This article was taken from the March 2014 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
What is a DAC?
A digital-to-analogue converter connects to a computer via its USB port to enhance audio playback. The device turns digital data from your music library into an analogue signal that amps, speakers and headphones can process. Although most computers and portable media devices have built-in converters, audiophiles say external DACs provide better sound quality.
How we tested
We handed the multitasking audio devices to Sean Magee, a Grammy-winning mastering engineer at Abbey Road Studios in London, who's worked with artists including The Rolling Stones and
The Specials. He used Jon Hopkins' "Abandon Window" (Domino) to assess the sound quality of each box against the standard output of a Samsung Series 9 notebook, awarding points for precision, clarity and ease of use. abbeyroad.com
The International was the only truly "portable" DAC that Wired tested here, with two extra inputs that let you attach it to a handheld MP3 player, and a rechargeable battery that's good for up to 16 hours. The solid, retro styling looks and feels assured, and the volume dial doubles as an on/off switch. "It was bloody loud," remarked Magee. "There's a lot of boost in there, which is good, but there's far more detail in the Arcam - it's nicer to listen to.
This sounds more like the output of the computer."
Wired: Design; loudness; portability
Tired: Poor audio
Cost: $599
Specifications
Inputs: USB mini-B, 3.5mm mini-jack
DAC type: Cirrus Logic
The blue aluminium chassis is a welcome contrast to the dull silver/black-box aesthetic. "A brilliant idea," Magee said of the two headphone sockets, "but hearing stops at 20kHz, so why is this rated to 200kHz? And this is the only DAC that has significant noise."
Wired: Two jacks; variety of connections
Tired: Audible noise; mediocre sound; price
Cost: £900
Specifications
Inputs: USB, RCA phono, XLR balanced pair
DAC type: FPGA DAC (proprietary)
The most feature-packed product of the four. "It's very good," said Magee. "It's more open than the Arcam, a bit freer - but I have no idea what all the filters do. Although I don't really see myself carting this around with my computer, I can't fault the sound."
Wired: Impressive audio; inputs; remote
Tired: Superfluous filters; bulky
Cost: £600
Specifications Inputs: Asynchronous USB, 2x optical, 2x coaxial
DAC type: ESS Sabre32 9018
This is an easy and effective way to upgrade your Mac or PC's audio and requires minimal set-up: just plug the USB in one end and your headphones in the other. You don't even need to install a driver. "You can hear separation and detail," said Magee.
Wired: Excellent audio; good value
Tired: Heavy; loss of clarity at high volume
Cost: £150
Specifications Inputs: Asynchronous USB
DAC type: TI PCM5102
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
