The Best Portable DACs for 2025

CAYLA MENGES | MOON AUDIO STAFF/JAN 15TH 2025

Portable DACs on a messenger bag outside

Get Better Audio On The Go

It's that time of year again, and we're taking a look at our top products for 2025. There's no sugarcoating what our top gear is - because it's all based on what you fine folks are getting. These are not just the top DACs of 2025, but the most popular as well, and for good reason. Portable hi-fi audio is in - because if we can take our excellent sound quality with us wherever we go - then why not, right? DACs are by far the easiest way and first step to improving your sound quality. I'll risk being a broken record on that point because we say it so much. The other thing is that you don't have to blow your entire paycheck on a piece of gear.

So how does a DAC improve your audio quality? DAC stands for Digital to Analog Converter – and they are necessary for taking the digital audio data and converting them to an analog signal which can then be outputted to a speaker or headphones so that we can hear them. Your ears can't hear data, so the DAC is an integral part of listening to music. Pretty much every consumer device on the market that has a speaker - like your phone, laptop, tablet, wireless headphones, and more - has a DAC. The problem is that these consumer devices use cheap, off-the-shelf chips that get the job done, but make some significant shortcuts when it comes to preserving the quality of your audio.

Your ears deserve better, and that's why standalone DACs ALWAYS perform better because they're designed to do one thing and one thing only: to make sure every bit of data gets efficiently converted to an analog signal so that you're getting the best sound quality. So without delay, here are our Best Portable DACs of 2025.

Mojo 2 and iFi Gryphon with Silver Dragon Cable

Best Portable DACs of 2025 (by price)

iFi GO Blu DAC/Headphone Amp

First up is the Zippo Lighter! Excuse me, I meant to say the iFi Audio GO Blu Headphone Amp/DAC. Technically smaller than a Zippo Lighter, the GO Blu is an engineering feat–squeezing in the Bluetooth, DAC, and amplifier stages completely separate from each other. At $199, the GO Blu is arguably one of the best bang-for-your-buck pieces on this list.

The GO Blu delivers great audiophile-grade sound in a small size with tons of features. You get a built-in microphone for taking calls, Bluetooth with hi-res codecs, two headphone jacks–a 4.4mm balanced and a 3.5mm single-ended–and approximately 10 hours of battery life–which is great for a full day of listening.

For the price, you really can't beat the performance, features, and functionality of the GO Blu. Now, it's not going to drive your power-hungry headphones like a dedicated headphone amp would, but it'll make your IEMs and easy-to-drive headphones SING. Not to mention it's got support for iFi Audio's sound enhancements, xBass, and xSpace, so you can tailor the sound you're looking for. Don't let the size of the GO Blu fool you, it's built to handle all of your audiophile demands.

10-hour Battery Life

Balanced and Single-Ended Headphone Jacks

iFi GO Blu DAC/Headphone Amp

_________________________________________________________________________________________

iFi Hip DAC 3

At a mere $199, this flask from the future has everything you need to pack a giant punch in your music. We're going ahead and updating this slot with the latest Hip DAC 3 that was just released at the time of publishing this guide, but the Hip DAC 2 still stands as a superb choice for those looking for a huge audio upgrade in a small package. I would have easily put the Hip DAC 3 a couple of spots up for what I thought it was worth - and iFi could rightly charge double the price for the sonic upgrade this DAC provides your listening experience. More power means more headroom with your music and better dynamics. If you’re wearing some full-sized headphones and want more meat to the music, the hip DAC 3 is a great option. With the Burr Brown chipsets you get in the iFi lineup, you’ll find a surprisingly natural and balanced tonality to the device – very little coloring, but if you want that extra bass and low end, the hip DAC can deliver. iFi’s X-Bass sound enhancement is featured here, and it’s much more prominent than it is on the Gryphon.

The size is just right for those wanting a more than capable DAC for a super-portable size. About the size of an external SSD enclosure, the Hip DAC is one of our favorite DACs on the list - primarily because it's astounding what huge sound you can get from such a tiny DAC. It's going to be a solid pick for lovers of RAP, EDM, Rock, Alternative, R&B, and much more. Excellent bass response, small size, balanced and single-ended jacks, and there's not much else you can ask for here. So Bass heads – look no further. It’s a steal at this price too.

Huge Bass and Big Sound

Balanced and Single-Ended Headphone Jacks

iFi Hip DAC 3

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Astell&Kern HC4 Hi-Fi USB-C Dual DAC Cable

The AK HC4 is the newest portable USB DAC offered by Astell&Kern. The AK HC4 continues the advantages of its highly acclaimed predecessors the HC2 and HC3, delivering even more perfected sound in various usage scenarios. With dual output — 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors, the AK HC4 is compatible with most IEMs and headphones and the AK4493S DAC delivers true high-quality Hi-Fi sound. The AK HC4 DAC supports Native DSD256 and up to 32bit/384kHz to handle any high-quality audio source, allowing you to experience the high-grade sound quality that Astell&Kern delivers. The AK HC4 supports both UAC 1.0 and 2.0 connections so users can enjoy gaming on devices like PlayStation and Switch.

Astell&Kern HC4 Hi-Fi USB-C Dual DAC Cable

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Clarus CODA Headphone Amplifier DAC

You've seen the Clarus CODA many times before in our various blogs - and it's one of the best buys you can make if you're looking for quality, detailed sound wherever you go. The CODA sports an ESS SABRE DAC - known for its strong attention to detail, clarity, and wide soundstage, and I'm personally a huge fan of the SABRE sound - and many people are. Looking like a true flash drive, the CODA has the USB type A connector attached to the chassis, complete with a cover that fits snugly over the connector. We like this design, like the RU6, because the device isn't dependent on the cable being attached - in case something were to happen with the cable, then you have a dead device, like on some dongles out there. It has a sturdy metal body, and physical volume up and down buttons that also double as filter selectors. There is no balanced option as it only has a 3.5mm headphone jack, but the form factor, sound quality, and small features make it one of the best small-form-factor USB DACs on the market.

It's plug-and-play for the most part when connecting to iOS, Android, PC, MAC, whatever. There's an included USB-A to USB-C cable so you can connect to more modern devices with USB-C jacks. Like the RU6, it'll run off the source's power, but it's also able to output about 2 Vrms which is more than enough for most headphones out there if you want to go portable. It's a more than capable USB DAC amp that would be a great fit for someone wanting a more analytical sound to their portable setup. Superb for classical, jazz, folk, and more. At just $300, the CODA might bring your USB DAC search to an end. Get it? (Like a CODA- which marks the transition to the ending of a piece of music)

Great SABRE Sound

Sturdy Construction, Physical Volume Buttons

Clarus CODA Headphone Amplifier DAC

Read the Review

_________________________________________________________________________________________

iFi GO Bar Kensei Headphone Amplifier DAC

iFi Audio has unveiled its latest innovation in portable audio, the GO Bar Kensei Ultra portable USB DAC Headphone Amplifier and preamplifier, building upon the success of its best-selling predecessor, the GO Bar. This new iteration boasts a series of upgrades, both in aesthetics and sonic performance, sure to captivate audiophiles worldwide. Departing from the aluminum alloy chassis of the original GO Bar, the GO Bar Kensei now features a meticulously crafted Japanese Stainless Steel chassis, delivering unparalleled rigidity and build quality. Setting a new standard in portable audio, the GO Bar Kensei introduces K2HD technology, a groundbreaking addition that establishes it as the world's first portable DAC Headphone Amplifier to incorporate this cutting-edge tech. This advancement ensures an exceptional level of audio quality, bringing out the finest nuances and details in your music. Complementing this technological leap, the GO Bar Kensei is equipped with an ultra-low jitter internal clock and enhanced power supply. With its formidable power and advanced features, the iFi GO Bar Kensei emerges as the ultimate high-quality portable companion for audiophiles, promising an unparalleled listening experience wherever you go. Whether you're a discerning music lover or a professional on the go, the GO Bar Kensei sets a new high-end standard in portable hifi, delivering sonic excellence in a sleek and compact package.

Dragon Cable Recommendation: we recommend pairing the Go Bar Kensei with the Black Dragon USB Cable. Our Black Dragon USB cable will bring an extraordinary amount of detail and resolution to the GO Bar Kensei. The Black Dragon USB cable is designed to transfer digital audio from your source device (like a computer, phone, tablet, or a digital audio player) to a USB-capable DAC like the Kensei. It is built to USB Audio specs.

Great Controls, Functionality

Turbo Power Mode, Hi-Res Compatibility

iFi GO Bar Kensei Headphone Amplifier DAC

_________________________________________________________________________________________

iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC

If you haven't seen it already be sure to check out our face-off A/B test that we did between the Gryphon and the Mojo 2. The Gryphon might be one of the most feature-packed DAC amps on the market, and one of the biggest advantages that it has over its main competitor is that the Gryphon has all of the features that people wanted in the Mojo 2 - but never got. Namely, Bluetooth connectivity, an OLCD screen, and a 4.4mm balanced connection option. So if those things are important to you, then it's an easy choice. The Gryphon has an amazing selection of inputs and outputs for both single-ended and balanced connections, as well as settings for high-sensitivity IEMs. It comes with the standard plethora of iFi goodies and sound enhancements, including the X-Bass and X-Space settings - and they actually do A LOT to enhance the audio quality if that's what you're looking for. Because of these sound options, the Gryphon has amazing bass response and will be a great fit for those who like a more musical presentation, or more bass response. It's superb for RAP, R&B, EDM, live music, and tons more.

Since the Mojo 2 is close in price at $650, it's a tough choice. For me the decision comes down to the type of music you listen to - and which device is going to best serve that. Also, the type of features you want. Look - both the Gryphon and Mojo 2 are some of the best audiophile devices on the market as far as we're concerned, and you can't go wrong with either. The Gryphon is a stellar DAC and headphone amplifier that uses premium components - an excellent burr brown DAC, tons of power, USB audio, hi-res Bluetooth codecs, and a dynamic and fun sound, it's hard to say anything bad about the Gryphon at all.

Insane Amount of Features and Controls

Bluetooth, OLED Screen, I/O

iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC

Read the Review

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Chord Electronics Mojo 2 DAC Headphone Amplifier

Our No. 1 seller this year was the Hugo 2, but close on its heels was the little brother - the Mojo 2. Like the Hugo, the Mojo is another DAC and amp combo, providing a smaller form factor, fewer taps, and less power, but superior portability and excellent Chord sound. It's probably equally popular due to the lower price point and still retains a lot of features that make the Hugo 2 great at the same time. The Mojo 2 is a completely refined and even more feature-rich product than the original Mojo. Mojo stands for "Mobile Joy" and is a true-reference quality mobile DAC and high-level headphone amplifier that fits in the palm of your hand. It's one of our favorite products here at Moon Audio due to its size, amazing functionality, and sound of the DAC. It's also our top-selling portable DAC ever. New to the Mojo 2 is an added button, providing more options and control in their expanded menu system. You can now effectively control individual frequency bands to cut or boost, choose multiple filters, run it in desktop mode so you don't run out the battery while being plugged in, high and low gain settings, crossfeed, and more.

Like the Hugo 2 and the 2Go, you can pair the Mojo 2 with the Poly, effectively making the Mojo act like a complete music server and streamer. The Mojo is known for its superior clarity and detail, and the Mojo 2 adds a bit more control over the bottom end if you prefer more bass presence. It also has dual 3.5mm headphone outs for simultaneous audio out if that is important to you. The Mojo 2 will excel with just about any genre out there, especially for detail freaks who like to pick out every little nuance in their music. The added bass clarity also makes it more accessible to genres like R&B and EDM too. The Mojo 2 is a tiny DAC amp with a big sound, and at $650.00, it's hard not to recommend it for just about everything.

Analytical, Hyper-detailed Sound, Clean

Lots of Control, Crossfeed, Filters

Chord Electronics Mojo 2 DAC Headphone Amplifier

Read the Review

_________________________________________________________________________________________

iFi iDSD Diablo 2 DAC Amplifier

Unleash the sheer power and performance of the iFi Audio iDSD Diablo 2 Portable DAC/Amp, the newest iteration in the Diablo series. Featuring a striking new futuristic design, the Diablo 2 portable DAC/Amp sets a new standard for the amount of power you can take with you. Engineered to sit at the top of iFi's range of mobile, portable devices, the Diablo 2 was built for purists—true headphone enthusiasts who crave pure, unadulterated sonic performance and exceptional playback.

The New Diablo 2 has an all-metal body, which is upgraded from previous generations, and returns to the diablo-red color scheme. You'll find a host of other hi-fi upgrades throughout the construction process and build quality, including a larger and more tactile volume control knob/wheel. The iFi iDSD Diablo 2 is a top-tier portable DAC/Amp that offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and sound quality, making it an excellent choice for discerning listeners who want incredible power on the move.

Tons of Power in a Portable Package

Crisp and Dynamic Sound, Resolute

iFi iDSD Diablo 2 DAC Amplifier

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Chord Electronics Hugo 2 DAC Headphone Amplifier

Our best-selling portable DAC of the year was the Hugo 2 by Chord Electronics. The Hugo 2 is one of the best-sounding DACs on the market, which is why it tops our list year after year. It's a testament to the overall quality that a product that is six years old is still the one to beat since it was released in early 2017. The nice thing about the Hugo 2 is that it also doubles as a headphone amplifier, which goes a long way to what the DAC amp can do for your sound quality. Chord uses their own proprietary FPGA and the Hugo 2 has a whopping nearly-50-thousand taps. We don't have time to get into taps, but generally speaking people consider the more taps - the better the sound (though this is not entirely the full picture). Bottom line - pristine and detailed sound. This is only topped by the Chord Hugo TT 2 and the DAVE DAC. The nice thing about the size and capability of the Hugo 2 is that it can do double duty as a desktop DAC - with plenty of processing power and amplification, it will certainly feel at home - in your home. With an average 7-hour battery life, feel free to take it with you too whenever you leave.

Feel free to pair it with the Chord 2Go to essentially make it a fully-capable music server and streamer. You can also add the Chord M Scaler for a powerful upsampling system that sounds absolutely stunning. Chord products play well also with other devices outside of their ecosystem. Chord products tend to lean more toward an analytical sound signature - bringing out extensive detail and tight bass response. It performs well with genres like classical, jazz, alternative, folk, and more. With an excellent selection of I/O, crossfeed functionality, filters, and more, the Hugo 2 is flagship-level portable fidelity. The Chord Hugo 2 has a price of $2,500, and if you're looking for the best DAC on our list, this is it.

Best-In-Class Sound Quality, Detailed/Analytical

I/O, Crossfeed, Filters, 2GO Compatibility

Chord Electronics Hugo 2 DAC Headphone Amplifier

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Related Videos

Cayla Menges

"Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing" - Benjamin Franklin

For Cayla Menges, combining her passion for writing and love for music is the perfect recipe. Cayla uses her love for storytelling and experience as a former newspaper journalist to create content that informs and resonates with music lovers and audiophiles alike. When she's not at Moon Audio, Cayla enjoys bingeing reality TV, knitting, trying her hand at new recipes, traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Moon Audio strives to provide the most relevant collection of curated audiophile products for our customers. Our reviews and product guides are designed to inform our community and share our passion for audio technology. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, we're glad you joined us.

Want more? Sign up for curated content in your inbox.

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Best Digital Audio Players of 2025: Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Audiophiles

TL;DR DAPs have captured the audiophile community as the ultimate portable companion for everyday listening, regardless of the scenario Astell&Kern... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Top Home Sound System Components for an Immersive Audio Experience

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR: A high-quality home sound system transforms music into an immersive experience, offering clarity, depth,... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Astell&Kern Launches PD10 Black Edition with Major Updates

PD10 Black Brings SP4000 Features to more DAP Users Astell&Kern has added a new Black finish to its PD10 Digital... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Astell&Kern XIO IEMs Review: The Musical Collab Audiophiles Have Been Waiting For

Read Time: Approx. 16 min. TL;DR Premium Collaboration at $3,000: A premium collaboration between Astell&Kern and 64 Audio at $3,000,... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

64 Audio IEMs Complete Guide: Best In-Ear Monitors for 2025

Read Time: Approx. 20 min. TL;DR First tubeless IEM design with proprietary TIA (Tubeless In-Ear Audio) technology for natural sound... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones Review

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR Mid-century modern aesthetic with walnut wood ear cups and radial PC-ABS grilles inspired by... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Dragon Audio Cables of 2025

The Best Dragon Audio Cables for Your Audiophile Setup Audiophiles agonize over every component in their system, but when it... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Desktop DACs, Streamers, and More of 2025

The Best Desktop DACs and Music Streamers for your Audio Setup It's that time of year again, and we're taking... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Best Digital Audio Players of 2025: Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Audiophiles

TL;DR DAPs have captured the audiophile community as the ultimate portable companion for everyday listening, regardless of the scenario Astell&Kern... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Meze Audio 99 Classics V2 Review: A More Mature, Balanced Classic

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. From Warm Fun to Balanced Precision Honoring Ten Years of Success Ten years is an... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Audio Cable Management Made Easy: 8 Pro Tips for Organization and Troubleshooting

Read Time: Approx. 16 min. Your Guide to a Cleaner Sound (and Space) Audio cable management. Not the most exciting... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Technics SL-50C Turntable Review: Audiophile Performance at an Accessible Price

Read Time: Approx. 14 min. TL;DR: Bridges the gap between cheap sub-$300 turntables and premium $1,500+ models, offering audiophile-grade performance... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

From Stands to Storage Cases: Storing Headphones & Portable Audio Gear

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. Summary: Proper storage is essential for protecting your high-end audio gear and maximizing its performance... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Desktop DACs, Streamers, and More of 2025

The Best Desktop DACs and Music Streamers for your Audio Setup It's that time of year again, and we're taking... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

What's the Purpose of a Preamplifier?

Read Time: Approx. 9 min. TL;DR Preamplifiers are always necessary: They boost weak audio signals to line level for proper... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Introducing the Suzi: Chord Electronics' Modular Amplifier System

Read Time: Approx. 9 min. TL;DR Stackable and modular design allows components to work independently or together as an integrated... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

DACs vs Amps: What's The Difference & Why You Need Both

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. TL;DR You need BOTH a DAC and an Amplifier in every audio system: DAC handles... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

From Stands to Storage Cases: Storing Headphones & Portable Audio Gear

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. Summary: Proper storage is essential for protecting your high-end audio gear and maximizing its performance... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best DACs and Amps for Audiophile-Grade Speakers

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR: Unlock your audiophile speakers' full potential with the right external DAC and amplifier. This guide... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Meze Audio 99 Classics V2 Review: A More Mature, Balanced Classic

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. From Warm Fun to Balanced Precision Honoring Ten Years of Success Ten years is an... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

DACs vs Amps: What's The Difference & Why You Need Both

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. TL;DR You need BOTH a DAC and an Amplifier in every audio system: DAC handles... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Apple Music vs Spotify: An Audiophile's Perspective

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR: Audiophiles crave more than convenience—they want uncompromised sound. This blog compares Apple Music vs Spotify... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Desktop DACs, Streamers, and More of 2025

The Best Desktop DACs and Music Streamers for your Audio Setup It's that time of year again, and we're taking... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Exploring DAC Types: A Comprehensive Guide to DAC Architecture

Read Time: Approx. 15 min. DACs Deciphered: The 3 Major Types Explained Have you ever wondered how the crystal-clear digital... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Top Home Sound System Components for an Immersive Audio Experience

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR: A high-quality home sound system transforms music into an immersive experience, offering clarity, depth,... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Aurender A1000 Music Streamer, DAC Review: Balanced Sound, Brilliant Design

Read Time: Approx. 16 min. TL;DR Multi-functional component combining a music streamer, music server, DAC, and Preamp in one unit... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Wattson Audio Amplifiers, Streamers & More

Read Time: Approx. 21 min. TL;DR Swiss-made reference-level components that deliver $20,000+ performance at under $10,000 prices Wattson Music App... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

DACs vs Amps: What's The Difference & Why You Need Both

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. TL;DR You need BOTH a DAC and an Amplifier in every audio system: DAC handles... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Desktop DACs, Streamers, and More of 2025

The Best Desktop DACs and Music Streamers for your Audio Setup It's that time of year again, and we're taking... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Vacuum Tube Maintenance & Installation Tips for Optimal Audio Quality

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. TL;DR: Know when to replace tubes: Watch for warning signs like excessive noise, blown fuses,... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Top Home Sound System Components for an Immersive Audio Experience

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR: A high-quality home sound system transforms music into an immersive experience, offering clarity, depth,... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Pass Labs HPA-1c Headphone Amp Review: The Worthy Successor to a Hi-Fi Icon

Read Time: Approx. 14 min. TL;DR Refined Evolution: Improves on the HPA-1 with an upgraded power supply and 10dB noise... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Fezz Audio Tube Amplifiers: Unmatched Performance and Value Through Revolutionary Toroidal Engineering

Read Time: Approx. 17 min. Combines traditional vacuum tube warmth with cutting-edge toroidal transformer innovation Clean, minimalist design aesthetic that... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

What's the Purpose of a Preamplifier?

Read Time: Approx. 9 min. TL;DR Preamplifiers are always necessary: They boost weak audio signals to line level for proper... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Dragon Audio Cables of 2025

The Best Dragon Audio Cables for Your Audiophile Setup Audiophiles agonize over every component in their system, but when it... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Desktop DACs, Streamers, and More of 2025

The Best Desktop DACs and Music Streamers for your Audio Setup It's that time of year again, and we're taking... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Best Digital Audio Players of 2025: Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Audiophiles

TL;DR DAPs have captured the audiophile community as the ultimate portable companion for everyday listening, regardless of the scenario Astell&Kern... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Audio Cable Management Made Easy: 8 Pro Tips for Organization and Troubleshooting

Read Time: Approx. 16 min. Your Guide to a Cleaner Sound (and Space) Audio cable management. Not the most exciting... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Exploring DAC Types: A Comprehensive Guide to DAC Architecture

Read Time: Approx. 15 min. DACs Deciphered: The 3 Major Types Explained Have you ever wondered how the crystal-clear digital... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

CDs & Vinyl: The Best Way to Listen to Music

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR: Physical media is far from dead, with vinyl growing, CDs reviving, and cassettes keeping... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

The Best Desktop DACs, Streamers, and More of 2025

The Best Desktop DACs and Music Streamers for your Audio Setup It's that time of year again, and we're taking... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

iFi OMNI LAN Audiophile Network Switch Review: Silence the Last Source of Noise in Your...

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. TL;DR: Audiophile network switch designed to eliminate noise, jitter, and electromagnetic interference in hi-fi systems... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

DACs vs Amps: What's The Difference & Why You Need Both

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. TL;DR You need BOTH a DAC and an Amplifier in every audio system: DAC handles... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

From Stands to Storage Cases: Storing Headphones & Portable Audio Gear

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. Summary: Proper storage is essential for protecting your high-end audio gear and maximizing its performance... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Apple Music vs Spotify: An Audiophile's Perspective

Read Time: Approx. 10 min. TL;DR: Audiophiles crave more than convenience—they want uncompromised sound. This blog compares Apple Music vs Spotify... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

iFi Audio iDSD Valkyrie Headphone Amp DAC Review: Power and Bold Presentation

Read Time: Approx. 15 min. TL;DR: iFi Audio's most powerful portable USB DAC Headphone Amplifier with up to 5,700mW peak... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Best Digital Audio Players of 2025: Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Audiophiles

TL;DR DAPs have captured the audiophile community as the ultimate portable companion for everyday listening, regardless of the scenario Astell&Kern... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Meze Audio 99 Classics V2 Review: A More Mature, Balanced Classic

Read Time: Approx. 12 min. From Warm Fun to Balanced Precision Honoring Ten Years of Success Ten years is an... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Astell&Kern Launches PD10 Black Edition with Major Updates

PD10 Black Brings SP4000 Features to more DAP Users Astell&Kern has added a new Black finish to its PD10 Digital... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Introducing the Suzi: Chord Electronics' Modular Amplifier System

Read Time: Approx. 9 min. TL;DR Stackable and modular design allows components to work independently or together as an integrated... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Introducing Bronze Dragon Power & Speaker Cables

Unveiling Our Latest Dragon Audio Cable Innovations Discover our newest Dragon Cable innovations, the Bronze Dragon Power Cable and Bronze Dragon... Read more

BY: CAYLA MENGES | JAN 2025

Introducing Bronze Dragon Headphone Cables

Unveiling Our Latest Dragon Audio Cable Innovation Discover our newest Dragon Cable innovation, the Bronze Dragon Headphone Cable. Featuring groundbreaking... Read more