Best DACs Under $1,000

Product Strengths

• Rich feature set is its ace card
• Presents a very clean, detailed, and dynamically punchy sound
• Tonal smoothness and expansive soundstage
• Balanced and unbalanced outputs, plus a headphone output

Product Considerations

• Front fascia is a wee bit cluttered
• Lacklustre feel of the volume control
• No remote control
• The headphone output is a useful convenience feature, but it doesn't live up to the unit's performance in other areas
• Auto-shut-off feature turns it off after a little while of not being used

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Chord Mojo: Chord edges ahead in performance, delivering even greater subtlety and rhythmic precision, but it can't match the DacMagic 200M's impressive feature versatility
• Vs Schiit Bifrost: Bifrost offers more meat on music's bones, making the DacMagic 200M sound comparatively lighter weight, presenting a skinnier version of the music at hand
• Vs Denafrips ARES II: The DacMagic 200M sounds pale as it does its best to tease out music's kaleidoscope of tone colors
• Vs Audiolab M-DAC+: Rhythmically the DacMagic 200 does a good enough job, it can't compete with the next tier up of DACs costing close to twice its price
• Vs Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital: The sound of the Pro-Ject DAC was not as different from that of the DacMagic

Takeaway: The DacMagic 200M is a feature-rich device with good sound, offering balanced and unbalanced outputs, plus a headphone output. Its versatile feature set makes it a great all-rounder at its price point.

Product Strengths

• Provides a simple, effective, and affordable solution to improve sound quality from computers
• Delivers a bold sound that is brimming with punch and detail, offering a more natural and vivid listening experience
• Improves clarity and cohesiveness of sound with seamless transitions between low, middle, and high frequencies
• Offers excellent value for money, representing a worthwhile upgrade for those who care about sound quality and listen to music on laptops, tablets, or smartphones
• The slow roll-off filter in the Cobalt allows for a more natural and balanced sound
• Connectivity options offer usage with a variety of devices

Product Considerations

• Maximum output voltage before clipping drops quite early on as load impedance decreases, due to the output stage's finite current supply
• Maximum PCM sample rate remains 96/24, and DSD is not supported natively
• DragonTail adaptor fits poorly
• Some users reported a firmware bug, on some mobile devices turning volume down to zero results in full blast volume

Takeaway: The DragonFly Cobalt is a small, portable device that improves music sound quality. It is a great choice for anyone wanting to improve their listening experience.

Product Strengths

• Delivers clean, musical, and entertaining sound
• Features a new USB-C input
• Good build quality and aesthetic design
• Includes XBass+ for bass enhancement
• Simple to set up and use

Product Considerations

• Audible noise floor reported, especially with sensitive IEMs
• May not have enough power for demanding planar headphones
• Simultaneous output to all connected devices may require manual switching
• XBass+ may be too much for some users or cause distortion at higher volumes
• Some reviewers feel the power output is a downgrade from previous models

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• ZEN DAC 3 has more practical outputs for desktop use, but Go Bar has lower noise floor and is more portable
• ZEN DAC 3 is more colorful, dynamic, and crisp, while C200 sounds flatter
• Similar vivid sound, but ZEN DAC 3 has warmer, punchier bass
• ZEN DAC 3 sounds warmer and punchier, while X5 creates a wider soundstage
• DX3 Pro+ offers more power and a more neutral sound, while ZEN DAC 3 offers a more musical sound signature

Takeaway: The iFi ZEN DAC 3 is a stylish and easy-to-use DAC/AMP that delivers a musical and engaging sound, making it a good all-around choice for desktop audio. It offers a lot of features for the price, like balanced outputs and XBass+, so listeners can enjoy music with great sound.

Product Strengths

• The NEO iDSD 2 functions as a versatile all-in-one (AIO) solution, working as a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier
• It has a significantly more powerful amplifier section than its predecessor, making it better at driving a wider range of headphones
• Includes sound-shaping features such as XBass and XSpace, plus selectable digital filters, allowing users to customize the sound
• Comprehensive connectivity options include USB, S/PDIF (coaxial/optical), Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs

Product Considerations

• The amplifier section may not be powerful enough to drive some very power-hungry headphones to their full potential
• The Nexis app only works with a 2.4ghz WiFi signal
• There is a slight click or noise when switching inputs as a pre-amp
• Some reviewers would have preferred the inclusion of the iPower X power adapter instead of the iPower V2, considering the unit's price
• The variable volume output may not save the last used settings

Takeaway: The iFi Audio NEO iDSD 2 combines a high-quality DAC with a significantly improved headphone amplifier, making it a good all-in-one solution for desktop audio. With its wide range of features, solid build quality, and pleasing sound, the NEO iDSD 2 is a worthwhile upgrade.

Product Strengths

• The DO300 is packed with features like XMOS XU-316, PCM support up to 32-bit/768 kHz, DSD support to DSD512, I2S input, and Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC
• Offers a wide range of input and output options, including USB, Optical, Coaxial, AES/EBU, I2S, RCA, and XLR
• Provides a clean, detailed, and neutral sound signature with a smooth texture and no audible distortion or background noise
• Offers a variety of digital filters (PCM and DSD) and 'Sound Color' DSP settings to tweak the sound characteristics to personal preferences
• Good build quality, featuring a solid, well-built aluminum chassis

Product Considerations

• Stage depth and microdynamics are lacking compared to higher-end DACs
• Issues with DSD file playback have been noted, citing high replay gain and reduced dynamic range
• The matte black coating of the chassis tends to attract fingerprints and grease
• The rotary encoder (volume knob) is described as feeling cheap and mushy
• Lacks an auto-standby feature and a status LED when the LCD screen is turned off, potentially leading to the device being left on unintentionally

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to the SMSL SU-9 Pro, the SU-9 Pro has a more laid-back midrange and a tidier bassline, while the DO300 has a more forward presentation, fuller bass, and warmer midrange
• Compared to the Topping E70 Velvet, the E70 Velvet is tonally somewhere in between the SU-9 Pro and DO300, slightly warmer than the SU-9 Pro but not as warm as the DO300
• Compared to the HIFIMAN EF400, the EF400 is more natural-sounding, making instruments sound more like themselves, but it's not as quiet or detailed as the DO300
• Compared to the SMSL M400, the DO300's treble is not as etched as the M400's, and it doesn't push upper-mids forward as much
• Compared to the SMSL DO200 MKII, the DO300 provides more nuance, separation, depth, and detail
• Compared to the Pro-Ject DAC BOX DS, the SMSL DO300 has better connectivity, detailed, dynamic, impactful sound, a wider soundstage, and better instrument separation

Takeaway: The SMSL DO300 is a feature-rich DAC that delivers a clean and enjoyable listening experience. It could be a great addition to an audio setup to provide versatile connectivity and a customizable sound.

Product Strengths

• Great sound quality, with a clean, detailed, and neutral sonic performance for the price
• A versatile list of input options, including USB-C, coaxial, optical, and Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC support
• Compact size, taking up less desktop space than many other home audio solutions
• Includes a remote control that provides a comprehensive set of controls
• The DAC reflects the track as it is, without added coloration

Product Considerations

• After a year of usage, one review indicates that their SU-6 developed distortion issues, and customer support was difficult to deal with, leading them to distrust the brand
• It only has single-ended RCA outputs, lacking balanced output options
• The touch-sensitive button on the front can be unpractical
• Bluetooth connection is not the primary choice for critical listening, because the images tend to blur together more often
• Slighty bright signature, with a taut note texture and mostly balanced throughout the spectrum, with an etched—slightly sharp-sounding—high end which can sound a little intense on amplified instruments

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Topping E30: Healthier baseline and a little bit more of high frequency extension
• Vs FX Audio Deck M1: Sounds a little bit warmer and a little bit more laid-back spatially and dynamically, while Deck M1 is simply clearer, cleaner, a touch more aggressive and forward, and overall sounds a little bit more spacious
• Vs Topping D30 Pro: Clearly a more capable DAC

Takeaway: The SMSL SU-6 is a compact and versatile DAC that delivers a great listening experience. With all of its features, it is a good starting point for experiencing the world of hifi.

Product Strengths

• Complete set of input and output sections, including Bluetooth
• Feature-rich with many options and settings for tweaking the sound
• Sleek and modern design, with a premium-looking, solid build quality
• Expansive imaging performance and a natural soundstage
• Balanced and engaging sound signature

Product Considerations

• Essentially the same DAC as the original DO200
• No status LED exists when the LCD screen is off, making it difficult to tell if the device is powered on or off
• Remote control is made of plastic and is not considered particularly special
• Strong competition exists at the same price point from other DACs
• Could use more finesse to keep up with the competition

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs SMSL M500 MKII: The M500 MKII is more extended up top and feels more open, with a slightly more forward sound, though both share a similar level of detail retrieval
• Vs Topping E70 Velvet: The E70 Velvet digs more inner tone texture and air from the recording without sacrificing any of the tone richness and fullness, making it a better deal
• Vs SMSL SU-9 Pro: The SU-9 Pro sounds almost the same as the E70 Velvet
• Vs SMSL DO200 (original): The sonic presentation is similar
• Vs HIFIMAN EF400: The DO200 MKII sounds somewhere in between the two sonic modes of EF400
• Vs KECES S3: The Keces S3 has a brighter treble, colder tonality, wider soundstage—and better extension in both the treble and the bass

Takeaway: The SMSL DO200 MKII is a versatile DAC that offers a lot of features and a clean sound, making it a good choice for users who want options and good performance. A competent device with a great selection of inputs and sonic adjustment options makes it a solid addition to any audio setup.

Product Strengths

• Excellent sonic performance, characterized by neutrality, transparency, and detail retrieval
• The MA Remote app is intuitive and feature-rich, offering access to various streaming services and settings
• Solid build quality with an aluminum chassis, though the sides are plastic, and a bright, clear LCD screen
• Versatile connectivity with a wide array of inputs, including USB-C for external storage, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and analog RCA inputs

Product Considerations

• Lacks wireless connectivity—no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
• Does not come with a physical remote, the RM5 is sold separately
• Some users have experienced issues with navigating large local music libraries
• Some reviews mention the touch screen controls being a bit fiddly
• No digital output to support an external DAC

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Bluesound Node (2021): Mini-i 4 has better detail retrieval and is cleaner sounding
• Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: DMP-A6 sounds more natural with bolder bass and better soundstaging, while Mini-i 4 sounds tonally and spatially flatter
• Vs Matrix Audio Mini-i 3 Pro: Mini-i 4 has a wider range of source repositories and USB storage reader

Takeaway: The Matrix Audio Mini-i 4 is a great sounding device for anyone wanting a DAC and streamer that can do it all. With its comprehensive set of features and focus on audio quality, enjoying music becomes easy.

Product Strengths

• Clean and transparent sound signature, faithfully reproducing the source material without adding coloration
• Excellent measured performance, achieving some of the highest signal-to-noise ratio and lowest distortion levels
• Higher output setting of 5V XLR/2.5V RCA can cause input overload with some preamplifiers or headphone amplifiers
• Supports a wide array of digital inputs including USB, I2S, Optical, Coaxial, AES, and Bluetooth with comprehensive codec support

Product Considerations

• Included remote control found to be basic or not fully functional by some reviewers
• Menu system can be cumbersome to access
• 'Louder' sound signature compared to other devices was not always ideal for some reviewers
• ESS DAC chip employed might not be the best for DSD playback

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Topping D90 MQA: The D90SE has better bass impact and transient response, with more detail and transparency, while the D90 MQA is smoother and more relaxed
• Vs Gustard X-16: Sonic differences are difficult to discern, with the D90SE offering a similar level of performance
• Vs Topping EX-5: The D90SE plays a little bit cleaner—the notes are just a little bit more in their lane, everything is just a little bit sharper, a little bit cleaner
• Vs Matrix Audio Element X: The D90SE had a clearer and more transparent sound, but the Element X has a much nicer volume control and preamplifier section
• Vs Schiit Modi Multibit: The D90SE provides superior detail retrieval, making the sound more transparent, dynamic, and accurate

Takeaway: The Topping D90SE is a top-performing DAC that delivers incredibly clean and detailed sound, making it a great choice for audio enthusiasts seeking a transparent and accurate listening experience. It provides great value for its price.

Product Strengths

• Exceptional build quality, with a premium feel thanks to the aluminum chassis and attention to detail
• Clean, crisp, and clear sound, with a neutral presentation that resolves detail well
• Well-implemented headphone amplifier that can drive a wide range of headphones, and the headphone level reverts to the last used
• Bright and crisp LCD screen with VU meters adding to its visual appeal
• Versatile connectivity with USB-B, USB-C, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs, as well as balanced XLR and RCA outputs

Product Considerations

• Lacks HDMI ARC input, which would be useful for hybrid setups
• Some reviewers find the treble a little aggressive and fatiguing with certain recordings or speakers
• No Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity, meaning a computer or other network streaming device is needed
• No dedicated subwoofer output
• Not a tone control, those looking for a colored or editorialized sound should look elsewhere

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• The Z8 has a more nuanced presentation and better separation than the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M
• The Z8 is smoother with a darker background on the headphone output, but the SMSL M500 MKII is warmer and fuller sounding on the line outputs
• The Z8 has a cleaner sound, darker background, and deeper soundstage on the line-outs than the Topping DX5, but the DX5 has more powerful headphone amplification
• Java Hi-Fi gives a slightly cleaner presentation with more authority in the bass than the Z8

Takeaway: The Eversolo DAC-Z8 is a well-built and versatile DAC that delivers a clean and detailed sound. It is a great option for users looking for a high-quality DAC with a range of features, including a headphone amplifier and preamp capabilities.

Product Strengths

• Easy streaming setup
• BluOS streaming platform is stable, responsive, and organized, which allows one to access local and networked libraries
• The internal DAC allows one to run the NODE directly into a preamp, integrated amplifier, or pair of powered/active loudspeakers as a source
• Has digital and analog outputs, a USB, Optical, and COAX out, as well as a SUBWOOFER OUT

Product Considerations

• BluOS control app isn't as user-friendly as some competitors, taking time to master
• There's no supplied remote
• Tone controls remain oddly limited in variable range
• Some reviewers recommend connecting via ethernet cable for a stable connection
• The BlueOS apps have issues, and the player intermittently will not be detected in iphone, ipad and windows desktop app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• The Cambridge Audio MXN10 offers superior dynamic transparency and rhythmic insight, but the Bluesound Node is still an appealing affordable box

Takeaway: The Node is a great way to add streaming to an existing system and delivers high-quality audio with versatile connectivity. It offers a comprehensive set of features to turn an audio system into a modern music-streaming system.

Product Strengths

• Comprehensive streaming service integration, offering AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect
• Clean and detailed sound
• Roon Ready certified

Product Considerations

• The user experience is not seamless and can be frustrating due to a disjointed app
• Lacks Bluetooth connectivity
• The on-unit menu is difficult to navigate

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Cambridge Audio CXN (V2): The CXN is more dynamic, agile, and unearths a greater degree of texture and depth in recordings

Takeaway: The Arcam ST5 is a well-built streamer with solid sound and integration of many streaming services. It is a good choice for those wanting to enhance their listening experience.

Product Strengths

• Very detailed and resolving sound, capable of revealing nuances in music
• Fast, punchy, and dynamic sound, especially good for electronica, rock, and metal
• Produces a holographic soundstage with good depth and focus, better than some entry-level R2R DACs
• Has a very low noise floor, making it easy to focus on faint sounds
• Tonally neutral and linear frequency response, revealing the quality of the recording

Product Considerations

• The plastic remote control may feel cheap compared to the unit
• Some reviewers would prefer more warmth and life in the midrange
• Can sound analytical at times, lacking some refinement or lushness compared to some other DACs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• D90 Discrete is more detailed and resolving than the D90 SE/MQA
• D90 Discrete has higher resolution, dynamics, and snappiness, than the SMSL SU-10
• D90 Discrete has greater resolution, inner tone textures, and is snappier and punchier, than the Chord Cutest
• D90 Discrete is faster, more precise, and punchier, than the Holo Audio Scion 2
• D90 III Sabre has better transparency and dynamics, and is more forward-sounding, than the Topping D70 Pro Octo
• D90 III Sabre is more neutral, with a tidier and quicker bassline, and more etched tone edges, than the SMSL SU-10

Takeaway: The D90 offers impressive resolution, dynamics, and a holographic soundstage, making it a great option for those seeking a detailed and accurate listening experience. It has an honest, ultra-linear sound, especially good for audiophiles who don't want colorations.

Product Strengths

• Better clarity than previous versions
• Better low-end definition, layering, wider soundstage, and dynamics compared to previous versions
• Is upgradable with user-serviceable cards and firmware
• High build quality, and products are made in the USA
• Has a warmer sonic climate, and a slightly laid-back groove

Product Considerations

• The original Bifrost had a hazy sound, while the AK4399 version was a little bright with not a lot of bass
• The multibit version can sound hazy, with less low-end definition and not much punch
• The highs on the BF 2/64 may stick out a little bit more than the original BF 2
• On its own, the Bifrost 2 can be unrelentingly sharp in its presentation, and sometimes come across as too harsh or focused

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Schiit Gungnir: The Bifrost 2 offers almost the same performance as the Gungnir for almost half the price
• Vs Schiit Modius: The Bifrost has added front–back dimensionality, with layering and sparkle in the treble making it more exciting than the Modius
• Vs Schiit Asgard 3 Multibit: The Bifrost feels like turning up the brightness and vividness on your TV by a couple of percent

Takeaway: The Bifrost is a great DAC that connects the listener to their music, giving excellent clarity and a wider soundstage. It is a steal of a deal because it has a better low end and is very dynamic.

Product Strengths

• Versatile device functions as a DAC, DSP unit, preamplifier, and headphone amp.
• Feature-rich with extensive equalization function, selectable filters, and a remote control.
• Clean, neutral sound signature allows the music to shine through.
• Impressive specs like low distortion and noise figures, with clarity and neutrality.
• Clear and detailed manual, making it user-friendly despite its many features.

Product Considerations

• Headphone amp is underwhelming, being described as having a low-fi sound, dynamically compressed, and lacking in soundstage depth and width.
• The array of functions can be dizzying, and the multi knob navigation system takes some getting used to.
• Soundstage can be relatively flat compared to competing DACs, with the soundstage almost seeming to come from the wall behind it.
• Can sound a little mechanical or even sterile with top-notch audiophile-grade recordings.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs S.M.S.L D300: The RME has a wider, more spatial soundstage and greater functionality.
• Vs Matrix Audio X-Sabre Pro: The X-Sabre is more detailed with better treble clarity, but the RME presents a startling amount of detail and sonic organization.
• Vs PS Audio DirectStream: The RME comes much closer to the PS Audio than expected in terms of tonality, dynamics, and resolution.
• Vs Schiit Modi 3: The ADI-2 surpasses the Modi 3 in smoothness, overall detail, and “blackground”.
• Vs Ayre Codex: The RME is a more accurate and satisfying DAC than the Ayre Codex.

Takeaway: The RME ADI-2 DAC FS is a versatile and high-performing digital solution with many features, making it a great value. It stays out of the way of the music while offering opportunities to tweak the sound to your liking.