{"id":174851,"date":"2023-11-09T18:00:33","date_gmt":"2023-11-09T18:00:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.techweekmag.com\/?p=174851"},"modified":"2023-11-09T18:00:33","modified_gmt":"2023-11-09T18:00:33","slug":"smsl-d400es-dac-bound-to-deliver-top-notch-performance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stereoindex.com\/tech\/hi-fi\/smsl-d400es-dac-bound-to-deliver-top-notch-performance\/","title":{"rendered":"SMSL D400ES DAC: Bound to deliver top-notch performance"},"content":{"rendered":"

With the\u00a0D400ES DAC\u00a0<\/b>, SMSL<\/b>\u00a0returns\u00a0to the scene using the latest high-end ES9039MSPro DAC chip from ESS.\u00a0Combined with high-quality audio circuitry and components, the D400ES delivers top-notch performance.<\/p>\n

\"SMSL<\/p>\n

The DAC is also versatile, providing full Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and reception, covering the vast majority of applications.<\/p>\n

\"SMSL<\/p>\n

The entire D400ES DAC is of quality construction, using only components specifically selected for their performance.\u00a0It features an eight-channel parallel design with no less than 11 OPA1612 op-amps, a proprietary CK-03 clock system for significant jitter reduction, and a low-noise regulated power stage.<\/p>\n

\"SMSL<\/p>\n

SMSL D400ES is equipped with the latest generation ESS D\/A converter with 32-bit 8-channel ES9039MSPro chip – a new benchmark in the world of high-end DACs.\u00a0It uses ESS’s patented Hyperstream\u00ae IV technology.\u00a0Featuring a QUAD modulator architecture, it delivers unparalleled sound quality and audio performance, including superior dynamic range and THD+N.\u00a0In addition, it now has a built-in MQA decoder.<\/p>\n

\"SMSL<\/p>\n

Thanks to the ES9039MSPro chip, the D400ES is capable of decoding and playing the MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) format.\u00a0This file type provides high quality sound that is as close as possible to the original studio recording.\u00a0Each track is also authenticated by the artist, producer or copyright holder.\u00a0This type of format is used particularly on the streaming platform Tidal.\u00a0Additionally, MQA-CD is supported, allowing you to play this type of file from a CD player.<\/p>\n

\"SMSL<\/p>\n

In addition to the already comprehensive connectivity capabilities, the D400ES integrates a Bluetooth 5.0 receiver from Qualcomm.\u00a0It makes it possible to stream and manage your music wirelessly, for example, from a smartphone or tablet.\u00a0The receiver chip used supports aptX HD and LDAC high-definition transmission codecs for high-quality audio playback via Bluetooth.<\/p>\n

Characteristics of SMSL D400ES:<\/b><\/p>\n