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
- Sturdy build quality, resembling the SOtM sMS-100
- Very flexible, can be used as a DAC or headphone amplifier separately
- Good transparency, especially when powered well
- Sound is quite neutral, making matching with different headphones and gear easier
- Good details in instruments and voices
Product Considerations
- Power wise, the amplifier is not very strong
- No input selector button, the volume knob is used as input selector
Takeaway: The sHP-100 is a versatile and well-built device that can be used as a DAC or headphone amplifier, offering a neutral sound signature and good detail. It's a good match for many headphones and gear.
All
sHP-100
reviews
Manufacturer details
- USB input: USB 2.0 or higher, 24bit/44.1-192KHz PCM, DSD64/128 playback
- Coaxial/Optical input: 24bit, 32-192KHz, 75Ω impedance
- Analog input: Maximum 2Vrms, 3.5mm stereo jack
- Headphone output: 0-2.1Vrms (low impedance), Output impedance 13Ω, THD+N <0.005%
- Line output: Fixed 2.7Vrms, Variable (see headphone specs), Output impedance 47Ω, THD+N <0.002%
- Power input: 7-9Vdc, 2A max
- Dimensions: 106mm x 53mm x 175mm
- Weight: 1kg
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:
- SOtM's products are known for their sleek, compact, and stylish aluminum enclosures, setting them apart from typical computer-like designs, and resembling attractive audio components.
- They use a Linux-based operating system (Vortexbox or Eunhasu OS) known for its audio playback capabilities, paired with well-established software like Logitech Media Server or Roon, offering a mature user experience.
Select products
sHP-100
- Positioning: A combined USB DAC and headphone amplifier designed for flexible connectivity in modest setups.
- Description: Offers diverse input options and quality digital-to-analog conversion with proven chips, ensuring clean sound in compact environments. Compared to the more specialized functions in the phono equalizer or flagship digital systems, it serves users needing versatile performance in smaller rooms on a moderate budget.
sPQ-100PS
- Positioning: A specialized phono equalizer aimed at optimizing analog vinyl playback.
- Description: Supports multiple EQ graphs and cartridge selections, allowing users to tailor its performance to different vinyl records with precise, natural tone reproduction. Compared to the digital processing in higher-end systems like the sMS-2000 or power amplification of the sPA-1000, it focuses on dedicated vinyl setups.
sPA-1000
- Positioning: A fully balanced Class D power amplifier suited for demanding audio systems.
- Description: Uses advanced power stabilization and balanced circuitry to achieve natural sound with precise control, delivering detailed performance in mid-to-large room environments. Compared to the compact functionality of the sHP-100 and the digital sophistication of the sMS-2000, it meets the needs of users looking for robust amplification with higher build quality.
sCLK-OCX10
- Positioning: A master clock generator developed for high-end digital audio systems.
- Description: Produces a pure 10MHz sine wave clock output with ultra-low phase noise and selectable impedance, thanks to its dedicated analog design refined over many years. Compared to devices focused on signal processing like the sMS-2000 or amplification like the sPA-1000, it serves audiophiles who need tight synchronization and precision.
sMS-2000
- Positioning: An integrated high-end digital audio system configured as the flagship for immersive musical experiences.
- Description: Brings together premium components including a dedicated USB host card, Ethernet interface, high-grade clock module, and custom power supply to deliver exceptional depth and clarity. Compared to the focused roles of the sPA-1000 and sCLK-OCX10, it offers comprehensive functionality and superior performance suitable for large, sophisticated systems.
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?
First, we don’t just use advanced technologies like ultra-high-speed digital hardware, precision audio clocking, or noise filtering—we develop them ourselves with a deep understanding of how each element affects sound quality. For example, our proprietary power electronics for audio circuits and custom-designed oscillators play a critical role in delivering our distinctive sound.
Second, while many brands prioritize marketing, we invest heavily in R&D. This means our products may not always be the most widely advertised, but they are built on a solid foundation of innovation and long-term vision. Rather than making minor upgrades, we aim to create fundamentally better products with each release. That’s a philosophy that consistently earns us loyal users around the world.
What's your approach to customer support?
At SOtM, we take customer support seriously. Customers are encouraged to first contact their local dealer or distributor, as they are trained to handle most issues and can provide service in the customer’s native language. However, if further assistance is needed, customers are always welcome to reach out to us directly. When a customer experiences an issue, we aim to respond quickly, diagnose the problem accurately, and offer a solution that minimizes any disruption. We go above and beyond by offering firmware updates, personalized setup help, and sometimes even remote access support to ensure the best possible experience.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
Some of our go-to pieces include:
- Stravinsky – The Firebird Suite (Finale): Great for dynamics and layering.
- Copland – Fanfare for the Common Man: Perfect for testing impact, timing, and space.
- Mahler – Symphony No. 2 "Resurrection": A true challenge for any system, with massive scale and emotional intensity.
We also enjoy film scores for their emotional engagement and wide frequency content. Ultimately, we choose tracks that are musically moving and technically revealing—regardless of genre.
What other products pair best with yours?
Since we produce everything from digital sources to amplifiers and cables—essentially all components except speakers—we typically use speakers from brands like Focal and Magico in our reference systems. All other components in the system are SOtM products, allowing us to demonstrate the full potential of our technology in a fully optimized environment.
Used
SOtM
What if you spend more?
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Product Strengths
- Fantastic sound quality and usability for the price
- Easy to set up and use
- Includes the OptiBox, which improves sound quality via optical Ethernet connection
- Streams hi-res files and DSD without converting to PCM first
- Has a custom DAC that sounds phenomenal
Product Considerations
- There can be occasional lag when switching songs
- No hardware remote is supplied
- The screen is on the smaller side and may be difficult to see at a distance
- The NEO Stream is not an all-in-one media hub, as it doesn't have any other inputs aside from network and USB storage, and it doesn't work as a DAC for other sources
- No Bluetooth capability
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Bluesound Node, the iFi NEO Stream has a larger, more organic sound and a wider soundstage
- Compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN V2, the Cambridge has S/PDIF inputs (coaxial and optical) like the NEO, but includes a Type-B USB input for its DAC, and also has balanced XLR stereo outputs, but lacks the iFi's more advanced networking connectivity
Takeaway: The iFi NEO Stream is an impressive streaming DAC. It offers great sound quality, multiple features and makes enjoying high-quality streamed audio easy.
Video review
Our take on the brand
We shouldn't have favourites but CXN100 is something else. Hi-fi specialists and our listeners alike loved its predecessor CXN V2 – just wait until they hear this.
CXN100 will instantly transform a classic hi-fi stack into a system with a bright future. And because it's a network device, CXN100's firmware can be upgraded remotely, via our StreamMagic app, to receive the latest services. CXN100 Network Player's screen
Forever Changes
The first thing you'll notice is the big hi-res colour screen – all the better for album artwork. We've changed the volume control too, to do one thing well with a reassuringly tactile response. Inside, we take things up a level with a new ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 DAC and our Gen 4 StreamMagic module. Redesigned, expertly tuned, and simplified circuitry for a purer signal path, complete the picture. Smartphone playing music through the CXN100
Ready for the Revolution?
The convenience of streamed music was once let-down by its quality. That's no longer the case – thanks to better CODECS, broadband speeds and products like CXN100. It's designed to deliver the effortless accessibility of the digital format, but with the uncompromised sonic excellence that comes with over 55 years of designing hi-fi, and well over a decade perfecting our StreamMagic platform. StreamMagic app screenshots
Whatever you Want
CXN100 has free and subscription hi-res streaming services, like internet radio, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect with MQA, Qobuz, and Deezer on board for the best available sound quality. With Apple Airplay2 and Chromecast built-in, you can access Apple Music, Amazon Music, BBC Sounds and more. CXN100 is also Roon Ready, consolidating your digital music browsing experience in one place. CXN100 internal circuit board
The Whole Story
CXN100's circuitry has been totally re-designed to capitalise on the ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Digital Analogue Converter's 32-bit capabilities. We've been able to simplify the audio signal path and tune our carefully chosen components' performance to make sure that nothing comes between you and the original recording. The result? A warmth, depth and nuance not often associated with digital audio. CXN100's StreamMagic Gen4 Module
StreamMagic
If the DAC is the CXN100's heart, then our StreamMagic Gen 4 module is its brain. It runs our custom-made streaming platform and app, which we've perfected for well-over a decade. It's responsible for the network player's slick, seamless and stable listening experience from any digital source. CXN100's firmware can also be upgraded over-the-air to receive updates and access to new services. Young man enjoying the sound of a CX range stack, including the CXN100 Network Player
Control. Pure and Simple
A beautifully smooth volume dial and large colour display take the experience of playing music from CXN100 up a level. The StreamMagic app is your remote control, giving you intuitive command of connected sources – curate playlists, program pre-sets or browse albums from the comfort of your listening position. CXN100 also works with the physical remote control supplied with CXC and CXA components. Remote control available here
CX stack on an hi-fi rack, including the CXN100 Network Player, CXC and CXA81
Designed for Life
With elegant, minimalistic lines, crafted from aluminium and steel, CXN100 will endure physically and aesthetically for many years to come. Its ability to receive over-air updates should repay your investment too. Making products that last is just one of the ways that we can minimise our impact on the planet and maximise your listening pleasure. After all, great sound shouldn't cost the Earth.
Product Strengths
- Clean, precise, and articulate sound with ample detail
- Expansive and open soundstage
- StreamMagic control app is stable, logical, user-friendly, and easy to navigate
- Features AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio
Product Considerations
- Loses a touch of its predecessor's sonic solidity and warmth
- Does not include HDMI ARC
- Bluetooth is only compatible with SBC and AAC codecs
- Can be provoked by careless system-matching with bright, treble-centric equipment
- Volume is not controlled through the StreamMagic app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- CXN100 has improved clarity, precision, and spaciousness, but is missing some of the CXN (V2)'s sonic solidity and warmth, compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2)
- CXN100 trades off detail functionality to offer a user experience that is polished and genuinely pleasurable, and is able to take less than stellar recordings and avoid sounding strident or aggressive a little better than the EverSolo DMP-A6
- CXN100 has better low end and a slightly greater perception of space, compared to the Cambridge Audio MXN10
- CXN100 has a more natural quality to vocals with better realism and less fatigue, compared to the Bluesound Node
Takeaway: The CXN100 is a user-friendly and feature-rich music streamer that provides clear and detailed sound. It is an excellent choice for those seeking to add modern streaming capabilities to a classic hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Solid digital sound, good authority, solid bass, and a weighty sound with good scale
- Excellent clarity, very good timing, and a very good soundstage
- Outstanding build quality—solidly made and near indestructible
- Versatile unit that can become the hub of the digital audio world
- Clean and effortless digital processing
- Connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available for iOS
- The 4-inch non-touch screen is adequate, but not exceptional
- When written instructions feature on the screen, the words can be small and difficult to see
- The alphabetical order of the albums is not followed when used with an external hard drive
- Some reviewers felt a need for a high-end turntable setup, as the analog input feeds directly to the analog output stage—bypassing the digital stage altogether
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M10 V2: The Altair offers a step up in sound quality
- Vs AURALiC Aries G1: The Altair G2.1 chassis is a significant upgrade with an internal copper sub-chassis, tuned feet, and a solid steel base
Takeaway: The AURALiC Altair G2.1 is a versatile and well-built streaming DAC preamplifier that offers a clean and detailed sound. Comprehensive features and excellent sound quality make it a great choice for audiophiles looking for an all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Top-tier packaging and sound quality
- Detailed, modern, and holographic sound
- Excellent soundstage
- Remote control can also manage PS Audio DAC
Product Considerations
- Requires about an hour to reach peak performance when powered on using the back switch
- Soundstage might not suit all tastes, which is subjective
- Top-end extension is slightly less extended
- Bass is slightly less punchy
Takeaway: The Stellar Gold Preamp is a great choice for those seeking a modern and transparent sound with good dynamics in their audio system and a smooth, non-aggressive presentation. It especially shines with recordings that have a good soundstage, making the performance feel convincingly real.
Product Strengths
- Great, ear-pleasing sound
- Easy to use, especially with the remote control
- Offers loading presets and custom loading options for moving coil cartridges
- Low noise performance
- Clarity of sound
- Good depth of field for its price
Product Considerations
- Sensitive to grounding, ultra-low capacitance cables, RF, and other interference
- Does not have adjustable resistive and capacitive loading for fixed-coil/high-output cartridges
- Can have a high-pitched noise if cables are not oriented well
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Stellar sounds more interesting than the Cambridge Audio Alva Duo
- The Stellar is not as bright as the iFi iPhono3 Black Label
- Bass extension and grip are not as powerful as more expensive phono preamps
Takeaway: The Stellar Phono Preamplifier delivers great sound and an enjoyable user experience with its flexible settings and remote control, making it a worthy addition to any vinyl lover's system. Its clarity and low noise floor allow listeners to fully appreciate the nuances of their record collection.
Product Strengths
- High damping factor for bass control and plenty of headroom
- Near-perfect linearity, low distortion, and high efficiency
- Neutral and colorless tonal balance
- Combines speed and power with a bass-range grip
Product Considerations
- Lacks the epic bass extension and hard-core slam of more expensive amplifiers
- Top end lacks the effortless harmonic bloom of other amplifiers
Takeaway: The PS Audio Stellar S300 is an excellent choice for a powerful, clean, and neutral-sounding amplifier. It offers high performance and finesse, delivering dynamic contrasts and excellent bass control, making it a worthwhile addition to any high-end audio setup.
Product Strengths
- Musicality and cohesiveness to music
- Nice drive with solid dynamics and 3-D imaging
- Delivers impressive drive with solid dynamics and 3-D imaging, accompanied by nice depth in both soundstage and low frequencies
Product Considerations
- I2S input is not HDMI compatible
Takeaway: The PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamp is a great choice for an DAC/Preamp that makes music easy and joyful to listen to. This product allows for great flexibility with its full-featured options and can become the centerpiece of a hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
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
Our Summary
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
Our Summary
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
Our Summary
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
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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