SMSL
SU-9n
Best balanced DAC for audiophiles seeking a streamlined, high-fidelity desktop setup.
Elevate your audio experience with the SMSL SU-9n balanced DAC, presented in mint, like-new condition. This unit includes all original accessories and packaging, ensuring it arrives ready to impress. It offers exceptional sound quality at an accessible price, featuring convenient built-in Bluetooth and remote-controlled volume, eliminating the need for a separate preamp. Enjoy high-fidelity audio conversion with this stylish and capable DAC, perfect for enhancing your home audio setup.
$399.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
297
/ 489
#297 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-91%
Below average
Output Interface Type
XLR
/ XLR
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking pristine, low-distortion sound reproduction
- Streaming enthusiasts requiring high-resolution MQA and balanced connectivity
- Desktop users prioritizing a durable, space-saving aesthetic
Who should skip it
- Purists sensitive to potential noise from external power supplies
- Users who value seamless, responsive interface navigation
- Listeners who prefer a warmer, less clinical sound signature
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Balanced architecture delivers clean, high-resolution sound for demanding listeners.
Connectivity Versatility
Multiple digital inputs and integrated Bluetooth cover all modern streaming needs.
Build Integrity
Sturdy aluminum housing provides a premium feel and excellent component protection.
System Integration
Remote-controlled volume eliminates the need for an external preamp setup.
Sample Rate Support
Handles high-resolution files up to 768 kHz with ease.
Ease of Setup
Straightforward interface makes integrating this DAC into your desktop simple.
Key Specs
Output Interface Type
XLR
Maximum Bit Depth
Not specified
Power Source Type
USB Powered
Number of Audio Channels
Not specified
Housing Material
Aluminum
Supported Audio Formats
PCM, DSD
Signal to Noise Ratio
Not specified
Maximum Frequency Response
Not specified
Features
- Balanced DAC architecture for superior sound
- Integrated Bluetooth for wireless streaming
- Volume control via remote
- No separate preamp needed
- Mint cosmetic condition
- Includes all original accessories
- High-fidelity audio conversion
What customers say
The SMSL SU-9n earns high praise for its exceptional objective performance and value. Users consistently highlight the clean measurements and transparency delivered by the ES9038PRO chip, resulting in a detailed and accurate sound ideal for various audio systems. Its comprehensive feature set, including MQA support and robust inputs, adds significant versatility. While the technical execution is celebrated, some listeners find the presentation slightly analytical, preferring a warmer presentation. Build quality is solid for the price point. Overall, the SU-9n is recognized as a benchmark DAC, offering near flagship technical capabilities at a mid-range cost, making it a highly recommended component for performance focused listeners.
Know before you buy
Yes. Because the SU-9n features integrated volume control and a remote, you can connect it directly to a power amplifier or active speakers, effectively bypassing the need for a separate preamp.
The unit offers three primary digital inputs: USB-C for computer audio, as well as Optical (Toslink) and Coaxial for connecting devices like CD players or streamers.
Yes, the SU-9n supports both PCM and DSD formats and is capable of handling high-resolution audio with a maximum sample rate of 768 kHz.
The integrated Bluetooth allows for convenient wireless streaming from your phone or tablet. While it offers great flexibility for casual listening, a wired USB connection remains the preferred choice for critical, high-fidelity playback.
The SU-9n features balanced XLR outputs, which are ideal for reducing noise and interference when connecting to professional-grade amplifiers or high-end active monitors.
The SU-9n is designed for desktop use and is USB-powered, meaning you do not need an additional bulky power brick to get it running.
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