SMSL has been hard at work again and in this article, I’m checking out the new SMSL DO300EX DAC and headphone amplifier. It features a powerful AK4191+ AK4499EX DAC chip and a floating display window design. The price is $469.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Aoshida for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own based on my experience with the product.
SMSL DO300EX
In the Box
- SMSL DO300EX
- AC power cable
- USB cable
- Bluetooth antenna
- Remote control
- User manual
- Warranty card
Features
This DAC is all about high-quality audio. It can handle MQA decoding and PCM audio up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD up to DSD512.
Inside, it’s got a powerful AK4191+ AK4499EX chip. They’ve gone the extra mile with the engineering, delivering super low distortion – just 0.00006% (-124dB). In plain terms, it means the DO300EX sounds incredibly clean.
To make the audio even better, they’ve used high-end dual-op amps (TPA6120A2) and top-quality audiophile parts. No one likes those audio glitches – this DAC has a 2nd PLL to kick jitter out the door during SPDIF transmission. It keeps your music stable and smooth.
You can hook it up in multiple ways – USB, optical fibre, coaxial, AES, I2S – it’s got them all. And they all support DSD audio. Coaxial and optical fibre even handle DOP64.
It’s got a cool colour IPS display with tempered glass. Looks great and lets you see what’s going on. I still wish they’d change the font used for ‘PCM’ though!
It’s designed to be power-efficient and keep things quiet. Built-in low-noise power processing and multiple regulated power supplies ensure your audio stays clean.
If you like wireless, it’s got you covered with a Qualcomm high-end Bluetooth chip. LDAC, APTX/HD, SBC and AAC are all supported for top-notch wireless sound.
This DAC is built like a tank with an all-aluminium alloy shell. Plus, those gold-plated input and output connectors mean business.
Design
SMSL has made some design changes with some of its recent modes and externally, the DO300EX looks a lot like the DO400. They’ve added what they call a “floating display window” and I think it looks fantastic. It’s a refreshing change from the straight-edged black boxes I’m used to seeing from SMSL.
On the front panel are a tempered glass fully bonded colour IPS display and a clickable retro function knob along with 6.35mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs. A short press on the volume knob cycles through audio inputs and a long press opens up the system menu.
On the back are the usual I/O ports, including XLR and RCA outputs plus coaxial, optical, I2S, USB-C and Bluetooth inputs. In addition, there’s an AC input and power switch.
SMSL DO300EX is no slouch when it comes to output power either. With up to 1W x 2 @ 32Ω, it will drive pretty much any headphone you throw at it. Moreover, with dual gain modes, not only is it powerful enough for demanding headphones, but it’s compatible with sensitive IEMs too.
Sound
Having tested several SMSL DACs previously, I was excited to hear what the DO300EX had in store. While I don’t have a preference for any specific DAC chipset, I know a lot of audiophiles do and I know different DAC devices can sound distinctly unique.
The SMSL DO300EX DAC and headphone amplifier embodies a sonic character that is both transparent and unbiased, allowing the true character of your speakers or headphones to shine through. This neutrality, akin to a blank canvas for sound reproduction, is something I’ve come to expect from SMSL DACs.
What sets the DO300EX apart is its ability to present a wide and deep soundstage, lending a sense of spatial dimensionality that is truly immersive. What’s particularly impressive is the layering within the soundstage, providing a level of depth and separation.
Furthermore, this DAC and amplifier combo excels in delivering sound with impeccable organization and coherence. This ensures that even the most complex musical arrangements are conveyed with precision and clarity.
Tonally, the DO300EX remains steadfast in its commitment to neutrality, refraining from any undue emphasis on specific frequencies. This characteristic aligns with the preferences of discerning audiophiles who seek an unadulterated representation of their music.
The headphone output is equally commendable, striking a delicate balance between energy and equilibrium. It manages to inject just the right amount of vitality into the audio while maintaining a poised and composed delivery. This versatility is sure to please both casual listeners and dedicated enthusiasts alike.
While the bass response may not cater to those seeking a more pronounced low-end presence, the DO300EX remains true to its neutral ethos. This quality, though potentially not for everyone, serves as a testament to the device’s commitment to faithful sound reproduction.
Verdict
In summary, the SMSL DO300EX DAC and headphone amplifier is a tour de force in the realm of midrange DACs. Its impeccable soundstage, organizational prowess, tonal neutrality, and balanced headphone output will inspire experts and enthusiasts alike.
The included headphone amp section is sure to please users who prefer an all-in-one desktop device. The DO300EX is also a pleasure to use daily with its clear display, excellent menu system and large volume knob. This DAC stands as a testament to SMSL’s dedication to delivering authentic and uncompromising audio at an affordable price and receives the PAR recommended award.
Specifications
Model: SMSL DO300EX
Input: USB/Optical/Coaxial/Bluetooth/12S
Output: RCA/XLR/4.4mm+6.35 Headphone Jack
Line Output Amplitude: XLR: 5.2Vrms, RCA: 2.5Vrms
Headphone Output Power: 2W x 2 (16Ω), 1W x 2 (32Ω)
THD+N: 0.00006%(-124dB)(UN-WTD)
Output Impedance: XLR: 200Ω, RCA: 100Ω
Dynamic Range: XLR: 132dB, HPA: 127dB
SNR: XLR: 132dB, HPA: 127dB
USB Compatibility: Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11, Mac OSX 10.6 and above, Linux
Size: 222x39x207mm(WxHxD)
Weight: 1.54kg/3.40lbs