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Best Dac Amp For Headphones (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an enhanced listening experience, consider investing in a DAC amp for headphones. This device amplifies and improves the sound quality of your headphones, allowing you to hear every detail that you may have missed before. With a DAC amp, you can immerse yourself in your favorite music and experience a whole new level of audio bliss.

Before making a purchase, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you get the best possible device for your needs. Firstly, think about how you plan to use your DAC amp. Will it be for personal use or professional use? Will it be for listening to music or for gaming? Knowing this will help you choose a device that is tailored to your specific needs. Secondly, think about the price range that you are comfortable with. DAC amps come in a range of prices, from affordable to high-end, so it’s important to know your budget before making a decision.

If you’re not convinced yet, ask yourself the following questions. Do you want to experience your music in a whole new way? Are you tired of the limitations of your headphone's built-in amp? Do you want to hear every nuance of your music and get lost in the details? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then a DAC amp for headphones may be the perfect solution for you. With the right DAC amp, you can take your listening experience to the next level and enjoy a whole new world of sound.

10 Best Dac Amp For Headphones

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for enhancing audio quality on the go with a portable digital-to-analog converter and headphone amplifier.
2
Ideal for high-quality audio playback and amplification from various sources including home audio systems, PCs, and headphones.
3
Ideal for enhancing sound quality and power output of headphones, compatible with both Mac and PC.
4
It is ideal for audiophiles who want a high-quality DAC and headphone amplifier with multiple connectivity options.
5
The product is ideal for enhancing audio control and converting digital audio sources for better sound quality when using headphones or earphones.
6
Ideal for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound from headphones, with digital-to-analog conversion and amplification capabilities.
7
Ideal for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound, balanced and single-ended headphone outputs, and a premium DAC and solid-state amp.
8
Ideal for improving audio quality and driving high-end headphones, with various connectivity options and customizable sound settings.
9
This product is ideal for converting digital audio signals into analog and amplifying them, improving the sound quality of headphones.
10
The product is ideal for improving audio quality in desktop setups and headphones through various inputs and amplifier options.
Ideal for enhancing audio quality on the go with a portable digital-to-analog converter and headphone amplifier.
Ideal for high-quality audio playback and amplification from various sources including home audio systems, PCs, and headphones.
Ideal for enhancing sound quality and power output of headphones, compatible with both Mac and PC.
It is ideal for audiophiles who want a high-quality DAC and headphone amplifier with multiple connectivity options.
The product is ideal for enhancing audio control and converting digital audio sources for better sound quality when using headphones or earphones.
Ideal for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound from headphones, with digital-to-analog conversion and amplification capabilities.
Ideal for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound, balanced and single-ended headphone outputs, and a premium DAC and solid-state amp.
Ideal for improving audio quality and driving high-end headphones, with various connectivity options and customizable sound settings.
This product is ideal for converting digital audio signals into analog and amplifying them, improving the sound quality of headphones.
The product is ideal for improving audio quality in desktop setups and headphones through various inputs and amplifier options.

1. Ifi Micro Idsd Signature Transportable Dac And Headphone Amp

Experience an immersive and personalized headphone or speaker listening experience with the Dual Core Burr Brown True Native chipset. This chipset supports all hi-res audio formats up to PCM 32 bit / 768kHz, DSD512, and MQA. The 4000mW headphone amplifier with balanced topology and 4.4mm pentacon output ensures that you can enjoy your music at high volume levels without any distortion. The XBass+, 3D+, and iEMatch features create a personalized sound signature that suits your music preference.

This product comes with multiple input options, including USB A, S/PDIF digital and optical audio inputs. It also has 6.3mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs and RCA line outputs. The rechargeable battery provides 6-12 hours of listening, or you can play while charging the device. The product is built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.

Overall, the Dual Core Burr Brown True Native chipset headphone amplifier is a high-quality product that provides an immersive and personalized listening experience.

Pros

  • Supports all hi-res audio formats up to PCM 32 bit / 768kHz, DSD512, and MQA
  • 4000mW headphone amplifier with balanced topology and 4.4mm pentacon output
  • XBass+, 3D+, and iEMatch features create an immersive and personalized sound signature
  • Multiple input options including USB A, S/PDIF digital and optical audio inputs
  • 6-12 hours of listening time with rechargeable battery
  • High-quality materials ensure durability and longevity

2. Pro Dac Headphone Amp For High Res Audio

Experience new heights in sound quality with the K5Pro ESS headphone amp that features a high-performance DAC&USB decoding chip. This portable DAC comes with a high level of resolution sound and supports mobile phone connectivity. The ES9038PRO with 32-bit processing, along with the XUF208 USB decoding chip with 768kHz and DSD256 inputs ensures a seamless audio experience.

Conveniently connect various music players and digital interfaces with the K5Pro ESS amplifier that supports coaxial/optical/RCA line-in inputs. The optical and coaxial inputs support up to 192kHz inputs, making it an ideal choice for connecting different devices.

The K5Pro ESS portable DAC has a variety of outputs that include 6.35mm (1/4 in.) headphone out/RCA line-out outputs. The RCA line-out line signal is adjustable up to a maximum of 2Vrms, making it easy to connect with active speakers and external amplifiers.

The K5Pro ESS desktop amplifier has a total power output of up to 1.5 W under a 32Ω load, and up to 20Vpp at 300Ω, making it easy to handle any low or high impedance headphone. With ADC volume adjustment, you can smoothly adjust volume at extremely fine increments without any undesirable noise or channel imbalances. This feature means that you can comfortably use various headphones with all kinds of sensitivities with this headphone amplifier.

Pros

  • High-performance DAC&USB decoding chip for superior audio quality
  • Variety of inputs for convenient connectivity
  • Variety of outputs for easy connection with external devices
  • Easily handles low or high impedance headphone
  • ADC volume adjustment for smooth volume control

3. Apogee Groove – Portable Usb Headphone Amp And Dac, Bus Powered For Mac And Pc, Made In Usa

Experience high-quality audio with the USB 2.0 connection on both Mac and PC using the Quad sum DAC with 4 DACs per channel, providing the highest dynamic range and lowest distortion. With up to 24 bit/ 192kHz audio, this device enhances your music listening experience on various platforms such as iTunes, Tidal, Spotify, Pandora, and more. The Constant Current Drive technology ensures a smooth frequency response with any headphones, making it perfect for audiophiles. Additionally, the premium aluminum build quality ensures durability and longevity, and it is built in the USA. It also connects with USB-C iPad Pro models for more versatility.

Pros

  • Provides high-quality audio with up to 24 bit/ 192kHz audio
  • Quad sum DAC with 4 DACs per channel for the highest dynamic range and lowest distortion
  • Constant Current Drive technology ensures a smooth frequency response with any headphones
  • Premium aluminum build quality for durability and longevity
  • Built in the USA
  • Connects with USB-C iPad Pro models for more versatility

4. Fiio Q7 Portable Hifi Dac & Amp

The Q7 is a powerful audio amplifier that features desktop-level amplification with an enhanced over-ear headphone mode that provides up to 3000mW of power. It has a 16-core XMOS XU316 for desktop-grade decoding that offers dual audio clocks, ultra-low latency, 768K, DSD512, and MQA full decoding. The high-end DAC ES9038PRO has four channels connected in parallel for one differential output, allowing for excellent resolution.

The Q7 has a desktop-tier THX AAA 788+ amp that is originally designed for desktop usage and is featured in a 4-way truly balanced amplifier circuit. It has five levels of mixed gain, making it capable of powering all kinds of headphones effortlessly for a pure listening experience. The Q7 has dual power supply modes, allowing it to be operated in either DC or battery-powered modes, providing endless reserves of power to maintain stable, high-quality audio at all times.

For enhanced sound quality, the Q7 has a FiiO digital control core, which physically separates the digital and analog sections on different boards with shield covers to achieve an extremely pure sound for a superb listening experience. The Q7 also features a 1.3-inch full-color display that lets you quickly know information such as audio format and sampling rates with just a simple glance. It has desktop-level connectivity with USB, optical and coaxial inputs, 2 single-ended (6.35mm and 3.5mm) and 2 balanced outputs (4.4mm and 2.5mm), and also LO output.

Pros

  • The Q7 provides desktop-level amplification with an enhanced over-ear headphone mode that provides up to 3000mW of power.
  • It has a 16-core XMOS XU316 for desktop-grade decoding that offers dual audio clocks, ultra-low latency, 768K, DSD512, and MQA full decoding.
  • The high-end DAC ES9038PRO has four channels connected in parallel for one differential output, allowing for excellent resolution.
  • The Q7 has a desktop-tier THX AAA 788+ amp that is originally designed for desktop usage and is featured in a 4-way truly balanced amplifier circuit.
  • It has five levels of mixed gain, making it capable of powering all kinds of headphones effortlessly for a pure listening experience.
  • The Q7 has dual power supply modes, allowing it to be operated in either DC or battery-powered modes, providing endless reserves of power to maintain stable, high-quality audio at all times.
  • For enhanced sound quality, the Q7 has a FiiO digital control core, which physically separates the digital and analog sections on different boards with shield covers to achieve an extremely pure sound for a superb listening experience.
  • The Q7 also features a 1.3-inch full-color display that lets you quickly know information such as audio format and sampling rates with just a simple glance.
  • It has desktop-level connectivity with USB, optical and coaxial inputs, 2 single-ended (6.35mm and 3.5mm) and 2 balanced outputs (4.4mm and 2.5mm), and also LO output.

5. Shure Dac Portable Amp: Enhanced Audio Control

Experience high-quality audio playback with the 4-band Parametric EQ that comes with five preset settings and four customizable settings. The enhanced audio control feature provides additional user-friendly options to maximize audio playback fidelity, while the streamlined controls make it easy to navigate throughout the SHA900 settings. The multiple output gain structures have been optimized for both headphones and earphones, making it versatile for all your audio devices. The headphone impedance range is between 6 and 600 ohms, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of headphones.

The SHA900 has an integrated USB rechargeable battery that can be conveniently charged from the provided wall charger or computer, even when streaming USB audio from a computer. It is compatible with Mac, PC, iOS, and Android devices via the included accessory assortment, featuring Micro-B to Lightning and Micro-B OTG cables. The premium Shure fit and finish and construction featuring an elegantly machined aluminum housing, manufactured to exacting Shure quality standards, make it a durable and stylish addition to your audio setup.

Pros

  • Customizable EQ settings for high-quality audio playback
  • Enhanced Audio Control feature for user-friendly options
  • Streamlined controls for quick and simple navigation
  • Multiple output gain structures optimized for both headphones and earphones
  • Integrated USB rechargeable battery for convenient charging
  • Compatible with Mac, PC, iOS, and Android devices via included accessory assortment
  • Premium Shure fit and finish and construction featuring an elegantly machined aluminum housing

6. Sennheiser Consumer Audio Hdv 820 Reference Headphone Amplifier Dac – Ess 9028pro Sabre With Usb

The HDV 820 is a high-end device that combines reference digital-to-analog conversion (DAC) and top-notch headphone amplification. It offers audiophile-grade sound quality, making it a perfect choice for those who demand the best. With the ESS 9028PRO SABRE DAC, it can convert digital signals from USB, S/PDIF coaxial, and Optical sources to analog with exceptional accuracy and clarity.

This device produces vivid and dynamic sound reproduction with less than 0.001 percent THD, ensuring that every detail is captured and reproduced faithfully. Additionally, it has over 115 dB of pristine gain, providing ample power to drive even the most demanding headphones. The HDV 820 is also equipped with screen reader support, making it more accessible to visually impaired users.

The HDV 820 has both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, making it compatible with a wide range of audio sources. It also features multiple outputs, including XLR3, XLR4, 6.3mm (1/4-inch), dual 4.4mm Pentaconn (balanced), and stereo XLR analog pass-thru. This device is wired for connectivity technology.

Included in the package are the HDV 820, AC Cable, USB driver, and owner's manual. Overall, the HDV 820 is an excellent choice for audiophiles who want the best possible sound quality from their headphones.

Pros

  • High-end device that combines reference digital-to-analog conversion and top-notch headphone amplification
  • Produces vivid and dynamic sound reproduction with less than 0.001 percent THD
  • Over 115 dB of pristine gain, providing ample power to drive even the most demanding headphones
  • Equipped with screen reader support, making it more accessible to visually impaired users
  • Multiple outputs, including XLR3, XLR4, 6.3mm (1/4-inch), dual 4.4mm Pentaconn (balanced), and stereo XLR analog pass-thru

7. Cavalli Monolith: Crystal Clear Sound Amplifier

The Liquid Gold X is a powerful and balanced solid state amplifier that boasts an ultra-high power output of approximately 3.6 watts per channel into a 50-ohm load. Its fully differential and current feedback design, along with precision A-to-D and D-to-A conversions, allows for accurate monitoring and management of critical aspects of the circuitry.

For exceptional sound quality and musicality, the Liquid Gold X features the AKM AK4493EQ DAC, AKM's new flagship 32-bit stereo premium DAC. It supports PCM inputs up to 768kHz and a Direct Stream Digital (DSD) input of 2.8/5.6/11.2 (maximum) MHz.

Equipped with multiple inputs and outputs for balanced and single-ended operation, the Liquid Gold X offers easy front panel input selection and compatibility with various devices. It comes with both single-ended and balanced analog inputs, as well as USB, Coaxial, and Optical digital inputs to support all your connectivity needs.

With 4x and 6x gain settings, the Liquid Gold X can be adjusted to suit your listening preferences. Its balanced and single-ended headphone outputs provide versatility and flexibility in operation.

Pros

  • Balanced and current feedback design for accurate monitoring and management of circuitry
  • Ultra-high output power of approximately 3.6 watts per channel into 50-ohm load
  • AKM AK4493EQ DAC for exceptional sound quality and musicality
  • Multiple inputs and outputs for balanced and single-ended operation
  • Easy front panel input selection
  • 4x and 6x gain settings for customized listening experience
  • Balanced and single-ended headphone outputs for versatile operation

8. Fostex Hp-A4 24-Bit Digital To Analog Converter/headphone Amplifier

Experience superior audio playback functionality with this 24bit DAC headphone amplifier. It offers up to DSD 5.6MHz and PCM 192 kHz, ensuring high-quality sound that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophile. The Fostex Audio Player software makes hi-resolution playback quick and easy, giving you a hassle-free listening experience. Choose between Hi/Lo gain selection (10 dB) to accommodate a wider range of headphones, making it a versatile device for all your audio needs. With asynchronous transfer mode, you can be sure that you will get a smooth and stable audio output.

Pros

  • Offers superior audio playback functionality with DSD 5.6MHz and PCM 192 kHz
  • Quick and easy hi-resolution playback in combination with Fostex Audio Player software
  • Hi/Lo gain selection (10 dB) accommodates a wider range of headphones
  • Asynchronous transfer mode ensures smooth and stable audio output

9. Smsl M6 Audio Usb Dac Digital To Analog Converter With Headphone Amplifier And Accessory Bundle

The product is a high-quality DAC and professional amplifier bundle that guarantees pristine sound. The DAC supports up to 32-bit/384kHz, while the amplifier can drive high-impedance headphones with ease. This bundle is perfect for audiophiles and music professionals who demand the best sound quality.

The DAC and amplifier are housed in a rugged aluminum casing with an industrial aesthetic. The thick front panel with exposed screws adds to the product's durability and ruggedness. The product offers optical, coaxial, and USB inputs, as well as a 1/4" headphone jack and RCA analog outputs.

This bundle also comes with professional mixing headphones that provide a comfortable listening experience. These headphones are perfect for music professionals who need to mix and master tracks with precision and accuracy.

Pros

  • High-quality DAC and professional amplifier bundle
  • Supports up to 32-bit/384kHz
  • Amplifier can drive high-impedance headphones
  • Rugged aluminum casing adds to the product's durability and ruggedness
  • Optical, coaxial, and USB inputs, as well as a 1/4" headphone jack and RCA analog outputs
  • Professional mixing headphones included in the bundle provide a comfortable listening experience

10. Ifi Pro Amplidac: Hi-Fi Audio Masterpiece.

Experience high-resolution audio like never before with this advanced media player. Equipped with a Quad Dual Core Burr-Brown DAC chipset, it supports a wide range of file formats, from MP3 to DSD 512, DXD, PCM 768, and MQA (Decoder), ensuring that you get the truest sound possible. It also comes with a WiFi streaming feature that lets you control it conveniently via an app, and you can use a wireless connection to stream music from various sources, including Tidal, Spotify, Qobuz, and more. You can also connect it to a router or NAS via a wired Ethernet connection, or use AirPlay to enjoy playback from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

This media player is truly powerful, featuring a balanced headphone amp that can output up to 4.2 Watts of power, letting you drive a wide range of headphones. It also has multiple connections, including 6.3mm (1/4"), 3.5mm TRS, and 4.4mm TRRS balanced, and all inputs (including USB) are galvanically isolated. The USB input is self-powered and comes with a femto precision clock, while other connections include S/PDIF Toslink and Digital Coax, BNC, AES XLR, USB A, and micro SD TF for external storage. You can also customize your listening experience by choosing from different listening modes, including solid-state, tube, or tube+, and digital filters, such as GTO filter, Bit Perfect, Bit Perfect+, Apodising, and Transient Aligned. You can even remaster any track (excluding MQA) to DSD 512 or DSD 1024.

Pros

  • High-resolution audio support for a wide range of file formats
  • WiFi streaming feature for convenient control via an app
  • Powerful balanced headphone amp with multiple connections
  • Customizable listening experience with different listening modes and digital filters

Best Dac Amp For Headphones FAQs

How do I know if a DAC amp is compatible with my headphones?

When it comes to finding a DAC amp that is compatible with your headphones, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need to check the impedance rating of your headphones as this will determine how much power is required to drive them. If your headphones have a high impedance rating, then you will need a more powerful DAC amp to ensure that they can be driven properly.

Secondly, you need to check the type of connector that your headphones have. Some headphones use a standard 3.5mm jack, while others may use a balanced connector or a different type of connector altogether. Make sure that the DAC amp you are considering has the correct type of connector to match your headphones.

Lastly, you may want to consider the sound signature of your headphones and how it will be affected by the DAC amp. Some DAC amps may add warmth or brightness to the sound, which may or may not be to your liking depending on your headphones and personal preferences.

Overall, it is important to do your research and read reviews from other users to ensure that the DAC amp you choose is compatible with your headphones and provides the sound quality you are looking for.

What are some popular brands of DAC amps for headphones?

There are several popular brands of DAC amps for headphones available in the market. Some of the most well-known brands include AudioQuest, Chord Electronics, FiiO, iFi Audio, and Schiit Audio.

AudioQuest offers a range of budget-friendly and high-end DAC amps for headphones, such as the DragonFly series and the Red River series. Chord Electronics is a premium brand that offers high-performance DAC amps like the Hugo and the Mojo, which are popular among audiophiles.

FiiO is another popular brand that offers DAC amps at various price points, from the entry-level FiiO E10K to the high-end FiiO Q5S. iFi Audio is known for its portable and desktop DAC amps, such as the iFi Nano iDSD and the iFi Pro iDSD.

Lastly, Schiit Audio is a well-regarded brand that offers a range of DAC amps, including the popular Schiit Modi and Magni series. These brands offer different features and price points, so it's important to do your research and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

What are the benefits of using a DAC amp for headphones?

A DAC amp, or digital-to-analog converter amplifier, is a device that converts digital audio signals into analog signals that can be played through headphones or speakers. There are several benefits to using a DAC amp for headphones.

Firstly, a DAC amp can improve the overall sound quality of your headphones. By converting digital signals into analog signals, a DAC amp can reduce distortion and noise, resulting in clearer, more accurate sound. This is particularly important for high-resolution audio files, which can be difficult for some headphones to handle without a DAC amp.

Secondly, a DAC amp can provide more power to your headphones. This can be especially useful for high-impedance headphones, which require more power to drive than low-impedance headphones. With a DAC amp, you can get more volume and better bass response from your headphones.

Finally, a DAC amp can be a convenient way to connect your headphones to a variety of devices. Many DAC amps have multiple inputs, including USB, optical, and coaxial, allowing you to connect your headphones to your computer, TV, or other audio devices.

Overall, a DAC amp can be a valuable investment for anyone looking to improve their headphone listening experience. With improved sound quality, more power, and greater versatility, a DAC amp can help you get the most out of your headphones.

What are the key features to look for when choosing a DAC amp for headphones?

When choosing a DAC amp for headphones, there are several key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best possible performance from your audio equipment. Firstly, you should look for a DAC amp that is compatible with your headphones, as not all DAC amps are designed to work with all types of headphones. You should also consider the power output of the DAC amp, as this will determine how well it can drive your headphones and provide a clear, distortion-free sound.

Another important feature to look for is the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the DAC amp, as this will determine how well it can reduce unwanted background noise and provide a clean, clear sound. Additionally, you should consider the type of DAC chip used in the amp, as this can have a significant impact on the overall sound quality.

Other features to consider include the connectivity options available (such as USB, optical, or coaxial), the presence of EQ controls or other sound-enhancing features, and the build quality and durability of the DAC amp itself. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a DAC amp that meets your specific needs and provides the best possible audio performance for your headphones.

What is a DAC amp for headphones and how does it work?

A DAC amp for headphones is a device that combines two important components for high-quality audio reproduction: a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and an amplifier. The DAC is responsible for converting digital audio signals from a computer, smartphone or other device into analog signals that can be played through headphones. The amplifier then boosts the signal to provide enough power to drive the headphones.

The main advantage of a DAC amp is that it can provide much better sound quality than the built-in audio circuitry in most computers and mobile devices. This is because the DAC and amplifier in a dedicated unit are specifically designed for audio performance, whereas the built-in components in a device are often more focused on cost and power efficiency.

There are different types of DAC amps available, including portable models that can be used on the go and larger, more powerful units for use at home. When choosing a DAC amp, it's important to consider factors such as output power, frequency response, and compatibility with different types of headphones. Overall, a DAC amp can be a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to enjoy high-quality audio from their headphones.

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