SMSL R3 DAC Gaming Headphone Amplifier Black

SMSL R3: CS43131 DAC for High-Resolution Audio

The SMSL R3 is based on a Cirrus Logic CS43131 converter, combined with a high-performance DSP processor. Its USB audio interface supports streams up to 32bit 384kHz, allowing compatible high-resolution audio files to be played. Its specified performance includes a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of 0.00045%, a dynamic range of 118dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 117dB. Channel separation is specified at 60dB with a 32Ω load. The integrated headphone amplifier delivers a specified output power of 68mW into 32 Ω, with a reference headphone impedance of 32Ω in the published specifications. Thanks to its USB and optical inputs, the R3 can be used as a desktop audio interface with a computer or compatible digital source, while providing access to sound settings directly from its front panel.

SMSL R3: 10-Band Equalizer and VU Meters to Customize Your Sound

The SMSL R3 features an independent 10-band DSP equalizer, allowing the frequency response to be adjusted according to the headphones, the content being listened to or the user's preferences. Each band has an adjustment range of -10dB to +10dB, from bass to treble frequencies: the published information indicates coverage from 31Hz to 16kHz. This allows for various uses, such as modifying the tonal balance of headphones, emphasizing certain frequencies that are useful in gaming, or adapting the sound for music and movies. The interface follows the design principles of a digital mixing console, with physical sliders for the equalizer bands and large knobs for accessing the settings.

Two independent VU meters, dedicated to the left and right channels, display audio levels in real time. The R3 also offers quick switching between equalization modes to adapt the sound to different listening scenarios. It can therefore serve as a desktop audio control center, in addition to its DAC and headphone amplifier functions.

SMSL R3: 48V Microphone Preamplifier and Gaming Mode for Your Gaming Sessions

For in-game voice communications, the SMSL R3 features an integrated microphone preamplifier with 48V phantom power and dedicated volume control. The microphone inputs allow you to select OFF, HO MIC and MIC 1 modes, depending on the configuration used. The 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack allows you to connect a headset equipped with a microphone, while the balanced 4.4mm headphone output is intended for listening with compatible headphones.

On the USB side, the R3 operates by default in UAC 2.0 mode and can be switched to driver-free UAC 1.1 mode, particularly for use with certain consoles such as the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. The mode can be changed by holding the "+" volume knob for approximately five seconds; the same operation returns the device to UAC 2.0 mode. In UAC 1.1 mode, the USB signal is limited to 16bit / 48kHz. Finally, the optical output allows the digital signal to be transmitted to another compatible device, making it possible to integrate the R3 into an audio chain including an external converter or decoder.