After 2 months of problems, frustration and troubleshooting with my Pontus 2, I was offered and accepted a refund and returned it. I bought an SU-1 two days ago as I wanted something cheap to keep me listening while I researched and bought a suitable replacement DAC. As I took it out of the box, my girlfriend laughed and said it looked like a toy. I had to agree but I hooked it up and played a song we are both very familiar with. After the track finished she turned and again laughed saying she could not hear a difference between it and the Pontus. We listened to more familiar songs over the next hour and I had to agree it sounds impossibly close. There is slightly less bass on the SU-1 but the balance across the frequencies is better and a touch clearer. There is not much in it though and in a blind A/B test I doubt I could tell them apart. We keep looking at this tiny little box, powered by a spare phone charger I had and am amazed how it can sound so good. It has made me question everything I thought I knew about hifi. The SU-1 has to be the biggest hifi bargain I have ever bought.
What ? you always paid what you will listen more expensive = better sound its a law in audio , su-1 can be good but close to mojo 2 or d90 is almost tough to believe.. for years people said the same.. , what will be the business of smsl to do that little box amazing ? What will happend with the most expensive top line of smsl ? I dont belive in miracles lol...
@@clabbem74 "ou always paid what you will listen more expensive = better sound" not true, the quality you get per-dollar quickly diminishes as you go up price tiers. DACs especially have hilariously diminishing returns, SU-1 just has usually good implementation for the price.
@@G4RYWithaFour hi, yes i have tested some dacs, gustard r26, e50, su9, su9pro, mojo 2, and i can not tell you what dacs im listening .. all sound very similar with the same headphone (arya / hd600)
I immediately purchased SU-1 and tested it myself. As you explained, it is incredibly dynamic and delicate from this small body, and the grain of the sound and the spread of the sound are truly wonderful. I don't need an expensive DAC anymore. It's been a long time since I've been this excited. I'm really glad I purchased it.
Thanks, Tharbamar. Your comments on the coax performance got me to look at this DAC. Bought one, hooked it up to the coax out on my CD player. Sounds great.
I put most of my resources towards vinyl listening but have many CD. I also haven't updated my DAC in a while. I decided to try the SU 1 on your recommendation and the price is so low. I have to say you nailed it! It might be a little light on the bottom end but hey, it was 80 bucks and it sounds great! I'm listening to CDs again. Thank you so much for this review!
I just got the D12 which is essentially the same as the SU-1 plus screen minus digital inputs and it does all I need for everything audio. Amazing implementation.
Come to today, the Topping E30ii price has lowered down to only a shy higher to SMSL SU1. They run on the same chip, but E30ii has dual. What is your take on this if compared, especially on the sound impression? Or even, now they have the E30ii Lite. Any chance you already had it? Quite curious how are those compared, Thanks.
I must say that you really give very intelligent break down of product. Although i have viewed other reviews of this DAC i wanted to hear your thoughts before making a decision. I already have the Pontus 2, but i wanted something small that would not take up to much space and render better sound at for a laptop or smaller devices. Thanks for being there as someone who gives straight and honest opinions.
I intend to pick up a new mini PC in the new year and decided to order this DAC to compliment. Already have Kanto YU6 powered speakers for my desktop, which are perfectly fine for my purposes, so I'm anxious to hear the synergy between these components. For a desktop environment, I don't think anyone can go wrong with the SU-1.
I bought this Dac and put it in the garage paired with the SMSL A0100 amplifier connected to some Polk T15s. Love the inputs for the tv and cd player. It sounds great.
LOL to be honest I only bought it because it's small and cute looking. I was bored waiting for the Geshelli J2 so I bought it for fun in the mean time, then I had a bit of buyer's remorse thinking maybe I shouldn't waste money on random purchases. But now I'm glad to hear that it won't end up being any "random purchases". It's on its way to me so I'll look forward to its arrival.
@@JonMoralesLA Ops I didn't realize I haven't replied to this yet. So I end up getting impatient and canceled the order on J2. I waited 1 month then I needed the money for other purposes so I just cancelled the order. But comparing SDAC to SU-1, SU-1 is brighter and thinner sounding but slightly better imaging and soundtage. But in the end I like SDAC's more full bodied presentation more so I went back to SDAC. Will give J2 another go in the future.
My cds have been given a new life with this dac paired with my universal sony transport via the coaxial output into the dac...an absolute steal...my schiit modi is retired
This DAC beats all the expectations and this one surpasses my Sanskrit Mk-II over HS7 and NS1000 speakers played back on Yamaha PC2002m and MX-1 amp, truly the best value surprise around.
I stream Tidal via my desktop PC. I don't hear any digital noise at all between tracks. And I really tried to hear it. For me there is no need for me to keep looking the perfect DAC. Hands down, this DAC does it for me.
Hi i bought the c100 connected to cd player via coax. Psu used make differences and i get better sound through zte phone charger than using cd player usb power. Will try later with linear psu. Also Strangely i found it sounds better when lowering the sound a little with the remote. Maybe it avoids intersample distorsion. it seems that volume control is before the oversampling filter in the akm dac. I think that matters a lot to avoid intersample distorsion. Unfortunately rewiews never talks about the ability of dacs to avoid intersample distorsion. It's the most important feature considered the number of cd that are too high mastered. Also strangely for now i like filter 1 sharp linear the best. Overall the sound is very good musical and not harsh at all. Also in guitar strings i prefer smooth brass strings. Regards and enjoy.
I got 2 SU-1s and an aune X8 with Sparkos ss3602. For me, definitely X8 with Sparkos has more weight, much wider sound stage and much greater dynamic than SU-1 alone. So my SU-1s are used for my desktop and TV, not for my main listening system.
Hello...thanks for recommending this affordable gem SU-1...for $80, it is totally a breakthrough of how it performs and slaps you left and right with musical blows...in some recordings, there is a hint of sibilance in the upper registers but it makes my BW speakers grunt when playing acoustic bass recordings...for what this $80 magical DAC is doing now, a purchase of the bigger brothers SU-10 or D400EX can wait a little longer....
So I did order the DAC and it finally arrived. I'm very pleasantly surprised at the imrovement !! I wasn't sure I'd be able to hear a significant difference with my old ears, but it's definitely audible to me. Thanks again -
Why does the review state a different and improved sound using the coaxial input? Is the input on the DAC causing the difference, or the output on the CD player?
Really nice review. I love that you lijed it that much that you encouraged us to go out andxgrab one. Im streaming music from my bluesound node and this dac might be an interesting tweak to try. Would this dac be good to tame some excessive brightness on my speakers high end?
To control the brightness smoother sounding DAC can help a little but also have to look into cables and connectors if you love the speaker, also less toe-in can help and maybe put a felt ring around the tweeters would do the trick too. Thanks
@Tharbamar thanks for the reply. I was thinking about upgrading the connects on the binding post. Replacecthd cheaper metal ones with good jumpers, I've read that can help with smoothing highs. Also will look into the other things you suggested.
Really appreciate your comments and views. So interested in this DAC, but how does it compared to E30ii just only for the sound wise? Both have same small foot print and same chip, though the E30ii has dual. Since the E30ii price has came down to almost the same as the SU1, choosing either one has becoming dilemmatic. Will appreciate your views on this. Thanks.
Thank you! I just added the SU 1 to my system. Node Gen3, Yamaha CA 2010 and Acoustic Energy AE 2's. Completely transformed my listening experience. Deeper sound stage, tighter bass, explosive and focused mid-range and a treble with more clarity without excessive brightness. I thought about adding it to my Yamaha CD player and the inability to play SACD's without having to change inputs stopped me. Thank you again for a terrific review. I've ordered my 2nd one!
Thanks for the video, i got the dac from shenzenaudio and it's really good. Could you tell me where you bought the small metal supports? And also the brand, thanks.
Question- have iphone/ipad and Apple Lossless- so i have to use a DAC to get the music out to any device at high quality. There’s no other way but usb c to usb c. How do you recommend charging it or do you know any way to convert from usb to optical from iphone?
Hi EVERYONE ! Sorry for a simple question from a newbie......... please teach me on how to connect SMSL SU-1 DAC. Is this correct: from my Macbook pro thunrderbolt port to USB-C of the SU-1 (to power the DAC) then using an RCA cable..... connecting the SU-1 RCA "Singe ended line-out" to RCA-INPUT of my amplifer. Your inputs will be humbly appreciated. Thanks to ALL !
Are there of other ways to power the unit besides usb c to computer or a Music server? How to power the unit is my biggest source of confusion, but I’m ready to buy.
Great review, Tharbamar. I have a Denon pma 600ne amp with one coaxial input and two optical inputs. I use the coaxial input for my cd player, one optical input for my tv and one for my WiiM mini streamer. Since the SU1 has only one optical input, is there anyway to get around this? The only way I can think of would be to sacrifice the optical input for the WiiM and use the 3.5 to RCA instead. Is my thinking correct? Thanks.
Добрый день.Подскажи пожалуйста какое максимальное напряжение по внешнему питанию можно подавать ? Или строго 5 вольт ? Обычно на пару вольт завышают для более яркого звука ?
Hi I have question that you can answer easily as i am confused I am getting preowned Denafrips Aries 2 and the price for Topping E70 velvet from which two i should go for Regards Guru From India❤
Hi, That’s depends on paring components and your preference, sound wise it’s comparable but E70 Velvet offers better bass quality and noise control, Ares 2 will sound a bit brighter highs and great midrange. thanks
i bought it 1 week ago, and i love it!!! I bought it for 65 euro on black friday sale. Very incredible thing for this price. How did you got this foot on the dac? I have a very different smaller black silicone legs..
Amazing DAC Bro! On the Amazon page they say it DOES play DSD 768, which is well beyond SACD's. Why did you say it does not play SACD's? I play ripped SACD ISO's on my computer losslessly through my SMSL DO200 through USB, although I think it is a different type of USB. I don't see why I would not also be able to play the ISO's through this. For playing general FLAC files and Hi Res albums through my computer, and I DO have a fairly high resolution stereo setup, how would you say this unit would compare soundwise to the SMSL DO200? I'm thinking that if you feel it has at least the same sound refinement and quality, I could get this one and sell my DO200 😊Thank you!
DSD is 512, SU-1 can handle DSD files through USB but playing file and disc is different, also Coaxial and Optical cables are not compatible with native DSD, only DoP. DO200 have ESS sound and SU-1 is AKM based design, DO200 was a little more brighter sounding for me compared to SU-1. You’ll have to try it in your system to see which suits you better, thanks
Hi. Where is your coax cable connected? I am wondering how I can connect this using the coax (I am using my PC as my music source) I bought SMSL SU-1 and it arrived just now
How is the instrument seperation on this DAC. I had the Schiit Modi 3+ AKM version and the instrument seperation was terrible. The sound would smear really bad on busy tracks and it was especially noticeable when gaming.
Could I use a separate 5v power supply with a usb/c plug, as I want to use it between my CD player and Amp, I understand it requires 2.5A to get the best performance from it, but read getting the power supply from a laptop doesn't give that amount of power, I am thinking of getting one from Amazon for around £8, don't want to spend 50% of the value of the DAC on a power supply !
Благодаря Вам стал счастливым обладателем denon pma sx 11 и smsl su-1, Спасибо!! Слушаю файлы с компьютера, использую акустику Yamaha NS 1000x, скажите пожалуйста, из обозреваемых Вами DAC, что может ещё лучше подойти под этот сетап? Колонки достаточно нейтральные, звонкие и ясные. Считаю smsl su-1 не достаточно раскрывает потенциал всей системы. Хотелось бы добавить помимо улучшения общей картины звучания добавить глубины и выраженности нижнего регистра (низких частот в целом) как считаете к приобретению какого ЦАП стоит стремиться?) Больше слушаю , на небольшой громкости,инструментальную музыку, джаз, вокал,классику, люблю французский шансон и музыку 70-х,80 и 90-х!!)) Есть большая коллекция рока и прочего!!)) Спасибо, надеюсь на Вашу помощь :)
@@Tharbamar Спасибо за ответ. А если сравнивать smsl d400ex с моделями gustard, например, а26, что будет предпочтительнее в моём случае? Gustard, наверное, всё же выше уровнем? Или у них просто разное звучание?
У меня есть ещё желание убрать ноутбук из цепи звукового тракта, возможно ли это сделать используя только ЦАП у меня музыка хранится на переносном жёстком диске который подсоединяется к ноутбуку.
You cannot connect to DAC and Laptop via analog cable, it’s totally defeats the purpose of DAC. Sole purpose of DAC is Digital to Analog conversion, if you want to use inferior 3.5mm audio out from your laptop you’re going to need ADC or connect it directly to with 3.5mm to RCA conversion cable.
I want to hook this up to my TV and connect my active 2.1 system (studio monitors without remote control) but I don't see any volume control at all (not even manual). How does that work?
Great video, I will get one of these, it's a no brainer, I was thinking of getting a Raspberry Pi 4 USB-C Power supply, which has a Output voltage of 5.1V DC, 3A, would this be a good power supply to use, just wondering because I read reviews on Amazon saying it has a very steady power supply and has a noise filter built-in, just worried it's rated at 5.1v whereas the this DAC has an input of 5v, do you think that would harm the SMSL SU-1 ? Thanks.
@@briansanchez6065 No I didn't go that way in the end, I bought a separate COLN power supply from Amazon for £16, 5v 5A works absolutely fine, better than a basic adaptor for around £5, I just can't justify spending more on a power supply than the DAC cost in the first place, not such a bargain if you choose that route !
Hola, nuevo subscriptor, gracias por la Review me queda solo una duda, podría usarlo desde mi celular como fuente de música y como salida unos monitores de audio presonus eris e5?
After 2 months of problems, frustration and troubleshooting with my Pontus 2, I was offered and accepted a refund and returned it. I bought an SU-1 two days ago as I wanted something cheap to keep me listening while I researched and bought a suitable replacement DAC.
As I took it out of the box, my girlfriend laughed and said it looked like a toy. I had to agree but I hooked it up and played a song we are both very familiar with. After the track finished she turned and again laughed saying she could not hear a difference between it and the Pontus.
We listened to more familiar songs over the next hour and I had to agree it sounds impossibly close. There is slightly less bass on the SU-1 but the balance across the frequencies is better and a touch clearer. There is not much in it though and in a blind A/B test I doubt I could tell them apart.
We keep looking at this tiny little box, powered by a spare phone charger I had and am amazed how it can sound so good. It has made me question everything I thought I knew about hifi.
The SU-1 has to be the biggest hifi bargain I have ever bought.
What ? you always paid what you will listen more expensive = better sound its a law in audio , su-1 can be good but close to mojo 2 or d90 is almost tough to believe.. for years people said the same.. , what will be the business of smsl to do that little box amazing ? What will happend with the most expensive top line of smsl ? I dont belive in miracles lol...
@@clabbem74значит мы должны его проверить и послушать, Ведь цена исследования очень мала
@@clabbem74 "ou always paid what you will listen more expensive = better sound"
not true, the quality you get per-dollar quickly diminishes as you go up price tiers. DACs especially have hilariously diminishing returns, SU-1 just has usually good implementation for the price.
@@G4RYWithaFour hi, yes i have tested some dacs, gustard r26, e50, su9, su9pro, mojo 2, and i can not tell you what dacs im listening .. all sound very similar with the same headphone (arya / hd600)
Try a vintage Sansui stereo receiver... ;-)
I immediately purchased SU-1 and tested it myself.
As you explained, it is incredibly dynamic and delicate from this small body, and the grain of the sound and the spread of the sound are truly wonderful. I don't need an expensive DAC anymore. It's been a long time since I've been this excited. I'm really glad I purchased it.
Great to hear!
Based on your tip, I bought the SMSL SU-1. What can I say, the little thing plays brilliantly. Thank you for featuring the SMSL SU-1 on your channel.
Glad you like it!
Thanks, Tharbamar.
Your comments on the coax performance got me to look at this DAC. Bought one, hooked it up to the coax out on my CD player. Sounds great.
Good stuff!
Why does the input on the DAC change the sound?
Шикарный обзор, а в конце просто невероятная композиция! Процветая вашему каналу!
Can wait mine... I'll have it tomorrow. Thank you for the review..
I put most of my resources towards vinyl listening but have many CD. I also haven't updated my DAC in a while. I decided to try the SU 1 on your recommendation and the price is so low. I have to say you nailed it! It might be a little light on the bottom end but hey, it was 80 bucks and it sounds great! I'm listening to CDs again. Thank you so much for this review!
Thanks for sharing!
DAC,I know nothing about, but will purchase anyway. Time to learn. Awesome share
I just got the D12 which is essentially the same as the SU-1 plus screen minus digital inputs and it does all I need for everything audio. Amazing implementation.
Tip- look for 2nd hand qed reference optical to connect it. The increase in clarity/ dynamics is massive.
great to see that your interconnect cables are 3 times price than SMSLsu1
SU-1 DAC is best in price to sound quality than so called many high end DACs 😅
5:32
Come to today, the Topping E30ii price has lowered down to only a shy higher to SMSL SU1.
They run on the same chip, but E30ii has dual. What is your take on this if compared, especially on the sound impression?
Or even, now they have the E30ii Lite. Any chance you already had it? Quite curious how are those compared, Thanks.
My dac will be arriving today.Your recommendation on the Mogami 3104 was spot on.Added it to my system with fantastic neutral detailed results.
Great to hear!
Received the dac and another fantastic product recommendation.Still can not believe the quality running with a Rotel rcd 965bx.
Great review, thanks! Just ordered one 👍
I must say that you really give very intelligent break down of product. Although i have viewed other reviews of this DAC i wanted to hear your thoughts before making a decision. I already have the Pontus 2, but i wanted something small that would not take up to much space and render better sound at for a laptop or smaller devices. Thanks for being there as someone who gives straight and honest opinions.
@@kenrickhadley4499 Hello, did You have the chance to test it? Any thoughts compared to the Pontus?
I tested su-1 against SMSL C100, which had the same AKM chip. It was no contest. I returned the c100.
Both are same thing... C100 with Bluetooth..why did u return it? They sound the same
@@zeeshanrahman5452 su-1 is better, probably has newer circuitry and/or op amps.
Finally a real giant killer!!! Well done and congratulations SMSL!
this bots again
Nice recommendation. I think I may need to order one for myself.
i did it and i will say it was not good idea... no reasonable quality sound upgrade.
Thank you friend I ordered using your link.
Thanks Sean.
I intend to pick up a new mini PC in the new year and decided to order this DAC to compliment. Already have Kanto YU6 powered speakers for my desktop, which are perfectly fine for my purposes, so I'm anxious to hear the synergy between these components. For a desktop environment, I don't think anyone can go wrong with the SU-1.
I bought this Dac and put it in the garage paired with the SMSL A0100 amplifier connected to some Polk T15s. Love the inputs for the tv and cd player. It sounds great.
This dac is truly a giant killer and even it sounds better than my turntable
LOL to be honest I only bought it because it's small and cute looking. I was bored waiting for the Geshelli J2 so I bought it for fun in the mean time, then I had a bit of buyer's remorse thinking maybe I shouldn't waste money on random purchases. But now I'm glad to hear that it won't end up being any "random purchases". It's on its way to me so I'll look forward to its arrival.
How is it compared to the j2?
Yeah how is it compared to the Gishelli J2 ?
@@JonMoralesLA Ops I didn't realize I haven't replied to this yet. So I end up getting impatient and canceled the order on J2. I waited 1 month then I needed the money for other purposes so I just cancelled the order.
But comparing SDAC to SU-1, SU-1 is brighter and thinner sounding but slightly better imaging and soundtage. But in the end I like SDAC's more full bodied presentation more so I went back to SDAC.
Will give J2 another go in the future.
My cds have been given a new life with this dac paired with my universal sony transport via the coaxial output into the dac...an absolute steal...my schiit modi is retired
Very nice 👍
This DAC beats all the expectations and this one surpasses my Sanskrit Mk-II over HS7 and NS1000 speakers played back on Yamaha PC2002m and MX-1 amp, truly the best value surprise around.
lol
I stream Tidal via my desktop PC. I don't hear any digital noise at all between tracks. And I really tried to hear it. For me there is no need for me to keep looking the perfect DAC. Hands down, this DAC does it for me.
Digital noise is within the music not between the tracks.
@@Tharbamar I should have said "between the tracks or otherwise"... as that is what I really meant to convey. Cheers.
@@TharbamarHi Tharbaram, what is the best way to connect from Smsl Dac to integrated Amp? It is RCA / coaxial or spdif connection?
@@varmag4942 use RCA, thanks
Superb!!!
Great video. Where do you buy the feet for your different components?
Bought it, connected PC to it and to my stereo and its sound very good, goodbye CDs, now i just need tidal.
Hi i bought the c100 connected to cd player via coax. Psu used make differences and i get better sound through zte phone charger than using cd player usb power. Will try later with linear psu. Also Strangely i found it sounds better when lowering the sound a little with the remote. Maybe it avoids intersample distorsion. it seems that volume control is before the oversampling filter in the akm dac. I think that matters a lot to avoid intersample distorsion.
Unfortunately rewiews never talks about the ability of dacs to avoid intersample distorsion.
It's the most important feature considered the number of cd that are too high mastered.
Also strangely for now i like filter 1 sharp linear the best.
Overall the sound is very good musical and not harsh at all.
Also in guitar strings i prefer smooth brass strings.
Regards and enjoy.
Thanks for sharing.
I just got the smsl su 1 and i have to say its very good better than my aune x8 18th edition with the burson op amp.
I got 2 SU-1s and an aune X8 with Sparkos ss3602. For me, definitely X8 with Sparkos has more weight, much wider sound stage and much greater dynamic than SU-1 alone. So my SU-1s are used for my desktop and TV, not for my main listening system.
Thank, i will buy smsl su1
Can you review also the new loxjie D40 pro dac? And compare it with the smsl d300? I would also like to hear the Sabaj a20d (2022 version).
i just ordered trustin ur words😂
79$ i should have ordered 2 , ... mine should arrive today !
I know the Topping E70 Velvet is much pricier but since you said the su-1 is a giant killer how would you compare it to the topping E70 Velvet ?
good budget dacs usually are accurate and detailed enough for highend iem/ speakers
SMSL SU-1 or Geshelli J2S?
I do t think either one would be a bottle neck in a mid grade system.
But which one would you recommend.
Many thanks 😊
Don't know it sounds a bit shouty to me try a 0.47mF capacitor like a 0402 on the input lead cross the terminal to the dac
Just bought one to attach to my Wiim Mini. Waiting for time to test it out.
How is it? Looking to swap my chromecast audio for what you just mentioned
@@scottydog1 I like it. It has improved the mini which was, already, good. For the price, I would say go for it.
Most people will use this with optical from a music streamer (I do), and for that use you really don't wish to pay more.
Hello...thanks for recommending this affordable gem SU-1...for $80, it is totally a breakthrough of how it performs and slaps you left and right with musical blows...in some recordings, there is a hint of sibilance in the upper registers but it makes my BW speakers grunt when playing acoustic bass recordings...for what this $80 magical DAC is doing now, a purchase of the bigger brothers SU-10 or D400EX can wait a little longer....
Thanks for sharing, it’s a great little DAC for sure.
I like it.
Would you expect this DAC to be an improvement over the onboard DAC in a Yamaha AS-801? The Yamaha has a ESS Sabre ES9010K2M I believe.
Yes definitely especially in bass, vocals and depth of music will be closer to analog sound.
@@Tharbamar Thanks so much for the quick reply; will be ordering one using your link!!
So I did order the DAC and it finally arrived. I'm very pleasantly surprised at the imrovement !! I wasn't sure I'd be able to hear a significant difference with my old ears, but it's definitely audible to me. Thanks again -
Smsl SU1, topping E30ii or D10S is good, but 2023 I need proper LDAC bluetooth as cheap as posible
I have this and it is really good. Better than many other sub $200 dac.
Any idea why it has different colors for MQA? sometimes it's blue, sometimes it's green.
Why does the review state a different and improved sound using the coaxial input? Is the input on the DAC causing the difference, or the output on the CD player?
Really nice review. I love that you lijed it that much that you encouraged us to go out andxgrab one.
Im streaming music from my bluesound node and this dac might be an interesting tweak to try.
Would this dac be good to tame some excessive brightness on my speakers high end?
To control the brightness smoother sounding DAC can help a little but also have to look into cables and connectors if you love the speaker, also less toe-in can help and maybe put a felt ring around the tweeters would do the trick too. Thanks
@Tharbamar thanks for the reply. I was thinking about upgrading the connects on the binding post. Replacecthd cheaper metal ones with good jumpers, I've read that can help with smoothing highs. Also will look into the other things you suggested.
DAC I know little about them,but I'm purchasing it anyway. I need to learn. Awesome share,thank you.
@@anthonymiriello5029 Rhodium plated copper connectors work great too.
Really appreciate your comments and views. So interested in this DAC, but how does it compared to E30ii just only for the sound wise? Both have same small foot print and same chip, though the E30ii has dual. Since the E30ii price has came down to almost the same as the SU1, choosing either one has becoming dilemmatic. Will appreciate your views on this. Thanks.
Hi, E30II is a little more neutral than SU-1 if my memory serves me right, SU-1 is a bit on warmer side of neutral in sound, thank you.
@@Tharbamar Thanks for the quick feedback. It serves the curiosity well.
You've reviewed topping e70v which also has the AKM chip though different model. How would you compare it with su1?
As always you got what you paid for in sound quality.
Thanks understood.
Can you use the su-1's feet screws to attach those aftermarket feet?
Thanks:)
BTW, excellent sounding system 👍.
Brilliant review / video! I'm trying to choose between using it with mu Gen 3 Node or my Yamaha SACD player. Your thoughts? Thank you. James
It can give you totally different perspective of your system for sure but SU-1 can't handle SACD.
The rest depends on your preference, thanks
Thank you! I just added the SU 1 to my system. Node Gen3, Yamaha CA 2010 and Acoustic Energy AE 2's. Completely transformed my listening experience. Deeper sound stage, tighter bass, explosive and focused mid-range and a treble with more clarity without excessive brightness. I thought about adding it to my Yamaha CD player and the inability to play SACD's without having to change inputs stopped me. Thank you again for a terrific review. I've ordered my 2nd one!
Thanks for sharing, I'm using it everyday as well.
Thank you for this thorough review. Can you screw the tiny metal feet to the bottom of the case?
No, there is no holes to screw in, I’m just using heavy duty double sided tape. Thanks
Thanks for the video, i got the dac from shenzenaudio and it's really good. Could you tell me where you bought the small metal supports? And also the brand, thanks.
Oh those are something that I have for a while, don’t remember who made them. Thanks
Is one better off to buy this DAC and the Wiim Pro or is it a better decision to choose an Argon Solo? 🤔
Yep that’ll be real giant killer combination for music streaming.
How does it sound compared to Topping E70 Velvet?
Question- have iphone/ipad and Apple Lossless- so i have to use a DAC to get the music out to any device at high quality. There’s no other way but usb c to usb c. How do you recommend charging it or do you know any way to convert from usb to optical from iphone?
The SMSL10 mkiii also has the
4493s dac. Does this sound similar to the mkiii? Thxs.
Эту музыку я хорошо знаю и она звучит действительно Великолепно с этим DAC
Can someone tell me how I could hook this DAC up to a home theater receiver?
Many thanks 👍🏻
Yes you can with RCA cable but most HT receivers already have DAC inside.
Hi EVERYONE ! Sorry for a simple question from a newbie......... please teach me on how to connect SMSL SU-1 DAC. Is this correct: from my Macbook pro thunrderbolt port to USB-C of the SU-1 (to power the DAC) then using an RCA cable..... connecting the SU-1 RCA "Singe ended line-out" to RCA-INPUT of my amplifer. Your inputs will be humbly appreciated. Thanks to ALL !
Yes that is correct connection.
@@Tharbamar Thanks so much for your time Sir ;-)
What is the power supply do you use for your audio test? Thanks
Just USB-C cable from Laptop or Music Server.
Are there of other ways to power the unit besides usb c to computer or a Music server? How to power the unit is my biggest source of confusion, but I’m ready to buy.
Hello. What kind of power can be supplied to SMSL - SU1? 6 volts 2A is possible?
Great review, Tharbamar. I have a Denon pma 600ne amp with one coaxial input and two optical inputs. I use the coaxial input for my cd player, one optical input for my tv and one for my WiiM mini streamer. Since the SU1 has only one optical input, is there anyway to get around this? The only way I can think of would be to sacrifice the optical input for the WiiM and use the 3.5 to RCA instead. Is my thinking correct? Thanks.
SU-1 is going to sound a bit better than 600NE built-in DAC, for the Optical connection you can use TOS splitter.
That'll be another option. Thanks
@@Tharbamar Great, thank you.
Добрый день.Подскажи пожалуйста какое максимальное напряжение по внешнему питанию можно подавать ? Или строго 5 вольт ? Обычно на пару вольт завышают для более яркого звука ?
Can you please list a link for your audiotechnica coaxial cable??
They are out of production.
Is this driverless? Can I use this for streamers, specifically the IFI ZEN STREAM using the USB input?
In my system with Mac it is driverless.
Saludos desde México
Hola 👋
Hola, saludos también desde el Estado de México. Has tenido la oportunidad de probar este DAC?
@@zombielandiii2711 si efectivamente ya lo compre ya tengo como 7 meses con el
Hi
I have question that you can answer easily as i am confused
I am getting preowned Denafrips Aries 2 and the price for Topping E70 velvet from which two i should go for
Regards
Guru
From India❤
Hi, That’s depends on paring components and your preference, sound wise it’s comparable but E70 Velvet offers better bass quality and noise control, Ares 2 will sound a bit brighter highs and great midrange. thanks
i bought it 1 week ago, and i love it!!! I bought it for 65 euro on black friday sale. Very incredible thing for this price. How did you got this foot on the dac? I have a very different smaller black silicone legs..
Thanks, Tharbamar for your excellent analysis. I would like to know if I can connect my tube headphone pre-amplifier to this Dac. Thanks
Yes, you can with RCA cables, thanks
Where is it better to connect it to the optical or coaxial output? Thank you very much for answering me, best regards
How to properly connect SMLS SU-1? Arcieņi Dzintars.
Hi. Can I use the optical or coaxial as output instead of the rca? I'm kinda confused what to do with optical/coaxial connection.
Hi, optical and coaxial is for digital input to the DAC from other devices with same outputs, RCA is analog out only, hope this helps. Thanks
Amazing DAC Bro! On the Amazon page they say it DOES play DSD 768, which is well beyond SACD's. Why did you say it does not play SACD's? I play ripped SACD ISO's on my computer losslessly through my SMSL DO200 through USB, although I think it is a different type of USB. I don't see why I would not also be able to play the ISO's through this.
For playing general FLAC files and Hi Res albums through my computer, and I DO have a fairly high resolution stereo setup, how would you say this unit would compare soundwise to the SMSL DO200? I'm thinking that if you feel it has at least the same sound refinement and quality, I could get this one and sell my DO200 😊Thank you!
DSD is 512, SU-1 can handle DSD files through USB but playing file and disc is different, also Coaxial and Optical cables are not compatible with native DSD, only DoP.
DO200 have ESS sound and SU-1 is AKM based design, DO200 was a little more brighter sounding for me compared to SU-1.
You’ll have to try it in your system to see which suits you better, thanks
@@Tharbamar Thank you sir!
Hi. Where is your coax cable connected?
I am wondering how I can connect this using the coax (I am using my PC as my music source)
I bought SMSL SU-1 and it arrived just now
How is the instrument seperation on this DAC. I had the Schiit Modi 3+ AKM version and the instrument seperation was terrible. The sound would smear really bad on busy tracks and it was especially noticeable when gaming.
It’s very very good for the price in my system, thanks
@@Tharbamar Ok I'll give it a try. It seems like a good little back up DAC. Thanks 👍
just ditch mqa and make it 50 dollars. or swap mqa for a remote or trigger in/ out.
Could I use a separate 5v power supply with a usb/c plug, as I want to use it between my CD player and Amp, I understand it requires 2.5A to get the best performance from it, but read getting the power supply from a laptop doesn't give that amount of power, I am thinking of getting one from Amazon for around £8, don't want to spend 50% of the value of the DAC on a power supply !
Yes you can it should not be any problem.
Will be the power status and selected source restored after device full repowering (by power supply reattaching to power outlet)?
Thank you
Благодаря Вам стал счастливым обладателем denon pma sx 11 и smsl su-1, Спасибо!! Слушаю файлы с компьютера, использую акустику Yamaha NS 1000x, скажите пожалуйста, из обозреваемых Вами DAC, что может ещё лучше подойти под этот сетап? Колонки достаточно нейтральные, звонкие и ясные. Считаю smsl su-1 не достаточно раскрывает потенциал всей системы. Хотелось бы добавить помимо улучшения общей картины звучания добавить глубины и выраженности нижнего регистра (низких частот в целом) как считаете к приобретению какого ЦАП стоит стремиться?) Больше слушаю , на небольшой громкости,инструментальную музыку, джаз, вокал,классику, люблю французский шансон и музыку 70-х,80 и 90-х!!)) Есть большая коллекция рока и прочего!!)) Спасибо, надеюсь на Вашу помощь :)
Hi, I would suggest you to try SMSL D400EX for significant improvements, thanks
@@Tharbamar Спасибо за ответ. А если сравнивать smsl d400ex с моделями gustard, например, а26, что будет предпочтительнее в моём случае? Gustard, наверное, всё же выше уровнем? Или у них просто разное звучание?
У меня есть ещё желание убрать ноутбук из цепи звукового тракта, возможно ли это сделать используя только ЦАП у меня музыка хранится на переносном жёстком диске который подсоединяется к ноутбуку.
is it working through the bluetooth?any sound difference?Or DAC should be connected through the wire to the phone?thanks
I do not use Bluetooth for music listening.
Hi how does the topping dx3 pro compares to this dac?
As always sound is subjective but performance is as good as DX-3 Pro + but less features, thanks
What does DAC does it compare to that is at a higher price in your opinion?
I cannot put names publicly.
What Dac do you recommend for upgrading the Argon Solo streamer sound in range of 300-400$ ?
SMSL D300 is great one come to mind.
@@Tharbamar thanks Man, i really enjoying your videos! Keep going
@@Tharbamaris D300 as good as Ares 2?
@Sean B Sound is subjective but overall noise performance and price to sound quality D300 is better choice.
How does compare to Loxjie d30
I want to use this dac with my laptop. I won't use usb. What kind of 3.5mm to RCA coaxial cable do I need? Digital? Thanks
You cannot connect to DAC and Laptop via analog cable, it’s totally defeats the purpose of DAC. Sole purpose of DAC is Digital to Analog conversion, if you want to use inferior 3.5mm audio out from your laptop you’re going to need ADC or connect it directly to with 3.5mm to RCA conversion cable.
I want to hook this up to my TV and connect my active 2.1 system (studio monitors without remote control) but I don't see any volume control at all (not even manual). How does that work?
it's a DAC only no volume control, you have to use vol. control from active system.
Wou;d dac work well with spotify?
It should work great.
Whats the best way to power this dac i heard that can make quite a difference?
Could you tell us Which usb cable power supply you used for this DAC please ?
Sorry it's been a while, please see in video description.
Is the coax jack on the back an input or output connection?
It’s for Input.
Great video, I will get one of these, it's a no brainer, I was thinking of getting a Raspberry Pi 4 USB-C Power supply, which has a Output voltage of 5.1V DC, 3A, would this be a good power supply to use, just wondering because I read reviews on Amazon saying it has a very steady power supply and has a noise filter built-in, just worried it's rated at 5.1v whereas the this DAC has an input of 5v, do you think that would harm the SMSL SU-1 ? Thanks.
Have you tried this with any success?
@@briansanchez6065 No I didn't go that way in the end, I bought a separate COLN power supply from Amazon for £16, 5v 5A works absolutely fine, better than a basic adaptor for around £5, I just can't justify spending more on a power supply than the DAC cost in the first place, not such a bargain if you choose that route !
@@gigabyte2573 Nice, would you mind shooting the link so I can get a better idea? Much appreciated
Now which is better in terms of sound? The topping e50 or this smsl su1?
Hi,I am newbie can I connect this on my old yamaha reciever?Thanks
Yes it can be use as DAC for any receiver with RCA input.
Hola, nuevo subscriptor, gracias por la Review me queda solo una duda, podría usarlo desde mi celular como fuente de música y como salida unos monitores de audio presonus eris e5?
Sorry not tested with cell phone.
How long is the included USB cable?
Сколько вольт надо подать на usb?
SMSL SU-1 es compatible con Android?
Hey will this work with WiiM pro using my iPad? Will I have volume control on my iPad?
It will not because there is no volume control on digital outs of WiiM Pro.
hello can I ask if you think it is better than the topping e50? Tank you
I wouldn’t say better but more engaging to enjoy the music for me.
This or the topping e30 ii?