The Audioengine D1 converter is undoubtedly the best dac under 200$. This model was designed to connect to a PC via a USB connector for use as an external high-quality sound card and is also equipped with an output for connecting headphones.
The Audioengine D1 has an optical digital input for connection to other audio sources, such as media players or BD/DVD players.
The device has a great electronic filing, which allows it to accurately play any genre. The USB interface is implemented on the TI1020B chip, and the AKM4396 chip with 24-bit/192 kHz parameters is used as the DAC.
Audioengine D1 Pros and Cons
Pros
- The Audioengine D1 has a dual voltage stabilization circuit to use when connecting to a computer via USB
- No additional drivers to install
- The analog outputs are adjustable, and the knob on the front panel changes the signal level both on them and on the headphone output
- Three devices (USB / TosLink-DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier) are included in one
- Elementary connection to Windows/Mac/Linux computers
- Robust construction, the front panel is nice to touch
Cons
- There’s an audible burst of digital noise every time you turn it on
- There’s no marker on the volume knob to show the position
- On/off button is weak
Alex Smith is the senior home entertainment editor at theGuruchoice and focused on reviews. His specialities are: technology, home theatre systems, music reviews.