Best DACs under $200

Among various devices, DACs have become very popular and many consumers want to get the best DAC under 200 for themselves. However, there are still questions from not tech-savvy fans of music whether these devices can make the difference in listening to music or not.

DAC means Digital to Analog converter. Nowadays most of the music or other audio files are saved in digital formats as it allows us to store an unlimited amount of files without occupying physical free space. However, human ears can perceive only analog sound waves. Therefore, DACs have become an essential part of every modern device that you have.

Most of the electronics like TV sets, mobile phones, computers and other devices that can produce sound, have internal DACs. It is where consumers wonder why they need to buy an additional external converter? Even with a good internal DAC, it cannot get rid of other noises. Jitter, vibrations, hissing, fan work, and many other sounds are produced by computers inside of them. They influence the quality of the music you hear from the device. In case, you want to enjoy the high-quality sound you may be interested in getting the best DAC under 200 for yourself.

Our pick

Topping DX3 Pro

The best DAC under $200

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Dx3 Pro is Hi-Res Audio Wireless and LDAC, built-in DAC of CSR8675 is used to transfer digital signal.

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DACs under $200 Comparison Table

Reviews of DACs under 200

Topping DX3 Pro – best overall

It is always difficult to choose only one best DAC under 200 among a great number of other devices, but you definitely need to consider Topping DX3 Pro. It does not occupy too much space and a nice desktop unit with metal housing and a sturdy 3.5mm jack. With a comfortable volume switcher, you can also control the device what can be a not very easy task. However, you receive a remote controller. The display has amber colors which make it easy to use even in the darkness. Moreover, it has Bluetooth that is compatible with AptX at 16/44.1khz.

For inputs, Topping DX3 Pro offers you USB with drivers that are able to support PCM 32/768khz and alternatively DSD512. Two coaxial inputs and one optical that follows S/PDIF. While checking outputs you will find RCA lines at the backside and 3.5mm output for headphones at the front side. For more convenient use it has an idle mode that makes this device wait until some signal will be received, but this DAC never turns completely off.

Sound BlasterX G6 – best for gaming

Video games are full of wonderful soundtracks that allow to dive into the fantastic worlds. If you are the person who needs a DAC for gaming purposes then you need to consider Sound BlasterX G6. At the very beginning, you can see its uncommon design with a silver metal housing. It is compatible with the latest consoles and operating systems. It is a small amplifier that is also can be used with smartphones. Getting this device means that you receive a 32-bit/384kHz DAC that can reach 130dB and Dolby Digital decoding systems 5.1 and 7.1 for better virtual sound surroundings.

It can be powered through via USB input connected to the device or with a help of power adapter to an outlet. There is only one line optical input and output which means that you cannot connect several devices simultaneously.

iFi Hip-DAC

I want to show you the appliance powered by a Burr-Brown DAC chip, which is often used by iFi. Hip-DAC supports virtually all digital audio formats, including PCM (up to 384 kHz) and native DSD 2.8 MHz to 12.4 MHz (DSD64, 128, and 256).

There are two silver buttons on the front of the device: PowerMatch (for boost) and XBass (for bass boost). When switched on, they are illuminated with white LEDs. Between them, there is an amazingly smooth and gold volume knob that gives a premium feel. On either side of the rotary volume control is a pair of LEDs that change color to match the format and sample rate – this is the traditional iFi indication.

On the rear panel, you will find a USB type-A input for connecting to a PC or smartphone and a USB Type-C connector, which is responsible for charging the device. Below, there is an indicator of charge.

The sound of the Hip DAC is well-balanced, smooth, without pronounced peaks and valleys, excessive aggression, and distortion. The mids have a pleasant and satisfying tonality, they are not neutral and give the sound some coloration.

Audioengine D1

Buying a DAC may be a tough decision, especially when you need to choose one device among the best DACs under 200. In the beginning, it is better to figure out for what purposes you are going to use it. In case you are just a person who loves to listen to music every day and everywhere, then you need something more portable. Audioengine D1 is a compact DAC that requires the only USB to power it. With a Plug and Play system, you do not need to worry about problems with installing drivers. Simply by attaching all the necessary cables, you may start using it.

It has RCA and 3.5mm outputs that support up to 24-bit/96kHz. As for inputs, you have S/PDIF TosLink that is suitable for 24-bit/192kHz and Mini-USB. In addition, there is a convenient volume knob that allows to set an appropriate level without using the connected device. It is necessary to mention that its metal housing can guarantee better durability.

Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100

When you need something to boost sound at home you will try to find something that has a great number of features to use DAC in various ways. It is difficult to find one, which is the best DAC below 200 and not too low quality. In such a case you may need to consider Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100. It is filled with Wolfson WM8742 that supports all formats up to 24-bit/192kHz that are protected with fine metal housing.

In order to make it work this DAC has 12V DC 2A input. Among other inputs, it provides you with a great variety of choices like one Toslink optical, two S/p DIF coaxial and one USB audio input. There is an external Source button which allows you to switch between devices that are connected to Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100. As for output, you have only RCA what makes this DAC a little bit limited.

FiiO K5 Pro

Buying a DAC means that you receive a device that has everything to work well from the very beginning. While purchasing FiiO K5 Pro together with a unit you receive:

• 6.3 mm jack adapter
• S/PDIF dust cover plugs
• power adaptor
• power cable that comes with an appropriate jack for outlet type
• additional rubber legs
• Mini-USB

The design of FiiO K5 Pro is not so attractive but simple. The housing is made with black aluminum and rubber legs provide good stability on different surfaces. At the front side, you have 6.3 mm headphone output, volume colored knob, 3-way Gain switcher and input switcher. At the backside, you will find USB input, coaxial and optical S/PDIF inputs and line in and out 2 RCA.

To provide you with high-quality sound FiiO K5 Pro has AK4493 DAC that can handle up to 768kHz/32bit together with native DSD. In addition, it has XMOS XUF208 for the USB receiver and OPA1642 for the amplifier.