But even though the end goal is the same, not all DACs are created equal or go about their conversion in the same way. This processing is done through a small computer chip and if you’ve ever plugged in a pair of monitors into a headphone jack, you’ve heard the results. The job of any DAC is the same: to convert the digital output of a computer or smartphone into an analog impulse that can be played by headphones and speakers. If all you’re using are headphones and in-ear monitors, a good portable DAC can be a perfect choice, but if you have other audio equipment already, standalone options like the iFi Audio Zen DAC or AudioEngine D1 are a better fit. Since they’re made to be self-enclosed units, DACs like the Chord Mojo 2 and FiiO Q1 won’t integrate with larger audio systems as easily (or at all) and lack connections for dedicated speakers. That doesn’t mean they’re exactly the same or the best fit for home listening, however. Though you’ll often pay more for the freedom they offer, portable DACs can usually connect to your PC as well thanks to their USB connectivity. They sometimes include batteries to preserve the life of your smartphone and may even include a Bluetooth receiver for wireless listening. Portable DACs are much smaller and are made for travel. Desktop DACs are often larger and require external power, either over USB or from a standard wall outlet. Portable or desktopĭo you aim to listen at home or on the go? That should be the first question you ask before seriously shopping for a new DAC. Here are the most important points to consider before pulling the trigger. There are a few key things to keep in mind that can help any DAC shopper. Even as someone who has been in the hobby for several years, I still find myself researching the differences between different DACs and their features, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry. Things to consider before buying a DACĬhoosing the best DAC can be confusing. Together, these sources painted a clear picture of the best choices for different types of listeners chosen for this list. I also researched the pedigree of the different brands producing DACs today and the real-world experiences being shared in forums and Reddit threads. To create this list, I drew upon multiple sources: user impressions, deep lists of specifications, and, of course, my own experience with several of the products collected. I love diving deep into the world of headphones and that begins with the gear driving that listening experience. In the seven years since that first review, I’ve graduated from gaming headsets with built-in components to desktop DACs and amps, portable hybrids that combine them both into one, and smartphone dongles that range from $10 to $200. I cut my teeth reviewing gaming headsets at and quickly discovered a love for audio that progressed into a full-fledged love of hi-fi. Over my years of reviewing tech, I’ve extensively tested a wide array of audio equipment. Best for gaming: Creative Sound Blaster X4.Best overall: Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M.The best DACs can enhance your listening experience and we’ve collected the top choices right here to get you listening fast. Even though that sounds like a cut-and-dry task, how DACs accomplish this varies, as do the prices, form factors, and features they offer. Its sole responsibility is to convert the 1s and 0s output by your computer (or smartdevice) into a signal that can be played by your headphones. If you’ve already got a good pair of headphones, one of your next upgrades should be your DAC.Ī DAC is a digital-to-analog converter. Taking full advantage of that power means investing in the listening equipment that makes it happen. The joy and nostalgia it can bring are hard to overstate. Few things in life can sweep you away and transport you to another time as music can.
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