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
- Solid build quality, feeling dense and sturdy
- Flagship-grade DAC chip and swappable op-amps allow for customizable sound
- Fantastic clarity and details with immaculate note presentation, clean and clear with excellent precision
- Plenty of power to handle demanding headphones like planars and full-size models
- Sound profile enhances separation, articulation, and improves depth of field
Product Considerations
- The digital display could be bigger, as the letters are hard to see from a distance
- Volume knob might not respond to every step, especially when moving the dial fast
- Lacks analog inputs, limiting its ability to be paired with standalone DACs or analog sources
- Gets warm during usage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Playmate 2 has a deeper, wider and more holographic sound than the SMSL DO400, with less focus on the midrange, which brings forward dynamics and details more
- Higher driving power of the Burson results in much better control than the EverSolo DAC-Z6, with lower THD and lower distortions, a much more dynamic sound, and better overall impact and details
Takeaway: The Playmate 2 is a versatile DAC/Amp with excellent clarity and power, suitable for a wide range of headphones and even for gaming. It offers a clean and detailed sound with the added benefit of customizable sound via swappable op-amps.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Playmate 2
reviews
[{"title":"Burson Playmate 2 review : Mature Now","link":"https://theheadphonelist.com/burson-playmate-2-review-mature-now","source":"The Headphone List","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Burson Playmate 2 review","link":"https://www.headfonia.com/burson-playmate-2-review","source":"Headfonia Reviews","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"BURSON AUDIO PLAYMATE 2 - REVIEW","link":"https://www.audiokeyreviews.com/the-reviews/burson-playmate-ii","source":"AUDIOKEY REVIEWS","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"The Burson Audio Playmate 2: how well does it play with others?","link":"https://www.intoitreviews.com/post/the-burson-audio-playmate-2-how-well-does-it-play-with-others","source":"inToit Reviews","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Review - Burson Audio Playmate 2","link":"https://english.achoreviews.com/2023/04/review-burson-audio-playmate-2.html","source":"Acho Reviews","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Burson Playmate 2 Review - Worth An Investment?","link":"https://homestudiobasics.com/burson-playmate-2-review","source":"Home Studio Basics ","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Burson Playmate II Review – The Art of Nostalgia","link":"https://everydaylistening.net/2021/05/08/burson-playmate-ii-review-the-art-of-nostalgia/3","source":"Everyday Listening","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Burson PlayMate 2 DAC / AMP - Incredible Efficiency And Precision — Audiophile Heaven","link":"https://www.audiophile-heaven.com/2024/06/burson-playmate-2-dac-amp-incredible-efficiency-and-precision.html","source":"Audiophile Heaven","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Burson Playmate 2 Review","link":"https://bloomaudio.com/blogs/articles/burson-playmate-2-review?srsltid=AfmBOooijGa7Uj8NE-7Ro0Bk5Ky2kBvTul00O-xVlcdX3yJx35-kY863","source":"Bloom Audio","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Burson Playmate 2 Review","link":"https://ichos-reviews.com/burson-playmate-2-review","source":"ichos-reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Burson Audio Playmate II English Review","link":"https://hiendportable.com/burson-audio-playmate-ii-english-review","source":"Hi End Portable","datePublished":""},{"title":"Burson Audio Playmate 2 review – Musical Magic","link":"https://gavinsgadgets.com/2022/05/15/burson-audio-playmate-2-review-musical-magic","source":"Gavin's Gadgets","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Affordable Quality HiFi Class A ! Burson Audio Playmate 2 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wx12k3qUu5E","source":"Jay's iyagi","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Burson Audio Playmate 2 - Small but Powerful","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HA9YiACynjQ","source":"the Honest Audiophile","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"BURSON Audio Playmate 2 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZbSM4n7ckI","source":"AndyAudioVault","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Burson Audio Playmate 2 review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gUDo5nn6kU","source":"Gavin Fabiani-Laymond","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Do I NEED a Headphone Amp? | Burson Playmate 2 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W63nQU9A__8","source":"Audio Arkitekts","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Burson Playmate 2 DAC Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE4408HJ5Wo","source":"Tharbamar","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Burson Playmate 2 Review ft. Special Guest!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnQSlP1Wzls","source":"Ear Fidelity","datePublished":"2024"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
Description
Playmate 2 is more than a pretty new outfit. It is a complete transformation from the already famous P1.
More than a Facelift Playmate 2 is more than a pretty new outfit. It is a complete transformation from the already famous P1. Beautiful, Cool, with a different Touch Touch and feel the Playmate 2 then our competition. The difference will be striking. Precision machined, this beautiful aluminium enclosure is also an unified heat-sink, keeping the Class-A Playmate running cool while looking hot.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
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:
- Burson distinguishes itself by utilizing fully discrete, pure Class-A amplifier designs, deviating from the integrated circuits (ICs) commonly found in other brands.
- They incorporate swappable op-amps, which are not soldered to the circuit board, providing users with the ability to fine-tune the sonic characteristics of their equipment, making them customisable.
- They developed their proprietary Max Current Power Supplies (MCPS) to enhance dynamic range and reduce noise, setting them apart from competitors that use standard switching transformer designs.
- Burson is known for its powerful, engaging sound signature, often described as warmer, punchier, and more dynamic, differing from the more neutral or analytical presentations of other brands.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Voyager
- Positioning: Positioned as a high-end headphone amplifier and preamplifier in Burson Audio's lineup.
- Description: Offers a rich, full-bodied sound with excellent dynamics. Its dual mono Class-A design and custom cooling system set it apart from other products, providing superior soundstage and detail compared to the Performance series.
Party
- Positioning: Burson Audio's entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
- Description: Fun and compact, featuring key technologies from Burson's higher-end models. While it lacks the power and refinement of the Performance series, it offers a versatile and energetic sound, making it a great choice for casual listeners or those with budget constraints.
Performance
- Positioning: A mid-range offering, providing a balance between price and high-quality audio performance.
- Description: Known for its engaging and dynamic sound, features a powerful Class-A output stage that enhances its sonic capabilities. Compared to the Party series, it offers a more refined sound with better detail and resolution.
Grand Tourer
- Positioning: Burson Audio's flagship line, representing the pinnacle of their audio engineering.
- Description: Delivers groundbreaking audio performance with its deep Class-A operation and advanced features. It offers a more immersive and detailed soundstage than the Voyager series.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
26
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
105
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
11
Founding Year
1996
Our take on the brand
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Modular, Upgradeable Designs
We believe great gear should evolve with your system. That's why our products feature swappable opamps and power modules — letting users fine-tune performance or upgrade later without buying a whole new unit.
Pushing Class-A to New Heights
All our amplifiers operate in pure Class-A with high idle bias to achieve an effortless, dynamic sound.
What's your approach to customer support?
We love working directly with our customers — it's one of the best parts of being a small, passionate team. Customers can always reach out to us directly or go through their local dealer if they prefer. What to expect:
- Fast and personal responses
- Worldwide service centers (AU, EU, US, HK) to keep support convenient
- Trade-in options for older gear
- And even tips for mods and tweaks
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
"Vincent" – Sara K (from Are We There Yet): A stunning vocal performance with incredible acoustic detail.
"Don't Know Why" – Norah Jones: Her voice reveals micro-detail and tonal balance instantly.
"Limit to Your Love" – James Blake: Sub-bass extension, dynamics.
What other products pair best with yours?
We've had nearly 20 years of working relationship with Audeze, and our US facility — although it's changed address a few times — has always been close to Audeze's in California. Naturally, we love how Audeze headphones pair with our amps. Their planar designs thrive on the high-current, Class-A power that Burson gear delivers.
From our interview with
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Brand Page
Used
Burson
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
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Burson
Conductor 3P | 3XP
605
605
/
7
Reviews
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
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.svg)
Product Strengths
- Excellent imaging prowess
- A pure sounding unit with a tonality that is a bit on the warm side
- Extremely well built with a full aluminum frame
- Drives all different types of headphones with ease
Product Considerations
- The power button and mode shift button feel a bit loose
- The primary LED light is very bright
- One thing that is not clearly stated on the rear is where left and right channels go
- Unfortunately, outputs cannot be switched, or the unit turned off, with the remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Topping DX7 Pro: The Topping is ultra clear and has less body from top to bottom, it's a more neutral presentation compared to that of the bigger, more powerful sounding unit
- Vs Chord Hugo 2: Sounds more natural—more analogue
Takeaway: The Burson Conductor 3 Performance/3X/3XP is an integrated component system that's great for listening to music and works well with many different headphones. It has excellent imaging and provides a fun listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
Product Page
Product Page
Chord Electronics
Mojo 2
650
650
/
65
Reviews
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Product Page
iFi
xDSD Gryphon
599
599
/
30
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Bluesound
Powernode
949
949
/
18
Reviews
The Bluesound POWERNODE is the HiFi amp reinvented for the streaming age, combining audiophile-grade componentry and multi-room music capabilities to create an intuitive “just add speakers” hi-res sound system for modern music lovers. The compact minimalist exterior disguises 2 x 80 watts of award-winning HiFi amplification, a premium hi-res DAC design, and access to all the music ever recorded with a tap in our BluOS Controller app for smart devices and laptops.
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Punchy and musical performer
- BluOS is a treat to operate
- Convenient design as a source and amplifier in one, only needing speakers to complete the system
- Engagingly musical performer—dynamically fluid and punchy, with plenty of energy
- More neutral sounding now, making gains in clarity and insight across the frequency range
- Connectivity options are through 3.5mm headphone-type connectors, shared with mini-TosLink connections
Product Considerations
- Tough competition from other streaming amplifiers
- No way to send data out to an external DAC
- The Powernode was occasionally hard on transients and dynamic bursts
- There is no included remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz has a wider-scale, roomier soundstage and greater subtlety
Takeaway: The Bluesound Powernode is a superb streaming amplifier that is better than ever, offering excellent sonic talent and a well-rounded feature set. It provides a convenient and high-quality music experience for anyone looking to simplify their home audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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What competes at this price?
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Burson
Funk
491
/
Released
2021
Hi-Fi companies are spoiling headphone enthusiasts with a wide range of choices, but they often overlook near-field audiophiles who listen to speakers in small studios or from their desktops. Instead, near-field audiophiles are left with subpar Class-D amps or active speakers. Alternatively, they have to settle for larger Class-AB amps that disrupt the aesthetic of their setups. The Burson Funk breaks that rule by offering a combination of exceptional performance and a design that fits seamlessly into any living space.
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality, especially in the midrange, leads to vivid and well-formed vocals
- Versatile, it works well with both efficient headphones/IEMs and moderately powered speakers
- Compact design and good build quality, with the chassis acting as a heatsink
- Ability to roll op amps allows users to customize the sound signature
- Ample power for most headphones and nearfield speaker setups
- Only one RCA input, which may be limiting for some users
Product Considerations
- Speaker amplifier power (35-45W) might be insufficient for power-hungry speakers or larger rooms
- The base model op amps are sonically inferior to upgrade options
- Mild turn-off thump present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Funk has a narrower but deeper soundstage with better imaging and layering than the Arylic A08 Pro
- The Funk has superior imaging, but less potential power output depending on the Arylic's power supply than the Arylic A07/A08 Pro
- The Funk is preferred for desktop speaker setups with Vivid opamps when compared to Schiit Aegir
Takeaway: The Burson Funk is a solid choice for people wanting good sound from both their headphones and speakers in a single, convenient unit. The ability to change the sound by swapping op amps is a welcome feature for those who like to tinker and upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
- Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
- XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
- Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
- ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality
Product Considerations
- Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
- Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
- Battery life estimation can be unreliable
- No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
- Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
- Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
- Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
- Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
- Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer
Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Fosi
ZA3
129
/
Released
2023
The next generation balanced dual-mode Class-D power amplifier. Fosi Audio's first amplifier supporting both stereo and mono modes.
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great value for the money and an attractive price point
- Balanced input and single-ended RCA input
- Op amps are swappable
- Compact form factor
- Versatile with stereo and mono mode
Product Considerations
- The volume control was found to be touchy by some reviewers
- The included power brick is quite large, almost as big as the unit itself
- The binding posts are small
- The RCA input sounds inferior to the XLR input
- The amplifier does not high pass the mains when a subwoofer is plugged in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3: ZA3 is considered a more mature version with stylistic elements and new features like balanced inputs and mono mode, with a naturalness in the tonal quality
- Vs SMSL AO200 MKII: AO200 MKII delivers better clarity, definition, and resolution of the sound
Takeaway: The ZA3 is a versatile and compact amplifier that offers great value, especially for those starting their audio journey. Its ability to be used in both stereo and mono configurations and the option to upgrade components make it a flexible choice for various setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a CNC milled aluminum chassis and durable construction
- Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology by THX, aiming for transparent sound reproduction without coloration
- Relay volume control provides precise channel matching
- Plenty of power to drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive IEMs to demanding planars
- Balanced XLR inputs and outputs
Product Considerations
- No pre-amp output
- The notched volume control might not be to everyone's liking
- Gets quite warm during use, especially with the SU-9 DAC stacked on top
- Some reviewers noticed a clicking noise when adjusting the volume
- The three-feet design may not be as stable as a four-feet design
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SMSL SP200: Better unit at repelling noise, with a higher signal-to-noise ratio and lower total harmonic distortion—completely solved the SP200's issue with not having a pitch-black background
- Vs. Benchmark HPA4: Very close to the HPA4 in performance, with some minor differences observed only with high-end headphones
Takeaway: The SMSL SH-9 is a well-built and powerful headphone amplifier with a clean, transparent sound. It is a good choice for audiophiles looking for an accurate and detailed listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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SMSL
HO100
217
/
Released
2022
HO100 Headphone Amplifier features an ultra-low distortion precision feedback circuit with distortion as low as 0.00006%, and an ultra-low noise power supply design that outputs noise as low as 1.3uV.
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Budget-friendly headphone amplifier focused on quality
- Robust all-aluminum exterior, with rigid toggle switches, and smooth volume control, giving it the same fit and finish as SMSL's higher-end HO200
- Delivers a clean, neutral, and transparent sound, faithfully reproducing the source audio without adding coloration
- Extremely low noise floor
- Versatile due to its three gain levels (low, mid, high) and its ability to drive both sensitive IEMs and harder-to-drive headphones
Product Considerations
- Lacks balanced and unbalanced outputs for connecting to powered speakers, functioning solely as a headphone amplifier
- Does not have preamp capability
- Reviewers have noted average microdetails
- While the design looks smart and subdued, the tempered glass panel easily grabs fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SMSL HO200: HO100 lacks RCA/XLR outputs and has lower wattage, but is more compact and is preferred if the extra power and outputs are not needed
- Vs FiiO K5 PRO: It has better driving power, a lower noise floor with IEMs, and lower distortion at maximum volume
- Vs JDS Labs Atom+: It has higher maximum power, handles maximum volume better with lower distortion, and offers better overall detail in the micro detail, and a more relaxing signature
Takeaway: The SMSL HO100 is a compact yet powerful headphone amplifier that delivers clean, neutral sound suitable for various headphones. It is well-built and offers excellent value for audiophiles seeking a high-quality listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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