAL/SE)
THD+N < 0.0015% @ 0dBFS (BAL/SE)
Headphone Section
Output Power (@1% THD) 4.4mm Pentaconn (BAL)
330mW@32 Ohm; 6.6V@600 Ohm;
16 Ohm - 600 Ohm Headphone
6.3mm S-BAL (SE)
230mW@32 Ohm; 3.3V@600 Ohm
16 Ohm - 600 Ohm Headphone
Note: Using 5v power. If powered from USB, the power output may vary.
Output Impedance < 1 Ω (BAL/SE)
THD & N < 0.005% (125mW @ 32R)
SNR > 113dBA (6.2V BAL/3.3V SE)
Power consumption < 1.5W via USB power OR 5v DC (power supply not included)
Dimensions 160(w) x 117(d) x 35(h) mm
6.3" x 4.6" x 1.4"
Weight (Gross) 0.8 kg (1.8 lbs)
Warranty period 12 months
Chord Hugo 2
Its mobility lies in the presence of a battery that provides seven hours of sound on one charge, and in a fairly modest weight (450 grams) - although, of course, it is not as convenient to carry it in your pocket as the Mojo. However, Chord considers the "two" not only as a portable device but also as a DAC and a preamplifier of a stationary system, which proves the presence of remote control in the kit.
The Hugo 2 is equipped with all types of inputs and outputs that one could reasonably desire. The digital optical input (full-size TOSLink) accepts digital signals up to 24 bit / 192 kHz, while the 3.5mm digital coaxial accepts up to 24/384.
The mini-USB port supports PCM up to 32 bit / 768 kHz and DSD512. In addition, music on the Hugo 2 can be streamed via aptX Bluetooth. In addition to headphone outputs with 3.5mm and 6.3mm jacks, there are a pair of RCA stereo outputs for connection to an amplifier.
The Hugo 2 features color-changing knobs for input and volume selection, as well as mysterious cross-feeds and filters. One of the main advantages of Chord, the user-programmable gate array, has gotten even bigger in the Hugo 2.
We have no complaints about the processing quality of digital audio files. The higher the resolution, the more information the Hugo 2 has and the more detail and fidelity the music becomes. But in any case, it creates a dynamic, detailed, and energetic sound.
Awards
Specifications.
Chipset: Chord Electronics custom coded Xilinx Artix 7 (XC7A15T) FPGA
Tap-length: 49,152
Pulse array: 10 element pulse array design
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz +/- 0.2dB
Output stage: Class A
Output impedance: 0.025Ω
THD: <0.0001% 1kHz 3v RMS 300Ω
THD and noise at 3v RMS: 120dB at 1kHz 300ohms ‘A’ wighted (reference 5.3v)
Noise 2.6 uV ‘A’ weighted: No measurable noise floor modulation
Signal to noise ratio: 126dB ‘A’ Weighted
Channel separation: 135dB at 1kHz 300Ω
Power output @ 1kHz 1% THD: 94mW 300Ω
740mW 32Ω
1050mW 8Ω
Weight: 390g
Dimensions: 2.1cm (H) 10cm (W) 13cm (D)
Boxed Dimensions: 8.5cm (H) 12.2cm (W) 22cm (D)
iFi hip-DAC
The iFi hip-DAC portable USB DAC headphone amplifier will be unveiled at CanJam NYC 2020, starting in New York on February 16. However, it should appear on sale on the first day. The English brand promised "delicious single malt sound and rich detail."
Like many other products from the brand, hip-DAC is ready to replace the weak sound systems in smartphones, tablets, PCs, and Macs. The device is powered by a Burr-Brown DAC chip, which is often used by ifi Hip-DAC supports virtually all digital audio formats including PCM (up to 384 kHz) and native DSD 2.8 MHz to 12.4 MHz (DSD64, 128, and 256). Moreover, thanks to the True Native architecture, PCM and DSD received different paths for the digital signal, remaining "bit" in their original form. In addition, the MQA format is supported.
Awards.
WHAT HIFI? AWARD WINNER – Best DAC under £200
Hifi choice
Hifi pig
Hifi+ highly commended
Specifications.
Formats supported DSD256/128/64, Octa/Quad/Double/Single-Speed DSD
DXD(384/352.8kHz),
PCM(384/352.8/192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1kHz)
MQA
Digital Inputs USB 3.0 type ’A’
High-Speed Asynchronous USB 2.0, (32bit/384kHz)
Headphone Outputs Balanced 4.4mm
S-Bal (SE) 3.5mm
Power Output (@1% THD) BAL: 400mW@32 Ohm ; S-BAL(SE): 280mW@32 Ohm
BAL: 6.3V@600 Ohm ; S-BAL (SE): 3.2V@600 Ohm
Battery Lithium-polymer 2200mAh
Power System Charging via USB-C, BC V1.2 compliant up to 1000mA charging current
Power (max) <2W idle, 4W max
Dimensions 102(l) x 70(w) x 14(h) mm
Weight 125g (0.28 lbs)
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| image credit: Chordelectronics |
Chord Mojo
Chord Mojo is a popular device that has been produced for a long time and has earned a certain reputation for itself. Our readers regularly ask about it, and the manufacturer maintains interest with a heap of accessories and additional modules. And acquaintance with Mojo can be divided into several stages, at each of which the device is revealed from a new side.
Specifications.
Inputs:
1x Micro USB 768kHz/32-bit Capable Input
1x 3.5mm Jack Coaxial 768kHz/32-bit Capable Input
1x Optical TOSLINK 96kHz/24-bit Capable Input
1x 1amp Micro USB Charging Port Input
Output:
2x 3.5mm Headphone Jacks
Technical Specs:
Output Power @ 1kHz – 600Ω 35mW
Output Power @ 1kHz – 8Ω 720mW
Output Impedance: 75mOhms
Dynamic Range: 125dB
THD @ 3v: 0.00017%
Weight: 180g (0.4lbs)
Dimensions: 82mm (l) x 60mm (w) x 22mm (h)
Audiolab M-DAC nano
Audiolab has released its smallest DAC in the M-DAC line, the M-DAC nano. This device works as a Bluetooth dongle / DAC and headphone amplifier and is designed for use with smartphones and Bluetooth players.
According to the developers, the M-DAC nano can upsample digital files up to 32 bit / 384 kHz quality. It weighs only 28 grams, connects to sources via Bluetooth 4.2, and supports aptX, aptX LL, AAC, and SBC codecs. A wheel with 64 steps is provided to adjust the volume. Output power is 30 mW per channel into 300 ohms. The developers claim that the amplifier is ready to work with headphones with an impedance of 80 to 300 ohms (so it is better not to connect mobile plugs of 16 ohms to it).
Awards.
What Hi-Fi? Awards 2019 winner
Specifications.
Model M-DAC nano
Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth V4.2
Output Power 30mW per channel @320 (1 Vrms output)
7.SmW per channel @3000 (1 .SVrms output)
Audio Codec aptX / aptX LL / AAC / SBC
Matching Impedance (Ohms) 8 to 300 (Ohms)
Charge Time 2 hours
Playback Time Up to 8 hours
Dimension 44 x 44 x 14mm
Weight 28g
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| image credit: cambridgeaudio |
Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200m
The Cambridge Audio just announced Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M to continue its tradition. The design of the novelty has completely blended into the catalog, and the architecture and functionality have been largely updated: for example, Cambridge Audio claims that the circuitry of the digital section in this model was developed from scratch.
The new product, which has received a "dual mono" architecture, is equipped with a dual chipset ESS Saber ES9028Q2M. It will enable the flagship DacMagic 200M to handle PCM signals up to 32-bit / 768 kHz and DSD512. At the service of listeners, three digital filters create their own special sound options.
Awards.
EISA AWARD BEST PRODUCT 2021-2022
Specifications.
Inputs 2 x Digital Inputs (choice of either coaxial or optical connection for each)
1 x USB PC Digital Input
Audio Outputs
1 x pair Gold Plated RCA phono outputs
1 x pair XLR balanced outputs
1 x Co-axial digital output (pass-through)
1 x Optical digital output (pass-through)
D/A converters Dual Wolfson WM8740 24bit DACs
Digital filter Texas Instruments TMS 320VC5501 DSP upsampling to 24bit 192kHz
Analogue filter 2-Pole Dual Differential Bessel Double Virtual Earth Balanced
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.1dB) *
Output level (unbalanced) 2.1V rms
Output level (balanced) 4.2V rms (2.1V per phase)
Digital input word widths supported 16-24bit**
Digital input sampling frequencies
supported
32kHz, 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz ***
Audio output upsampling Fixed 24bit 192kHz
Dimensions (H x W x D) 52 x 215 x 191mm (2.0 x 8.6 x 7.6”)
Weight 1.2kg/2.6lbs
* Steep filter disabled, **16bit for USB, ***48kHz for USB
Chord Qutest
Specifications.
In a press release, Chord Electronics calls the CES 2018 Qutest DAC "the most advanced compact DAC." This small device is based on an FPGA developed by Rob Watts for the Hugo 2 DAC / Amplifier.
The Hugo 2 also borrows the DAC software, filters and sphere buttons recessed into the milled pits. According to the company, the Qutest is effectively a Hugo 2, devoid of headphone amp and battery functionality. At the same time, the device is intended to replace the previous compact DAC of the brand - 2Qute. The Qutest features a galvanically isolated USB-B connector, optical and dual coaxial inputs, and RCA analog outputs for connecting to amplifiers and preamplifiers. Via USB or when connected via a pair of BNC connectors, the device is ready to process a signal with a frequency of up to 32 bit / 768 kHz, and using a conventional coaxial protocol - up to 24 bit / 384 kHz, optically - up to 24 bit / 192 kHz.
Specifications.
Chipset: Chord Electronics custom coded Xilinx Artix 7 (XC7A15T) FPGA
Tap-length: 49,152
Pulse array: 10 element pulse array design
Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz +/- 0.2dB
Output stage: Class A
THD: <0.0001% 1kHz 3v RMS 300Ω
THD and noise at 3v RMS: 117dB at 1kHz 300ohms ‘A’ weighted (reference 2.5v)
Noise 2.6 uV ‘A’ weighted: No measurable noise floor modulation
Channel separation: 138dB at 1kHz 300Ω
Weight: 770g
Dimensions: 4.5cm (H) 16cm (W) 8.8cm (D)
Boxed Weight: 1500g
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| image credit: rme audio |
RME ADI-2 DAC FS
RME's technique belongs to the professional audio segment, which is probably why there is still a certain good spirit here. The last two ADI-2 products - DAC and Pro FS with ADC module - I will not deny that they shocked me with their architecture of settings and parameters. They cost not three kopecks, but I am absolutely sure that for a similar technical level in the domestic High End they would ask for five times more. This review will differ from the traditional structure of the presentation, because the study of these devices continues to this day, as evidenced by a detailed RME manual of more than a hundred pages. Therefore, let's start with the most obvious - the ADI-2 drawbacks, half of which are imaginary.
Awards.
Specifications.
- Type: DA Converter
- Channels:2
- A to D: No
- D to A: Yes
- Sample Rate:768kHz
- Bit Depth:32-bit
- Analog Outputs:2 x XLR, 1 x Dual RCA Stereo
- Digital Inputs:1 x Coax (S/PDIF), 1 x Optical (S/PDIF, ADAT)
- Headphones:1 x 1/4" (phones), 1 x 1/8" (in-ear)
- USB:1 x Type B
- Rack Spaces: Half-rack
- Power Source:9V DC power supply (included)
- Height:2.05"
- Depth:5.9"
- Width:8.5"
- Weight:2.2 lbs.
- Manufacturer Part Number: ADI-2 DAC FS
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