Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Remarkable sound performance and great care for the finish, materials, and parts selection
- Features are plentiful, and it has more to offer than many other converters within its price range—it has a remote, a headphone output, the intensity of its front panel LEDs can be regulated, it has a Bluetooth receiver, one can change its channels balance, and it has seven different digital filters, and if this DAC is set to volume regulated mode it enables it to also work as a preamplifier
- Transparency to the source
- High-quality headphone output
- Flexibility and variety of functions, including the ability to select one of seven different digital filters, to set the unit to volume regulated mode to allow it to operate as a preamplifier, to change the channels' balance, and even to regulate the brightness of the LED display
- Insightful of good digital sounds and surprisingly forgiving bad ones
- Combines the required level of analog qualities and transparency, and a high level of detail is not foreign to it
Product Considerations
- Set-up process is a little fiddly
- Lacks a proper display, relying on LEDs for secondary functions, which can be clumsy
- Does not include network playback capability
- Is compact but chunky, being a long way from some other bijou products with its thick aluminum fascia in black or silver, 'split' by a styling line across which sits the single main control—straddled by banks of indicator LEDs
- The very last bit of frequency extension and slight midrange forwardness that can be heard when listening through very pricey speakers and a system to match will not be of concern to most audiophiles
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- While a preamp of the quality of the Burmester—almost five times the price of the AAdac—still produces a better overall sound when included in the system, the Audio Analogue's preamp section will more than hold its own in more price compatible set-ups
Takeaway: The 'Pureaa' recKDq9viSnEQa3i3 offers a feature-rich digital hub with high-performance audio and a great attention to detail, able to deliver high engaging music reproduction. It provides both convenience and quality, making it a worthwhile consideration for a modern hifi setup.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
AAcentro:
- Positioning: A simple integrated amplifier offering excellent value with essential sound performance.
- Description: Delivers a straightforward design with clear, reference-level audio ideal for smaller rooms and budget-conscious setups. In comparison to the dual-mode flexibility of the Pure Class A series and the advanced circuitry of the Maestro line, it focuses on providing core functionality without extra complications.
Pure Class A/Class AB Integrated Amplifier:
- Positioning: A versatile integrated amplifier with selectable operating modes for varied sound experiences.
- Description: Features the unique ability to switch between pure Class A and Class AB modes, offering refined sonic detail or more dynamic power as needed. When compared to AAcentro's simple approach and Puccini's fixed design, it provides adaptable performance for different room sizes and sonic goals.
Puccini:
- Positioning: A mid-range amplifier that bridges classic design with balanced, efficient performance.
- Description: Offers a well-rounded sound signature with steady output and efficiency for everyday listening in medium-sized spaces. Compared to the Pure Class A's technological flexibility and the higher-end features of the Maestro series, it provides reliable performance at a moderate price.
Maestro:
- Positioning: A high-end integrated amplifier serving as the flagship successor to Puccini.
- Description: Features advanced driving circuitry and robust design that delivers precise control and enhanced sound output suitable for larger rooms. In contrast to Puccini's conventional performance and AAcentro's value-driven simplicity, it provides improved technical refinement and build quality.
Maestro 2.0:
- Positioning: The latest premium integrated amplifier offering the most refined performance in the lineup.
- Description: Incorporates state-of-the-art design updates and meticulous circuit improvements for superior audio control and articulation. Compared to the earlier Maestro and the simpler models like Puccini, it delivers cutting-edge functionality, top-tier build quality, and expansive soundstage capabilities.
See all the brand's products
Read the reviews
[{"title":"Audio Analogue AAdac review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/audio-analogue-aadac","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":""},{"title":"Audio Analogue aaDAC Hi-Res Audio Digital-To-Analog ...","link":"https://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0420/Audio_Analogue_aaDAC_Review.htm","source":"Enjoy the Music","datePublished":""},{"title":"Audio Analogue AAdac USB DAC","link":"https://www.hifinews.com/content/audio-analogue-aadac-usb-dac","source":"Hi-Fi News","datePublished":""},{"title":"AAdrive & AAdac","link":"https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/audioanalogue","source":"6moons","datePublished":""},{"title":"AUDIO ANALOGUE AADAC REVIEW – M & S","link":"https://www.monoandstereo.com/audio-analogue-aadac-review","source":"Mono & Stereo","datePublished":""},{"title":"Audio Analogue Aadrive Transport and Aadac Digital ...","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/audio-analogue-aadrive-transport-and-aadac-digital-converter","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":""},{"title":"Audio Analogue AADAC - Italian style in Digital to Analogue conversion","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPW9j_iTnNU","source":"Audiofilando","datePublished":"2021"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Pureaa AADAC
images
No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
AAdac is part of the PureAA line just like AAcento and AAphono. It's a product that perfectly adapts to the Audio Analogue philosophy: simple design, extraordinary sound performance, attention to finish, choice of materials and components make it a perfect match for your digital sources.
Manufacturer Specs
- Channels: 2
- Balanced Output Level (1kHz/0dB): 3.35 VRMS
- Unbalanced Output Level (1kHz/0dB): 3.35 VRMS
- Dynamic Range (A-weighted): 124 dB
- THD+N (1dB, 1kHz, FS = 48 kHz): -108 dB
- ENOB: 17.65 BIT
- Standby Power Consumption (230VAC): 0.7W
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 100x220x390mm
- Weight: 5.5kg
- DAC Chip: Sabre ES9038
- USB Support: Up to 32bit/384KHz (Amanero)
- DSD Support: Up to DSD512
Visit Manufacturer Site
Average Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used Products
2
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
201
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
11
Founded
1995
Our take on the brand
Audio Analogue is a hifi brand distinguished by their ABsolute integrated amplifier's unique dual-mode operation, which lets users switch between 50W pure Class A and 150W Class AB with a button press, while using zero global feedback circuits for enhanced sound purity. Their Italian-made amplifiers are known for adapting to different music styles, as demonstrated in their Maestro Anniversary integrated amplifier's chameleon-like sound character and the Primo Settanta's ability to create a three-dimensional, emotionally realistic soundstage.
Brand Page
Most data on ExtremeHiFi is proprietary—researched and reviewed after thousands of hours of loving labor. We archive our site's data and its pages on Archive.org and take legal action against those repurposing the data. We also fingerprint data to know when text and numbers came from us first.
Visit Full Brand Page
What if you spend a bit more?
Expand Details
.svg)
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional sound quality is achieved with precise and accurate reproduction, enhanced clarity and depth
- Versatile input options include S/PDIF, TOSLink, AES/EBU, BNC, USB, and optional HDMI, offering compatibility with various digital devices
- Excellent build quality is exhibited in its solid, retro-German appearance with high-quality materials
- Separate PCM and DSD processing use path separation technology with independent converters optimized for each media type
- Effective de-jittering employs T+A's De-Jitter Masterclock to minimize timing errors from connected digital components
Product Considerations
- A network audio input is absent, limiting standalone use without the MP200 music player
- Limited analog connectivity means the desired balanced analog input could enhance the preamplifier section's capabilities
- Remote control is reported to be far from intuitive, despite its solid build
- Output voltage in fixed mode may be lower than expected, requiring the use of the variable output setting
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to iFi Pro iDSD, the DAC 200 outperforms as a reference
- Compared to Linn Organik series DACs and MSB Premier DAC, the lush playback recalls more expensive options
Takeaway: The T+A DAC 200 is a versatile and high-performing DAC with many inputs that delivers great sound quality. Its robust build quality and comprehensive features make it a great choice for audiophiles seeking a top-tier digital-to-analog converter.
Video review
Our take on the brand
T+A is a hifi brand that combines transistor and valve technologies in their HV-Series amplifiers, using high voltage for linear performance, while their A 200 Power Amplifier uses PURIFI Eigentakt technology for low distortion regardless of speaker load.
Visit our
DAC 200
page
Product Page
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality with detail and an expansive soundstage
- Functions as a preamplifier with both digital and analogue inputs and analogue volume control
- Features Direct Data Recording (DDR) technology using a memory buffer to reclock audio data
- Has a dual-chassis design with copper shielding for electrical isolation
- Gains greater clarity and clout with everything from driving rock to complex classical music
Product Considerations
- The AURALiC control app (Lightning DS) is only compatible with Apple iOS devices and not Android
- Has only one analogue input, which might be limiting for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vega G2.2 preferred to a DAC that cost 5x more
Takeaway: The Vega G2.2 is a great streaming DAC and preamplifier that is easy to use. It can be slotted into a system to immediately bring more clarity, soundstage, and depth to music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Visit our
Vega G2.2
page
Product Page
Aries G2.2
6099
6099
/
7
Reviews
AURALiC
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Completely redesigned interior with 90% new electronic components and cutting-edge technologies elevate performance
- New 'Purer-Power' low-noise linear power supply, with twice the capacity of the previous version and an even lower noise design, ensures a clean and stable power supply
- Upgraded Tesla G3 streaming platform is eight times faster than its predecessor
- New Direct Memory Access (DMA) technology connects the audio input and output directly to the processor, helping to reduce latency and jitter by a claimed 90%
- Lightning DS App is considered excellent and second to none for library and playlist management, and is extremely fast and responsive
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available on Apple iOS devices, which may be limiting for Android users
- The digital filter options within the Lightning DS app are considered marginal
- A reviewer missed the Vega/Altair selection knob from previous models for menu management
- The benefits of the ARIES G2.2 may only be fully realized with a high-quality system, making it a significant investment
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the ARIES G2.1, the G2.2 offers a significant upgrade in performance with demonstrably lower noise, more detail, and a larger—more detailed—image, almost doubling the amount of musical data revealed
- Melco was more open and with better timing, while AURALiC had a smaller image, deeper bass, and possibly stronger bass
- Adding the ARIES G2.2 to the VEGA G2.2 allows the VEGA G2.2 to relax slightly
Takeaway: The AURALiC ARIES G2.2 is a high-end streamer offering a clear upgrade over previous models with a focus on reducing noise and increasing processing power, perfect for detail and nuance. With excellent software and solid construction, it is a great foundation for a top-tier system to enjoy music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Visit our
Aries G2.2
page
Product Page
Aavik D-180
7200
7200
/
6
Reviews
Aavik
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Praised for ultra-transparent sound, accurately converting digital signals into music with no digital signature, resulting in a natural and authentic sound
- Built with extensive noise-suppressing technology to boost clarity and performance
- Provides a very detailed sound without sounding etched or overly detailed
- Delivers a sound geared for well-developed tone, round edges, softness, moisture, hefty bass, density, and a pitch-black background
Product Considerations
- Uses a generic Apple remote, which is functional, but not custom-designed
- Sounds a little on the dark side of neutral
- The analog output only comes with RCA connection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Has a naturally weightier, rounder disposition, while the Lampizator Pacific is quicker, more open, and energetic
Takeaway: The Aavik D-180 is a DAC that focuses on delivering a transparent and natural sound by minimizing noise and accurately converting digital signals. This DAC can hold its ground against competitors if you like the Aavik sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Visit our
Aavik D-180
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Wandla
2933
/
Released
2023
Ferrum
With WANDLA, we are making a statement to the current and next generation of music lovers. WANDLA represents tomorrow's standard of high end digital-to-analog conversion.
Ferrum Audio, a Polish hifi brand, stands out for its unique HYPSOS power supply that combines switching and linear designs for better performance, and its OOR headphone amplifier's rare quad-mono configuration that easily drives demanding headphones like the Hifiman Susvara. Their Wandla DAC features custom digital filters developed with HQ Player and uses a proprietary ARM-based platform called SERCE to reduce signal paths, both uncommon features in DACs.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Unique features and impressive performance in a compact form factor
- Exceptional build quality
- Larger, responsive, and intuitive touchscreen UI
- Considered by one reviewer to be the best sounding DAC they have heard under $3,000
- Genuinely neutral and lifelike sound signature, without compromising resolving capability
Product Considerations
- Expensive, at $2,800 or 2,800 euros, which is a significant investment
- Limited display viewing angles, due to using a TN panel instead of an IPS, VA, or OLED
- Hypsos power supply is a subtle upgrade, not necessarily worth the extra cost unless already owning other Ferrum products
- Stock power supply is not as good as the Hypsos
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Gustard X18, Wandla lacks the sterile presentation, offering a more genuine neutral sound
- Compared to EverSolo DAC Z8, Wandla is closer to a true neutral sound signature and overall more realistic sounding
- Compared to Holo May KTE, Wandla was happily trading blows on outright soundstage size, and resolution was pretty much on par
- Compared to Chord Dave, Wandla provides similar sound and performance at a more attractive price
- Compared to Rockna Wavedream Signature, Wandla has similar liquidity and refinement but at a fraction of the price
Takeaway: The Wandla is an impressive DAC focused on sound quality, offering a number of unique features and customizability options. It is a great option for those looking for high end sound in a small package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Ferrum Audio, a Polish hifi brand, stands out for its unique HYPSOS power supply that combines switching and linear designs for better performance, and its OOR headphone amplifier's rare quad-mono configuration that easily drives demanding headphones like the Hifiman Susvara. Their Wandla DAC features custom digital filters developed with HQ Player and uses a proprietary ARM-based platform called SERCE to reduce signal paths, both uncommon features in DACs.
Visit
Wandla
Page
Product Page
DAC204
3495
/
Released
2024
Weiss
Dare we call the DAC204 a Swiss army knife? It is certainly the most versatile digital-to-analogue converter in Weiss Engineering's product offering. Use the DAC204 for easy switching between multiple units with digital outputs — including a computer or mobile with USB out — and enjoy the pristine and low-jitter conversion to analogue audio from the unit's outputs. The DAC204 can also convert DSD audio to PCM and offers a digital output in the AES/EBU format.
Weiss Engineering is a Swiss hifi brand known for its DACs that incorporate advanced DSP features like room correction and vinyl emulation, which are uncommon in other high-end DACs. Their products are praised for their precision and clarity in sound reproduction, with users noting their ability to make every track sound natural and balanced.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Precise, accurate, and musical sound, delivering what the disc or file was created to sound like
- Excellent jitter suppression, getting the most out of digital sources
- Versatile, it can be used as a digital format converter
- Weighty, full-bodied—tape or vinyl-like—sound
Product Considerations
- The stock power supply can be improved with a higher quality 6 to 9 volt supply or the Weiss PSU-102
- High-resolution sampling frequencies via USB of 352.8 and 384 are down sampled to half their value at 176.4 and 192
- May be a bit too harsh, even for some systems
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Some reviewers preferred the Weiss DAC204 to the Chord Dave due to impressive detail and holographic 3D imaging, although the Weiss is not as sharp or dynamic
- The DAC204 is considered to be on the same level of sound quality as the Chord Hugo 2 and Chord Cutest
- The DAC204 sounds just like the 501, despite being significantly less expensive and lacking the DSP, preamp, display, and remote control features
- The Weiss DAC204 is more open, dynamic, and punchy, while the Meitner is all about the midrange with beautiful and rich vocals
- The Weiss DAC204 brought more of everything making music sound more present, more physical, and more engaging in comparison to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt DAC
- The main difference noted between the Weiss and the Totaldac d1-unity was one of body and weight
Takeaway: The Weiss DAC204 is a compact and versatile DAC that delivers high-end sound quality. A good fit for those who want a DAC that provides natural, realistic reproduction and accuracy without extra features.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Weiss Engineering is a Swiss hifi brand known for its DACs that incorporate advanced DSP features like room correction and vinyl emulation, which are uncommon in other high-end DACs. Their products are praised for their precision and clarity in sound reproduction, with users noting their ability to make every track sound natural and balanced.
Visit
DAC204
Page
Product Page
Harmony DAC
2700
/
Released
2023
Laiv
We're pushing the technology and design limits to bring you outstanding audio experiences. Meet our newest creation: the Precision Crafted DAC. With cutting-edge machining techniques, like CNC (Computer Numerical Control), our DAC raises the bar for audio quality, style, and toughness.
Laiv Audio's Harmony DAC uses EXICON lateral MOSFETs to replicate tube sound without tube drawbacks, and features a discrete R2R ladder network controlled by an Intel Altera Cyclone FPGA for precise sound quality. The brand stands out for its modular design approach that allows easy upgrades, and its unique unboxing experience includes a metal warranty card and a cardboard spike-aligner for precise setup.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exemplary build quality, with a chassis milled from a single block of aluminum and high-quality components.
- Delivers a large soundstage with very good imaging and detail.
- Produces a harmonically rich presentation that R2R enthusiasts seek.
- The unboxing experience is premium, with a metal certificate of authenticity and a remote control made from solid metal.
Product Considerations
- The high output impedance (1200 ohms on XLR) might cause issues when pairing with amplifiers that have unusually low input impedance.
- Optical and coaxial inputs might not deliver the same performance as USB and I2S inputs.
- It is DAC-only unit, so it does not have preamp functionality or volume control.
- Spiked feet could scratch surfaces.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Denafrips Ares II: The Harmony DAC has more instrument separation and a little bit more detail through USB or I2S.
- Vs Gustard R26: The Harmony DAC is fuller in the bass and lower mid-range with a warmer presentation and wider soundstage through USB or I2S.
- Vs Denafrips Venus II: The Venus sounds bigger with more tangibility to where performers reside and more space between them.
- Vs Denafrips Pontus II: The Harmony DAC shares similarities but is slightly more resolving and realistic.
- Vs SMSL Raw Pro: The Harmony DAC is more enjoyable to listen to overall, although the Raw Pro is more detailed.
- Vs HIFIMAN EF400 and EF500: The Harmony DAC is an upgrade in detail retrieval, staging, and treble quality.
Takeaway: The Harmony DAC stands out with its build, engaging sound, and focus on providing a high-quality digital-to-analog conversion. Its ability to create a large soundstage and deliver rich detail makes it a solid option for audiophiles looking for an immersive listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Laiv Audio's Harmony DAC uses EXICON lateral MOSFETs to replicate tube sound without tube drawbacks, and features a discrete R2R ladder network controlled by an Intel Altera Cyclone FPGA for precise sound quality. The brand stands out for its modular design approach that allows easy upgrades, and its unique unboxing experience includes a metal warranty card and a cardboard spike-aligner for precise setup.
Visit
Harmony DAC
Page
Product Page
X-Sabre 3
2999
/
Released
2021
Matrix Audio
With four years of technological expertise and research, Matrix Audio is now ready to announce the X-SABRE 3 and ignite a new generation in the X-SABRE line-up. Housed in a brand-new chassis, with a new user interface and sonic capabilities, the X-SABRE 3 DAC is now transformed to function fully as a network capable streaming host.
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wonderfully detailed sound signature and plenty of clarity create a rediscovering of your music
- Impressive flagship-level hardware delivers flagship-level results due to the ES9038 Pro chip
- The chassis is well-built with a premium feel due to the use of metal and tempered glass
- A low noise floor exists due to the isolation of power, digital, and analog circuitry in separate compartments inside the chassis
- Versatile streaming capabilities are available, including Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, and Roon Ready certification
Product Considerations
- The screen is small and may not be useful unless you are sitting right next to the unit
- The tempered glass top is a fingerprint magnet
- Menu navigation is not the most intuitive, and there is a bit of a learning curve
- The touch-sensitive buttons have a short lag before the screen displays the change
- Some reviewers feel it does not support a few streaming services natively
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the McIntosh C2600 II preamp with a built-in DAC, the Matrix offers more clarity and transparency
- Compared to the Matrix Element I, the difference is night and day
Takeaway: The X-Sabre 3 is a well-built DAC streamer that provides detailed and clear sound. It is a versatile device that can enhance the listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Visit
X-Sabre 3
Page
Product Page
280D
3900
/
Released
2021
MOON
Imagine a world of music right at your fingertips. The MOON 280D makes this a reality. Simply launch your favorite music services app on your smart device and pair it to the MOON 280D using Bluetooth technology. Then sit back and enjoy the music.
MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wide variety of digital input sources and balanced XLR and RCA analogue outputs
- The MiND 2 streaming platform and app offer a reliable user experience
- Delivers clean and subtle sound with good dynamic performance
Product Considerations
- Lacks a front panel display for detailed information
- Does not have a headphone output
- The remote is limited, requiring the MiND Controller app for full functionality
- There's no USB-A input
- Bluetooth connection may drop out occasionally
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The 280D sounds almost identical to Cambridge Audio's Edge NQ
- Compared to Leema's Stream IV, vocals, especially female artists, came through with a luxuriant, more refined sense
- Compared to the Meitner MA-1, the Moon Neo's soundstages were somewhat more broad and deep, and was warmer and richer
Takeaway: The Simaudio Moon 280D is a high-performing streaming DAC that offers a wide range of digital input sources and outputs. The MiND 2 streaming platform and app provide a reliable and enjoyable user experience, making it worth considering for those wanting a DAC with great sound quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Visit
280D
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Remarkable sound performance and great care for the finish, materials, and parts selection
- Features are plentiful, and it has more to offer than many other converters within its price range—it has a remote, a headphone output, the intensity of its front panel LEDs can be regulated, it has a Bluetooth receiver, one can change its channels balance, and it has seven different digital filters, and if this DAC is set to volume regulated mode it enables it to also work as a preamplifier
- Transparency to the source
- High-quality headphone output
- Flexibility and variety of functions, including the ability to select one of seven different digital filters, to set the unit to volume regulated mode to allow it to operate as a preamplifier, to change the channels' balance, and even to regulate the brightness of the LED display
- Insightful of good digital sounds and surprisingly forgiving bad ones
- Combines the required level of analog qualities and transparency, and a high level of detail is not foreign to it
Product Considerations
- Set-up process is a little fiddly
- Lacks a proper display, relying on LEDs for secondary functions, which can be clumsy
- Does not include network playback capability
- Is compact but chunky, being a long way from some other bijou products with its thick aluminum fascia in black or silver, 'split' by a styling line across which sits the single main control—straddled by banks of indicator LEDs
- The very last bit of frequency extension and slight midrange forwardness that can be heard when listening through very pricey speakers and a system to match will not be of concern to most audiophiles
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- While a preamp of the quality of the Burmester—almost five times the price of the AAdac—still produces a better overall sound when included in the system, the Audio Analogue's preamp section will more than hold its own in more price compatible set-ups
Takeaway: The 'Pureaa' recKDq9viSnEQa3i3 offers a feature-rich digital hub with high-performance audio and a great attention to detail, able to deliver high engaging music reproduction. It provides both convenience and quality, making it a worthwhile consideration for a modern hifi setup.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Want to see more similar products?
Head on over to our Search page to browse our entire database. Find the perfect hifi gear for your system.
Visit Search Page
How to buy
DACs
.svg){kind=icon}
