2 best portable dacs

A portable DAC, or Digital-to-Analog Converter, is a device that converts digital audio signals from your source, such as a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, into analog audio signals that can be played through headphones or external speakers. They are commonly used to enhance the audio quality of portable devices by providing superior digital-to-analog conversion compared to the built-in DACs in these devices.

Here are some key points about portable DACs:

  1. Improved Audio Quality: Portable DACs are designed to deliver better audio quality than the built-in DACs found in most smartphones and laptops. They can provide cleaner, more detailed sound with less distortion.

  2. High-Resolution Audio Support: Many portable DACs support high-resolution audio formats, allowing you to enjoy music with greater detail and clarity. They often support formats like FLAC and DSD.

  3. Headphone Amplification: Some portable DACs also include headphone amplifiers (amp/DAC combos) to drive high-impedance headphones more effectively. This can result in better volume levels and improved sound quality.

  4. Connectivity: Portable DACs typically connect to your source device through USB, USB-C, Lightning, or Bluetooth, depending on the model. They may also have additional input and output options, such as optical or coaxial connections.

  5. Size and Portability: As the name suggests, portable DACs are designed to be compact and easy to carry. They are often pocket-sized or fit comfortably in a bag, making them convenient for on-the-go use.

  6. Compatibility: Before purchasing a portable DAC, ensure that it is compatible with your source device and headphones. Some DACs are designed specifically for certain operating systems or devices.

  7. Battery Life: Battery-powered portable DACs often have limited battery life, so it's essential to consider this if you plan to use them for extended periods away from a power source.

  8. Price Range: Portable DACs vary widely in price, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. The price often reflects the quality of components and the features offered.

  9. Brand and Model Selection: There are several reputable brands in the portable DAC market, including AudioQuest, Chord Electronics, FiiO, and Astell & Kern, among others. It's essential to research and choose a model that suits your specific needs and budget.

  10. Use Cases: Portable DACs are commonly used by audiophiles and music enthusiasts who want to enjoy high-quality audio on the go. They are also useful for professionals who require accurate audio reproduction, such as audio engineers and content creators.

In summary, portable DACs are compact devices that can significantly enhance the audio quality of your portable devices. They are especially valuable for those who prioritize high-quality sound and want to enjoy their music or audio content with greater fidelity.When selecting a portable DAC, consider factors like compatibility, features, and your budget to make the right choice for your audio needs.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best portable dacs on the market
  

iFi Hip-dac Portable DAC Headphone Amp Balanced for Android/iPhone

iFi

Based on 439 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The hip-dac is an advanced USB / DAC headphone amp for the discerning on the go listener Just connect to the USB port of any smart device using an OTG cable or Apple CKK (sold separately) and enjoy Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music HD, Tidal or similar like never before in one trendy, tuneful package. With a maximum 6-hour battery life, immerse yourself in the spectacular sound of hip-dac on the plane, in the coffee shop or at home. If you have high end or hi fidelity headphones you are going to need a suitable amplifier to drive them to their true performance potential as well as an exceptional external HiFi Digital Analog Converter or DAC to process your music files in high resolution to enhance your experience even further. The DACs in a smartphone, computer, tablet or audio player on the market are not designed for processing high quality sound. iFi audio has developed top of the line products to meet your various needs and preferences whether you are an everyday listener or an experienced audiophile. The hip-dac offers a cutting-edge Burr-Brown digital-to-analogue converter for the ultimate in signal conversion. It plays all high res audio formats including DSD 256, DXD 384, PCM 384 kHz and MQA with native digital to analog conversion so you can listen to any file the way the original recording was intended. A balanced circuit design provides less distortion for cleaner sound. A dual mono headphone amplifier provides up to 400 mW of power to drive a wide range of headphones. A 4.4mm balanced output features balanced wiring all the way to the amplifier to cut crosstalk and distortion. A 3.5mm jack is also featured along with a USB A male input. Low end bass frequencies are no problem thanks to our XBass system which corrects headphone bass frequency to deliver a deep, tight and prodigious bass. The adjustable Power Match feature allows you to adjust the gain to better pair up with your headphone needs. Altogether producing mind blowing music at your fingertips

  • PORTABLE DESIGN - Your music will never stop with up to 6 hrs of battery life and a slim, lightweight design perfect for carrying in your pocket wherever life takes you
  • HIGH RESOLUTION AUDIO - From Spotify to Tidal MQA to MP3 and beyond, play any high res audio format with native digital to analog conversion so you can listen to any song the way the original recording was intended
  • POWERFUL AMPLIFIER - Suited to your style, listen to in ear monitors or drive over the ear headphones with 400 mW max power output from the on-board amplifier
  • EASY CONNECTIVITY – Connects directly to your smartphone with the USB Input, and works with balanced 4.4mm or S-Bal 3.5mm headphone plugs for ultimate convenience and versatility
  • HIGH TECH – Power Match and XBass offer adjustable analog enhancements to customize your listening experience without compromising the digital conversion

User questions & answers

Question: When will these be available to purchase
Answer: It’s available now
Question: Can it run while charging
Answer: Yes.
Question: Hi it’s supports iPod and iPad? thank you
Answer: For iPad Pros and the latest ipadOS, you can just directly use the usb-c to usb-a that comes with this dac. For iPhones and iPods you do need the camera connection kit. I am using it with my iPad pro 2018 with the included usb-c cable
Question: can this be used for my car stereo
Answer: I strongly advise against doing so. I'm assuming your question is "can I plug this into the auxiliary input on my car?" In which case, no. Doing so would be "amping and amp" and that's a no-no in electronics. You run a really high risk of burning up both things when connected in this way. The Hip-Dac is one of the few products in this product category that does not provide a line out or a pre-out. It also does not do bluetooth. Typically I find that a phone's or mp3 player's headphone output is sufficient to plug directly into a car stereo. The road is not a great place for hearing that last 10-20% of fidelity these products provide. However, if you still need the option, the Topping NX4-DSD and the Fiio Q1 mkII are similar products that offer a line-out that you can use to plug into your car stereo.

Fosi Audio HD3 Headphone Amplifier & DAC Portable Mini HiFi Stereo Amp 192kHz/24bit PCM Native DSD128 Type-C for iPhone, iPod, iPad and Computers (3.5mm Single-Ended & 2.5mm Balanced Outputs)

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price
  • Simple and classic design: Are you bored with the ordinary design? HD3 brings a simple and retro excellent design in appearance. All aluminum CNC shell manufacturing.
  • Adopting classic ES9018K2M chip to get clear and clarity sound without any audible noise even at high output, supporting up to 192kHz/24bit and native DSD128. Suitable for headphones ranging from 16 - 500 Ohms.
  • Audio Input: Type-C input (supports OTG). HD3 features both balanced 2.5mm and single-ended 3.5mm outputs. 2.5mm balanced headphone output brings you purer sound output up to 200mW. (Note: No simultaneous use)
  • Mini Compact and Powerful Amp System. High-performance discrete headphone drive and circuit protection. Support Apple, Android, computers and other devices.
  • What you Get: HD3 Headphone amplifier x1, User Manual x1, Micro USB power cable x1, Type-C audio cable x1, an 18-month worry-free warranty and friendly customer service.

User questions & answers

Question: How often does this need to be recharged
Answer: Yes, You can run it on 1 usb; it has its own internal battery. Albeit, yes it has a second USB c port for charge, if you want to charge it too but don't have to, if it's charged.
Question: Can this drive 250-ohm headphones
Answer: Yes, the aux in also acts as line out. Watch the Z review on Youtube for this product, he covers it all.
Question: Can I use this with iPhone
Answer: no, I bought this unit & am using it now on my iPhone, you need the Apple camera adapter. either get the usb 2.0 version or 3.0 version, I like the 3.0 version cause it has the usb & lighting port for charging. So make your choice between those, I bought a short usb c to lighting didn’t work one bit so it’s just sitting around now. just get the Apple camera adapter & use the charge cable included. other usb c to a cables should work just that you need the Apple camera adapter
Question: What's the difference between 2.5mm output and 3.5mm output
Answer: it should be able too, run the m11 into the usb input if you just wanna use the m11 as a music play or if you wanna use the dac from the player it also has a 3.5 analog input but that’s if the player has an analog output which I’m sure it does, if you wanna use the m11 as a player only (meaning using usb) then you’ll need an otg cable so both units can actually communicate
Question: Can i run this unit on a pc with just 1 usb cable or do i need the 2nd usb cable to be plugged into an outlet for power
Answer: Sizing is horrible runs so small. Terrible. Don’t buy it
Question: does it have line out
Answer: Yes
Question: Is the usb input comparable to connect to my iphone 11 using a usb c to lightning adapter
Answer: I’m 5’1 and 135 the medium was too tight on me.
Question: Can this unit be stack with the fiio m
Answer: Buyer beware!! Don’t buy. Check out my review with pictures. Looks nothing like the picture.

Product features

HD3 Mini HiFi DAC Portable Headphone Amplifier

USB decode chipset: SA9226

D/A conversion chip: ES9018K2M

Battery capacity: 1500mA

USB support: 192kHz/24bit

DSD hardware decoding: DSD128

Frequency response: 5-25 kHz

S/N ratio: 112dB

Headphone output impedance: 16-500 Ohm

Product size: 3.54 x 2.24 x 0.51 inches (90x57x13mm）

Product weight: 92g

2.5mm+3.5mm output

The HD3 features both balanced 2.5mm and single-ended 3.5mm outputs. 2.5mm balanced headphone output brings you purer sound output up to 200mW.

Decodes your computer's audio

Type-C audio input (supports OTG).

Adopting SA9226 USB decoding chip to decode up to 192kHz/24bit and native DSD128.

Portable and Sturdy

The HD3 brings a simple and retro excellent design in appearance, with all-aluminum shell and classic, perfect for portable use.

ES9018K2M Chip

Adopting classic ES9018K2M chip to get clear and clarity sound without any audible noise even at high output.

High-Fidelity Headphone Amplifier

Compatible with Apple, Android, computers and other devices, you can get totally portable excellent sound quality with your current device.

8 hours Battery Life

1500mAh internal battery powers for up to 8 hours of use. Output remarkable sound without distortion.

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