Short answer: the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2. It ranks #40 of 53 DAC and headphone amp combos by measured performance (rated 3.9/5) and is still sold new; the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V1 ranks #42 (rated 3.7/5) and is discontinued, so it is only an option used.
The case for the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V1: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 112 dB, so noise and distortion stay well below audibility in normal listening. Watch for: Discontinued and replaced by the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2.
What the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2 does well: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 115 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible and it is effectively transparent. The catch: There is no balanced headphone output.
Buy the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2. It is rated higher; the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V1 is no longer sold new.
Still deciding? The full Headphone Amps and DACs rankings cover every ranked option.
Specifications Side By Side
| RME ADI-2 DAC FS V1 | RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Discontinued | - |
| Ranked | #42 of 53 in DAC and Headphone Amp Combos | #40 of 53 in DAC and Headphone Amp Combos |
| Device Type | DAC and headphone amp | DAC and headphone amp |
| SINAD | 112 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) | 115 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| DAC Chip | AK4490EQ | ES9028Q2M |
| Headphone Outputs | 6.35 mm, 3.5 mm IEM | 6.35 mm, 3.5 mm IEM |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial | USB, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | XLR, RCA | XLR, RCA |
| Balanced Output | - | No |
| Volume Control | - | Digital (knob and remote) |
| Dimensions | - | 8.5” x 2” x 5.9” (215 x 52 x 150 mm) |
| Weight | - | 2.2 lbs (1.0 kg) |
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Prices on this page were last checked October 12, 2026 at 4:13 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.
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The Two Amps and DACs In Full
RME ADI-2 DAC FS V1 Discontinued eBay
Newer model: the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2, ranked higher, rated 3.9/5, released 2020. See every RME ADI-2 DAC FS V generation.
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 112 dB, so noise and distortion stay well below audibility in normal listening. It offers USB, optical, coaxial inputs.
Cons: Discontinued and replaced by the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2. The maker gives no power rating into 32 ohms.
Full RME ADI-2 DAC FS V1 review and specifications →
| Released | 2018 (8 years ago) |
|---|---|
| DAC Chip | AK4490EQ |
| Device Type | DAC and headphone amp |
| Headphone Outputs | 6.35 mm, 3.5 mm IEM |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | XLR, RCA |
| SINAD | 112 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2 eBay
Older model: the RME ADI-2 DAC FS V1 (ranked lower, rated 3.7/5). See every RME ADI-2 DAC FS V generation.
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 115 dB, so its noise and distortion are inaudible and it is effectively transparent. It offers USB, optical, coaxial inputs.
Cons: There is no balanced headphone output. The maker gives no power rating into 32 ohms.
Full RME ADI-2 DAC FS V2 review and specifications →
| Released | 2020 (6 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | ES9028Q2M |
| Device Type | DAC and headphone amp |
| Dimensions | 8.5” x 2” x 5.9” (215 x 52 x 150 mm) |
| Headphone Outputs | 6.35 mm, 3.5 mm IEM |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | XLR, RCA |
| SINAD | 115 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital (knob and remote) |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs (1.0 kg) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples