SMSL
SU-9
Best high-fidelity DAC for audiophiles seeking pristine, detailed sound reproduction.
Elevate your audio experience with the SMSL SU-9, a high-performance DAC designed for discerning listeners. It utilizes the flagship ES9038PRO chip to deliver exceptional clarity and detail across a wide array of high-resolution formats, including MQA, LDAC, DSD512, and PCM up to 768KHz/32Bit. Integrated Bluetooth 5.0 provides seamless wireless streaming. The SU-9 offers professional-grade sound reproduction, making it an ideal choice to enhance your home audio system with pristine, detailed sound.
$459.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
240
/ 489
#240 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-89%
Below average
Model
9
/ SU-
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity clarity and precise sound resolution
- Modern listeners needing versatile connectivity and high-resolution streaming support
- Users who value effortless navigation and clear visual feedback
Who should skip it
- Listeners preferring a warmer, more colored musical presentation
- Owners who dislike troubleshooting occasional software or display glitches
- Purists demanding the absolute lowest noise floor for sensitive systems
Performance breakdown
Signal Fidelity
The ES9038PRO chip delivers industry-leading clarity and near-zero harmonic distortion.
Format Versatility
Comprehensive support for MQA, DSD512, and high-res PCM covers every audiophile need.
Wireless Connectivity
LDAC and Bluetooth 5.0 ensure high-fidelity streaming without the tethered cables.
Dynamic Range
Exceptional 130dB range provides deep, expansive soundscapes for critical listening sessions.
Build Quality
Sturdy desktop form factor feels premium and built for long-term reliability.
Interface Intuition
The included remote simplifies navigation, though the menu system requires minor learning.
Key Specs
Model
SU-9
Type
Digital to Analog Converter (DAC)
DAC Chip
ES9038PRO
Supported Formats
MQA, LDAC, DSD512, PCM 768KHz/32Bit
Bluetooth Version
5.0
Bluetooth Codecs
LDAC, APTX/ HD, SBC, AAC
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N)
0.00009%
Dynamic Range (XLR)
130dB
Features
- Flagship ES9038PRO DAC for superior audio
- Supports MQA, LDAC, DSD512, and high-res PCM
- High-fidelity Bluetooth 5.0 streaming
- Exceptional audio clarity and detail
- Professional-grade sound reproduction
- Full MQA decoding capability
- Multiple sound customization options
- Includes a full-featured remote control
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the SMSL SU-9 for its exceptional sound quality, noting its neutral, detailed, and transparent audio reproduction. This DAC consistently reveals musical nuances, creating an immersive experience. Its value proposition is strong, featuring MQA decoding, high resolution Bluetooth, and versatile connectivity options. The solid aluminum build and clear display contribute to a premium feel. While minor notes exist regarding early firmware or remote control, the stellar audio performance and robust feature set position the SU-9 as an outstanding performer that delivers high end fidelity at an accessible price point.
Know before you buy
Yes, the SU-9 features full MQA decoding capability, allowing it to unfold and render MQA files to their highest intended resolution when connected to compatible sources.
No, the SU-9 does not feature preamplifier functionality. It is designed strictly as a high-performance DAC, so you will need a separate preamplifier or an integrated amplifier to control the volume of your speaker system.
The SU-9 supports high-fidelity Bluetooth 5.0 with compatibility for LDAC, aptX, aptX HD, SBC, and AAC codecs, ensuring high-quality wireless audio transmission.
The SU-9 is equipped with balanced XLR outputs for professional-grade connectivity, as well as standard RCA outputs to integrate with a wide range of home audio equipment.
Yes, the unit includes multiple sound customization options accessible through its menu, allowing you to tailor the audio profile to your personal preference.
The USB-C input supports high-resolution audio formats up to DSD512 and PCM 768KHz/32Bit, ensuring compatibility with virtually all high-fidelity digital music files.
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Ready to buy?
$460