Gearhungry logo.
Gearhungry logo.
Gearhungry logo.
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Gear
      • Gadgets
      • Knives
      • Pens
      • Photography
      • Wallets
    • Grooming
    • Health
      • Fitness
    • Home
      • Appliances
      • Books
      • Coffee
      • Food & Drink
      • Furniture
      • Lawn & Garden
      • Kitchen
      • Office
      • Pets
    • Outdoors
      • Camping
      • Hiking
      • Sports
      • Skiing
      • Survival
      • Travel
    • Style
      • Apparel
      • Bags
      • Footwear
      • Grooming
      • Watches
    • Tech
      • Audio
      • Computers
      • Display
      • Drones
      • Gaming
      • GPS
      • Smartphones
      • Smart Home
      • TV & Video
      • Wearables
    • Tools
    • Toys & Games
      • Boardgames
      • Construction Kits
      • Outside Play
      • Puzzles
    • Rides
      • Bikes
      • Cars
      • Motorcycles
    • Vices
      • Cocktails & Spirits
      • Beer & Wine
    • View All Categories
  • Buying Guides
    • Audio
    • Apparel
    • Bags
    • Camping
    • Coffee
    • Fitness
    • Footwear
    • Gaming
    • Grooming
    • Home
    • Knives
    • Outdoors
    • Tech
    • Tools
    • Toys & Games
    • Wallets
    • Watches
  • Gifts
  • EDC
  • Blog
  • More
    • About Us – Learn More About Gear Hungry
    • Advertise
    • Brand assets
    • Contact
  • Home
  • Tech
  • Audio
Last updated: 20 Jan 2021

Best Digital-to-Analog Converters In 2021

Avatar
This product guide was written by GearHungry Staff
Published August 19, 2020

A digital-to-analog converter, also known as a D-to-A or DAC, is a tech system that converts data in its digital form to an analog signal. While signals in digital format have useful applications, for that precise, high-quality sound delivery, the digital data needs to be converted to analog.

For music producers and disk jockeys, this is important because an excellent digital-to-analog converter makes for a better listening experience. So, you need to get the right product for tailor-fit needs to get the desired sound output. We have carefully researched and come up with this list of the best digital-to-analog converters the market has to offer. Save yourself some sweat and let this list guide you to make the best decision.

The Best Digital-to-Analog Converter

1
Cambridge Audio Azur DacMagic+ Digital To Analogue Converter

See More Reviews
cambridge audio azur dacmagic+
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

The Cambridge Audio DacMagic Plus is a three-in-one package, an amplifier, a digital-to-analog converter, and a digital high-performance pre-amplifier. The coated aluminum chassis protects the carefully assembled integrated circuit inside. The DacMagic Plus looks durable. The volume control, power, and source control knobs, though made of plastic, look like they are well manufactured.

With a dimension of  7.5 x 8.5 x 2 inches and a weight of only 2.65 pounds, it’s not heavy at all and can conveniently sit on the shelf alongside other sound units without consuming much space. Before you equate this small weight and size to subpar performance, this impressive digital-to-analog converter delivers a sound that belies its size. This performance is all thanks to the dual DACs system that improves audio quality. Whatever digital device you choose to plug in, be it a laptop, all-in-one desktop computer, TV, CD player, this convertor is guaranteed to transform your home sound unit into a true, high fidelity sound-producing system.

Cambridge offers more flexibility by making available several digital source inputs such as a USB in addition to Toslink and coaxial connections to computers as well as phones. That’s not all; you also get a  flat USB connector for a T100 Bluetooth receiver. Analog and digital signal outputs are available for multiple sound experiences. Perhaps, you want some one-on-one listening? There’s a quarter-inch headphone jack just for that. Also, this digital-to-analog converter is compatible with hard to find XLR connections. XLR cables produce a low signal-to-noise ratio, meaning much better sound production, especially over longer cables.

The Cambridge DacMagic Plus also synergies very well with Android devices connected with an OTG (on-the-go) cable using the USB Audio Player Pro (UAPP) as a music player. If you are not big on a wired connection, plug a Bluetooth adapter into the flat USB digital input port. It’s a whole new level of quality entertainment with this digital tech, all for a price of $349.

show more
Key Features:

Wireless connectivity

Fitted with an XLR cable outlet

USB digital input for wired connections

Durable aluminum chassis

Specification:
  • BrandCambridge Audio
  • ModelC10424K
  • Weight2.65 pounds
Pros

One-stop amplifier, preamplifier & digital-analog converter

Multiple points of digital and analog input/output

Headphone jack

Cons

No remote control

Pricey

No volume meter indicator

2
Audioengine D1 24-Bit DAC Desktop Digital To Analogue Converter

See More Reviews
audioengine d1 24-bit dac desktop digital to analogue converter
See More Reviews
audioengine d1 24-bit dac desktop digital to analogue converter
audioengine d1 24-bit dac desktop digital to analogue converter
audioengine d1 24-bit dac desktop digital to analogue converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

When people talk about compact, this is it. The D1 24-Bit DAC, Desktop Digital To Analogue Converter circumvents the sound card of your plugged-in computer and directs audio signal through USB or Toslink/optical input. This converter processes sound up to an input bit depth of 24-bit, and also offers an input sample rate of 192 kHz. It comes equipped with a high signal-to-noise ratio, and low distortion, so impressive sound quality is guaranteed.

Take advantage of the high-performance headphone output, which is compatible with a wide range of headphones operating at different impedance. It also works well with TV, Blu-ray and DVD players, and other portable audio devices. What’s more, as compact as it is, the D1 still offers more than one digital audio input, i.e., USB and optical S/PDIF. This flexibility and versatility make it possible to connect your computer and another portable device at once. A dual analog RCA cable output and a 3.5 mm jack for headphones are also available.

Additionally, the D1 digital-to-analog converter supports instant Mac or PC plug-and-play, so you don’t have to worry about the initial software or driver installation that synchronizes device and computer. The best part is, it’s all USB-powered; so, there’s no separate external power supply needed, and you won’t need to worry about direct or alternating current or voltage requirements. So, if you travel abroad, you are still good to go.

You’ll also find it easy to set up thanks to a convenient instruction manual. Lastly, Audioengine also threw in a travel bag for ease of carrying. If you are looking for simplicity and high performance under $200, then look no further.

show more
Key Features:

Easy plug-in and play for both Mac & PC

Easily powered via USB

Headphone jack for private entertainment

Compact size

Specification:
  • BrandAudioengine
  • ModelD1
  • Weight1.1 pounds
Pros

High-Quality 24-Bit 192 kHz Audio

No external power needs aside USB

Mac & PC compatible

Cons

Volume control devoid of meter indicator

Not for high demand application

No remote

3
eSynic 192kHz Digital To Analog Converter

See More Reviews
esynic 192khz digital to analog converter
See More Reviews
esynic 192khz digital to analog converter
esynic 192khz digital to analog converter
esynic 192khz digital to analog converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

At a giveaway price of $25.99, turn up your listening experience while you use your LCD TV, Blu-ray, CD player, tv box, or video game console. This portable eSynic 192kHz Digital to Analog Converter will conveniently transform your digital source Coaxial/Toslink/Optical input to RCA analog audio output, and it does this by connecting to an external amplifier via a  3.5 mm headphone jack. The aluminum chassis design keeps it lightweight and protected. The gold-plated surface prevents interference from external sources, guaranteeing pure, crisp, quality sound your TV and other electronic devices can’t ordinarily deliver.

This compact DAC delivers sound a bit depth of 24 bits and a sampling rate of 32~192 kHz. Add a signal-to-noise ratio of 105 decibels, and you have impressive sound quality worth bragging about to your friends. There’s no need for driver installation – plug-in and enjoy.

eSynic added an easy-to-follow manual if you require some guidance for optimum user experience. It comes with a Toslink/Optical Cable and a power adapter supplying 5V/1A rated power for effective function. It’s not the kind of DAV you would use for your studio, but it’ll sure do the job for living room application. You’ll also appreciate it if you are a DJ at small-capacity indoor parties

show more
Key Features:

High-quality 24bits sound

Aluminum chassis design

Gold plated

Both optical & coaxial input

Specification:
  • BrandeSynic
  • ModelzESY070-CA
  • Weight6.4 ounces
Pros

No separate drivers installation needed

Affordable

Versatile: compatible with many digital source device such as game console, LCD andLED TV, cable tv box

Cons

No USB  connect

No remote

No wireless connectivity

4
Schiit Modi 3 Digital To Analogue Converter

See More Reviews
schiit modi 3 d/a converter - delta-sigma dac
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

The Modi 3 D/A Converter is the third version of the series and is not the only Schiit converter we’re featuring. The Modi 3 is a massive upgrade from its predecessor digital-analog-converter, which comes in a USB input-only design.

This version has a USB, coaxial and TOSLINK. Not to mention the optional power supply and input selector, which uses the toggle switch in front. All of this means you can go ahead and plug the Modi 3 into any computer using the included USB micro cable and your computer sound comes alive.

You’ll have to power it from the wall’s direct current supply. If you want to connect your phone and tablet, you can, in turn, connect to the power supply, unlike most digital-analog converters that are either powered by direct current or USB connection to a computer.

The device is both Windows and Mac compatible. Windows 10-and-above is highly recommended for easy plug-in and play; previous systems such as Windows 7 and 8 may require the preinstallation of the drivers. Mac OS 10.7 and above works fine. Whatever you plug into the Modi 3 improves significantly in the sound output. 

Modi 3 doesn’t have its own preinstalled volume control knob; however, with the headphone volume, it can be adjusted via its preamplifier outputs. You can also add an SYS Passive Preamp for analog volume control. You’ll also like the fact that its unique metallic silver-colored design stands out. Even better, Schiit decided to throw in a two-year warranty so you’ll rest easy as you purchase this tech.

For more practical products like this, check out our list of the best condenser microphones on the market right now.

show more
Key Features:

USB, coaxial and TOSLINK input for multiple digital sound sources

Mac & Windows compatible

24bit audio and sampling rate of 192KHz

Delivers impressive sound for connected audio devices

Specification:
  • BrandSchiit
  • ModelSCH-08-3-FA
  • Weight1.35 pounds
Pros

Easy plugin and play for windows 10 & Mac 10.7 up

USB or wall DC powered option

Input selection toggle switch

Cons

No off/on switch

No volume control knob on chassis

Lower spec computer less than windows 10 may not work without drivers installation

5
Avantree DAC Digital To Analogue Converter

See More Reviews
avantree dac digital to analog audio converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Here’s yet another powerful digital-to-analog audio converter that processes coaxial or optical Toslink audio signals in its digital form and converts them to analog for your listening pleasure. This portable Avantree Digital to Analog Audio Converter features two separate audio inputs for flexible usage with devices compatible with either coaxial or optical input. The output is an RCA outlet and an auxiliary port for connections to wired headphones for private entertainment. Here’s the thing – you might want to stick to headphones with impedance below 32 ohms.

Furthermore, a convenient switch is available to select between optical and coaxial functions. Unlike some digital-to-analog converters, Avantree made this one with a volume control knob that has an indicator meter. It’s quite versatile and supports a whole range of digital devices, from video game consoles to HD DVD Home Cinema Systems, smart TV, and LCD television. It processes audio sounds to a depth bit of 24 bits and 192 kHz sampling rate. While it doesn’t have capabilities to amplify audio signals, it does deliver impressive, quality audio sound. There’s a 12-month warranty on the product. 

Key Features:

Coaxial & Optical input

Bit depth of 24bits for quality output sound

Volume control knob for easy adjustment

The volume control knob has a meter indicator

Specification:
  • BrandAvantree
  • ModelOTHR-DAC02-SLR
  • Weight2.88 ounces
Pros

Easy switch bottom between coaxial and functions

Auxiliary/headphone jack available

Good signal to noise ratio

Cons

Not compatible with headphones operating above 32 ohms impedance

No wireless connectivity

No USB input or HDMI output

6
Musou Digital Optical Coax To Analog Converter

See More Reviews
musou digital optical coax to analog converter
See More Reviews
musou digital optical coax to analog converter
musou digital optical coax to analog converter
musou digital optical coax to analog converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

It gets even better in terms of compactness, portability, and price with the Musou Digital To Analog Converter. At a dimension of 5 x 4 x 1 inches and 2.72 ounces, portability just got redefined. And although some features present in more expensive digital-analog converters are absent here, this DAC from Musou is still capable of converting both coaxial or Toslink digital audio signals to analog audio. This audio is receivable with an external device such as an amplifier via standard RCA-style jacks.

A speaker or a compatible headphone will do just fine but stay away from the standard 3 mm headphone. It’s also worth noting that because it doesn’t come with a switch between coaxial and Toslink when connected to both cables all at once, it will automatically give functional preference to the digital device connected to Toslink input. It runs efficiently and effectively using a 5V direct current supply and is quite versatile and can convert sound from cable tv box, gaming console, DVD/ CD player, and music sound system. At $12.99, it’s quite a lot of value, and there’s a one-year warranty.

Key Features:

Multiple audio inputs for devices compatible with coaxial & Toslink sound inputs

Noise-free transmission

A sampling rate of 32~96KHz

Process 24bits sound

Specification:
  • BrandMusou
  • Modeldd3
  • Weight2.72 ounces
Pros

Portable

Easy to install

Multiple device compatibility

Cons

No support for Dolby digital sound input

No USB input

No wireless connectivity

7
Signstek HiFi Digital To Analogue Converter

See More Reviews
signstek hifi digital to analogue converter
See More Reviews
signstek hifi digital to analogue converter
signstek hifi digital to analogue converter
signstek hifi digital to analogue converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

This next product is the Signstek HiFi Digital to Analogue Converter. It has a USB input in addition to coaxial, digital fiber output, and a light indicator to show the device is in use. You can turn up your computer and other portable device sound outputs by connecting this hi-fi tech via USB cable and creating a high-quality S/PDIF digital audio output signal. It also comes with a headphone jack that some higher-end digital-to-analog converters don’t have. There’s no need to worry about the power requirements for this device; it’s USB powered, so plug it straight into your computer.

Wired connectivity with PC or Mac is seamless and requires no additional installation of drivers to synchronize with computer software. Just plug in and enjoy the output sound quality you deserve. Signstek audio converter works well with older versions of Windows.

For more must-have tech products, check out our choice of the top noise-canceling headphones.

Key Features:

All USB powered

Multi digital audio source compatible

3.5mm stereo output for ease of connection to speakers

LED indicator light

Specification:
  • BrandSignstek
  • Weight6.7 ounces
Pros

USB output available

Windows & Mac compatible

No additional drivers needed for computer usage

Cons

No wireless connectivity

No power off /on button

Plastic chassis, prone to heat degradation

8
Wiistar Digital To Analog Audio Decoder Converter

See More Reviews
wiistar digital to analog audio decoder converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Unlike other DACs that don’t process quality digital Dolby sound, the Wiistar Digital to Analog Converter does all that while being one of the most portable options out there. So, if you’ve got an LCD with Dolby digital surround sound, this is a must-have to experience higher quality sounds from that device.

It also supports PCM, digital audio input from devices with Toslink (Optical SPDIF), or Coaxial. And while it has a switch for you to select between either Toslink or coaxial function, output analog audio sound can be received with audio speakers using either the RCA output or 3.5 mm headphone output simultaneously.  Altogether, it’s a small portable tech gadget with dimensions of only 5.9 x 4.2 x 2.4 inches.

Key Features:

Can process Dolby and PCM sound

3.5 mm headphone output for private entertainment

Supper Toslink and amp; Coaxial type of device

Specification:
  • BrandWiistar
  • Model8541740541
  • Weight6.4 ounces
Pros

Can connect to a wide range of devices

Portable

Easy to connect

Cons

No wireless connectivity

No power off /on button

No USB

9
ROOFULL Optical-to-Coaxial Or Coax-to-Optical Digital Audio Converter

See More Reviews
roofull optical-to-coaxial or coax-to-optical digital audio converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Roofull got creative with the production of this digital-audio converter offering bidirectional connectivity to produce more quality sound. As a result, the Roofull Optical-to-Coaxial or Coax-to-Optical Digital Audio Converter allows you to convert Optical to/from digital Coaxial. Using the input selection switch incorporated in the overall design, you can quickly select either coaxial input or SPDIF (Optical/Toslink) without pulling out the connected digital cables. It is also capable of processing LPCM and DTS/DOLBY, producing noise-free transmission at 24 bits, and a sampling rate of 192 kHz.

Power up your digital converter with the 5V/1A power adapter and plug-in easily into computers and tablets with no need for the reinstallation of drivers. Its wide range of device applicability cuts across Blu-ray Disc Player, cable TV receiver, Xbox 360, portable DVD player, Amplifier, Sound Speakers, and all devices with digital audio out port. Roofull is offering a five-year warranty on this device.

Key Features:

Bidirectional connectivity offering more range of digital sound conversion

Produces sound at a bit depth of 24bits and 192 kHz sampling rate

Switch button

Specification:
  • BrandROOFULL
  • ModelRF2017039
  • Weight3.52 ounces
Pros

Plug-in and play, no need for installation of drivers

Direct current powered

Noise-free transmission

Cons

Limitation in transmission rate hence no support for  DTS-HD and Dolby-TrueHD

No USB input

No wireless connectivity to smartphones and tablets

10
Easycel Audio Digital To Analog Converter

See More Reviews
easycel audio digital to analog converter
See More Reviews
easycel audio digital to analog converter
easycel audio digital to analog converter
easycel audio digital to analog converter
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

This device is yet another pocket-friendly digital-analog converter. Less than $13, it’s not the best DAC around, but it can deliver quality sound, and considering its price, this is a win. The Easycel Digital to Analog Audio Converter offers the smooth conversion of digital PCM audio signals, Toslink or coaxial, to 3.5 mm jack audio and analog L/R RCA. However, it doesn’t perform the function of an amplifier or preamplifier, so you can go ahead and connect an external amplifier via the RCA jacks or a headphone via the 3.5 mm headphone output jack.

Although this DAC may not be compatible with Dolby Digital or DTS sound, it can process PCM and LPCM. It operates at the sampling rate of  96 kHz, not the highest in the market; however, the sound quality in this range is quite impressive. As a consolation, it processes sound input to a bit depth of 24 bits. Its portability makes it easy to install and operate. Compatible devices include PS3, PS4, Xbox, Blu-ray Player, HD DVD, Home Cinema Systems, and more. That’s a whole lot of flexibility for $12.99.

For more amazing devices like this, check out our list of the best USB hubs available right now.

Key Features:

It has a 3.5mm audio jack

96KHz sampling rate sound processing

Metal chassis

Process sound at a bit depth of 24bits

Specification:
  • BrandEasycel
  • Weight3.52 ounces
Pros

Easy to install

Portable

Cheap

Cons

No extra connecting input ports like USB

No wireless Bluetooth connectivity

May have compatibility with Dolby Digital or DTS sound

Related Reads
best subwoofers
#Audio

10 Best Subwoofers (Review) In 2021

see more→
10 best condenser microphones review in 2019
#Audio

10 Best Condenser Microphones (Review) In 2021

see more→
best midi keyboard controller
#Audio

10 Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers (Review) In 2021

see more→
The best!
Gear, gadgets & stuff for men
Straight to your inbox
  • Earplugs For Concerts
  • Tailgate Speakers
  • Condenser Microphones
  • Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Headphones
  • Audio Equalizers
  • Keyboard Stands
  • Laptop Speakers
  • Decibel Meters
  • RCA Cables
  • AirPod Accessories
  • Drum Machines
  • Cellos
  • Jukeboxes
  • Electronic Drum Kits
  • CD Players
  • Guitar Amplifiers For Beginners
  • Subwoofers
  • Levitating Bluetooth Speakers
  • Headphone Amplifiers
  • Megaphones
  • AirPod Alternatives
  • Electric Guitar Amplifiers
  • Home Theater Systems
Gearhungry logo
  • Home
  • Categories
  • About Us – Learn More About Gear Hungry
  • Contact
Gear Hungry ©2021 Privacy policy Affiliate Disclosure
DMCA.com Protection Status