That allows this converter to be used not only for headphones, but for televisions and similar large devices. It may be worth noting that the audio format supported include LPCM and PCM. The only thing this DAC isn’t equipped to do is powering high impedance headphones, but that’s really something you’ll only find will interfere with using some types of audiophile equipment. In other words, it almost doesn’t matter what kind of audio you want to pull through this thing. Meanwhile, the sampling rate is actually fairly respectable, spanning 32~192 KHz alongside 16 to 24-bit music. That’s scarcely different from the kind of output you can get from desktop computers. The total output impedance from the Avantree DAC is 32Ω. Larger wheels also provide more granular control over volume because you can turn the knob in meaningfully smaller increments. Instead of using a small wheel that’s barely sticking out of the chassis, the Avantree DAC is using a rather large volume wheel, allowing you to get two or three fingers around it. Next to that, you’ll find a volume wheel that can be scrolled to raise or lower your volume settings. It’s also nice they’ve made the switch in bright yellow, giving it a high contrast, and easily allowing you to see the current setting from afar. The side of the unit has an on/off switch, which can effectively function as a mute button. For outputs, you’re looking at 3.5mm AUX or RCA connections. The audio input options include both coaxial and optical cables. But how about actually using it? Connections & Ease of Use In short, you don’t have to worry about this DAC falling apart the first time you accidentally drop it. ABS is great for handling heat, and it’s great for its durability. It looks cheap, but the quality of construction is actually pretty solid. The chassis is made from black and gray ABS plastic.
Certainly small enough to setup basically anywhere, or take with you as needed. Physically speaking, it’s got a fairly small 3.4 x 0.9 x 2.3-inch build, and it weighs just under three ounces. The Avantree DAC is essentially a starter DAC aimed at people who are looking to integrate the unit into a home entertainment system. Which means the Avantree DAC isn’t going to be the right choice for just anyone, but it definitely will have a distinct appeal to a certain type of user. At least, for people who are looking for a basic DAC that’s only expected to interact with two or three other devices. Avantree DACĪvantree could be the least-known brand among this list, but their DAC is nothing if not a bargain. Gold isn’t the only metal that can be used to resist corrosion, but when it comes to audio equipment, it’s one of the best and easiest to identify. These kinds of things aren’t always easy to identify without actually handling the DAC in question.ĭepending on how long you plan on making use of your DAC, you might also want to look gold plated connection terminals. And it helps to know that your connection headers won’t fall off when placed under the slightest bit of horizontal force. But it helps to know that your equipment isn’t going to stop working the first time it gets bumped. You won’t have to ruminate too much on this criterion. Cheaper DACs will typically not be able to accommodate these formats, but it’s sometimes possible to find some affordable ones that still get you there. You may also need to look specifically for 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound support. In fact, the amplifier is what gives a speaker its own unique characteristics - you could call it a voice. Because when your audio equipment reaches a certain level, you can start to hear the difference between one amplifier and another. You’ll have to think less about whether or not 24-bit sound is supported because that’s become somewhat universal, even on the cheapest and least noteworthy DACs out there.ĭepending on the quality of your speakers or headphones, the DAC can be even more important. Typical support starts down around 32kHz sampling rates, and then pushes out towards 96kHz. You may want to pay attention to the resolution supported by the adapter. But how many of each port, and in what ratio will you find them? What kind of devices are you hoping to connect? Are you trying to connect your game console or a television? Answering those kinds of questions can help point you in the right direction. It’s also quite easy to find adapters with 3.5mm audio jacks and RCA connections. You’ll have no trouble finding DACs which provide both coaxial and optical input/output options.