This page ranks 30 standalone DACs, which convert digital audio from a computer, TV or streamer into an analog signal for powered speakers, an amplifier or a separate headphone amp. They have no headphone output of their own, so each is rated on its SINAD as measured by Audio Science Review plus a small credit for features like balanced outputs and Bluetooth. Above about 115 dB the differences are inaudible, so any DAC near the top is effectively transparent. The best are at the top.
Prices on this page were last checked October 11, 2026 at 4:59 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
#1 Topping D50 III: $229.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 123 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are transparent. It packs USB-C, optical, coaxial and LDAC Bluetooth inputs, a remote controlled volume, 10 band parametric EQ and balanced TRS outputs into a compact chassis for an amp or powered speakers. It matches the rating of the Topping D900 for a small fraction of the price.
Cons: Balanced output uses 6.35 mm TRS jacks rather than XLR, so XLR gear needs adapter cables. Bluetooth lacks aptX and AAC, offering only SBC and LDAC.
Full Topping D50 III review and specifications →
| Released | Mar 2024 (2 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (TRS line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | 2 x ES9039Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 4.9” x 1” x 5.2” (125 x 26 x 131 mm) |
| Equalizer | Yes (10-band parametric) |
| Inputs | USB-C, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, 6.35 mm TRS balanced |
| SINAD | 123 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (joystick, remote) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#2 Topping D900: $1,799.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 122 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are transparent. It has a huge input set, including USB, two optical, two coaxial, AES, I2S and Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX Adaptive, plus a volume knob, 10 band parametric EQ and an XLR preamp output for powered speakers.
Cons: The Topping D50 III matches its rating with slightly higher measured SINAD for a small fraction of the price. Outputs are XLR only with no RCA, and at 2,520 g it is a large unit.
Full Topping D900 review and specifications →
| Released | Jun 2025 (1 year ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | Discrete PSRM 1-bit module |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 13” x 2.2” x 8.3” (330 x 57 x 210 mm) |
| Equalizer | Yes (10-band parametric) |
| Inputs | USB-B, USB-C, optical x2, coaxial x2, AES, I2S, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | XLR (line out), XLR (preamp out) |
| SINAD | 122 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Hardware knob |
| Weight | 5.6 lbs (2,520 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#3 SMSL SU-10: $899.99 HiFiGo eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 124 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It takes USB, optical, coaxial, I2S, AES and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD and AAC, feeds an amp or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR, and has a volume knob and IR remote.
Cons: It is a DAC only, so headphones need a separate amp. The SMSL D-6S rates the same with nearly identical measured SINAD for far less.
Full SMSL SU-10 review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | 2 x ES9038PRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 9.4” x 1.5” x 7.3” (240 x 39 x 185 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, I2S, AES, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 124 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Hardware knob, IR remote |
| Weight | 4.1 lbs (1.86 kg) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#4 SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1: $699.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 123 dB, among the cleanest results available, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It connects to powered speakers or an amp through RCA and balanced XLR outputs. Inputs are unusually complete, including USB-B, USB-C, optical, coaxial, AES/EBU, I2S and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD and AAC.
Cons: The SMSL D-6S rates the same for a fraction of the price, and the Topping D70 Pro SABRE matches its 123 dB SINAD for less. The packet lists no volume control. At 1,900 g it is a large box.
Full SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 review and specifications →
| Released | Nov 2024 (1 year ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | ES9039MSPRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 10” x 1.9” x 8” (254 x 48 x 203 mm) |
| Inputs | USB-C, USB-B, optical, coaxial, AES/EBU, I2S, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 123 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 4.2 lbs (1,900 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs SMSL VMV D1se2
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs Topping D70 Pro SABRE
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs Topping D90 III Sabre
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs Gustard X18
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs SMSL D400 Pro
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs SMSL DO200 Pro
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs SMSL DO200 MKII
- SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 vs SMSL M400
- See all 9 comparisons
#5 SMSL VMV D1se2: $719.99 HiFiGo eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 123 dB SINAD, comfortably in the range where noise and distortion are inaudible. Inputs cover USB, I2S, coaxial, optical and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC and SBC, and it feeds amps or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR outputs. A remote is included for volume control.
Cons: It is a DAC only, so you need a separate headphone amp or powered speakers. The SMSL D-6S earns the same rating with nearly identical measurements for far less, and the Topping D70 Pro SABRE matches its SINAD and also costs less.
Full SMSL VMV D1se2 review and specifications →
| Released | 2023 (3 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC |
| DAC Chip | ES9039MSPRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.3” x 1.5” x 6.7” (210 x 39 x 170 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, I2S, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 123 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Remote |
| Weight | 3.6 lbs (1,630 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#6 Topping D70 Pro SABRE: $599.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 123 dB, among the cleanest results available, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It feeds powered speakers or an amp via RCA or balanced XLR, with a volume knob for direct control. Inputs include USB, optical, coaxial, AES and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD and AAC, and it costs less than the SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1 with the same SINAD.
Cons: The SMSL D-6S rates the same for far less, so the extra cost mostly buys inputs and features rather than audible gains. At 222 mm wide and 1,050 g, it needs a full-size spot on the desk or rack.
Full Topping D70 Pro SABRE review and specifications →
| Released | May 2023 (3 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | ES9039SPRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.7” x 1.9” x 6.9” (222 x 48 x 176 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, AES, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 123 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Hardware knob |
| Weight | 2.3 lbs (1,050 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs SMSL VMV D1se2
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs Gustard X18
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs SMSL D400 Pro
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs SMSL DO200 Pro
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs SMSL DO200 MKII
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs SMSL M400
- Topping D70 Pro SABRE vs SMSL SU-9n
#7 Topping D90 III Sabre: $899.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 123 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It accepts USB, optical, coaxial, AES, I2S and Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX Adaptive, and drives an amp or powered speakers over RCA or balanced XLR. A volume knob and Bluetooth remote let it work as a preamp.
Cons: The Topping D70 Pro SABRE matches both its rating and its 123 dB SINAD for much less, and the SMSL D-6S matches its rating for a fraction of the price. It has no headphone output.
Full Topping D90 III Sabre review and specifications →
| Released | Dec 2023 (2 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | 2 x ES9039SPRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.7” x 1.8” x 6.3” (220 x 45 x 160 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, AES, I2S, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 123 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Hardware knob and Bluetooth remote |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs Gustard X18
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs SMSL VMV D1se2
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs SMSL D400 Pro
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs SMSL SU-10
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs Topping D900
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs SMSL M400
- Topping D90 III Sabre vs SMSL VMV D2R
- See all 10 comparisons
#8 Gustard X18: $749.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 122 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It has nearly every input you could want, including USB, I2S over HDMI, AES/EBU, coaxial, optical and Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX HD. It feeds an amp or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR outputs, with a volume knob for direct control.
Cons: The Topping D70 Pro SABRE matches its rating and measured slightly cleaner for less, and the SMSL D-6S matches its rating for a fraction of the price. Its full width chassis takes up more desk space than compact DACs.
Full Gustard X18 review and specifications →
| Released | Dec 2021 (4 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX LL, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | ES9038PRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.7” x 2” x 6.7” (220 x 50 x 170 mm) |
| Inputs | USB-B, I2S (HDMI), AES/EBU, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 122 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Hardware knob |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#9 SMSL D-6S: $199.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 122 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are transparent. It offers USB, optical, coaxial and LDAC Bluetooth inputs with RCA and XLR outputs for an amp or powered speakers. It matches the rating of the Topping D70 Pro SABRE for far less.
Cons: There is no volume control listed, so it relies on the amp or speakers downstream to set level. DACs such as the Topping D70 Pro SABRE measure a touch cleaner at 123 dB, though they cost far more and the difference is not audible.
Full SMSL D-6S review and specifications →
| Released | Sep 2023 (3 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | ES9039Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 5.9” x 1.7” x 5.1” (150 x 42 x 128.5 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 122 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 1.6 lbs (710 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#10 SMSL D400 Pro: $728.20 HiFiGo eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 122 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It has a wide range of inputs, including USB, optical, coaxial, I2S, AES and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC and SBC, and outputs to amps or powered speakers over RCA or balanced XLR.
Cons: It is a DAC only, so you need a separate headphone amp or powered speakers. The Topping D70 Pro SABRE earns the same rating and measured slightly cleaner for less, and the SMSL DO200 Pro matches its SINAD for much less. No volume control is listed, so it may not work as a preamp for active speakers.
Full SMSL D400 Pro review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | AK4499EX + AK4191EQ |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 10” x 1.8” x 7.4” (254 x 46 x 189 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, I2S, AES, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 122 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#11 SMSL DO200 Pro: $399.00 HiFiGo eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 122 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. Inputs include USB-C, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC and SBC, which makes it easy to connect to a TV as well as a computer. It feeds amps or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR, with remote volume in variable mode, and costs less than the SMSL VMV D1se2 at the same rating.
Cons: It is a DAC only, so you need a separate headphone amp or powered speakers. The SMSL D-6S earns the same rating for even less if you do not need HDMI ARC. There is no I2S or AES input.
Full SMSL DO200 Pro review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | 12 x CS43131 |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 7.4” x 1.8” x 7.3” (189 x 45 x 186 mm) |
| Inputs | USB-C, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 122 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (remote, variable/fixed modes) |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs (1,150 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#12 SMSL DO200 MKII: $398.65 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 121 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It accepts USB, optical, coaxial, AES/EBU, I2S and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD and AAC, and feeds an amp or powered speakers over RCA or balanced XLR. It matches the rating of the Gustard X18 for much less.
Cons: The SMSL D-6S matches its rating for about half the price, so the extra money mostly buys more inputs. It has no headphone output, and at 1.2 kg in a wide chassis it needs real shelf space.
Full SMSL DO200 MKII review and specifications →
| Released | Oct 2022 (4 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | 2 x ES9068AS |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.3” x 1.7” x 7.3” (210 x 43 x 185 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, AES/EBU, I2S, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 121 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 2.6 lbs (1,200 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#13 SMSL M400: $859.99 HiFiGo eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 121 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It accepts USB, optical, coaxial, I2S and Bluetooth with UAT, LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC and SBC, and drives amps or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR outputs. A volume knob and remote with fixed or variable output let it work as a preamp for active speakers.
Cons: It is a DAC only, so you need a separate headphone amp or powered speakers. Several rivals with the same rating measured slightly cleaner for less, including the Topping D70 Pro SABRE and the SMSL RAW Pro-DAC1.
Full SMSL M400 review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Codecs | UAT, LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC |
| DAC Chip | AK4499EQ |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.7” x 1.7” x 8.5” (220 x 43 x 215 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, I2S, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 121 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (knob and remote), fixed or variable |
| Weight | 3.4 lbs (1,530 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#14 SMSL SU-9n: $399.99 HiFiGo eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 121 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It takes USB, optical, coaxial and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD and AAC, and feeds an amp or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR, with a remote and switchable preamp or fixed output.
Cons: It is a DAC only, so headphones need a separate amp. The Topping D70 Pro SABRE rates the same with slightly higher measured SINAD, though it costs more.
Full SMSL SU-9n review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | ES9038PRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 7.4” x 1.6” x 6.1” (187.5 x 40 x 154 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 121 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (remote, pre/fixed modes) |
| Weight | 1.7 lbs (790 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#15 Fosi Audio ZD3: $179.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 117 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are transparent. It has unusually broad connectivity, with USB, HDMI ARC from a TV, optical, coaxial and aptX HD Bluetooth inputs, plus RCA and XLR outputs and a remote controlled digital preamp for driving powered speakers directly. It matches the rating of the SMSL D-6S for a bit less.
Cons: Its SINAD is a few dB behind similarly rated DACs like the SMSL D-6S, though both are transparent. Bluetooth lacks LDAC, which the SMSL D-6S includes.
Full Fosi Audio ZD3 review and specifications →
| Released | Sep 2024 (2 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD |
| DAC Chip | ES9039Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Inputs | USB, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 117 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital preamp (remote) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#16 SMSL VMV D2R: $999.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 117 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It offers USB, optical, coaxial, AES, I2S and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD and AAC, plus RCA and balanced XLR outputs and a hardware volume knob for use as a preamp.
Cons: It is the priciest DAC in its group yet only matches the rating of the SMSL D-6S, which costs a fraction as much and measured cleaner. The Topping D70 Pro SABRE also measured cleaner at 123 dB for much less. At 3.2 kg it is large and heavy.
Full SMSL VMV D2R review and specifications →
| Released | Sep 2023 (3 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | BD34301EKV |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 11” x 1.7” x 9.3” (280 x 43 x 235.5 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, AES, I2S, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 117 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Hardware knob |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs (3,200 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#17 SMSL D200: $319.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 116 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It feeds powered speakers or an amp through RCA or balanced XLR outputs, and a volume knob and remote let it work as a preamp. Inputs cover USB, optical, coaxial and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD and AAC.
Cons: The SMSL D-6S rates the same and measures cleaner at 122 dB for less. Its SINAD trails the 123 dB of the Topping D70 Pro SABRE, though both are well past the point of audibility. At 1,214 g, it is a full-size box.
Full SMSL D200 review and specifications →
| Released | Aug 2025 (1 year ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | ROHM BD34352EKV |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 7.9” x 1.9” x 7.8” (200 x 47.9 x 197.9 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 116 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Hardware knob and remote (preamp mode) |
| Weight | 2.7 lbs (1,214 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#18 SMSL SU-2: $99.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 123 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are transparent. It sends RCA and XLR outputs to an amp or powered speakers, and accepts AES/EBU, optical and coaxial digital sources. It matches the rating of the Topping Centaurus and measures cleaner for a small fraction of the price.
Cons: There is no USB input listed, so a computer needs a separate USB to digital converter. It has no Bluetooth or volume control, and the SMSL D-6S rates higher with USB and LDAC Bluetooth for more money.
Full SMSL SU-2 review and specifications →
| Released | Jan 2026 (9 months ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| DAC Chip | ES9039Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 5.9” x 1.7” x 5.2” (150 x 42.5 x 133.1 mm) |
| Inputs | AES/EBU, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 123 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 1.2 lbs (533 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#19 Topping Centaurus: $869.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 113 dB, clean for nearly all listening and very good for an R2R design. It has a 10 band parametric EQ built in and accepts USB, optical, coaxial, AES, I2S and Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX Adaptive, with RCA and balanced XLR outputs.
Cons: Its 113 dB SINAD trails most DACs in its group, and the SMSL SU-2 matches its rating and measured cleaner at 123 dB for a small fraction of the price. The Topping D70 Pro SABRE rates higher for less. Volume is set with buttons rather than a knob.
Full Topping Centaurus review and specifications →
| Released | Dec 2024 (1 year ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | Discrete 8-channel R2R |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.7” x 1.8” x 6.3” (222 x 45 x 160 mm) |
| Equalizer | Yes (10-band parametric) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, AES, I2S, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 113 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (buttons) |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs (1,130 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#20 SMSL SU-6: $169.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 118 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It accepts USB, optical, coaxial and Bluetooth with LDAC, aptX HD and AAC, which makes it a flexible source for powered speakers or a separate amp. It is compact at 140 x 105 mm and 350 g.
Cons: It has only RCA outputs, with no balanced XLR. The SMSL SU-2 rates higher and measures cleaner at 123 dB for less. No volume control is listed, so it relies on the connected amp or speakers.
Full SMSL SU-6 review and specifications →
| Released | Nov 2021 (4 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC |
| DAC Chip | ES9038Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 5.5” x 1.1” x 4.1” (140 x 28 x 105 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | RCA |
| SINAD | 118 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 0.8 lbs (350 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#21 Soncoz LA-QXD1: $219.00 HiFiGo eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 114 dB SINAD, clean for nearly all listening. It accepts USB, optical and coaxial and connects to an amp or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR outputs, with digital volume control for driving speakers directly.
Cons: It is a DAC only with no headphone output and no Bluetooth input. The SMSL SU-2 rates higher with better measured SINAD for less.
Full Soncoz LA-QXD1 review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 5.9” x 1.5” x 3.4” (149.3 x 37 x 87 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR, coaxial |
| SINAD | 114 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (buttons) |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs (500 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#22 SMSL PS200 PRO: $87.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 120 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It is a small, inexpensive box with USB, optical and coaxial inputs and an RCA output for an amp or powered speakers. It measured cleaner than the SMSL SU-1 for about the same price.
Cons: There is no balanced XLR output and no Bluetooth input. The SMSL SU-2 rates higher and measured even cleaner at 123 dB for only a little more.
Full SMSL PS200 PRO review and specifications →
| Released | Oct 2025 (1 year ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | ES9039Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 3.9” x 0.9” x 3.3” (100 x 23 x 84.7 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | RCA |
| SINAD | 120 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 0.4 lbs (168.5 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#23 SMSL SU-1: $84.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 116 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible. It is a compact, inexpensive DAC with USB, optical and coaxial inputs that connects to an amp or powered speakers.
Cons: It has no volume control of its own, so level must be set on the computer or the downstream amp, and there is no balanced output or Bluetooth. The SMSL PS200 PRO measured cleaner at 120 dB for about the same price, and the SMSL SU-2 rates higher for only a little more.
Full SMSL SU-1 review and specifications →
| Released | 2023 (3 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | AK4493S |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 3.8” x 1.1” x 3.1” (96 x 27 x 78 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial |
| SINAD | 116 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | None (PC volume) |
| Weight | 0.4 lbs (195 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#24 Topping E30 II Lite: $99.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 116 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are transparent. It is a compact DAC with USB, optical and coaxial inputs, and a remote controlled preamp mode lets it feed powered speakers directly over RCA.
Cons: There is no balanced output and no Bluetooth. The SMSL SU-2 rates higher, measures cleaner and adds XLR outputs for about the same price.
Full Topping E30 II Lite review and specifications →
| Released | Jun 2023 (3 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | AK4493S |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 3.9” x 1.3” x 4.9” (100 x 32 x 125 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | RCA |
| SINAD | 116 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (preamp mode, remote) |
| Weight | 0.7 lbs (295 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#25 Fosi Audio Q6: $84.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured 115 dB SINAD, so its noise and distortion are transparent. It takes USB-C, optical and coaxial inputs and feeds an amp or powered speakers over RCA, with a separate sub out for adding a subwoofer. It matches the rating of the SMSL PS200 PRO for slightly less.
Cons: There are no balanced outputs and no volume control, so it needs an amp or speakers with their own volume. The SMSL SU-2 rates higher with lower measured distortion and XLR outputs for a little more.
Full Fosi Audio Q6 review and specifications →
| Released | Apr 2025 (1 year ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | AK4493S |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Inputs | USB-C, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | RCA, sub out |
| SINAD | 115 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | None (fixed-level DAC) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#26 Chord Qutest: $1,795.00 Audio46 eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 114 dB, clean for nearly all listening. It takes USB, optical and two coaxial inputs and feeds an amplifier over RCA, with a selectable 1, 2 or 3 V output to match your amp’s input level.
Cons: It has no balanced outputs and no volume control. The SMSL PS200 PRO rates higher and measured cleaner for a small fraction of the price.
Full Chord Qutest review and specifications →
| Released | 2018 (8 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | Chord custom FPGA (Xilinx Artix 7) |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 6.3” x 1.8” x 3.5” (160 x 45 x 88 mm) |
| Inputs | USB-B, optical, 2 x coaxial (BNC) |
| Outputs | RCA |
| SINAD | 114 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | None (fixed 1, 2 or 3 V output) |
| Weight | 1.7 lbs (770 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#27 Topping D10s: $109.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 112 dB, so it is clean for nearly all listening. It takes USB from a computer and feeds an amplifier or powered speakers over RCA, and it can also pass the signal on through coaxial or optical outputs to another device.
Cons: USB is the only input, so it cannot accept a TV, console or CD transport over optical or coaxial. It has no balanced outputs and no volume control, and the SMSL PS200 PRO rates higher and measured cleaner for less.
Full Topping D10s review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | No |
|---|---|
| DAC Chip | ES9038Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Inputs | USB |
| Outputs | RCA, coaxial, optical |
| SINAD | 112 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | None (fixed line out) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#28 SMSL VMV D3: $3,499.99 Amazon eBay
Pros: It has a wide input selection, with USB, optical, coaxial, AES/EBU and I2S, plus RCA and XLR outputs for an amp or powered speakers. It is built around four PCM1704U-J chips in a large 3,960 g chassis.
Cons: Audio Science Review measured only 98 dB SINAD, far behind inexpensive DACs; that is fine for most systems but noise may show through very revealing gear. The SMSL SU-2 rates much higher and measures transparent at 123 dB for a small fraction of the price.
Full SMSL VMV D3 review and specifications →
| Released | Oct 2021 (5 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
| DAC Chip | 4 x PCM1704U-J |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 11” x 2” x 9.4” (280 x 51 x 240 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial, AES/EBU, I2S |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 98 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 8.7 lbs (3,960 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#29 Wyred4Sound DAC-2v2 SE: $3,799 Wyred 4 Sound eBay
Pros: It has a wide range of inputs, including USB, two coaxial, two optical, AES/EBU and I2S over HDMI, and connects to an amp or powered speakers through RCA or balanced XLR. A defeatable digital volume control and remote let it act as a preamp.
Cons: Audio Science Review measured just 90 dB SINAD, far behind modern DACs, which leaves noise and distortion that sensitive systems may reveal. The SMSL PS200 PRO rates much higher with far better measured SINAD for a small fraction of the cost.
Full Wyred4Sound DAC-2v2 SE review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| DAC Chip | ES9038PRO |
| Device Type | DAC |
| Dimensions | 8.5” x 4.1” x 13.5” (216 x 105 x 343 mm) |
| Inputs | USB, 2 x coaxial, 2 x optical, AES/EBU, I2S (HDMI) |
| Outputs | RCA, XLR |
| SINAD | 90 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (defeatable), remote |
| Weight | 14 lbs (6.35 kg) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
#30 Sonnect SoundWire: $165.00 Sonnect eBay
Pros: It turns a USB-C phone or computer into a source with two transformer isolated XLR line outputs, which suits connecting directly to powered speakers, mixers or PA systems.
Cons: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 85 dB, a level of noise and distortion that is an audible weakness. It has no headphone output and no volume control of its own. The Samsung USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter measures cleaner and rates higher for far less, although it lacks XLR outputs.
Full Sonnect SoundWire review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | Yes (XLR line out) |
|---|---|
| Device Type | DAC |
| Inputs | USB-C |
| Outputs | 2 x XLR (transformer-isolated) |
| SINAD | 85 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | None (phone/PC volume) |
| Weight | 0.3 lbs (140 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons