10 Best DAC Audio – For Audiophiles and Gaming

Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) are essential for any audio or video streaming device. Most devices that output sound or video require a DAC to convert their digital signal into an analog one. For example, common devices, including game consoles, TV boxes, Blu-ray players, smartphones, and portable music players, use digital-to-analog converters. But knowing what DAC is better and more affordable while letting you enjoy subtle and clear sound is integral.

As an audiophile and person who like to test new hardware, I have considered looking at some of the best DACs available in the market. I have always been interested in product testing and evaluating performance according to various criteria. Today’s guide on the best DAC audio follows the same pattern I usually follow, i.e., product sorting, testing, evaluating, and then writing the reviewed results for the users. Let’s get into the details without further ado!

10 Best Audiophile DAC

If you’re looking to improve the sound quality of your music, you’ll want to consider investing in a DAC. They are like the Google Translate of your audio system – they take the digital music files and convert them into an analog signal to play through your speakers.

Not all DACs offer the same performance, so I have researched and sorted the top DACs based on their features and sound quality. According to my digital to analog converter reviews, let’s look at these options and see what they stand in the ranking in the race.

1) Sound BlasterX G6 Best Audio DAC For Gaming

Sound BlasterX G6 Hi-Res 130dB 32bit/384kHz Gaming DAC, External USB Sound Card with Xamp Headphone Amp, Dolby Digital, 7.1 Virtual Surround Sound, Sidetone/Speaker Control for PS4, Xbox One

• UPGRADE YOUR GAMES ON PS4, XBOX ONE, NINTENDO SWITCH, AND PC | Get immediate increased enjoyment over basic motherboard and controller audio! Apart from incredible audio quality, the Sound BlasterX G6 boasts gaming-centric features such as Sidetone volume control and easy-to-reach profile buttons
• INDUSTRY-LEADING AUDIO PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY Enjoy full audio customization and enhanced audio realism with immersive 7.1 surround virtualization, accurate cues, bass boost and in-game voice communication enhancements. It also has Scout Mode than enhances in-game audio cues, letting you hear your enemies before they hear you
• 7.1 VIRTUAL SURROUND SOUND AND DOLBY DIGITAL Enjoy the latest in immersion technology with Dolby Digital decoding or Sound Blaster’s proprietary surround sound perfect for games and movies
• DISCRETE HEADPHONE AMP Custom-designed Xamp headphone amplifier features discrete components through all stages of amplification in a bi-amp design. Each audio channel is individually amplified to deliver a whole new level of pristine audio fidelity in an authentic, unaltered lossless model. The ultra-low 1 Ohm output impedance perfectly drives performance-grade sensitive 8W in-ear monitors all the way to studio-grade 600W headphones
• 130dB DNR, 32-bit 384kHz DAC Advanced 32-bit oversampled multi-bit modulator with mismatch shaping technology eliminates distortion, ensuring audio is streamed with the highest level of detail and fidelity

$109.98

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I think the G6 is an excellent example of the best audio DAC for gaming that can change the users’ views and what they perceive about other DACs. Although I would like it with SXFI technology, Sound BlasterX G6 contains a few main things which make it a valuable USB DAC and a sound amplifier for your headphones for other consoles and PC.

Build Quality and Design

The first thing that I observed about the Sound BlasterX G6 is its sturdy build out of the box. Despite being durable, it is very lightweight and will remain safe if you accidentally drop it. The size is also very considerable, and it is smaller, just like the modern smartphones, except for its thickness.

Extended Connectivity

There is a 3.5mm jack for headphones on the front side and another 3.5mm jack for the microphone, which helped me to track my enemies and teammates during hardcore gaming. While at the rear of the G6, there is a micro-USB input. BlasterX G6 lacks a power inlet because

Portable and Lightweight

The size is small enough, just like the smartphone, so it is easy to keep it with you if you want to move. It is highly portable, and G6 draws power from USB, so there is no battery inside it, and there is no need to worry about its charging. This form factor is quite helpful in its build and shape.

Holography Effect

The sound quality of the G6 is excellent, as it sounded clear during the audio and gaming tests. It is even better than the onboard cards on laptops and PCs. Overall, BlasterX G6 performs on the next level and gives you a holographic and 3D effect over the games you play. Some games transform a simple stereo sound from left to right, which G6 handles quite effectively.

2) AudioQuest Dragonfly Best Portable DAC

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AudioQuest – DragonFly Red USB DAC/Headphone Amplifier

• 32-Bit SABRE DAC
• 2.1v Output Drives Almost Any Headphones
• Works With Apple and Android devices when paired with a simple adapter
• Plays everything from MP3s to 24-bit/96kHz high-resolution files
• This versatile DAC improves everything – detail transparency immediacy richness tone

$180.00

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AudioQuest DragonFly is the best portable DAC in the race of DAC audio devices. The portability does not let it remain mobile and computer desktop. I can say that DragonFly is the best innovation from manufacturers due to its portability. Although this pocket-sized best DAC audio is not perfect, you can consider it very close to perfection, especially for the portability and features.

Compact and Best Sounding

Its compact design adds extra marks to its portability; undoubtedly, the sound quality of this DAC for headphones amp combo will urge you to buy it. However, its resemblance to the USB device and dime-a-dozen thumb drive may mistake you, so placing it in its included vinyl pouch is good to avoid mixing.

Improved Performance

AudioQuest uses an advanced chip, ESS ES9038Q2M, to provide a precise and natural sound, and its latest PIC32MX274 pulls less current but boosts the processing pace to a higher level. It will filter the power supply and increase the immunity to Wi-Fi, cellular noise, and Bluetooth.

Wide Open Soundstage

With the open soundstage of a wide range, you can analyze the music if you want, and the DragonFly Cobalt will provide you with an open soundstage for this with impressive clarity. Although it is a good DAC, AudioQuest will not go for so much detail and offer you an exquisite keen sense of rhythm with a dynamic range of sound.

Hi-Res Pocket Audio

AudioQuest’s line of DragonFly DACs offers you an excellent doorway into the hi-res audio range. You can use it for mobile devices, laptops, and desktop computers. Moreover, its pocket-size design makes it more valuable. It is good to say that this manufacturer gives their users the combo of quality and portability in this pocket-size miracle.

Connectivity Options

Android users have an excellent option to connect with the USB-C with the DragonTail USB-A with the adapter of their Cobalt for connection. Moreover, if your iOS device supports a lightning connection, AudioQuest will acclaim you using Apple’s Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter for connecting DragonFly.

3) FiiO K3 Best USB C DAC

FiiO K3 Type-C USB DAC Headphone Amp

• Features
• Usb Type-C DAC: supports up to 384kHz/32bit
• Power supply via the USB port: convenient and safe
• Various ports: lineout single-ended/ balanced headphone output coaxial and optical
• High-performance discrete headphone drive and circuit protection

$139.00

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Fiio K3 is the best USB C DAC that will surprise you with its performance and functions. The New K3 provides pretty good sound with comprehensive details. It is an excellent device for all In-Ear Monitors and headphones with a natural appearance and great dynamic sense. In this price range, the K3 is one of the highly recommended DACs for a great listening experience.

Build Quality and Aesthetics

Although the features improved in New K3 contain the same appearance and aesthetics as the older K3. Its old round frame has matte black polish, so any scratch will not damage it. There are two outputs on the front, two black switches, and a switch for volume double as a power switch. There are also RGB Led lights on it to indicate the rate of sample for sound.

Advanced DAC Chips

The New K3 also has the ES9038Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC and gives a high performance of 32-bit. The design of this stereo system is for audiophile-grade power-sensitive applications like audio pre-amp, Blu-ray players, A/V receivers, and the best DAC audio player.

Impressive Sound Quality

It’s the sound quality that impressed me, given the price range. The New K3 gives you a comprehensive, detailed, and natural performance with a great sense of dynamic and support for all types of In-Ear Monitors and headphones. 

Operating Compatibility

Regarding the compatibility of the New K3, it will work with Android, Windows PCs, and MAC. Furthermore, they are also compatible with ISO devices, and no need to install any driver for this purpose.

4) iFi Zen DAC V2 Best Computer DAC

iFi Zen DAC V2 | Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB 3.0 B Input only/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA – MQA DECODER – Audio System Upgrade (Unit only)

• ✅ UPGRADE YOUR SYSTEM – With this state-of-the-art compact Digital Analogue Converter for home audio, office, or desktop use, you will hear a difference and clarity in your audio system whether you use speakers or headphones
• ✅ EASY CONNECTIVITY – Connect via USB3.0 (USB2.0 compatible) input from your USB source such as a computer or Digital Audio Player (DAP). Output to headphones, active speakers, or amplifier with 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced / RCA connections
• ✅ HIGH RESOLUTION AUDIO – Hear familiar songs in a whole new light with rich detail and warm natural tones created by the Burr Brown True Native digital to analogue converter which can process any hi-res audio format up to PCM 384kHz/24 bit, DSD256, DXD 384kHz, and decodes MQA all without additional conversion so you can listen exactly as the artist intended.
• ✅ TECH PACKED – With technology like: Variable analogue volume control, PowerMatch adjustment for iEMs/On & Over Ears, and TrueBass to add bass to iEMs and a new and improve low jitter clock with >20dB improved performance, you can listen to your music with smoother, cleaner, playback.
• ✅ NOTE ✅ – Due to the analogue volume control used there may be a slight channel imbalance under 9 o’clock on the volume dial. This is not a fault with the product. We advise to listen to your music between 11 & 1 o’clock for the best sound quality.

$199.00

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Zen DAC V2 is the best DAC audio for those who want to have excellent and cheap DACs for their digital resources. The iFi Zen will make your headphones sing in this low-price range. It is also good to say that Zen is an affordable product for many headphone rigs and will remain in its place in a good way. In this price range, many other devices cannot do the same things as Zen.

Low Profile Design

Zen DAC V2 is the best computer DAC with a low-profile design and consists of matte black metal that is low profile relative to the other, and due to this, it is very lightweight. Although it is small, you cannot place it in your pocket, and it is easy to keep it in your bag if you want to take it along with you. You can easily take it with you for your events and other occasions.

Improved Architecture

Zen DAC V2 contains two additions in its basic internal design. But these changes may significantly impact the sonic quality of DAC or Amp and depend on how you use it. The Zen V2 also upgraded from 8 core AMOS chipset to a 16-core chipset. Due to this upgrade, the audio quality reaches a higher enhancement level.

Internal Accurate Decoding

The upgradation from 8-core to 16-core significantly changes the behavior of DAC. Most audio systems act like a renderer for lossless audio or MQA tracks, but the Zen DAC V2, due to its design of 16-core, acts like a decoder. It means that the conversion is performed internally for more accurate signal output. When the LED light on the volume knob turns blue, you will know that the MQA is streaming.

Sound Accuracy

You will get good accuracy and clarity for your soundtracks with the Zen V2. However, when it comes to the variety of headphones, you will get more texture for more delicate, and the tracks will become more enjoyable. It will give Zen more variety and a big room of sound quality, and you will also get a range of energy for your sound when necessary.

5) EPOS Sennheiser GSX 1000 Best Audio DAC For PC

EPOS | Sennheiser GSX 1000 Gaming Audio Amplifier / External Sound Card, with 7.1 Surround Sound, Side Tone, Gaming DAC and EQ, Headphone amp Compatible with Windows, Mac, Laptops and Desktops.

• Binaural Rendering Engine With 7.1 Surround – The Proprietary High-Tech Audio Engine Delivers Exceptional Spatial Awareness And Positional Game Audio. Delivers The Game Audio Details And Positional Audio Cues.
• Quick Setting Changes – Save Up To 4 Customized Sound Settings On The Led Touch Panel That Allows One-Touch Mode Switch, Also Between Headphone And Speaker Listening And Make Fast Adjustments With A Large Aluminum Volume Ring
• Eq Settings – Get Precise Control Of Your Game Audio With A Dedicated Dac Chip And Eq Presets. Specially Attuned Audio Presets For Competitive Gaming Focus And Balance Sound Frequencies Where They Are Needed
• Sidetone- Sidetone Control Lets You Adjust The Loudness Of Your Own Voice In Your Headset: You Know What You Are Saying, Tune In To Your Teammates.
• English (Publication Language)

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The Sennheiser GSX 1000 is another best DAC audio, especially for gamers and those who want to benefit from its great features. There are features like virtual surround sound, screen interference, mic input, and many more. These qualities make it more comprehensive and beneficial for those who game often.

Sophisticated Build

The build quality of GSX’s best audio DAC for PC is excellent. However, the material is not good enough, just like the other products of Sennheiser, but it is not bad also and gives you an impression of a good product that cannot break easily. It has rubber, plastic, and glass in its body. But the whole body is made of plastic and does not look cheap.

Virtual Surround Sound

The GSX is a source of virtual surround sound, and if you are fond of various adjustments for your mic and looking for more clarity settings, it will be a good pick. The GSX 1000 is the best sound processing DAC regarding sound clarity than the others. That’s why it will be a good immersion for you in your gaming experience.

Basic Headphone Companion

The G.S.X. is not a good companion for power-hungry premium headphones, and its design is not for this purpose. So, it is good to connect a gaming headset or use other regular headphones for better results. If you follow it, then you will get a virtual surround sound. However, I think this may not be best for you if you want to use premium headphones and do not need virtual surround sound.

Sufficient Connectivity Options

For most people, the connectivity options on GSX are primarily sufficient for the market that the GSX applies. But it will not design for those wanting to connect tons of outputs for their speaker setup. However, it will be best for gamers as it has everything, they need for the best gaming experience.

6) Audioengine D1 Best Desktop DACs

Audioengine D1 32-bit Desktop DAC and Headphone Amp, Preamp, Laptop, Amplifier, Gamers and Musicians

• FOR HEADPHONES – Take your music and gaming audio private. Switch back and forth easily
• FOR SPEAKERS – Share your audio with guests. Switch back quickly
• FOR HIFI AUDIO – 32 Bit, 24 Bit, and CD quality capable DAC
• GAMERS AND MUSIC – Studios, game rooms, computer rooms, dorms, home offices
• SMALL SIZE – 4 x 3 inches in size keeps your desk clutter free

$169.00

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When sorting the best desktop DACs, Audioengine D1 is one of the first options that click to my mind. It can perform double duty as a DAC and as a headphone amplifier. It is a package of features that will be suitable and perfect DAC for your requirements.

Exquisite Build Quality

The Audioengine D1 is stellar for its price and made from a reliable material. All the connections and parts are solid enough that if you drop them accidentally, there is no need to worry about any damage. A knob for the adjustment of volume is also very sturdy. However, a lack of numbering or lines on the volume knob may prove very helpful in knowing how loud it will be.

Modern Design

The design of the Audioengine D1 is relatively very modern than the other DAC and very good in the quality of sound as compared to the others. It is very compact, and its pocket-size design makes it superior and unique. It has a dark grey finish without any fancy look, but the aesthetics will give you a beautiful quality, just like the other brands.

Two Stage USB Power Supply

The Audioengine D1 contains a two-stage power supply that will provide sound without distortion and stabilize the power supply. This ability also makes the floor noise very low, making you feel calm. This receiving chip helps to sync the transmission, which will reduce jitter and support controlling the poor sound quality in USB transmission.

Delicate and Smooth Sound

The smooth sound satisfies its users, who will feel calm on its performance with the modern feel of Audioengine D1. It will overcome the intense hearing and provide a good amount of bass volume with a considerable ability for sound diving. So, you can say that the overall impact of sound is very delicate and smooth so that you can enjoy every moment without distortion.

7) S.M.S.L SU-9 MQA Best DAC HiFi

S.M.S.L SU-9 MQA Full Decoder ES9038PRO DAC XMOS DSD512 PCM768kHz/32Bit Bluetooth 5.0 UAT APTX-HD USB Balanced Decoder

• Complete support of LDAC,APTX/HD,XBC,AAC, and the exquisite 24bit/192kHz UAT format
• Apart from ES9038 flagship DAC we coupled this DAC with ES9311 power chip designed for ESS DACS to optimize ES9038 performance to its max potential.
• All digital inputs support DSD decoding. DoP64 is supported through coaxial and optic.
• UAT (Ultra Audio Transmission), an audio coding technology self-developed by HiBy with up to 192kHz sampling frequency or up to 1.2Mbps bit rate. There are three available settings: high 1.2Mbps/medium 900 kbps/low 600 kbps.
• This is latest version, thanks for your support!!

$477.00

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I think there is no need for any questions about the best DAC HiFi when you have a SU-9. If your budget allows you to get the best DAC audio, then there is no need to prefer another DAC to SMSL SU-9 MQA. It offers many features for an elevated listening experience, whether music or games.

Robust and Clean Design

The SU-9 is one of the latest arrivals from SMSL with an improved form factor. It has a single construction design, and its back, front, and side consist of aluminum, and the top and bottom plates are separate and screwed on. Overall, the design gives you a robust and clean outlook. There is a TFT LCD color screen on its front panel, and it also contains a multi-functional knob.

Balanced Sound

SU-9 provides linear sound, is transparent, and is also virtually uncolored. Moreover, it is also not analytical because it overshadows the music. You can easily understand the vocals and instruments due to sound clarity. It means that the SU-9 is smooth enough to balance all details accurately.

Depth and Soundstage

The sound stage is not grand enough and not upfront. You will not feel claustrophobia when you hear the sound on it, but you may still feel a hair less wide open, just like a pricier unit would sound. However, this effect will not feel with headphones, and you may not worry about it as the sound will not cross the limits of your headphones.

Satisfactory Connectivity Options

The connectivity options offered by SU-9 are great. You will see a fully kitted 3-pin IEC power socket, RCA, coaxial, XLR, Bluetooth, optical, and USB. Furthermore, the analog outputs are activated, and you can toggle them in the menu between fixed line level or volume control by using your pre-amp.

8) RME ADI2DACFS Best Audiophile DAC

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ADI2 DAC FS Ultra-Fidelity 2 Channel DA Converter and Headphone Amplifier

• The most versatile DAC available, the ADI2DACFS provides balanced/unbalanced analog I/Os, extreme power headphone output, a low noise in-ear-monitor output, SteadyClock FS, class-compliant USB compatibility, and same rates up to 768 kHz
• Developed by RME engineers, the updated ADI-2 DAC uses ESS’s ES9028Q2M in a particular circuit variant that allows the chip to perform with professional-level quality
• The ADI-2 DAC FS allows those who use in-ear-monitors to receive the full dynamic range on playback, and its ground noise floor is 10dB lower than the one of the Extreme Power output
• When AutoDark is activated, the display, function keys, volume knob, and the standby button go off after 10 seconds of no user operation while touching any button or control will turn on all lights for 10 seconds
• Included is a new extended multi-remote support that has clearly labeled buttons for accessibility in any lighting situation

$999.00

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The ADI-2 is the best audiophile DAC with a compact desktop form factor and features, making it an excellent option for anyone looking for a premium DAC. The AKM4493 chip inside is standard but included RME offers additional features that make it shine among the DACs I have tested. It has RME’s signature thoughtful and exhaustive feature set for promising performance.

Under the Hood

The ADI-2 DAC is a half-rack unit physically smaller than many audiophile models. It has a solid metal build and comes with an included remote control. The remote is handy, but its plastic case does not feel as robust. But it can withstand daily usage, which I liked because not every DAC offers such a sophisticated build.

Straightforward Functionality

The ADI-2 DAC is much simpler to use than pro audio interfaces which can be very overwhelming, even for experienced engineers. With this device, you can plug it in and start playing music using a headphone jack, RCA, or XLR without requiring any Total MIX routing.

Ins and Outs

The ADI-2 DAC is a top-of-the-line digital to analog converter that supports coaxial, optical, and USB 2.0 inputs. It provides exceptionally high-quality audio conversion, and its outputs include both balanced and unbalanced analog, a headphone output with an Extreme Power option. The ADI-2 is the best DAC under 500, with a USB recording function so you can record the input signal directly to your computer.

Improved Audio

With ADI-2 best DAC audio, you have complete control over the sound you hear through headphones. It comes with the standard Bass and Treble controls, but you can adjust the gain, frequency, and Q. There’s also a Loudness feature that boosts the bass and high treble to compensate for the perceived acoustic changes at low volume levels.

9) iFi xDSD Bluetooth DAC

iFi xDSD Portable Bluetooth DAC and Headphone Amplifier – for Smartphones/Tablets/Computers/Digital Audio Players

• WIRELESS OR WIRED – Improve the sound from any smartphone, laptop, tablet, or DAP to your wired headphones with a built in CD quality Bluetooth streaming receiver, or connect directly to your USB device with an Android OTG cable or Apple Camera Connection Kit. S/PDIF, optical, toslink, and coax are options as well. Our S Balanced 3.5mm headphone output brings the benefits of the balanced connection to single ended headphones and cuts crosstalk
• POWERFUL AMPLIFIER – Experience the full dynamic range and unleash the full potential of your headphones, 32ohm to 600ohm, with an impressive Dual-mono headphone amplifier consisting of 500mW of power per channel. Make sensitive IEMs super quiet thanks to our Cyberdrive circuit design that puts the analog volume under digital control for the best of both worlds, while retaining full bit resolution at all volume levels.
• HIGH RESOLUTION AUDIO – Playback any hi-res audio format natively with our signature Burr Brown digital to analog signal processing chip, which means file formats or information remain unchanged for the truest sound. Supports native PCM 384 quad, DSD 256, and MQA straight out of the box, or choose high resolution audio up to PCM 768kHz and DSD 512 with a quick firmware update
• PORTABLE DESIGN – With an internal Lithium Polymer Battery, playback time is up to 6 to10 hours, depending on the headphones you are driving and what settings you enable
• TECH PACKED – Low end bass frequencies are no problem thanks to our XBass + analogue bass correction system which corrects headphone bass frequency to deliver a deep, tight and prodigious bass. You will feel the music all around thanks to the wide soundstage from our 3D+ Holographic dual-analogue matrix create a more immersive, deeper soundstage that puts the artist with you in the room, not just in your headphones

$449.00

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If you own high-quality headphones, you’ll need an amplifier to provide the power they need to reach their full potential. The xDSD is a highly rated and award-winning digital-to-analog converter and amplifier that’s ultra-portable and lightweight. It provides CD-quality Bluetooth DAC streaming from popular music services like iTunes.

Aesthetics and Build

At first glance, the black plastic cap and magnesium alloy shell look and feels like a luxurious, high-quality item. The sturdy feeling of the vivid mirror finish gives the product an air of sophistication and importance. However, I despise it as the surface is a fingerprint magnet and quickly catches the marks of anything that touches it.

Seamless Wireless Connectivity

Bluetooth support is essential for this device because it allows for a portable environment which is incredibly convenient. You won’t have to worry about stacking devices or fiddling with cables and rubber bands. In my experience, it’s always been a hassle trying to switch back and forth between wired and wireless, but with this Bluetooth support, it’s never been easier!

Sound Quality

Line out mode provides a tremendous 2-channel stereo connection, making the xDSD a perfect option for desktop or home stereo use. While you could opt to connect your computer or playback device via a USB cable, I believe that the wireless convenience of Bluetooth significantly outweighs any negative impact on sound quality.

Sound Enhancements

I had the chance to test out the XBass and 3D+ features on the xDSD, and I was very impressed with how well they worked. These features result from careful thought and planning and sound more like analog effects than digital ones. XBass is a light bass boost that doesn’t overdo it, while 3D+ widens the soundstage and gives you the feeling of being at a live concert.

10) Chord Electronics Mojo 2 Best Headphone DAC

CHORD ELECTRONICS Mojo 2

• 1x Micro USB 768kHz/32-bit Capable Input
• 1x 3.5mm Jack Coaxial 768kHz/32-bit Capable Input
• 1x Optical TOSLINK 96kHz/24-bit Capable Input
• 1x 1amp Micro USB Charging Port Input
• 2x 3.5mm Headphone Jacks Output

$650.00

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If you’re looking for the best DAC audio for everyday use, Mojo2 is the ideal solution. Chord Electronics has improved on every single aspect that was an issue with its predecessor, making it the perfect choice for those looking for excellent sound quality. Its tone controls working on a hardware level do marvels with several headphones and balance many issues I had with other DACs.

Highly Portable

Mojo 2 is the best headphone DAC that is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and comes with silicone feet that won’t leave a mark or trail of glue on your table. You can easily carry it to and from the office without additional weight. I’m pleased that the silicone feet are sitting in small cutouts on the bottom of the device. It means that it won’t move around while I’m rearranging it on the table.

Plethora of Connections

This tiny yet powerful unit is fully equipped with inputs and outputs to support various devices. A USB Type-C input and Micro-USB work well with computers and smart devices. Its coaxial input is still in place, and you can use it with their Hugo MS caller for even better performance. An optical input rounds out the unit’s compatibility with TVs and gaming consoles.

Long Lasting Battery Life

Mojo2 sports an 8-hour battery life, although I found that it was more accurate to say that it lasted for around 7 hours. It will, of course, depend on the type of headphones you’re using – if you’re an IEM guy, then you might be able to get 8 hours of use. A small LED next to the charging port will let you know the battery status.

Sound Impressions

After engaging my usual playlist, I was impressed by the Mojo2’s ability to keep up with the music’s fast tempo. The Chord house sound is clear and powerful, and the battery protection mode ensures that there are no noises whatsoever, no matter where I place the speaker in the house.

Best Audio DAC Buying Guide

When choosing the best DAC audio, it can be tough to know where to start. Even experienced audiophiles can find themselves doing hours of research to compare various DACs and their features. Consider these important points before buying the DACs for your audio experience.

Desktop or Portable

Before shopping for a new DAC, you must consider where you’ll be using it most. Desktop DACs are more significant and require an external power source, while portable DACs are smaller and more travel friendly. A desktop DAC may be better if you’re mainly listening at home. But if you’re often on the go, a portable DAC may be more convenient.

A portable DAC like the Chord Mojo 2 can be a great choice with headphones. However, standalone options like the AudioEngine D1 are usually better if you have other audio equipment. DACs like the Chord Mojo 2 can be more challenging to integrate with larger audio systems and may lack connections for dedicated speakers.

Chip Type

The conversion from digital to analog happens due to a tiny chip inside the DAC. The tole of chips is important in conversion and regulates the output quality for the headphones and desktops. Before hitting that Buy Now button, the first thing to know is what DAC chipset your device uses.

The chips will determine the quality of the DAC, so you want to ensure you get one that uses a good chip. Many DACs will label which chip they use, but if they don’t, you can usually find out by looking at the feature and specification lists. Once you know which chip a DAC uses, it’s a good idea to research it by typing it into Google and reading what experts have to say about it and what other real listeners have to say.

Connectivity Options

Another critical factor when buying a DAC is its connectivity. It means the input/output capabilities and wireless connection options. Does it have the correct input for how you want to send the audio signal, like optical, coaxial, and USB? And what options are for sending the output signals once it processes them?

Output options are very important when shopping for a DAC because the right one will save you from having to pay for features you don’t need. Depending on the model, the number of outputs can vary dramatically. Buying the DAC with maximum output options keeps you at an advantage as you can use it with almost every piece of hardware.

Headphone Amplifier

Even the best DAC won’t do you good if it lacks the amp to power the connected hardware. Most DAC comes built-in with the amplifier. The FiiO K3 is a top-of-the-line example of DAC that eliminates the need for an additional amp while saving the bucks. It offers decent connectivity and the right combination of an amp to make your music sound clearer and more balanced.

Choosing a DAC can be tricky because there are many options and specifications to look through. It’s important to remember that DACs don’t usually have a significant effect on sound quality, so you shouldn’t feel like you need to spend a lot of money on one if you are not going to listen at an audiophile level.

Hi-fi is a hobby you can get into as time goes on, and, like other hobbies, there’s always more to learn. In my recommendation, Sound BlasterX G6 is the best DAC audio for its features and portability. It offers many options for connection and has a clear and balanced sound compared to many others on the list. It follows the good aspects of its predecessor while carrying more features for audiophiles.

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Last update on 2025-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API