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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
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- The ability to change the op-amp allows users to significantly influence the sound signature, making it customizable
- Offers a pure, clean, organic, and natural sound
- Includes a fast op-amp switching system
- Includes a balanced TRS preamp output (exclusive to the 18th anniversary edition)
- Includes FPGA architecture, which is unique at its price point
Product Considerations
- Limited space inside the unit may restrict the use of larger op-amps
- Does not have a balanced line output, nor is it 4.4mm
- When switched on, it reverts to the initial filter
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- With Sparkos, the Aune X8 is simply sounding better than the SMSL M500 MK2
- The Aune X8 with Sparkos was fighting on the same level with Topping D9 TLE
- Against a more basic DAC SMSL Sanskrit 10th MKII, the footprint of the X8 XVIII is superior, generating a more remarkable physical and corporeal feel
Takeaway: The Aune X8 Magic DAC 18th Anniversary Edition provides a clean and customizable sound experience thanks to its interchangeable op-amps and filter options. It's a versatile DAC that can be tailored to individual preferences.
All
X8 XVIII
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Weight: 2 kg (4.4092 lb = 70.5479 oz)
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Aune distinguishes itself by implementing fully discrete Class A amplification in many of its products, resulting in a warm, smooth, and natural sound signature valued by audiophiles seeking an alternative to clinical-sounding amplifiers.
- They prioritize high-quality components, such as toroidal transformers, audiophile-grade capacitors, and hand-picked transistors, to achieve exceptional sonic performance in their price range.
- AUNE's unique design language, often characterized by an "arc" shape and visible internal components, sets its products apart aesthetically from more generic-looking audio gear.
- The brand offers a range of products that feature swappable op-amps, enabling users to customize the sound signature according to their preferences.
Select products
BU1-Portable-DAC-with-Headphone-Amplifier
- Positioning: Entry-level design focused on portability and affordability.
- Description: Offers a compact DAC and headphone amplifier suited for on-the-go audio setups and small room use, with a straightforward design that meets basic connectivity needs. Compared to other models, it has fewer advanced controls and processing options, making it ideal for users with a limited budget and simple functionality requirements.
Yuki-USB-DAC-with-Headphone-Amp
- Positioning: Budget-friendly desktop solution designed for streamlined USB audio performance.
- Description: Features a clear USB input interface and precise DAC circuitry that provide improved sound clarity for desktop listening. Compared to the portable BU1 and more feature-rich models, it addresses basic needs at a modest cost while offering reliable performance for everyday use.
X1s-GT-X1s-GT-BT-DAC-with-Headphone-Amp
- Positioning: Mid-range option offering a blend of wired and wireless connectivity for versatile setups.
- Description: Integrates both Bluetooth and digital inputs in a robust DAC/amp package that supports varied audio sources, making it adaptable for home or portable applications. Compared to the entry-level designs, it provides better build quality and added connectivity without reaching premium price levels.
X8-XVIII-X8-XVIII-BT-Magic-DAC
- Positioning: Advanced model featuring a unique Bluetooth transmission system for enhanced digital audio.
- Description: Introduces a proprietary BT Magic feature that improves wireless connectivity and digital conversion quality, making it a notable upgrade in performance for modern audio setups. Compared to lower-priced models, it delivers superior digital-to-analog conversion and connectivity features while still being positioned below the top-tier S9c Pro.
S9c-Pro-DAC-with-Headphone-Amp-with-AL3-XLR-Balanced-Male-to-Female-3-Pin-Audio-Cable-1-Pair
- Positioning: Premium high-end solution optimized for balanced outputs and precise audio reproduction.
- Description: Uses advanced DAC circuits and balanced amplifier outputs that provide superior audio detail and technical refinement. Compared to every other model in the lineup, it offers more versatile connectivity options and a higher standard of build quality.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
DACs are relatively straightforward in concept, but creating a truly outstanding one takes a lot of effort. We do have some unique design philosophies for our DAC products.In the past, our DAC lineup has included many technical highlights—for example, our proprietary PLL (Phase-Locked Loop) technology. This ensures adaptive compatibility across different input sample rates while maintaining synchronization between the DAC and clock signal.Another key feature is that our DACs are designed with independent clock input interfaces from the outset. They can accept external clock signals and even allow seamless switching between internal and external clock sources without interrupting operation. While external clock input is typically reserved for high-end DACs, we insist on supporting it even in entry-level models. Our emphasis on clock signal handling is a major differentiator from our competitors.So if we were to expand on this topic, we’d certainly mention more than just two technical innovations.
What's your approach to customer support?
Generally speaking, our after-sales service policy recommends that users contact the dealer from whom they purchased the product. This is the most direct and convenient way to resolve issues—whether it’s for repairs or replacement due to product faults—allowing for the quickest resolution. This same policy applies to our official online stores. In most cases, we don’t recommend customers contact us directly, because it’s difficult to accurately demonstrate and identify issues without in-person evaluation. Direct communication with us may also lead to unnecessary delays or extra logistics costs and taxes. Working through the dealer allows for more efficient repairs or exchanges.That said, if users have questions about product usage, we’re absolutely happy for them to contact us directly for timely answers and technical support.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
This is definitely a sensitive question, but we’re not surprised that it comes up. We respect how different brand designers interpret music reproduction, and we fully recognize that mixing and matching different brands is one of the biggest joys for audio enthusiasts. In fact, we often do this ourselves.
Aside from it being fun, it also helps us discover potential compatibility issues with our own products. For example, I think Violectric headphone amps pair quite well with our DACs. But we don’t recommend that people simply copy our choices. To achieve the sound we prefer, we often modify other brands’ gear to best match our products. Through this process, we also gain completely new design inspiration.
Just like others discover their own pairing experiences, we believe there’s no such thing as the “correct” sound—only the sound that aligns with your own preferences.
Used
aune
What if you spend more?
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent and responsive touchscreen display, and user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate
- Versatile as an all-in-one device, functioning as a streamer, DAC, pre-amp, and media storage server with a competitive price point
- High build quality, featuring a solid aluminum alloy chassis
- Supports a wide variety of streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and more
- Rock solid as a streamer, especially when going into a separate DAC
Product Considerations
- Customer support from Eversolo may be limited, with some reviewers noting slow or nonexistent responses to inquiries
- Internal DAC, while good, is not on par with higher-end—more expensive DACs
- Lack of a traditional I/R remote could be a drawback for some users
- Some unusual control procedures are noted, such as the inability to power on the unit from the mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The DMP-A6 sounds just as good as the Lumin U2 Mini as a streamer
- The A6 beats the Bluesound Node when used only as a streamer
- The A6 has similar features, a similar control/display, and a similar size and shape
- The Lumin U2 has more "shine", dynamics, solidity and is a touch more refined than the A6
- The Eversolo is favored over the iFi Neo Stream, especially as a streaming DAC
- Eversolo proves it can play with Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) in many ways
Takeaway: The Eversolo DMP-A6 is a versatile and user-friendly streamer that delivers great value, and it provides a great streaming experience with its screen. It is a great entry point into high-resolution digital audio and can serve as the center of a modern hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The all-new music streamer mini-i 4 does not only have a rich set of digital inputs with excellent digital audio processing capabilities, but also supports various network streaming protocols. Combined with a self-developed high-quality digital audio/streaming playback system MA Player and the controller app MA Remote App, it easily plays a vast amount of online streaming music, provides you with an exceptional high-fidelity listening experience.
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Superb detail and resolution, providing a clean signature with excellent instrument separation
- Wide, three-dimensional soundstage, offering a natural sense of spaciousness
- Good transparency and imaging
- Beautiful and distinguished design, featuring a glass window to view the internal circuitry
- Supports UAC1.0 and UAC2.0 for increased device compatibility
Product Considerations
- Volume control buttons are small and may be difficult to use, especially with a protective case
- Draws quite a bit of power from the source
- Rear button placement was found to be not very practical for daily use
- SE output is not as good with more demanding IEM, even on hi gain
- Behavior of the sub-bass reveals subtle colouring with some IEMs with dynamic drivers or DD+BA hybrids
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Fosi Audio DS2, the Yuki provides a more extensive soundstage, improved layering, upgraded imaging accuracy, and a richer sound
- Compared to the Fiio KA17, the Aune delivers a warmer and richer sound, whereas the Fiio offers a slightly more airy and sweeter sound
Takeaway: The Aune Yuki is a beautiful and well-built dongle DAC/AMP that delivers a detailed, high-resolution sound with a wide soundstage. If the user wants great sound in a small package, the Yuki could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Interesting functions and features enhance sound fidelity
- Clean presentation and controlled bass make it suitable for upscaling various earphones
- Highly-resolving sound, lots of high-frequency details, and sharp, precise edges, as well as a deep bassline with energy and control
Product Considerations
- The volume knob is recessed and protected by a metal plate, making volume adjustments difficult
- The mid-range may be a little on the thinner side—almost to the point of being a little bit analytical
- The 2.5mm balanced output may not be as future-proof as the increasingly common 4.4mm balanced output
- Bluetooth connectivity does not support LDAC, and the sound is softer with lower high-frequency details compared to a USB connection
- Pairing with overly bright and analytical earphones and headphones might result in excessive prominence of upper mid-range and highest frequencies
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Topping EX-5: BU2 offers higher fidelity and sounds airier and more open, especially with reasonably demanding headphones that do not need too much power
Takeaway: The Aune BU2 is a versatile portable DAC/amp that enhances the music experience and can drive a variety of headphones and earphones, making it a good solution for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound on the go. The robust build and feature set offer a comprehensive solution for both wired and wireless listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Pleasing, rich, harmonically sound with good soundstage and a pleasing, natural midrange with good texture for instruments
- Well-built with an attractive, compact design
- Very good price/performance ratio, especially for systems without Bluetooth
- Ability to switch the sound between TUBE and OPA without stopping the music
- Supports aptX HD, and LDAC for Bluetooth input
Product Considerations
- Be careful with the heat of the valve, as it can burn, though this is normal
- Volume is too exponential, and in the last steps the voltage increases a lot
- Bass can be a bit on the lean side
- Bluetooth model might not be for everyone due to its clear limitations
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Khadas Tone 2 PRO—sounds richer and more harmonic
- Vs SMSL C200—overall sound is generally more detailed, cleaner, and has a richer, more pleasing midrange
- Vs Pro-Ject DAC BOX DS—overall sonic tuning is also much better, with much better dynamics, better impact, better resolution, clarity, and is not fatiguing
Takeaway: The Aune Flamingo-BD is a Bluetooth DAC with a tube preamp that has a rich and detailed sound, making it an exciting listening experience. It has a nice design and good features, and it's a good option for desktop use.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Comprehensive specifications, aiming to equal or improve upon existing portable DACs
- Features a balanced 4.4mm output and a single-ended 3.5mm headphone output
- High power output, described as the most powerful headphone amp of its size
- Includes XBass+ and XSpace analog processing for sound enhancement
- Supports PCM up to 384kHz, DSD up to 256, and DXD
Product Considerations
- The blue text on the blue chassis is hard to read in almost any lighting condition
- Can be considered chunky compared to other dongle DACs
- Can be noisy and produce audible hiss with sensitive IEMs, though IEMatch can help mitigate this
- High power consumption potentially impacts battery life of the source device
- The digital filters can be tricky to access, according to one review
Takeaway: The iFi Audio GO bar is a powerful and versatile portable DAC/amp that can drive most headphones, providing a clean and detailed sound. It is packed with features and offers good sound quality, making it a great option for enjoying high-resolution music on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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