The SU-9 is amazing for the price. I find it a little brittle sounding and prefer the Ares II DAC but the SU-9 is more fully featured for 30% less money. It is a solid recommendation for any audiophile unwilling to spend 2-3x more at a minimum.
SMSL SU-9 DAC - Is it a budget alternative fit for an audiophile ?
So I have this problem where even though I'm content with what I have, I still like to try out products that look appealing to me. I was super curious about these near state of the art DACs coming out of China--Topping, Gustard, SMSL, and so on. Amplifying my interest is the fantastic measurements that this unit, the SMSL SU-9 puts out coupled with its price (<$500).
Just 10 years ago something that measured this well would be thousands. And, this DAC uses the ESS 9038Pro chip.
Now, big DISCLAIMER-- I don't buy, keep and enjoy product based on measurements alone. It must sound good.
I've only been running the SU-9 for a couple hours so it's early to say how I really feel. I can confidently say that I thought this little guy might embarrass himself. But, not that's not the case. The sound is pretty great. There's nothing harsh going on, no digital haze/hash, and it's musical--I'm tapping my toes.
Again, it's too soon to really review this DAC--yet I will say I think that I have the answer to my question above--this is a great DAC and it's nothing to scoff at. All I know is it sounds great.
What a wonderful time to be an audiophile!
PS. I have no affiliation with any hifi company, including SMSL.
Just 10 years ago something that measured this well would be thousands. And, this DAC uses the ESS 9038Pro chip.
Now, big DISCLAIMER-- I don't buy, keep and enjoy product based on measurements alone. It must sound good.
I've only been running the SU-9 for a couple hours so it's early to say how I really feel. I can confidently say that I thought this little guy might embarrass himself. But, not that's not the case. The sound is pretty great. There's nothing harsh going on, no digital haze/hash, and it's musical--I'm tapping my toes.
Again, it's too soon to really review this DAC--yet I will say I think that I have the answer to my question above--this is a great DAC and it's nothing to scoff at. All I know is it sounds great.
What a wonderful time to be an audiophile!
PS. I have no affiliation with any hifi company, including SMSL.
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