All articles tagged with #dac
Spotify Premium users can enable Exclusive Mode in the Windows app’s Playback settings to give Spotify control over your device’s audio processing, achieving bit-perfect playback; Mac support is planned for a future release, and using Exclusive Mode disables other apps’ audio and Spotify automix/crossfade features.
The article reviews 12 iPhone/iPad/macOS apps that enable true hi-res, lossless playback on Apple devices—from Apple Music’s built-in lossless ALAC to Tidal, Qobuz, and Amazon Music, plus audiophile players like Audirvana Remote, Roon Remote, VOX, Neutron Music Player, Onkyo HF Player, FiiO Music, NePLAYER, and Flacbox. It highlights support for formats such as FLAC and DSD, 24-bit/192kHz, DAC passthrough to external gear, cloud options, and feature-rich interfaces, all aimed at unlocking higher-fidelity listening on Apple hardware.
Tom’s Guide reviews the Mojo 2, a $650 portable DAC/amp that powers a wide range of headphones with USB‑C charging and a 4.4mm balanced output. It delivers detailed highs and a larger soundstage for on‑the‑go listening, making it a strong pick for audiophiles who need portability, though it’s not without quirks—battery life is about 8 hours and the menu system can be fiddly for some. It’s best for demanding headphones, but not all can benefit equally, and a cheaper alternative like the iFi Hip DAC is suggested for those on a tighter budget.
Shanling has announced the EC Zero AKM, a portable CD player that supports Bluetooth, CD ripping, and functions as a high-quality DAC, offering a nostalgic yet advanced way to enjoy physical media with modern features, priced at $320.
Cambridge Audio has launched the CXN100 Network Player, a successor to its popular CXN V2, featuring a new DAC capable of handling 32-bit/768kHz, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and improved processing. The player retains physical connectivity options and includes built-in Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, and Deezer, as well as MQA compatibility. The CXN100 is available for $1,099 and boasts a larger high-res color screen.
Wired headphones with built-in DACs capable of handling hi-res lossless audio are making a comeback, offering audiophile quality on any phone without the need for a dongle. Companies like Questyle and Hidizs have released USB-C headphones with DACs, paving the way for a potential mini revival of wired headphones. These headphones promise superior audio quality and convenience, appealing to those seeking better sound without the hassle of additional accessories.
FiiO has released the KB3, a mechanical keyboard with a built-in headphone jack that includes a combination DAC and headphone amp, potentially offering better audio quality than the standard 3.5mm output on computers. The keyboard features dual Cirrus Logic CS43131 DACs, supports high-resolution audio, and has a 4.4mm balanced output. It also boasts gasket-mounted hot-swap switches, RGB lighting, and compatibility with both Mac and Windows. The KB3 is available as a barebones option or fully-assembled, and is priced at $129.99 without switches or keycaps, or $149.99 as a fully-assembled model.