Audiophilepure

In fact, this chip is more of an SOC than a simple DAC, embedding all kinds of features like advanced 32-bit oversampled multi-bit modulator with mismatch shaping technology, or an Integrated GND-centered, enhanced by a dual set of SGM8262 Op-Amp for the power amp part. What’s even more interesting, is the fact that this time, you can switch between Class A/B and Class-D mode, in case you’d prefer a specific sound signature, in addition to the usual roll-off settings.

Add to that the ability to decode PCM signal up to 32bit/768kHz and even DSD256 files on the go, super low distortion (<0.00045%@32ohms), equally low noise floor (<1.7uV) and very good signal to noise ratio (>123dB), and you get a killer dongle.

PS Audio’s rationale for that decision is because the company feels that USB is a noisier carrier to SPDIF or I²S. While that may be true, I caution the reader to take any blanket statement of standards with a grain of salt. During the AirLens and MK2 review, I had an in-depth conversation with a designer of a dedicated NOS (non-oversampling) DAC that has only one output – USB. That designer considers an external I²S connection to be redundant and inefficient and refuses to use it! That how the audio industry rolls; one designer swears off USB and the other promotes it! The audiophile is left scratching their head. I have encountered such contradictions consistently, so it no longer shocks me. In one sense, I could care less whether the favored connection is USB or I²S, may the best sounding connection in my system win!