SMSL DS20 Portable DAC Headphone Amplifier

The SMSL DS20 is a portable DAC and headphone amplifier distinguished by its cutting-edge audiophile performance and singular aesthetics. It is based on an advanced architecture incorporating four CS43131 DAC chips and an XMOS XU316 USB interface. This combination enables it to handle high-resolution audio streams up to PCM 32bit 768kHz, DSD256, and MQAx8 decoding. To guarantee absolutely accurate conversion, the SMSL DS20 also incorporates its own high-precision clock circuit, minimizing distortion and jitter.

Its headphone amplifier circuit is a fully symmetrical PLFC (Precision Linear Feedback Circuit). This design minimizes distortion, reduces crosstalk and offers a better dynamic range for immersive listening. This amplification circuit delivers an impressive output power of 2x 500mW at 32 ohms and up to 2x 60mW at 600 ohms, capable of driving a wide range of headphones and in-ear monitors (IEMs) on the market.

In terms of connectivity, the SMSL DS20 offers the essentials, with a USB-C input and two headphone outputs: 3.5mm jack (unbalanced) and 4.4mm jack (balanced). A major advantage for portability is its integrated 6000mAh (22.2Wh) 3.7V battery, guaranteeing autonomy of over 10 hours.