Audioengine DAC3 32 bit Portable Headphone Amplifier and DAC | 3.5mm Headphone Out | MQA, PCM, DSD Hi-Res Audio Support, USB-C Input for Windows/Android/iOS/MacOS

This is my 3rd DAC over the past few years. It is the smallest of the bunch and a nice package. I've learned a lot about sound sampling and how Apple Music does it. It gets complicated and confusing, but I prefer to just listen and enjoy now. The Dac3 design is simple, two ports, USB C to feed the source material (phone or computer/tablet) and an analog output to your phones or speakers. The volume is a simple rocker switch that I sometimes find difficult to use. Still, you can vary the volume from the source, or if your speakers are powered, you can change the volume on them. The indicator light is where I got my education. The light will change color to show the resolution of the source material. It works well, especially when using an iPhone. On a Mac running Apple Music, however, the indicator does not change automatically, (The company should explain this in their literature). If you use 3rd party music apps like Tidal or Roon, you can see the indicator light change automatically according to the source input signal. Apple Music is unable to do that on the Mac for reasons I won't go into to. However, on the iPhone, things work as you would expect. So, I restrict using the Dac3 with my iPhone (14 Pro). I listen through UE CSX 18+ and Westone W60 IEM's and Beyerdynamic DT990 headphones. Each has their own sound signature, with the Dac3 sitting in between feeding them pure converted analog signals. All I can say, is it sounds just great, and there is plenty of amplifier power for them. I have an Ifi Zen dac connected to my Mac Studio driving Audioengine 5+ speakers. Those speakers (and a subwoofer) are my main source of musical appreciation while in my office. Now, with the Dac3, I have a great way to have a quality MOBILE music system that I can enjoy just about anywhere. The price is fine, considering what you're getting.

Purchased this after looking at many options. Wanted to increase the volume and audio quality in my vehicle. I am now able to steam downloaded music in high-res lossless from Apple. I'm using this in conjuction with an ipod touch 7th gen.Lights function as they should to indicate audio quality.I was able to turn the volume down from 40 to 20. It doubled the volume output of ipod. This also tightened up the bass and added the punch I was looking for. It also really did increase the clarity and quality of my music. I was very impressed for the size. Definitely has a wider Soundstage, and separation of instruments and vocals. This improvement was noticed using all OEM equipment and speakers in a 2016 Avalon - Nav. model without JBL upgrade.Using lightning to usb-c cable through a splitter so can charge and listen as this does drain the battery. Short trips that's no problem, road trips would be an issue. I also use a quality balanced 3.5mm aux cable to connect to vehicle from DAC.I tested this out on my Sennheiser HD 598's and works well. Sound quality is great and drives them with no problems. Highs are smooth and warm, bass tight and sufficient.Also drives my Mass Drop Sennheiser HD6XX. Not nearly as well as a desktop DAC, but for portable small DAC was ok. A bit harsh on the high end and lacking in bass on the HD6XX's compared to the 598's.Overall for the price and a 3yr warranty from the company this is an excellent option for car audio or from phone or ipod wired headphones. Would definitely recommend and may buy a second for our other vehicle.

Pros:Compact and Portable: The small and lightweight design makes it highly portable, enhancing convenience for on-the-go use.Stylish and High-End Appearance: Constructed with a full aluminum alloy body, the device boasts a stylish and high-end look, elevating its overall quality.Impressive Sound Quality: With support for 32-bit high-resolution digital audio, it delivers clear and detailed audio, meeting the demands of audiophiles seeking top-notch sound quality.Cons:Single-Ended Output: Limited to a 3.5mm single-ended output, potentially restricting options for users who prefer balanced connections.Lack of 4.4mm Balanced Output: The absence of a 4.4mm balanced output might be a drawback for users who rely on balanced connections.Work Light Design: The prominent size of the work light, coupled with the inability to adjust or turn off its brightness, may be perceived as a slight inconvenience in certain environments.In summary, the Audioengine DAC3 excels in aesthetics, portability, and sound quality but has limitations in terms of connectivity options and the design of the work light.

This is my second DAC for use with headphones. I first tried the AudioQuest DragonFly Red back in June of 2022. I was not that impressed with the sound and the connector for the headphones failed in just over a month. Fortunately, I was able to return it for a refund. I recently read a short review of the Audioengine DAC3 32 bit Portable Headphone Amplifier and DAC, in a popular audiophile magazine, and decided to give it a try. My headphones are Sennheiser HD 598 Cs and the source material is iTunes running on a Windows 11 laptop using Apple Lossless Audio CODEC (ALAC) from ripped CDs. I have now listened for about six hours, and I am impressed. This small device has plenty of volume (if you want it), but, more important, is that the sound is superb. I am hearing things with my headphones which I have never heard before. If you like jazz, try Diana Krall – Live in Paris. Her voice sounds like it is inside your head. And her piano sounds like it’s in your house. This is an impressive device. I can’t address its durability yet, but the sound is a winner.

Not enough power to drive many headphones.