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Top 6 Best USB DAC Under $200
In today’s era, where technology is progressing in leaps and bounds, buying a DAC seems a child’s play. Dozens of brands and companies are working on improvising their products to fit as per the demands and needs of the users.
Even the new players in the market are effortlessly developing different lines of products each catering to different needs of the users. Though, there are endless options available to pick from, one should be very clear and transparent regarding his expectations from a DAC.
In today’s era, where technology is progressing in leaps and bounds, buying a DAC seems a child’s play. Dozens of brands and companies are working on improvising their products to fit as per the demands and needs of the users.
Even the new players in the market are effortlessly developing different lines of products each catering to different needs of the users. Though, there are endless options available to pick from, one should be very clear and transparent regarding his expectations from a DAC.
Factors For Selecting Best USB DAC
There are several varieties and forms of DACS each with its own set of features. We have narrowed down some basic factors that would be of immense help while deciding to settle for a DAC-
Sound Quality
For most of the music lovers, upgrading their music system comes as an easy option to improvise the sound quality. However, the up gradation alone may not always deliver an audio that is expected from the music system. This is where a DAC comes in to the picture. When connected with the desktop or mobile phone it adds a noticeable change in the audio quality making it more enriching and enticing.
Size
The size of the DAC is as much important as any other aspect of the device. There are devices that are as much as the size of geometry box where as some of the devices are tiny and small like a USB stick. If the main purpose of the DAC is just sound quality then size should not be a constraint.
However, if you need a more portable and compact sized device, then it is best to settle for a DAC with small build and construction. The size of the device does not impact the overall performance of the DAC. Many popular DACs with compact sizes are popular for their exquisite features namely, dragonfly and microstreamer.
Price
Best things comes in small packages-the saying is self-explanatory. Though price is an important factor to consider, it is not always necessary that a higher priced product may deliver up to one’s expectations.
It is very commonly seen that a lesser priced products deliver every bit of a service that an expensive and branded product is capable of imparting. At times, a product delivers way more than its value. The bottom line is that there are multiple products and devices with equally good components available within the budget that suits your pocket.
Some of the best DACs within the price range of $200 have been sorted below –
Top 6 Best USB DAC Under 200 Dollars
AudioQuest – DragonFly
Description
Though, Audio quest is majorly known for developing cables, it is one of the companies that took the market by storm with the advent of their USB DAC.
It is easy to connect this USB DAC with any other device that comes with a USB port. This small tiny device works wonder with its 3.5 mm output jack at the end and facilitates an easy connection with your speakers or headphones for a great sound experience.
The construction of the dragon fly is small and compact. Due to its tiny and petite structure, they don’t occupy much space and it is very convenient to carry them in pocket. The designing of the DragonFly is pretty impressive too as the overall build has a smooth matte finish coated with black color which gives a soft hand feeling. The embedded DragonFly logo is another great feature to note as it changes colors in accordance with the type of file being used.
Key Features:
This versatile DragonFly DAC measures 12 mm in height and is 19 mm wide. The previous versions of Audioquest’s DAC were pretty impressive too. However, their compatibility was limited with computers only. The enhanced variant of Audioquest, DragonFly V1.2 is the most raved version amongst all the music lovers and audiophiles as it facilitates compatibility with most android and apple devices with the help of a simple adapter.
Similar to the previous DAC version, DragonFly V2.1 provides the same functionality and is capable of managing and handling file resolutions of up to 24-bit/96 KHZ. Moreover, the proper functioning does not even requires installation of any additional drivers.
As far as sound quality is concerned, the current version of Audio quest is more than a pretty face. The sonic quality is absolutely exemplary in terms of clarity and resonance. The supple and swift timing of the audio with noticeable defined low is very admirable. DragonFly DAC makes a perfect choice for all those who look for abundance of energy accompanied by a powerful sound.
However, there were few things that still call for an improvement including the vocal and instrument quality. DragonFly V1.2 seemed a little dull in comparison to the original as the voices were not placed accurately on the soundstage. The individual voices were not demarcated the way they should have been. The pacing and cadence appeared to suffer the most as the instruments were not in line with the music. Overall, the sonic quality works in a mediocre way in fulfilling its purpose of making people groove.
The stunning new model of Audioquest is equipped with 32-bit ESS Sabre which emanates a more natural and detailed sound quality. Besides that, the black model produces a sound power output of 1.2 volts and can conveniently drive almost every form of headphones.
The red model produces even higher output volt of 2.1 which unlocks compatibility with models consuming more power. This astounding DAC works reasonably with apple and android to play audio on desktop, smartphone, tablet, laptop, stereo and other similar devices.
Dragonfly is incorporated with different set of 32-bit ESS sabre DAC chips in Black and red colored DAC. The black DAC is equipped with 9010 model whereas the red one has a better quality model of 9016. The analog volume functionality and headphone amplification is same as the original one with the black DAC. However, the red DAC uses latest digital volume control and ESS headphone that lies on its chip itself.
PROS
- Compact design with impressive construction.
- Swift timing on the soundstage.
- Portable device.
- Improves detailing and transparency.
CONS
- The vocal and instruments were not in sync with soundstage.
Audioengine D1 24-bit Digital-to-Analog Converter
Description:
As the name reveals, Audio engine’s D1 is a 24 bit digital to analog converter with sleek designing and sturdy construction. The build quality of the product is admirable and does not look cheap. The front panel does not contain a lot of functional detailing and is very simple and plain.
It consists of a round knob as a single volume controller and a headphone connector for easy plug-in/plug-out facility. The white LED button lights up stating that continuous power is sent from USB interface to the DAC. No external power supplies or batteries are required for this setup.
Analog output connections available at the back of the box are connected with premium quality gold plated RCA. There is also a space for connecting digital optical to slink input right next to the RCA. The next feature is the USB connection. Since, D1 does not rely on any battery or dedicated adapter, the usb port acts as an interface between a music device and a desktop to transform digital audio to analog.
The connection between DAC and the PC/Mac is established easily via a cable that is included with the DAC. The D1 creates an excellent interface between the desktop and the sound system without having any need to install external sound card or software.
Key Features:
D1 was engineered with an aim to provide a more natural and clearer audio quality. The volume knob was pretty convenient to use and adjust volume levels. Sound delivered directly from the Mac lacked at so many levels. On the contrary, D1 significantly improves the sound quality which is much clearer, less compressed and highly noticeable.
Certain musical cues and prompts could also be noticed in the music which is rare to find even after extreme observation. D1 is capable of playing all level of sounds beautifully without any requirement for an extra sound card.
Its inbuilt headphone amp/pre-amp is worth mentioning owing to its quality driven performance. It does a mind blowing job and emanates an absolutely flawless sound quality. This headphone amp is powered by the USB and does one heck of a job in handling headphones with relatively low impedance drivers quite easily. With its Digital and USB input connections, D1 can receive input not just from the computers but also from TV, DVD BlueRay player or CD player.
Audio engine’s D1 is perfectly capable of streaming digital audio of up to 24 bits up to a sample rate of 192 KHz. This aspect improvised the sound quality to an unimaginable level and makes D1 a perfect choice for every audiophile satisfying even the trickiest demands.
As far as the set and installation is concerned, D1 does not call for installation of any additional or specialized software. The output connection behind the box needs to be connected with an audio device whereas the power is backed up by the USB port connection.
Over all, the Audio engine’s D1 DAC is an ultimate performer. It perfectly serves the purpose of being portable and improvising the audio quality which most of the expensive brands fails to deliver.
PROS
- Portable designing is a plus.
- Setup is very convenient and does not involve any installation of extra software.
- Sound quality is very natural and clear with noticeable difference.
- Integrated headphone amp can handle headphones with low impedance very easily
- Streams digital audio up to 24 bits/192 KHz.
CONS
- Fails to power higher impedance headphones.
Creative Sound Blaster E5
Description:
“Creative Sound Blaster E5”, the name itself reveals a lot about the DAC as it combines ‘sound’ and ‘blaster’ together. E5 is not the first DAC produced by ‘Creative’, there have been earlier variants including E1 and E3 and both took the market by storm. However, E5 is the new and better version than the previous ones and most popular among audiophiles and gamers.
When it comes to DACs and headphone amplifiers, the cost may range from hundreds and rise higher to a thousand bucks. Every audiophile may yearn for a device like that however such devices are way too expensive. SB E5 is exactly the device that satisfies the needs for a music lover as well as a gamer.
SB E5 is a portable rectangular box with beautiful black matte finish all over its body. The device has been designed in a way that support its easy placement on the desktop as well as a connection via USB. There is also a resting stand in case you wish to place the DAC in an angles manner before you. The features are clearly displayed on the front and rear view of the device.
The DAC has integrated dual microphone with 3.5 mm headphone jack on the front rear. The microphones can be used together or one at a time as per the user’s convenience. The huge knob in the middle of the device is used for controlling the volume levels. Pressing the knob will mute the device and unmute it if pressed again.
Key Features:
The rear side of the box also has some audio output connectors including a line out and an optical out jack of 3.5 mm each, a micro USB and a Type-A USB (host) for charging and streaming purposes. The side of the box clearly displays the power button, SBX button and a gain switch. Apart from turning on/off the device, the power button also serves the purpose of pairing the device.
The SBX button is responsible for adding effects to the sound best suited for gaming or movies. The gain switch can be adjusted as per the impedance of the headphone. For headphones with lower impedance, the gain switch is adjusted to a lower level whereas for a headphone with higher impedance, a high gain is used.
DAC is equipped with SNR (signal to noise ratio) of 120 DB that can easily handle and support files up to 24-bit at sample rate of 192 KHz. The device unlocks multiple customization options and settings by a simple software installation from the company’s website. Versatile choices available through presets and EQ settings allow a user to make changes to the sound the way he wants.
It is very easy to connect the DAC with the PC/desktop. It only takes a USB connectivity to link the device with the desktop. A bright white light in the middle of the box indicates that the device is turned on.
SB E5 can also be linked via Bluetooth and does not include any kind of hassle. Press the power button on the SB E5 till the LED turns blue which indicates a successful connection. A white colored LED light means that the Bluetooth connection has been disconnected.
Since the device works well for both gamers and music lovers, the sound quality imparted by the device is well balanced and does not include too much of bass. Though, the DAC offers plenty of options to adjust the sound as per user’s requirement, it offers an articulated and warm audio without any effects.
Being equipped with immense powerful sound techniques, Creative Sound Blaster E5 has been successful in impressing the gamers and audiophiles in a same manner. Most of the expensive DAC device doesn’t even include a Bluetooth compatibility, integrated microphone or NFC, but SB E5 has it all with an incredible sound quality to deliver.
PROS
- High end plastic cover build with portable design.
- Built in microphone and Bluetooth feature.
- Sound quality is impeccable.
- EQ setting and presets available for sound enhancement.
CONS
- None so far.
Nuforce uDAC 5 High Resolution Mobile DAC
Description:
Every audiophile in the world crave for the best audio quality and does all that needs to be done within his efforts to achieve the desired quality. Upgrading headphones and installing latest speakers is very common for them.
Though upgrading the speakers/headphones may improve the audio quality a bit, they would still not be able to experience a whole lot of things their system is capable of delivering. It takes a high functioning DAC to unleash the audio quality and effects that a music lover rave for.
Nuforce Udac 5 is that significant device that brings the most out of your desktop once connected. People tend to judge the performance of the device considering its small and tiny build. Being small in construction, the device is portable enough to fit in a palm fist. Metal designing imparts an attractive grace to the device.
It weighs only 3.53 ounces with dimensions measuring 2.68 inches wide, 0.83 inches high and 1.77 inches deep. The device poses no placement problem and is very easy to carry from one place to another.
Nuforce Udac 5 accommodates a hyper stream ESS SABRE chip which is known to support every kind of music format including WAV, DSD, FLAC and ALAC. It has an amazing capacity of handling as much as 384 KHz of DSD files at a sample rate of DSD256. It is impressive to find that UDAC 5 is capable of handling file format at a better sample rate than most of the studio recordings.
The front rear of the DAC has a headphone jack of 3.5 mm with a volume controller.
Key Features:
Connecting headphones with the device is pretty simple with the 3.5 mm audio connector. Being equipped with a high performing headphone amp, UDAC 5 emanates 140 Mw at 32 ohms. This facilitates both in-ear and on- ear headphones to drive very conveniently. DAC offers other different ways of connectivity, RCA, being the most common form. These analogues and digital outputs support building a high resolution connection between amplifiers and headphones.
The audio quality aspect of the DAC is the most fascinating and significant of all other aspects. The sound delivery is exquisitely distinctive and simply unbelievable. All the minute details and tones of the sound which were invisible before were detailed and highlighted.
The sound performance was very much noticeable and took the quality to different realms of pleasure. However, there are few things to be noted before making a perception. The sound quality tends to differ depending on the quality of headphones used.
If the device is paired up with a right set of headphones, it can extend the audio quality beyond expectations. Overall the sound accentuated by the device depicted a clear bass with defined mids and highs. Audio performance of DSD files too deserves applause for their flawless sound quality. Emphasis was laid on the instrumental details which retained consistency in the sound stage.
Though overall performance of this beauty is remarkable, there were few drawbacks they were noticed in the sound quality which are worth mentioning. The audio seem to lack clarity when streaming a low quality audio file. So, a little attention needs to be paid while screening a track with low audio quality.
The DAC does not require any external source for power and used USB type B cable to serve the purpose. The DAC drives it power from the desktop itself via the USB connection at 5V/2A, thereby, making it not compatible with mobile phones. Though the chip equipped in the DAC is compatible with mobiles, it may not get power enough to function with phones.
For all it does, NuForceUdac is every bit as good as any other expensive headphone amp. The fact that this small, portable device can support any musical file format makes it stand aside from the crowd. Not to mention, the sound quality is worth appreciating being able to highlight very small and invisible details of the music.
PROS
- Small and portable construction is convenient to carry the device.
- Sound quality is fairly nice.
- Supports all kind of music file format.
- No external device required for power supply.
CONS
- Does not get enough power from mobile phones hence not compatible with them.
- Sound quality dips while screening a low audio quality track.
HRT – MicroStreamer
Description:
HRT-Microstreamer is yet another name that has recently emerged among other DACs product which are known both for their cost-efficiency and quality. The device might make people skeptical of its performance at first owing to its very small build.
Light weight engineering and striking tiny exterior of this product makes it very handy and manageable. It can be easily carried in a pocket and is not prone to damages if cut loose in a bag pack. Moreover, the aluminum designing of the device imparts a sturdy appearance. The length of the DAC measures 6.3cm with 3.04 cm width that resembles more like a USB stick.
It supports USB connectivity through a USB cable which serves both the purpose of carrying audio signal and power to the DAC. The Led lights at the sides of the DAC neatly display level of sample rates the micro streamer supports. The device has a stereo output as well as a variable output headphone connecter of 1/8th inch.
Key Features:
Volume control is handled by a digital analogue volume control on the host desktop that manages internal volume control of microstreamer. This attenuation supports clear and jitter free flow of audio quality. It has a resolution that is capable of 24-bit/96K. The device works well for a variety of headphones and delivers quite a performance.
Being accommodated with standard audio class 1.0 drivers, the setup of the device is pretty simple. It takes the USB cable to connect the device with the desktop via its USB port. Besides a desktop, the DAC facilitates a hassle free connection other devices including iPod and iPhone.
The DAC is compatible with almost all iOS devices with a help of a right adapter. It plays almost all music file formats including ALAC and FLAC imparting a magnificent audio quality. The product is undoubtedly a sensational one emanating a top notch sound performance that stands second to none.
The DAC has proven its ability to function well with all types of headphones including HD800 and LCD-X. The bass and midrange of the audio quality was impeccable delivering very good presence to the sound stage. The voices were crisp and were full of warmth and depth. The rarely visible musical cues and instrumental details were neatly discernible and pleasant.
DAC did not disappoint with its treble performance as there were no signs of muddiness noted. The overall audio was full of energy and instruments were in line with the music played. The tones were natural full of clarity and resonance. The audio performance of the DAC definitely leaves an everlasting impression imparting a beautiful and soothing vibe to the music.
The product is clearly a stunner with its exemplary audio performance. The DAC gets more admirable as it has a very low distortion. The high gain switch delivers a power output of 2.25 V making this device perfect for screening audio. Though there are similar DACs in the market, the unbelievable sound quality of the Microstreamer has certainly raised the quality bar.
Everything about the product is par with excellence, specially the audio quality. The product has very well justified its rising popularity not just among the audiophiles but with all of its users.
PROS
- Small and sturdy construction with elegant aluminum housing.
- Portable and easy to carry device.
- Sound quality has a right bass audio with natural tones.
- Musical instrument was in sync with the sound.
CONS
- None to be noted. Device serves the best at the price it is available.
iFi Nano iDSD DAC
Description:
iFi Nano iDSD DAC has managed to bag a place in the list of some remarkable DACs. iFi has a reputation of building budget friendly and compact devices that gained impeccable popularity overtime. Its previous components took the market by storm and mark a place for themselves with their unbelievable features.
Its new range has been launched with a profound focus on developing a more portable device. So, if you are planning to improvise the audio quality of your speakers and headphones, iFi’s Nano iDSD DAC can do one heck of a job in bringing out the best from your sound system.
iDSD DAC is a small rectangular box of a solid construction with graceful aluminum finish all over the build. The device is 87 mm long with a width of 68 mm and a height of 28 mm. Owing to its minimal weight of 162 gms; the device successfully stands by its claim for being portable enough to carry conveniently.
The front view of the DAC has a headphone audio connector of 3.5 mm, a set of RCA analog output and a volume knob to adjust the sound level of the DAC. This DAC uses a single volume control for all the components of the device. The back of the box features a SPDIF coaxial digital output which can be used for A/V receivers, Apple TV and 4K TV’s imparting a high performance sound.
There is an arrangement of several multi-colored LED lights at the very top of the box which indicates changes in sampling rate with different colors. For instance, a green colored LED light will indicate a sampling rate of 44/48 kHz while a blue colored LED light will point towards a sampling rate of 2.8/3.1 kHz. Moreover, the LED light will also alert the user in case on low battery and weak connection.
Key Features:
iDSD DAC accommodates a powerful lithium-polymer battery with 1400 MAH which provides a playback life of up to 10 hours. Besides, battery power, iDSD is also powered by USB. The device drives it power directly from the desktop by connecting the device to one of the USB port of the desktop.
The device needs to be charged continuously if the source of power is extracted from the battery. However, it is very convenient and hassle free to charge the battery for continuous usage. The charging process just requires a connection between the device and the desktop. It takes a maximum of 2 to 3 hours for the device to get completely charged from the scratch.
The dual power function of the DAC facilitates compatibility with other devices including tablets which cannot supply power when connected with USB. The device is equipped with Burr-Brown DAC chipset that can natively handle all kinds of digital formats including PCM ranging from 16/44 kHz up to 32/384 kHz, DXD up to 384 kHz along with single/double rate DSD. The entire package of iFi Nano iDSD DAC comes with the DAC, a USB cable, a set of RCAs and small travel pouch.
The amazing stunner continuous to amaze it’s users with its brilliant, astounding and enriched audio quality. The sound is full of bass and sparkling highs with subtle and relaxed tones. iDSD successfully managed to impart a soothing and relaxed tone to the music thereby balancing the instrumental music in the audio too.
As far as transparency is concerned, this DAC performer manages to perform a pretty decent job. Although, the overall sound quality was at par with the expectations there were few limitations to the device.
The sound quality of the device may differ with different form and types of the headphones used. For instance, the DAC may impart an everlasting sound experience if connected with a headphone with high sensitivity and resolution. However, the sound quality may dip significantly if the resolution and tonal balance of the headphone is below average.
PROS
- Amazing sound quality with soothing and relaxed tones.
- Aluminum designing and a solid construction imparts a graceful charm to the design.
- Power supply via USB as well as batter is a huge plus.
- Makes the device compatible with tablets too.
CONS
- Sound quality depends on the type of headphones used. A headphone with low resolution may result in imparting significantly less audio performance.
Conclusion :
There was a time when DACs were too expensive and were used by a limited segment of people. However, with progression in technology and cost efficient products, DACs are within the reach of every sector of the society. The advancement has resulted in better quality DACs at fairly low prices.
Some of the most popular and quality –driven devices are available at extremely reasonable rates imparting both cost efficiency and unbelievable quality. Sound quality is not everything a user looks for in a product. A device should be compatible enough to pose no problem in carrying it.
DACs such as dragonfly and microstreamer are very tiny in construction and can easily be contained in the palm of the hand. There are many other products listed that cater to different needs of the users. It just take a careful exploration within right set of devices to get the one that is best suited.
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