The little DAC with a big sound - S.M.S.L SU-1
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Tuesday June 11, 2024
David Mellor
David Mellor is CEO and Course Director of Audio Masterclass. David has designed courses in audio education and training since 1986 and is the publisher and principal writer of Adventures In Audio.
@cobar5342: Great video as usual
@winterume: can i connect this to my pc as type c to type c?
@zamplify: Really don't need the essay on the nature of consumption before the review
@AudioMasterclass replies to @zamplify: If you don’t like my videos don’t watch them.
@randyroberson1179: I was thinking of buying this dac but went with the smsl do100 pro, havent tinkered with it much yet but happy with the output, I dont understand the filters verry much that are adjustable.
@richmiller540: My lord that was alot of unnecessary words. About 5% was worth listening to.
@НиколайНиколаев-с6ч9к: Я использую в качестве источника и питания smsl su 1 телефон samsung a30, присоединяю с помощью плоского короткого провода tipe c, звук мягкий четкий, воздушный
@ppaolosan: BIG-SOUND
@brucebourgoin6834: I just received my SU-1 DAC , no optical cable. Had to buy it separately. Did not know that as the description on Amazon didn't say cables are separate.
@piage84 replies to @brucebourgoin6834: What do you want for 80 bucks? Also, did the description say you were getting the optical cable as well?
@draganpetrovic1991: SMSL SU-1: It stopped working after a month. If I were to buy another one, I could have bought a better one for the money that two cost. Garbage should not be bought.
@nuttyl283: Use clean +5V external source and change opamps to dual THS4631 x2 gonna get tight faster bass
@kingbender4164: The unboxing music made me want to kill myself.
@johnslattery1036: I had no idea Paul McCartney was reviewing audio gear, on YT! !
@TheCogitech replies to @johnslattery1036: Holy fyuk, that was my first thought!😂
@homeostasis2855: I've been struggling with the power issue of SU-1 for a few days, After connecting the SU-1 DAC with an optical cable to the CDP, connecting the DAC with the amplifier with the RCA cable, and using the charger of the iPhone to power the DAC, the flashlight on the DAC's optical LED turns on and the speaker doesn't sound, what power should I use? Thank you.
@НиколайНиколаев-с6ч9к replies to @homeostasis2855: Телефон или power bank
@JohnGlen502: It has this chip ES9038Q2M. I realize there is more to it, but these Sabre chips seem to be appreciated in every generation. My last two orders from China never shipped out probably because of the tariff. Never happened before.
@glenlapwing8468: I was getting ready to shell out $300-600 USD until I came across this little guy, the best hifi money I’ve spent in years $ $80.00 !
@net.user2072: Hi everyone, I've tested the SMSL SU1 and yes, it's not bad for the money. I've tested it extensively with my older Cambridge Audio DAC Magic 100 (Wolfson 8742 chip), of course with the same configuration, and the Cambridge is clearly audibly better, believe me. More clarity and more details and even a bit louder. So the SMSL SU1 started its journey back to the dealer. This DAC is clearly overrated.
@jemsmay2167: I use this in a vintage system with a WiiM mini optical to the SU-1 then RCA to the aux of my 70s Kenwood. The WiiM pulls the best direct ( no Bluetooth..) stream signal from Spotify, tidal, prime or airplay. The sound difference vs WiiM mini alone is nothing short of remarkable. I view this system as best of both worlds; tight clear deep bass and mids on a range of music types and clear crisp treble. Voice and instrument separation and clarity is awesome, and soundstage is quite good. I have heard some sibilance with shrill highs on lower quality recordings, this is easily shut down with a simple click of the treble knob. So tight, clear, deep and defined digital streaming, while keeping the warm sweet vinyl sound from the other side of the system (Fluance 85 with ortofon blue direct into the receivers phono input..). Very satisfied SU-1 owner. My total cost for the WiiM and SU-1 was less than $150.
@jankowalski3541: I tried this DAC. The sound is clear and there are a lot of details. There are no noises. That is impressive. However it is little dry and not as musical as I wish. Higher tones are little bit metalic. This is my impression. I am curious how Shiit Multibit sounds like. Maybe some of You had a chance to listen it? Best Regards!! :)
@MrBacchus18: Can you just get Betty to do the whole video? 😀😍
@AudioMasterclass replies to @MrBacchus18: I'd like to but she's too expensive.
@mrnobodyz: Turn that bloody unboxing Muzak down!😂
@AudioMasterclass replies to @mrnobodyz: No thank you.
@josephblue4135: I got this dac 2 days ago from AliExpress for 60$ + tax.
I set it up with my old DVD/ CD Sony dvp-ns575p with a phone USB for power, a RCA coaxial cable & connected to my Yamaha amplifier. The lights on the SU 1 indicated no signal. It just doesn't work. Do you think the problem is my Sony? The Sony still functions great & sounds great with the internal dac.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @josephblue4135: You should ask S.M.S.L who should be able to give you a proper answer.
@mrnobodyz replies to @josephblue4135: From your comment it sounds like you have your DAC Powered up, if you have tried spare coax cable and the input indicator still doesn’t acknowledge your dvd then try the optical and the usb input, preferably not with DVD player as you may have not have digital out enabled correctly. If the other inputs fail to “light up” then you probably have a dud!🤷🏻♂️
@josephblue4135 replies to @josephblue4135: @@mrnobodyz I fixed the problem & it's now working. I change the output of the Sony to PCM.
@mrnobodyz replies to @josephblue4135: @ Cheers! that’s kinda what I thought. My other Chifi DAC broke down so excitedly waiting on a SU-1.
@josephblue4135 replies to @josephblue4135: @@mrnobodyz- I figured out how to do A/B testing of this DAC & my Sony internal DAC. As you know the SU-1 is working just fine now. I hooked up the analog from my Sony to my 65w Yamaha amp & the SU-1 to a different imput on the amp. When playing a CD I can simply go from A to B , back & forth.
I tried about 4 different CDs. I hate to say this, but the DAC in my Sony dvp-ns575p sounds identical to the SU-1. My Sony is 20 years old.
I played a couple of songs from The Beatles "Rubber Soul" (1987) CD for my roommate & he could not tell the Sony from the SU-1 either.
Now I am using a 5v phone charger to power the SU-1. I have heard from other reviewers that a separate power supply could improve the sound.
@larryh9525: I have the SU-1 in an above-average system (Rotel A11 Tribute and KEF LS50 Meta). Sonically, the one flaw I've found isn't so much related to the SU-1 but the XMOS USB interface. I also owned an iFi Signature DAC with an XMOS interface and found the same sonic flaw. However, with SU-1, I could drive the DAC from Wiim Pro via Coax, and any hardness I heard was gone. Since I wasn't supplying power to the SU-1 via USB, I used the upgraded iFi power supply that came with the Signature and found that it further improved the sound from the SU-1.
@josephblue4135 replies to @larryh9525: Larry, what kind of power supply do I get? I've looked on Amazon & haven't got a clue. All I know it's 5 V .
I've read a number of comments about how a separate power supply makes it sound better.
@jissanhuq3792 replies to @larryh9525: It’s annoying that it the USB isn’t great but i ordered a the smsl that converts to optical so i can use the optical or coax
@mrnobodyz replies to @larryh9525: @@josephblue4135People recommend the ifi 5 v charger as a substantial upgrade tho expensive. An iPhone charger is also quite good if genuine, Powerbanks are popular too. If I doubt contact ifi before you pay big bucks!
@photo_n_art: 3 inputs, 1 output and one button... what do you need manual for ?! 🤷♂️🤣
@AudioMasterclass replies to @photo_n_art: So that you know how to decode MQA properly.
@photo_n_art replies to @photo_n_art: Aaaaaah OoooK 🙄😂
@videofoto555: Hello. What kind of power can be supplied to SMSL - SU1? 6 volts 2 or is it possible?
@Colin-From-Corby-yy4vb replies to @videofoto555: It says 5 volts !
@davefreeh2892: I bought this little DAC and think it’s great. I stream from a raspberry pi and to the DAC via coax, to a Resong A10 tube amp and from there to my Klipsch RM600 speakers. Simple, inexpensive and the sound is very pleasing.
@owenjbrady: it is a great box and great value and even there ps100 box for $35 is a really good value
@jamesbennett1634: Thanks for the review - just one question. I would like to use the SU-1 with my Windows laptop, that does not have USB-C out, just USB-A. Will a USB-A / USB-C cable work? Or does it need to be USB-C/USB-C?
@AudioMasterclass replies to @jamesbennett1634: I can't remember what I was using but if you look at the unboxing you'll see a USB-A connector on the cable.
@Danielronane: Ciao, come posso collegare il mio rapsberry al dac? Uso Volumio con il mio hd. Grazie
@drjoeshmoe: Will the usb power from Cambridge AXR85 power this dac? It’s 5v 400ma
@pierreg8562 replies to @drjoeshmoe: i dont know about this, but i would be interested to know what your chain is and why you would want to add a DAC to the AXR85 which already has one (or is it to connect to the optical input?)
@michaelkaercher: Agree 100%. Like your style not to over-analyse. It is a cool little dac and I use it on my 2nd stereo system.
@Aurelius150CE: I had a SU-1 and bought it for my pc using USB and the optical for my cd player. I downloaded and installed the driver on my pc and I had no issues with volume control on the pc. The DAC sounded very good but I was getting audible tic's while typing on my keyboard. I contacted SMSL they did get back to me and had no suggestions other than to send it back to Amazon for a replacement which I did. The replacement will be here in a few days. If this one does the same thing it's my pc and will connect it via the optical input and swap the cd player for my cd/dvd player and use it's coaxial output and power it with a 2 amp Samsung phone charger, fingers crossed.
@RCGJR_ replies to @Aurelius150CE: How would you connect an optical cable to the pc when most modern PCs nowadays have no optical port 🤔
@djsoulfilter replies to @Aurelius150CE: @@RCGJR_some motherboards have optical out. He could also have a sound card that has optical out
@Angellus502: usb input sounds significantly better than spidif in my testing. I've ditched the wiim pro and am now using a mini pc with volumio. Very detailed, lacks the sonic refinement and musical flow of more expesive dacs, but unbeliveably good sound for the price
@TrollMeister_: This has only a single AK4493S chip I understand. What do you lose in terms of audio quality by not having dual chip ?
@TrollMeister_: Can this be powered by an iPad (pro) 's USB-C port ?
@artysanmobile: I am very much drawn to the SMSL concept. No wall warts, no fru-fru. This would be a very useful product in the studio or on the road for me, giving any of my computer devices a high fidelity output to my mixer. My only complaint is it’s a bit on the large side and that’s not enough to chase me away.
@VintageGearMan: I may have to give this thing a whirl. My built in DAC is pretty good. If this little thing can sound better why not? It has to be decent or you would not have bothered to do a review on it. Price point is very doable to. Thanks!
@robertoney5665: Get a real D.A.C. Get the terminator DAC. You have money to burn.
@robw3000: I missed the "look what's inside" part. Like Williston Audio Labs 😉
@Douglas_Blake_579: Users of these DACs might find themselves running into a problem...
If you are using it with an HTPC to feed your amplifiers. If you are controlling the system through a wireless keyboard or the on-screen Windows volume control... you may have no volume control. The on-screen slider and the media keys will stop working, leaving your system at full volume. While you can control media playback from inside the media player, the rest of Windows sounds will still play at full volume... which with a couple of hundred watts on hand can be quite the moment!
Just thought I should let people know about this nasty little Gotcha with these things.
@jameshutton5979: Don't waste your time, go to another review
@AudioMasterclass replies to @jameshutton5979: Is this your best shot? Let's have some reasons, some facts. Come on...
@jameshutton5979 replies to @jameshutton5979: @@AudioMasterclass
We need to know about how it sounds. More detail please.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @jameshutton5979: You can find other reviewers who will tell you in detail how dacs, amps, etc sound. But how do you know whether they’re just making it up? If I hear anything bad in any of my reviews, don’t worry I’ll tell you. Other than that I’m an objectivist and will remain so.
@jameshutton5979 replies to @jameshutton5979: Your review could've been for any DAC on the market for over £30 & do we need 11 minutes for a review that doesn't give a definitive answer, no we don't!
@AudioMasterclass replies to @jameshutton5979: You’ll need to watch other people’s reviews then. It’s as simple as that.
@paulstearns93: If you have the experience with WiiM, can you suggest whether in an appropriately resolving system one might hear an improvement with the SMSL SU- 1 DAC over the built in DAC in a WiiM Pro?
@aj8ky replies to @paulstearns93: It definitely should be. If you’re not sure though, you could buy it on Amazon then you have a month to return it for your money back, if it’s not big enough of an improvement.
@C-man553: All DACs sound the same Evil One.
The tinny switch sound observation put me in Hospital.
@EliteRock: Does the SU-1 still have the firmware 'sleep' function that turns the USB receiver off after a few seconds of no signal? You'll notice it as a second or so of silence at the beginning of playback and then a couple of soft (but irritating) pops as it comes back to life (IOW, you'll get it if you're browsing your library take more than a few seconds between tracks). This appears to be default/baked-in behaviour for the receiver for dongle/mobile applications but it didn't seem to occur to SMSL that saving a watt or two is hardly an imperative in a desktop device.
This is raised about 25 pages in (IIRC) to a long thread/review on Audio Science Review - the fix is to download the XMOS driver for a different model (there isn't one specific to the SU-1) and then edit an XML config file to make an "Always On" (rather than "On when Needed") option visible in the 'XMOS USB DAC Driver Control Panel' that becomes available (unfortunately only for Windows, if you're using a Mac ...).
@hipidipi20157max: whats thge difference between rca and coax. They look the same
@aj8ky replies to @hipidipi20157max: In simple terms,…On this device the Coax is a digital input meaning information runs into the Dac from another source like a tv or computer. RCA is an analog output meaning it outputs the converted analog signal to your powered speakers or amplifier etc.
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @hipidipi20157max: Same connector ... RCA is analog, Coaxial is digital.
@24Alien: Absolutely, DAC on its own is useless. At least it should have an amp, and these days streaming is very useful.
@aj8ky replies to @24Alien: A stand alone, decent, entry level dac is far from useless.
I got this for a friend to improve his active speaker set exactly because he didn’t want any extra volume controls to use or any extra buttons to learn. He suffered a stroke a few yrs back and has memory issues.
So it’s great for people that aren’t very technical and just want a sound quality increase from existing systems without a whole bunch of new extra functionality to learn to navigate.
Also pair this with a WiiM mini through the optical and you’d probably have some pretty decent sound quality for just £160.
@marcgoldin8937: What brand and model of power supply would you recommend for this DAC?
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @marcgoldin8937: It is powered by the USB jack. If you are using it with a PC or Laptop you don't need (or want) a special power supply. Otherwise you need one of those little USB charger blocks and a type c charging cable.
@aj8ky replies to @marcgoldin8937: Or even a usb powerbank/batterypack.
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @marcgoldin8937: @@aj8ky
Only if you are not using the USB input.
@aj8ky replies to @marcgoldin8937: @@Douglas_Blake_579 obviously, lol. Exactly the same as the power supplies you mentioned, I was just adding another easy inexpensive way to power it.
It’s pretty obvious that if he was using the usb, he wouldn’t need a separate power supply. Lol
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @marcgoldin8937: @@aj8ky
Yep. I was just unsure if you realized the USB DATA and POWER were both on the same connector.
@bitmap1638: Dacs are a waste of money... period.
@kristofvadnai replies to @bitmap1638: Yes, kid yourself as long as you want. If your system is entry level, sure an entry level dac is alright "period"
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @bitmap1638: Not if you want to listen to music.
@rodmcleod4897 replies to @bitmap1638: This su-1 beats out dacs over $ 600..you get absolutley nothing more for the extra money but a few filters that do nothing
@professorvoluck9311 replies to @bitmap1638: Just bought my first Dac/headphone amp. An older Teac UD-501 used for $250. It was worth every penny.
@alanrobinson2229: Will this improve YouTube music streaming,as I find the quality significantly lower than Amazon music.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @alanrobinson2229: Whether any DAC can improve the quality of the digits coming in is something audiophiles will philosophise over endlessly.
@pr0l0w: I do like to listen a lot to a song called Echoes from Pink Floyd recorded at Pompeii. The weird thing is - i like the recording tape hiss.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @pr0l0w: You know, I don't mind a bit of tape hiss for nostalgia, or maybe for creative purposes. Mostly though, I prefer to live without it.
@pr0l0w replies to @pr0l0w: @@AudioMasterclass ya i am not requesting tapehiss as a necessary - its is just part of that recording. F.e. Tool uses tapehiss when they start their song Pneuma and then it disappears. I personally have no tape left. I use Tidal on CD Quality and store the stuff i like on an SD in my cellphone to not have to stream songs i like again and again. Invironmental impact and such. CD where a lot of weight in form of plastic - i prefer having multiple of those stored on way less plastic.
@Mr74martyn: using this to convert the optical out from my pc to my audiolab 8000a. Sounds great.
@EgoShredder: I have my SMSL M8 DAC which I got as a bundle in 2015 with their VMV VA2 headphone amp and P1 Linear PSU. The rear DAC connections are colour coded, so not sure when they stopped doing this on later models. Very satisfied with it all and would buy again.
@EricIolo: A good video - thank you! BTW I will be 76 years on the 7th of July. I have most of my own teeth, and most of my faculties David.
@bertroost1675: The power is via the USB? How many volts? My TV USB puts out 5v. Is that too much?
@AudioMasterclass replies to @bertroost1675: I don't know of any exceptions but if something claims to be USB powered then in my experience you can plug it into any USB. Free advice comes without guarantee.
@bertroost1675 replies to @bertroost1675: @@AudioMasterclass I guess I was just more concerned about the voltage.
@aj8ky replies to @bertroost1675: It’s always 5v for usb it’s the amps that vary.
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @bertroost1675: USB is standardized for 5 volts, 500ma.
@edverbeek6292: Your review is pointless. All is in the ear of the beholder. I have had an SU-1.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @edverbeek6292: Exactly. Everyone's opinion but yours is pointless.
@marcgoldin8937 replies to @edverbeek6292: @@AudioMasterclassI agree with the notion that the only one that needs to enjoy your system is you!
@RoyFJ65: The best value in DAC with performance thats neutral.
@michaeldeloatch7461: I was going to grab one of these based on your review, but I realized I don't have any rips at 768kHz in my collection. Rats, will have to start all over again.
@michaeldeloatch7461: What a great review. Betty should do deadpan stand-up comedy on the side to earn extra income, because she uttered some of that stuff without cracking up once. This weekend for Father's Day I purchased from a local fellow one of the last consumer-grade tube/valve receivers made by a company that rhymes with "buy an ear" -- just for nostalgia purposes, mind you. I am happy to report some of the harshness of the cathodes has finally begun to burn off this device after 500,000 hours.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @michaeldeloatch7461: You're starting to get the properly matured electrons. The younger ones are not so mellow.
@larsstecken: Did I hear a bit of Jean Michel Jarre at the end of the unboxing soundbed? 😊
@AudioMasterclass replies to @larsstecken: It isn't impossible you heard a similar element since we're probably using the same synths. He's the one making the money.
@larsstecken replies to @larsstecken: @@AudioMasterclass I remember being glued to my stereo in the 89ies listening to Oxygene and Equinoxe 🙃 Thanks for another entertaining review - I am not actually interested in buying anything at the moment, just enjoying the banter 😂
@sabrowenie: Here’s my review. Gave my old AKM Schiit Modi 3 to my son so he can use his PS5 to a stereo. It was on my office system which is an Arcam Alpha 8 and Triangle Titus speakers. Replaced it with the SU 1. Subjectively the SU 1 decodes Tidal via a WiiM mini as well as the Modi3.
@barlow2976: Sorry to be pedantic David but there isn't a full-stop after the L in the DAC's name. Just saying, as you told us you like to be precise.
I can't help feeling Betty is giving me 'come hither' looks, Salacious little Jezebel.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @barlow2976: Well you out-precised me there. No prize unfortunately.
@John9V1VV: It's a wonderful little box. I use it with my Wimo streamer into a Willsenton R8 tube amp and Tannoy Revolution floor standers . It's all I will ever need.
@BruTay5454: I've had my SU1 for almost a year. It was definitely an upgrade to the DAC I had been using (onboard DAC in a Yamaha A-S 801), which kinda suprised me for being so inexpensive. I've discovered 2 issues however: when streaming from a Bluesounde Node using the coax input I kept getting dropouts, so had to switch to the optical input. (have since found out others have this issue with Nodes to S.M.S.L. dacs). And I can't use the tone controls on my Yamaha amp - have to use the 'pure direct' mode on it or the DAC doesn't think it's connected. Wish I had discovered these issues while the return window was still open.
@astandupcooks replies to @BruTay5454: If the Dac is connected to the amp with an RCA cable you don't have to leave it in direct mode. I think the difference will be subtle (direct mode on or off ). You can get the sound of the dac and tone control if you turn the direct mode off.
@BruTay5454 replies to @BruTay5454: @@astandupcooks I do have to leave it in direct mode with RCA cables - If I take it out of direct mode the DAC doesn't recognize it's connected to the Amp for some reason. It stops sending a signal.
@astandupcooks replies to @BruTay5454: @@BruTay5454 that sounds strange. I have a Marantz PM6006 and the smsl SU1 sends a signal when its in pure mode and when it isnt. Might be worth contacting SMSL or whoever you purchased it from and exercise your warranty. As there might something wrong with your device. And as you had it less for a year you might still have warranty. Hope you get it sorted. Also might be worth trying a different RCA input on your amplifier and see if that works .
@mattmiller4978: I have had one all year. My only gripe is the blinking input light when there is no input. I do love the 5v power and have it in a junction box with a Fosi V3 and WIIM mini for my patio system. A Shelly relay controls power on the box.
Interestingly I have more expensive DACs that I A/B tested against and I cannot perceive any difference. I am in the camp that all dacs sound the same (under $1k at least).
Also in the camp that not all audiophiles are flat earthers, but all flat earthers are audiophiles. 😂
@kevin_m replies to @mattmiller4978: I covered the light with a small black piece of tape. 😅
@garymalone547: Such a cute looking little DAC, but I'm a fan of minimalist featureless black boxes.
My aging Myryad Z20 isn't large, but dwarfs the SMSL. Will be interesting to put one of these el cheapo options up against my old DAC when I get a chance. Subjectivists will claim measurements don't tell the whole story, but I tend to agree with No Theme Reviews insofar as good DACs sound very similar, if not exactly the same. Maybe R2R and FPGA designs sound different from delta sigma ones. Hopefully I'll get a chance to experiment for myself in the future once I find a suitable place with a decent room for the two channel rig.
@HG_74_WLC: My only criticism is the single usb power source. If that’s plugged into your computer, then your computer must be running all the time to power it when listening from other sources. Either that or you have to swap out a wire. Mildly irritating.
@Tinman2809 replies to @HG_74_WLC: Don't be silly you can use any 5v PSU with USB C cable....
@HG_74_WLC replies to @HG_74_WLC: @@Tinman2809 yeah but then if you want to take input from your computer you have to swap the usb cable over to that.
@Tinman2809 replies to @HG_74_WLC: @@HG_74_WLC 😖
@HG_74_WLC replies to @HG_74_WLC: @@Tinman2809 what am missing? If there’s a product that lets me have a usb input from the computer when I’m listening from that, and a separate power supply connected to the dac for when the computer is switched off and I’m listening from the WiiM mini, then let me know.
@Tinman2809 replies to @HG_74_WLC: @@HG_74_WLC Yes it's called a USB hub. 🙂
@jegermajster: I have been an owner of the SU1 for the last 6 or 8 months and it packs a solid punch, especially for the price. My problem was that I was getting a lot of hum-like distortion and buzzing, when the SU1 was connected via USB to my PC. But that is not a problem of the SU1 itself, but rather my PC setup. So I ended up using the SU1 as a DAC for my Marantz CD player's optical out, and it works great in that role.
@artysanmobile replies to @jegermajster: Did u ever find a different pc without that problem? That should not be a thing at all.
@jegermajster replies to @jegermajster: @@artysanmobile No, sorry. I ended up using the SU1 with the CD play I mentioned.
@Colin-From-Corby-yy4vb replies to @jegermajster: Power supply makes a difference too, using the USB cable isn't the best way to power this gem, use a separate power supply, that will improve the sound even further, not one of those £5 jobs either, but I bought a £15 power supply from Amazon with a separate box, must be 5 volts with a minimum of 2.5 ampers, but you can buy power supplies for silly money, often costing more than DAC itself, which defeats the object of this bargain DAC, so I compromised with a £15 supply, sounds great.
@didioentoro7575 replies to @jegermajster: @@Colin-From-Corby-yy4vbSo how did you connect the SU-1 without a USB-C cable ?
@Colin-From-Corby-yy4vb replies to @jegermajster: @@didioentoro7575 I used a separate power supply which has a C-type connector attached (adaptor) to the end of the power supply cable !
@Douglas_Blake_579: Does it work with Windows Plug and Play?
What speed and sample sizes do you get on USB?
Does it require a sepecial driver?
@EARLandPEARL-c3i replies to @Douglas_Blake_579: yes
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @Douglas_Blake_579: @@EARLandPEARL-c3i
Dang, that's a good but short answer.
@nabman_: I have one. Excellent value for money. It converts D to A without adding its own sound. Most importantly, there is no software to keep updating or that'd go obsolete on you.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @nabman_: This is why for production I prefer an audio interface that doesn't need its own software.
@EARLandPEARL-c3i: I have one and It's all I need...nuff said
@RaymondReeves-db8dr: David, what is the point of your latest review? Your previous post was very critical about the abundantly pointless YouTube reviews of audio products. Reviews that can't possibly demonstrate that the sound quality is sufficiently noticeable to have any meaning. I haven't counted the amount of times that you say that they're all pointless, but you make a point about it. Is this really what you think? I think you're missing the point about how and why a reviewer of any product should be informing their audience about the products capabilities. As I have already said, your previous post is continuously emphasizing the point about the pointlessness, or the waste of time trying to compare sound qualities, because of the fact that YouTube, doesn't support lossless audio. I say that It doesn't need to. Your reviews should be based solely on your personal qualifications and expert knowledge about what makes good sound reproduction. Also you have a real understanding of the technical data, you have an understanding and have the ability to explain it to us mere mortals. Moreover you should be analysing these products in a purely objective manner. All we really need to know is if this little box of tricks can actually improve the sound of a digital source. If you haven't twigged yet, it's a DAC! You can connect a CD player or any other digital component, via either of the coaxial or optical inputs. We need to know if it will make a CD player sound better than the onboard DAC?. Sound on Sound used to be a paper based publication, and so was What HiFi and all the other magazines that review audio products. How exactly did anyone that read a review in one of these publications get to hear the item? Some of your reviews are really quite naive in content . For instance: The strength of the digital audio signal output of broadcasters varies significantly. If you were serious about home cinema sound reproduction, you will know that to get the best out of the equipment is by using the HDMI interconnects. I have a fairly basic Yamaha AV receiver, lets say that its adequate. However, most times times, YouTube sounds unbelievably good , especially some of the professional audio content. Amateur recordings can be suspect particularly speech being over peak level, but generally I have no complaints. Surely you must realize that when listening to YouTube on a laptop or TV with just the built in speakers, this won't reveal anything, but as soon as I plug the laptop into my AV amp with an HDMI cable the sound is transformed. I don't actually have my laptop plugged in to my amp. (I have on occasion used the DVD player) I usually watch YouTube on my TV. I have a Manhattan Freeview recorder and a Toshiba smart TV. There are many combinations of how I can listen to YouTube, For instance I could use any of the optical outputs into my Marantz amp, or I could connect the Manhattan to my own external DAC. I could then connect this to my Quad 405. I just happen to think that my AV amp is the best option for all round use, especially when watching TV. So everything that is TV related is fed through the AV amp via HDMI. My Av amp comes a distant second for listening to a stereo , 2 channel sound reproduction when compared to the Quad. You seem to miss the point of this DAC's functionality. Most TV's have an optical audio out, you could have mentioned in your review that if someone wanted to connect a TV but don't have HDMI, they can with an optical output, connect into an ordinary stereo amp, via this DAC, it just might improve the sound quality. I have the S.M.S.L. C200 DAC. I bought this model because of the remote function and the volume control. Enough has been written that by using an external DAC will improve the audio signal over any onboard DAC. Forget about using ridiculous or flamboyant adjectives to verbally convey sound quality. I will just say that the S.M.S.L. C200 has greatly improved my listening experience. This it has achieved by having clearer separation, and of the definition of instruments. Bass is now better controlled without losing strength or overpowering the rest of the frequency range. I can now hear a lower bass extension, this was previously being obscured by the upper bass frequencies. I saw your review of the Fosi Audio SK01. I thought your review was so informative that I bought one. Remember, you did a live sound review, you also asked a technical question about the test that you had carried out. I listened to the sound clip and decided that the audio signal that you had input, came out the other end fairly accurately without adding or losing definition. For all intents and purposes I'm listening to YouTube through Hi- definition inputs. Is loss less sound going to be that much better to my 67 year old ears? I can honestly say that the an AV amp processes the sound better via an HDMI input than when using the optical input . Even if my system doesn't live up to somebody else's expectations. My point here is that the sound quality is good enough that I can hear a difference than if I was just listening to YouTube on the TV or laptop. By not including a sound review, you are copping out, and by not even giving your own opinion verbally on sound quality of the device that is on review. I think is a complete failure. Even the review that I recently saw on a Crosley cruiser had a sound comparison audio clip.
@AudioMasterclass replies to @RaymondReeves-db8dr: TLDR?
@Tinman2809 replies to @RaymondReeves-db8dr: Billy no-mates has spoken....for waaaaay too long! 😂
@AudioMasterclass replies to @RaymondReeves-db8dr: @@Tinman2809 Edit: Apologies, I misreplied. My comment is deleted.
@Tinman2809 replies to @RaymondReeves-db8dr: @@AudioMasterclass I was referring to the 'verbose' Raymond Reeves ..not you! 🙂
@AudioMasterclass replies to @RaymondReeves-db8dr: @@Tinman2809 Ooh sorry about that. I'll edit my previous comment.
@SubTroppo: One of the first thing I noticed when watching John Darko in Berlin was the door-stops (I assume) he used on his equipment to avoid the dreaded 'power-on shift'. Perhaps I should start a YT channel reviewing heavy audiophile door-stops. "Is this Aldi stop heavy enough in the base?"
@AudioMasterclass replies to @SubTroppo: I'll watch your channel. The first couple of videos anyway.
@barlow2976 replies to @SubTroppo: I wondered if it was wise to put a big chunk of cast iron on top of electrical equipment, something non-conductive/magnetic would surely be better?
@Douglas_Blake_579 replies to @SubTroppo: The weights are to keep the oversized/overpriced/overhyped fat cables from pulling the thing off the shelf.
@SubTroppo replies to @SubTroppo: @@Douglas_Blake_579 I didn't think of the weight of the cables. If I were flogging the cables you are describing I'd be including lead-shielding to add gravitas. It all goes to show that there is a lot of money looking for a good (or questionable) home.
@Nutz0: your unboxing music is getting better
@AudioMasterclass replies to @Nutz0: Wot? I was trying to make it increasingly irritating.
@michaelwright1602: I have one of these SU-1 DACs, I put it in my last system and it sounded rather veiled and congested, so I put it away. I have a new system, and said why not? This silly little DAC blew me away. It reminded me quite a bit of the Denafrips Ares II, and it was only $80? Damn impressive.
@Hirnlego999 replies to @michaelwright1602: Sometimes it's just about playing subpar recordings. Use the really HQ stuff and suddenly the whole stereo can wake up
@jissanhuq3792 replies to @michaelwright1602: Pairings are annoyingly important. My kef n magnepan speakers play nice with different parts.
@paulfriedman4767: i'd be interested to hear about the inspiration for your stellar unboxing music and Betty's critique of the same.
@michaeltrent9716: I agree with everything you said. The SU-1 was my first DAC. Unfortunately, mine had problems straight out of the box. When it worked, it was well worth the price and sounded great. The return for warranty 4 days after the Amazon 30-day window was miserable. But with persistence, Amazon's customer service was amazing in getting me my full refund + return shipping cost. I now have no faith in SMSL or the seller on Amazon. Saying that, I just ordered a Schitt Modi. Would I recommend the SU-1, probably but with a caveat, if you have any questionable issues regardless of the problem and if you order from Amazon, return it within the 30-day return window.
@SnapperX3: Your unboxing music would make good hype music for a sporting event.
@offbeatinstruments: I don’t suppose a long term test is possible with these cheap little boxes, they seem to rarely work for more than a month. I also worry about cheap power supplies burning the house down, but then again I also worry about scented candles setting fire to the curtains. I don’t think the high stakes world of chi-fi is for me.
@nabman_ replies to @offbeatinstruments: This is a well built, well performing basic DAC at a low price but not cheap qualiry. I've had mine for almost 2 years and no issues (btw, it was an Amazon open-box warehouse deal). It doesn't come with a power supply; you can use a standard 5V 1A USB adapter (just make sure it's CE or UL certified and you'll be safe). Totally agree with you on candles...
@stananthalus replies to @offbeatinstruments: Had mine for about a year and has worked flawlessly.
@Tinman2809 replies to @offbeatinstruments: @offbeatinstruments You need anxiety meds......🙄
@Curious-z4s: Subjectivism in listening to music cannot merely be perception to the sound of the music and the subjective feelings it generates for the listener, but rather what kind of relationship is formed between mental and moral universe of the listener and the music being played. The same compositions that aroused great excitements and very unique personal feelings during teens and young age, does not do so when life has gone through a series of experiences. The opposite is also true. Am wondering whether this subjective transformation is a result of objective change or subjective change!
I like SMSL SU-1's sound.
@TriAmpMyFi replies to @Curious-z4s: What kind of screen name is going on here?
@Totalplonker replies to @Curious-z4s: Sound in its purest form is objective. It's what we interpret from sound is what we call subjective. Sound is a wave made from particles. You can predict it measure it and quantify it. Sound is an electrical impulse from the nerve endings in our ears, which is then being interpreted by our brain, at which point it becomes subjective.
@artysanmobile replies to @Curious-z4s: You’re trying way too hard. Your life changes are yours only.
@shirley-ie5vj: Was looking forward to a nice little unboxing music but that corny shakuhachi at the start almost made me feel I was being trolled 🤯
@AudioMasterclass replies to @shirley-ie5vj: Don’t worry! Google will tell you why that sample is a classic.
@nickmoranis2865: Bringing the beats!!!😅
@Voidoid77: Have bought a couple of these for my two son's 'starter' systems. Both lads = very happy. Powered via a mobile-phone charger w/USB-C cable. Fuss-free, clean sound. No caveats.
@Angellus502 replies to @Voidoid77: usb input sounds significantly better than spidif in my testing.
@chocholatemilkshake4799 replies to @Voidoid77: + Wiim Mini. Best Startup System
@marxman00: The biggest problem with audio is the listeners perception
@mrnobodyz replies to @marxman00: 🙈
@tonyjedioftheforest1364: I bought one to use my iPhone 11 with Apple Music to connect to my amp. Thought it would be better sound quality than using my Bluetooth streamer a Bludento BLT. Unfortunately the phone won’t power it through the usb so how would I connect it to my phone? Do I need a separate streamer like a Wiim?
@HG_74_WLC replies to @tonyjedioftheforest1364: Yep. A WiiM mini would do it
@thexfile.: I don't know what you would use this for. 😄
@AudioMasterclass replies to @thexfile.: Not as a doorstop, that's for sure.
@Tinman2809 replies to @thexfile.: IT'S A DAC ! 😂
@ac81017: Sorry David, you have to be an Audiophile or Audio Phil to notice the hardness and edge. Regards, an Audiophile
@AudioMasterclass replies to @ac81017: Rumour has it that when Phil detects any hardness or edge his ears produce more wax to compensate.
@EgoShredder replies to @ac81017: @@AudioMasterclass Once enough ear wax has been harvested, is this made into 78rpm records?
@shipsahoy1793: 🤔Uh oh Dave, you've joined the YouTube cheap audio reviews team🫵😵💫
@AudioMasterclass replies to @shipsahoy1793: Dunno what you're talking about - I normally use my £9 Apple adapter.
@marxman00 replies to @shipsahoy1793: "Im sorry Dave ..I cant let you do that " "this conversation can serve no purpose "