SMSL D300 Review, Affordable DAC with High End DAC Chip
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- Опубліковано 21 лип 2024
- SMSL D300 DAC
Price: 400USD (Jan,2022)
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
bit.ly/3tyW3rl
amzn.to/3IaIeU9
Pros: Easy To Listen Natural Sound, Perfect Price to Performance.
Cons: Thin Metal Casing.
Please Note: When using Mac with Audirvana DSD files have no audible, not even noise but no issue with Sony music server.
Demo Music by Janis Ian: amzn.to/3IhGCZM
More on tharbamar.com
Associated Equipments,
Musician Aquarius DAC: amzn.to/33Wzan9
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KEF R11 Speaker: amzn.to/3acMlB8, ebay.us/nXCI8d
Sony HAP-Z1ES: amzn.to/3ckCZ5w
Denon PMA-SX11 Integrated Amplifier: ebay.us/NllM5G
Oyaide Neo D+ Class A USB Cable: amzn.to/3uGFAi4
Mogami AES Cable: amzn.to/3q5RYaV
iFi SuperNova AC Power Cable: amzn.to/3J1j3Vu
iFi Nova AC Power Cable:amzn.to/321DPUm
PS Audio AC-12 Power Cable: amzn.to/2YQo2Tx
Mogami Gold XLR Cables: amzn.to/3mlTGTB
Oyaide Black Mamba Alpha AC Power Cord: ebay.us/5T2uZP
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Video Timeline
0:00 About D300
4:14 Setting Menu
6:25 Sound Quality
10:44 Sound Sample
![If you can't hear this then you're not an audiophile [See description for link to followup video]](/img/n.gif)
Hello Tharbamar, based on your review / suggestion I got SMSL D300 DAC. It sounds so accurate, deep soundstage, natural with very good detail / instruments separation without sibilance in my system (Ifi Zen Streamer - SMSL D300 - Yamaha AS500 amp - Wharfedale Evo 4.2 speakers). I feel like hearing the real instruments next to me. Lower-mid and low freq. are well textured, clean.
Thanks for your honest reviews and opinions. This helps us make right decision wherever we are unable to do demo. Thanks from India
Another wonderful video. Your explanation of this here actually answers the question I posed in your Polk R200 review video. Thank you so much!
Had D300 playing for 6 hrs now! Giant killer! No brainer for the price.
j'ai le D300 depuis trois semaines et je peux vous dire que c'est un tueur de géants !!! pour ceux qui aiment la musique avant tout !!!
Quel est votre opinion sur la durée???
Techniquement, il semble avoir des chiffres moins mirobolants que la masse des autres sabre, akm. Moins bon rapport signal bruit, etc
Mais il semblerait que ceux qui connaissent le son des vrais instruments 🎸 dans œuvres qu’ils écoutent, retrouvent la même musicalité de ces instruments.
Alors que d’autres DAC pouvant paraître plus « précis » sur le papier, introduirait une sorte de décalage de l’instrument, tout on restant très précis.
Je sais pas si on pourrait parler de différence entre la précision numérique et la fidélité réel…?
Je sais pas si c’est bien clair…?
Tharbamar You are really good at telling about the sound experiences!! This is important as the DAC being tested must be included in widely varying installations.
Thanks for watching.
Wow this DAC is excellent. I am surprised that it isn’t getting more attention.
I am running the smsl D300 with Primaluna evo400 integrated with Polk Audio Legend L600, even youtube musi c sound so good. Thanks for the recommendation
Update: I bought a D300 this week and am enjoying it very much. It replaced a really good Emotiva DC-1, and my sense so far, after switching between the two units many times, is that the D300 makes CDs sound even more lifelike. I don't care about whether my system sounds forward or laid back, focused or smooth, etc. but I do care very much if it makes a viola sound like a viola (not a low violin) and a B-flat trumpet sound like a B-flat trumpet (not a C trumpet). If you only compare hi-fi components with other hi-fi components and never compare any of it with the sound of real instruments, everything will always be subjective and unrelated to realism. No problem with that if that's what floats your boat. If you compare hi-fi components with the sound of real instruments and voices, though, and your goal changes to the quest for realism (not hi-fi thrills or preferences) you might find yourself really taken by gear like the D300.
Thanks for your thoughts. I'm probably about to pull the trigger even though my wallet is saying "wait a second". The reason being is I got the iBasso DX320 at launch and it uses duel ROHM BD34301EKV DACs and it needs to be heard, words are hard to describe it, especially with the NuTube AMP13 card but even the updated 11.2 amp card it ships with is amazing.
I know there is more to a DAC then the chip used. I've heard different desktop DACs with the same ESS chip sound vastly different. Since the AK fire, really that only leaves Cirrus (may be spelling that wrong). Everything has ESS right now.
Obviously the DX320 isn't.cheap but it's fun, lots of fun! That's my number one requirement. Of course there are other factors and requirements but whether it is an IEM, DAC, DAP, or AMP, does it make me want to listen to older music, just to see how much better it sounds? Do I start off saying "15 minutes", then it end up being a 4 hour listening session? That's what's most important to me, and the DX320 does.
This is the only desktop DAC I have seen using the same ROHM DAC chip. It's an amazing DAC, I'm not sure why nobody else is using it. I also feel some features like MQA (which I don't use) were dropped to keep price down. ROHM is a Japanese company and something tells me their DACs cost more but I could easily be wrong. I do wish you could update the software/firmware like on some other SMSL DACs though.
Very nice video with choice of Chinese subtitles !!!👍👍👍👍
Just bought the SMSL D300 today. Some people like to roll tubes. I roll DACs. I also have the SMSL SU-9, and SMSL M500 MK II. My next DAC will be the Loxjie D40. All DACs have strengths and weaknesses. They all present audio in a different way to some degree. I like a lot of flexibility in my audio rig.
Hi, can you compare D300 and M500 MK II?
Loxjie D40 vs m500 vs D300 please. The more natural sound with air between instruments?
So I do you like the Loxjie vs D300. In the other comparaison video I like the Loxjie better (soundstage, more details ) ..
Always informative -- Thank you!
Technically it looks less complex than ES90x8 and has twice (four times) higher price. It would be interesting to compare them face to face. I mean a hi-end implementation (a good power, a correct design, etc). It might be just an alternative of suspended AK series for DAC manufacturers.
Just got the 300, and midrange has shined, and created more body and depth in soundstage. Vocals seem to be a little too laid back in some situations like ballads. May look for a more forward integrated since Im upgrading, Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!
I've only had this DAC for few days and with limited hours. But even so this is the best DAC I've ever owned or heard based on musicality and pure analog experience. The mid and low bass detail, dynamics and decay are breathtaking. The timing is exquisite. The soundstage and depth are exceptional. And this is only from UA-cam using optical. I don't even have my Euphony transport at moment. The overall performance is unimaginable at this price point. I can't wait for high end version from brilliant engineers at SmSl !
I’m enjoying it everyday as well, simply the Best Buy at this moment for the price, thanks for sharing.
@@Tharbamar beat draco??
@@lextr3110
I just started listening.
Forget the other DACS, just get this one. It's unreal.
I am new to "hi-fi" and I can only compare this with iFi ZEN and HIFIMEDIY ESS 9038Pro dac, but the difference is insane.
If there are DACS that sound better than this, then it's because they are applying more power and cleaner power. I can't imagine a sound better than this.
It is 3D as heck. Like lost in space amounts of 3D. And everything is twice the fidelity I have ever heard, yet it maintains a clean bass.
Again, I can't imagine something better than this, beside for cleaning up the power and getting better cables, (which I need to do).
@@dialecticalmonist3405 thx for your comment.. i am thinking about it.. i wonder how it compare to ifi diablo, mojo2, pegasus and d30 pro..
@@dialecticalmonist3405 its not what JR said in another comment tho..
Any chance of reviewing the SMSL D3 r2r? Great review of this product btw!!!
Excellent review.
Bought the smsl AO200 integrated amp and was using it with its built-in Bluetooth DAC while deciding which separate DAC to choose. The AO200 sounded pretty good to me but my only criticism at the time was that the mids and highs seemed a little bit recessed. I finally pulled the trigger on the D300 and glad I did. I think I now understand the term “musical” now. It’s smooth, detailed, dynamic and effortless (positively affects the whole frequency range) You can crank the volume and still enjoy micro level details, textures and dynamics (the music) - without the distraction of harshness or unnaturally sharp details. I had to choose between the DO200 and the D300. I was afraid that the D300 would lack detail retrieval or attack. Although I haven’t tried the DO200, I don’t feel that I need to. I just love how good the D300 sounds to my ears. Thanks for the detailed review!
Great Choice! Enjoy.
smsl has posted the review on product page 👌
A few updates on SMSL D300.
*PRE Mode (Only PCM playback, DSD or DoP is not supported)
*DAC Mode (No DoP, Only Support Native DSD)
@M S DoP = DSD over PCM
How do you access the DAC mode? Is it as simple as selecting "VOL Fixed" under PRE MODE? Bc I tried to play native DSD in Foobar that plays fine on my Topping D70S but on the D300 shows on the display as PCM 176.4 and does not output any sound. Quite strange.
Received mine in early November. Unfortunately, when hooked up to USB on a windows system there are not just clicks but *huge blasts* emitted every time a track starts or resumes. According to ASR a new broken firmware is supplied with newly assembled device at this time, fixing click-pop related problems with DSD, but same time implementing new pop (severe blast-boom type) problems with PCM via USB.
Now I have an SMSL M8A v3 (ES9038Q2M) with a linear power supply. MQA files are decoded by Audirvana to DSD256. Will there be a big change after buying SMSL M500 MKII? I was also thinking about SMSL D300 and TOPPING D70S. What will be the best choice? I also have a Sony PS-HX500 turntable and I really like its sound. Please help.
D300 has arrived. Unwell today but will definitely put up a short review. First impressions: DO200 is way better built with CNC aluminium casing, whilst the D300 is a flimsy sheet metal casing which definitely did not impress. DO200 feels solid. Even at the rear the mains switch etc all feels like cheaper materials for sure. However none of that affects the sound. So, which sounds better to me I will need to wait and listen properly.
Hi. I have both models in mind.I just sold my Smsl Su9 to continue experimenting with other dacs..So If you have a notion of what dac is better let me know your opinion.
M500, 0200, d300, or 0400 or vmv dac?
Which is the best sounding DaC?
Between the dl300 and the d300, which sounds warmer and richer? Also on the vocals, which would you say is more holographic where the vocals are more separated from the instruments? Thank you for your honest opinions and reviews. Keep up the good work.
Agreed. This is a special DAC. It gets it right where as AKM, ESS and even CHORD do not. All of those other DS DACs seem to hype up the high frequency content in an unnatural and harsh way. This has all the detail with no digital edge. Clean natural, rich, full sound. No digital edge. I've tried dozens of DACs. This is a keeper.
I have one on order from Amazon. Have you compare to the R2R DACs like Gustard, Denafrips, Musician etc.
If enough people email SmSL to bug them about the high end version of this DAC - I'm sure it may come to fruition. I'm hoping that it's on the way but it's been over a year with no new updates. I just emailed SmSL but haven't heard anything back yet. The upcoming Luxman DAC with this chip will be at least 6k, way too expensive. SmSL implementation of Rohm chip in D300 gives me a lot of hope for high end version assuming it's going to come out eventually. I'm so excited. Fingers crossed.
I concur with this.
Just to update SmSL got back to me and pretty much said a higher model DAC using these Rohm chips will be coming out later this year ( if we're lucky). So it's definitely in the works.
@@kevtn8 I have a feeling they might keep it only in the high-end DACs in the coming days - this one will be a rare one in a mid-priced DAC.
I need and enjoy MQA with tidal connect, so my next upgrade will have to that capacity
Nice, great song too.
Great review! I often find about new products and the less mainstream products on your channel, I love that! It's nice to hear about different products rather than the same old thing everyone else and their dog is reviewing. 😆 Do you prefer the D300 over the Musician Draco? I know you loved that DAC too. Your room looks great by the way!
Great question that very much deserves an answer right way!!!
Hi, just wanted to check with you on where in the US were you were able to purchase the Denon integrated Amplifier which you currently own and if you don't mind telling the price ?? Also since it's a Japanese model .. can you pls tell me the details on which voltage converter are you currently using ??
Hi, please see detail information in this video and video description.
Denon's Masterpiece, Review Of PMA-SX11 Amplifier
ua-cam.com/video/G_V84eSwe0s/v-deo.html
This DAC i s amazing compared against topping d70s and smsl m400, I own all three of them.
The d300 sound much more natural, I prefer it.
Hi Erik, wich are the main differences compared to D70S?
@@giulianof8687 more spacious I think it's a bit different then most other dags in my opinion.
The bass is in other way very detailed d70s maybe more rumbling or how to say it.
Remember this is just my opinion in my different setups.
Is the D400EX considered a "matured" version of D300's sound signature?
Do you prefer the d300 or the su-9 ?
I'm trying to choose between these two mind you I will be hooking it up to tube amp.
Tharbamar excellent as always! I bought the Yamaha AS1200 over the luxman 505 and DenonPMA110 like you suggested. The Yamaha sounds great with the JBL 4309. I think I might go with this DAC. Do you think it's worth spending more money on the set up I have or would it not be enough to take advantage of a higher price DAC bracket. Thx my friend, hope your loving the new home!
I think you will be happy with D300 but when you jump you’ll have to jump above 1500 to make major difference, thanks
@@Tharbamar ok I'm going to go for it then. I'll let you know how it sounds.
Hey the sound is impressive , What is the model of the bookshelves speakers please?
JBL L52 Classic. Thanks
hello, comparing it with the Topping E50 is there a lot of difference between the two? or for those who can't spend a lot of money is Topping enough? thank you
E50 is good DAC for the price but there is differences between them in sound quality, thanks
Thanks for the review, just have a question, I have the Yamaha cd-s300 cd player which costs around $400, do you think this SMSL dac would be an improvement in sound quality if used as a dac for the Yamaha? Thanks.
I would but It will be depending on your set up and preference, only back to back audition can help you decide, thanks
I have the Yamaha as well. it uses a 24bit/192khz Burr Brown dac chip and came out around 2012. It's a solid player and I've enjoyed using it's USB port with an ipad to stream Spotify / Tidal and others through my system. That said, the unit it's almost 10 years old now and has been discontinued, replaced by the CD-S303. Not sure if there are any improvements in the newer model but if the player is working well for you then experimenting and demoing newer dacs may provide some new life if your system and ears will resolve enough to allow you to hear any subtle differences.
@@ericjohnson829 Thanks.
"No MQA, thank God" - you got that RIGHT!
In one of your other videos you said that would not recommend the D300 as a preamp (against other DAC/pres from SMSL and Loxjie).
Could you further explain how you came to this conclusion and why the others would be better?
I'd like to know more as I am looking for DAC/pre to front a pair of active speakers and the D300's sound appeals greatly. Thank you.
When using it as PreDAC volume control is not usable with DSD files but if you only have PCM files it’ll be fine.
@@Tharbamar Thank you, appreciated.
i had for testing the drive heed obelisk dt and it stay at home 'cause with the d300 it's very musical !!!
Everyone is also loving SMSL M500 and also MK3 version of it is coming out. Will you review it? :)
Please do a Compare with smsl do 200 with sound test
Hi Tharbamar, thanks for this detailed review. Based on your review I bought Wharfedale Evo 4.2 speakers. It really sounds great with Yam AS500 amp. I have tried much expensive Schiit Bifrost DAC with this setup from my friend. It sounded really great, very musical with tight bass, warm, no harshness but without compromising on the details. Can i expect a similar experience with D300 DAC?
It will be better than Schiit can offer and less money with D300, Thanks
@@Tharbamar thanks a lot for your quick reply. It helps me to make the right decision👍
OK. So I ordered the D300 now. Going to compare the SMSL DO200 and D300. Whichever i prefer overall I will keep. I am guessing, but based on another YT reviewer who days the D300 is musical but softer on the edges. He said mid range has great texture but that its a slightly darker tone. I think I will prefer the DO200 overall. Let's see when the D300 arrives. I'll report back.
It may sound softer for the most people who is used to average digital sound, to me D300 is natural, I even play same music with my turntable and D300 back to back which is convincingly closed, DO200 is a bit louder as well compare to D300, Thanks
@@Tharbamar That is a great observation
@@Tharbamar I agree! It took me a awhile to get use to what I was hearing. Just before I hooked up D300 I was not satisfied with my set up sounded a bit bright digital with Chord Qutest. Right off the bat D300 was less digital sounding but still had dynamics and bass. I also own Pegasus and that sounds good too but I think D300 is closer to analog like hearing music played on a cassette tape but with more dynamics and bass.
I tested this dac in my system., which is RCA and no balanced connection. Bass and lower midrange very clear, defined, and strong (better than built in dac of the integrated amp), but there is a forwardness in the upper midrange and in the highs, I didn't like at all. In addition nylon strings of a guitar sounded too metallic, almost like steel strings. Highs lack for my taste of resolution and transparency und were too a certain extent for my ear annoying, probably cause of the forwardness. However it didn't sound analog at all as some people say. Width and depth of the sound stage the same as with that of the IOTAVX built in dac, so nothing to celebrate. Sent it back and don't miss it at all.
More to do with paring components, RCA and XLR sound quality is different as well, thanks for sharing.
compared to? this is exactly why i take my time before selecting my future dac.. most sound like you describe even if rave reviews... even my samsung note 3 phone sound more real than most dacs
@@lextr3110 if you took your time comparing, why did you buy it?
Ive heard there's a big difference in sound quality with this DAC using RCA vs XLR. If this DAC isn't a true balanced design (Im not sure yet), than you can use a simple XLR to RCA cable or adapter to utilize the XLR outputs
Sorry, I've got next to no knowledge on desktop amps/dacs. I have a pair of Campfire Audio Cascades (don't sue me for my love of bass XD) and will likely try out other headphones over the years.
How would I connect these? Does it have a 2.5mm or 4.4mm balanced output? If not, what would I need in order to use this with my headphones, or what dac would you recommend instead in a similar price range?
Thank you!
What are the big white floor standers you’ve got there in the video?
KEF R11.
Hello , I have a HAP Z1es also. Do you prefer this DAC over the one that is in it? Thank you. Don
Not 100% but yes with some speakers, thanks
Hi would you say it’s sounds better to your ears than the blusound
Node ?
Yes to me with deeper more refinement in overall sound, thanks
Hi i'm Looking at the price difference Is D0400 better overall?
I want to buy one this week.
Or can you recommend something better with Bluetooth around 500 bucs. Please and thanks
Hi Tharbamar, do u think this DAC will not pair that well with Marantz amps? Namely the KI Pearl Amps? Thanks!
If you have neutral sounding speakers It should sound nice with Marantz KI amps they are not overly warm, great detail sound if I remember it right,
@@Tharbamar Thanks for your fast reply! Do u think buying a DDC reclocker like the Gustard U18, which is more expensive than the D300 is a good idea? Or should I just spend more towards a more expensive DAC?
Great review. What amp would you recommend to use with this and the Polk R200? Thanks.
I don’t know your budget but I would suggest you to try Yamaha AS501, thanks
@@Tharbamar I currently have a Cambridge CXA60 so am using the internal DAC and Dali Zensor 3 and was looking to upgrade both those and go down the external DAC route. Budget for amp could be £1000-£1500 if you think it’s worth it with the R200. Thanks.
@@doifeellucky At that price point, I would go for separates - something like an NAD C268 power amp, together with a Topping PRE90 preamp.
@@decoryder Thanks, I’ll take a look.
Audiolab 6000a.
this is very good performance / price.
Can you tell me what rca interconnect you use? I think you said in one video your favorite is some Belden or something like that?
I use Belden 8402 and Mogami W2534 for RCA cables, thanks
ua-cam.com/video/2O0IABhWCMA/v-deo.html
I hear this amp sounds much better with xlr than RCA. If this isn't a true balanced design ( check with manufacturer) you can use a simple xlr to RCA adapter or cable.
How is the sound of this dac compared to the musician draco?
And wich dac do you recommend that has MQA?
I have not listen them back to back to give you right answer, Loxjie D40 is great choice.
Loxjie D40 Experience Using as DAC, Pre and Headphone Amp
ua-cam.com/video/rrE6w79hg2w/v-deo.html
I just ordered a d300 following your recommandation....and also a man on head fi saying it was better than a chord qutest....more sweet and more natural
Thanks for all
I have a question.
I was thinking of pairing this with a Gustard H16 Amp (which I already own but haven’t tried yet).
Is it a good pairing? I’m a little worried about the D300’s build quality since DACs usually go at the bottom of a stack and the H16 is quite a heavy boy…
D300 might be smaller than H16 to be at bottom and it runs pretty warm as well.
@@Tharbamar
Thank you for your reply!
So I guess I should either put the D300 on top or think of another DAC.
With this D300 will it be great improvement adding the Guastard u18 DDC?
I own U18 and D300 I may try that combo. Right now I have it optical from my Cambridge 851N streamer to D300 DAC.
How this compared to Topping D90SE and SMSL M300MK2?
Since I heard about the smsl d300 and loxjie d50 from your channel, I will buy it from your link. However, I have a few questions first:
1). Which dac sounds more real life?
2). For headphone amp, which would you recommend I pair it with?
3). For desktop system speaker amp, which amp would you recommend I pair it with? And also should I go Class A, A/B or D?
4). For headphone/speaker amp, how about smsl vmv a1, burson funk etc…?
Thank you very much.
They are both great sounding DACs but I slightly preferred D300 for more natural sound in my system, I would stick with SMSL HO200 for headphone amp. For other amplifiers depending on your budget without knowing it I can’t advise you properly.
You seem to have different seller links for each of the products, on different UA-cam clips, so which should I buy from? I want to make sure you to get the credit.
Btw, I have HD800 as headphones and Falcon LS3/5a 15ohms for speakers.
Hi. I just purchased the D300 based on your review and it sounds great! The only issue i have is when i had it connected to my old 2012 macbook pro via usb and playing local files using audirvana i get the DSD not suported on thr D300. Even playing hires audio via Qobuz, same error. It is getting really annoying. How do i properly set this up with my macbook. I never had this issue with my schiit modi 3+. (No dsd decoding). Now im thinking of returning it and just getting a modi mutibit 2. 😅 Any tips would be much appreciated. Thank you.
Hi, D300 only supports native DSD and DSD format is not available or supported on any Mac OS, Modi 3+ is only getting DoP via Audirvana not pure DSD, just for your information I played natively with Sony music server, hope this helps.
@@Tharbamar i see. How can i setup my macbook to play DoP via usb to stop the annoying dsd error from showing? I fine with just DoP. Thanks for all your help.
is the smsl 300 a good upgrade for the su6?
How does this compare to the Gustard X16?
X16 is more transparent, D300 is more organic.
hello
I really appreciate your videos and I hesitate between the draco and the d300
What would you advise me to buy please?
thank you
That would be tough choice but for the price and quality sound I would say D300 would be my choice, thanks
@@Tharbamar thanks a lot for your answer and please continue your videos cause they are top !!!
just received the d300 and just out the box it sounds very good better than the audio gd 19 singularity ....very happy with my purchase
Similar sound to Denon BB DACs?
Cant decide between d300 of su9n?
Dear Sir , what about your preference with topping e70 velvet? Thanks
D300 is more transparent in sound, E70V is more on smoother side.
Hello Tharbamar
I am a really fan of you. seeing you my chosen for amp Denon pma1600ne its good enough. For dac real confused what is your suggestion for Denon pma1600ne my choices
Smsl Do200
Smsl D300.
Thanks sir
Personally I like D300 sound signature slightly more than DO200 for me, they are both great DACs for the money and both will work great with your amplifier, if you don’t need MQA D300 is great choice, thanks
@@Tharbamar thanks a lot again but can sound colour option help me to dig the depth in do200.
what jbl speakers are those? I don't see them in the equip listing. thanks
JBL L52 Classic, thanks
Which has better soundstage; D300 or DO200? I am after the DAC which has better soundstage/depth and layering.
Thank you.
For the best soundstage width and depth, get the topping d70s or d90se. It is as wide as you could ever wish for from delta sigma type of dacs.
They all have nice wide sound stage. What you get with D300 is deeper than the rest which is hard to come by at this price point, thanks
@Sahin,DO200 is a bit louder than D300, I will also have comparison between them as well. Thanks
Hello. What settings you prefer? HPC mode on or off, slow or sharp roll off?
I was using standard mode.
HPC Mode off...to me it sounds very good with everything singer/songwriter related
d300 + hegel h95 and kef ls50 meta combination?
Will there be any difference in sound clarity?
thanks.
I would say D300 will be more organic sounding with comparable clarity, thanks
@@Tharbamar What if I upgrade with Loxjie D50?
your answer is important for my choice (I want the hegel h95 sound to be clearer)
Thanks
Hello Guys.
I got this DAC 2 days ago. Bought used but like new.
I stream Tidal in the best quality
via LAN Cable to a Primare NP-5 network player and from this via Coax Cable to the DAC.
I use a Samsung Tablet witht Tidal App.
While I'm listening to music from Tidal, the DAC's display says PCM. Is that right?
Thanks
Thats how it going to display because D300 does not support MQA. Thanks
It might sound like a petty point, but can you change the colour scheme of the screen? I hate blue dominated screens, and they seem to be everywhere these days. I suppose auto-off would also be a solution.
Aye, thats one of my issues as well. There something about blue lights that is distracting. I found an easy fix though through amazon, and its called adhesive backed transparent rigid vinyl film. Comes in any color you like. Just trim you out a piece that fits the display, and boom instant fix.
Hi, you can use dimmer setting which will automatically turn the screen off while using, screen off setting can be set from 5 to 60 seconds, thanks
@@Tharbamar Thank you.
@@allenpost3616 Yeah, I've been using those stick on filters for a few years. I originally bought them to stop devices like my clock and modem/router lighting up the bedroom in the night.
Would this pair good with SMSL SP200 with Hifiman Ananda and Focal clear. I'm more like warm sound.
It should but how warm? with Focal is a bit harder to get warm sound.
@@Tharbamar Would you say this is less harsh or warmer? sound. I think I would like a warmer sound. I'm looking at this DAC the SU-9 and the SU-8S, DO200, LOXJIE D50, LOXJIE D40, M500 MK2, and the VMV D1SE or the SU-9N. I stream music with Tidal and never heard MQA but would like to have.
@@cisco150 SMSL D300 don't have MQA so if you need to, you will have to choose another device. I use this dac from one week only in a traditional 2.0 hifi system but I assure you it is superior to the DO200 I had before (and and I want to thank you very much @Tharbamar for this review). Much more analog, balanced and without bright sounds than the DO200, let's not talk about the Khadas Tone Board I had before with which there is an abyss. If you read DecoRyder's comment that the D1SE and D90SE had, he thinks the D300 produces better analog sound; ultimately that's what a dac has to do.
@@cisco150
Just get this one. It is insanely good. It has a holographic, 3D sound that wraps you like a blanket. The sound is not "warm", but it gives you the feeling the warm sound gives you.
I am using Arya Stealth headphones and Geshilli Erish 2 amp. I need to clean up the power and break it in, but it's unreal how smooth and clean the sound is right out of the box.
The first thing I heard was his voice in this video and I immediately knew that this was going to bring some magic.
Hi Tharbamar, I bought the Quad S2 based on your review & love it! Thank you again! Which of these < US$800 DACs you've reviewed over the last 6-12 months would you recommend for those speakers? With those speakers, I just don't know if I should get a DAC that is more "transparent" or one that is more "musical" & "organic". Listen to a variety of musical types (but not hard rock).
Also, I plan to get a new iPad with USB-C and plan to directly connect it to a DAC using usb-c to usb-b cable (to enjoy Apple Music lossless). I'm super worried that connection won't work! Do you have any advice regarding that? Anyone with experience on this, would appreciate your comment!
I would suggest you to try Loxjie D40 for maximum compatibility and easy to use with any components, who should sound nicely with Quad S2. thanks
@@Tharbamar Thanks! I was actually thinking of either Gustard X16/X18 or the SMSL D300. I guess its whether I want more "transparency" or more "musicality". Tough decision!
So basically, if you have a TIDAL Hifi subscription this DAC is useless?
Leider enthält das Manual keine Erklärungen von Audio Settings wie Phase Mode, PCM Filter, DSD Filter, HPC Mode. Sie sollten die fehlenden EQ Settings ersetzen und sind durch den neuen MUS IC Chip von ROHM gegeben, so verstehe ich es.
Vergleichtests mit NAD M51 ergaben bis jetzt wenig hörbaren Unterschied. DM300 fand ich besser in räumlicher Abbildung und in Details der Wiedergabe.
Audiodateien mit hoher Auflösung sind noch zu testen.
@@petkokaratonev9233 Hallo, mein D300 hat ein Defekt. Daher kann ich nicht weitere Referenzen abgeben.
Beim Abspielen von Files mit verschiedenen Sampling Rates zeigt das Display immer 48 kHz. Der Verkäfer wird es abklären was zu tun ist, ob es ein Fix dagegen gibt.
Gekaufte D300 in Europa mussten gefixt werden. Das berichten Käufer. Deshalb habe ich in China gekauft. Die Störung belegt, dass SMSL keine richtige Ausgangskontrolle von Gerätefunktionen hat. Es ist allgemein in China so, leider.
D300 ist daher unausgereft. Der Rohm Chip wurde für audiophile Klassikmusik Liebhaber entwickelt. Du kannst jedoch jede Musik hören und es macht Freude mit D300. Genau solche Freude wie auch mit High End DAC von NAD M51, der allerdings 4 x teuerer ist! Er arbeitet auf ähnlichem Prinzip der Interpolation der Kurve.
@@Yaroable besten Dank für die genaue Information!
Ich ergänze meine Information.
Es war keine Störung an meinem D300, es war ein Irrtum.
Zum Abspielen von Audiofiles mit 96 kHz Sampling Rate via USB vom PC muss man zuerst einen MIDI Set up am PC durchführen und die Audio-Output Rate über USB auf 96 kHz setzen. Dann zeigt D300 die richtige Frequenz 96 kHz und eine Icon HiRes. Der Unterschied ist auch hörbar. Ansonsten wird die Audiofile Rate auf einen Standardwert gesetzt und man hört niedrigere Auflösung!
Mein D300 hat demzufolge keinen Fehler und ich gebe ihm 5 Sterne. Allerdings mit Vorbehalt. Noch nicht alles konnte ich testen!
@@Yaroable herzlichen Dank noch einmal für die Ergänzung! Würdest du sagen, wie gut der d300 ist im Vergleich z. B. mit "klassischen" für Europa Modellen wie arcam, musical fidelity, cambridge, chord etc.? Hattest du die Möglichkeit die kennenzulernen? MfG
@@petkokaratonev9233 Ich hab nur Erfahrung mit High End DAC von NAD M51.
Meine Erfahrung war sehr gut, der DAC ist universell einsetzbar, mit HDMI Inputs.D300 macht die Audio-Arbeit mindestens ebenso gut.
Hello
I have the D300 for a short week and I would like to know how long I have to wait for the break-in to be completely finished please?
It should settle after 50 hours or so if you leave it on all the time, if you’re not liking it even after that synergy is not clicking together with your components.
@@Tharbamar thank you for your reply
in fact I put titles on my cd player in a loop and it runs 24 hours a day...
i like this d300 dac but i'm waiting for a more open soundstage for it to be perfect
You mentioned the D400EX is 25% better. What if I hook the D300 up to a ddc with a linear power supply and super capacitor’s hooked up to the ddc. Would that wipe that 25% away and even the sound quality?
I think so.
Now i will have to buy this after i just bought e50☹️. But its good it came earlier then me buying the loxjie d50. So can d300 touch the Ares2 dac quality, although ares2 is more money. And separately, what speakers do you have currently and planning?
I have both; the Ares II is very similar to the D300 in the sense that they get tonality and timbre right - they sound more 'natural' and 'real' compared to other DACs in this pricerange. I prefer the D300, since the presentation is more neutral in the midrange, and in the treble less sibilant than the Ares II. I have Dynaudio Emit 20's, and don't plan to upgrade.
@@decoryder wow You preferred D300 and Ares is more than double the price
@@jesushuerta9878 To be fair, the D300 has fewer parts than the Ares II, so I would expect it to be cheaper.
@@decoryder yes It is fair to Say Ares is better overall but D300 sounds like a great dac for the buck. I had Smsl Su-9 and i think it would be good yo try a different dac.
@@jesushuerta9878 Honestly, I don't think the Ares II is better than the D300; it's different but not 'better'.
Is it possible to use the SMSL D300 as a preamp by connecting it directly to a power amplifier? Does it have volume control?
It’s in the review.
Any amp you can recommend to pair with this DAC?
It will work nicely with most standard amplifiers.
မင်းဟာအကောင်းဆုံးပါ !........my friend im I really like your videos I listen your demos to them every day ... I have 2 tube amps, I really love them, the smoothness and sweet sound they give is very addictive... they only have RCA input, which dac do you recommend for them? I have the E50, D50s and a mojo 2, but I want something better, than reveal more detail and clarity.
In 500 dollars price range D300 is one of the best and I’ll have one more DAC review ready this Friday, thank you.
@@Tharbamar thanks... and in the range of usd 1000 ? or still better option d300 ? gustard x26 seems to be in other superior level, but its a huge machine..too big size
I’m not sure I’ve ever heard Gustard DAC with tube gear so I can’t really comment on that, one thing I’m sure is SMSL D400EX sound incredible with tube gear, thanks
@@Tharbamar thanks✌
@@Tharbamar what about these 2 have the ability to reveal more information and deliver more detail? E70V or D300 with ROHM BD34301EKV (firmware 1) dac? I'm going to buy one of those 2 😉------ thanks a lot !
hi,with dac better smsl d300 or teac nt505?thanks
I haven’t tried them back to back yet to answer insightfully.
Request you to please review SMSL D6S
JBL L82 seem to be great
Do you think the SMSL D400EX is a significant upgrade over the D300 ?
About 25% better in overall sound thanks to full balanced design with modulator chip.
@@Tharbamar how about 26.2485%?
The best dac is a turntable.
Can you compare with topping e50? Would it worth the value/price?
For the sound D300 is way better but I will not be doing comparison with E50.
@@Tharbamar Thanks for reply. 🙏
how if compare with smsl do300?
Can I use a dac with a amp & speakers to make a sound bar alternative?
Yes
Klipsch Fives speakers and add a Subwoofer from SVS/Kef. You’ll be good for quite some time 👌🏾
There are passive sound bars or you could buy a center channel speaker and use that as a sound bar
@@V1ralB1ack just wondering. I'm waiting for crutchfield to get more Yamaha rxa6asnis stock
To D300 Owners...HPC Mode...On or Off...what do you prefer? I like it more being off
Hpc Mode off!!. Also with slow roll off, find it a bit better sounding with my Boreaa 02
Hi .smsl d300 has build in amp? Thank
Just DAC, thanks
THIS is the minimalist approach I'm TALKING about ... you'd think... lol
You probably haven’t seen enough DAC.
@@Tharbamar true
*EDIT*
*THANK YOU for recommending this dac. I can't believe how good it is.*
This is a stupid question, but how do you power this DAC? You have a massive cable attached to it. What is that doing? Do I need that? What is it called? Where do I get it? Does the DAC come with a power cable that's any good? It says nothing on Amazon about what it includes and there are no reviews.
Thanks.
i bought laptop power adaptor and change the jack, used the adjustable ps as well but the laptop did better
maybe bcs it was custom gaming laptop grade ps
I think the Earmen Tradutto DAC may be better than the DO300 DAC. I agree with you that most Sabre dacs are rather challenging to listen to. Have you reviewed it yet? I think you would be very surprised
May be one day but I’m a bit bored of ESS chips, thanks
Doing that with the Earmen Tradutto is I think an error by omission.
I sent back the SMSDo200 because chip-based DACs like the ESS and AKM options tend to have a little too much attack sometimes and also tend to flatten the soundstage. Tradutto appears to solve this. The halo effect is the problem. Tradutto is not as aggressive as many of the other ESS-based DACs and has more energy in mids and lows.
Chip implementation does make a difference. Perhaps this Rohm is a turning point for manufacturers.
Since human hearing is so fine, we all hope manufacturers will develop products combining 1) natural sound, 2) accurate spatial cues, and 3) the right amount of energy and attack.
I sent the SMSL D0200 you recommended last week back because it failed all three of these criteria in multiple ways multiple times. I am not certain if this version of the Rohm DAC is the reference yet.
Tradutto vs the SMSL Do300 with Rohm could be very competitive. I think Earmen's experience with Tubed gear may make them have a more refined sensibility. That is why I thought I would ask you to consider it,
@@johnm3544 I should have my refund for the DO200 on Tuesday. I will make the order on Tuesday. Within a week from Tuesday, I should have it.
@@clarice1001nights I have two D300 DACs, and many others - I agree with Tharbamar - under $1000, the SMSL D300 and the VMV D1SE are the reference DACs.
@@decoryder Have you heard the Earmen Tradutto yet? I will send you a very short UA-cam sample if you wish?
Is it better than Topping E50?
Yes
Any plans to do a sound demo comparison between do200 and D300 with the same song? as a person with a low budget for a DAC I'm glad to hear more sub $600 options are hitting the market....
Waiting for that
Unless you need MQA this is not even a question. D300 is first affordable DAC on earth to use Rohm DAC chip. I've been waiting for 2 years for this moment.
Another reviewer called the D300 musical but softer on edges. He said if you are after the most precise location of instrument etc...he preferred the other SMSL offering. Main impression I get is that the D300 is musical but softer. Higher frequencies are not very extended. I will compare the two when the D300 arrives. I will keep one of the two.
@@SahinurUK Please comment here when you have a chance to review it. Thanks
@@wemustgoWill do.
Love the d300 but i got to say i love the smsl S-1 as well for 1/4 of the price...hmmmmm
Agreed 👍
@Tharbamar Very interesting! I'm thinking of buying a new dac and I thought my decision would be between the Gustard X18 and the SMSL VMV D1SE. Now another good DAC under 1000$! Could you help me with my decision? I like a lot of details and a wide, holographic soundstage. Thank you in advance!
I have not tried D1SE yet, depending on system, X18 is one of the most transparent DAC, D300 is just simply musical sound with good depth and great vocals, thanks
@@Tharbamar Thank you, I really appreciate it!
I have the D1SE, and the D300 - if you don't need I2S like featured on the D1SE, the D300 is hands-down the better sounding DAC.
@@decoryder Thank you!
@@decoryder WOW that is big endorsement. I'm so excited for this D300 to arrive. Thanks
As always, inspiring review. Do you think it can beat Loxjie d50? I continue to be impressed by it when I change it with x26 pro or topping d90, su-9n( I have all the three)
What about smsl do200
@@maxrider2887 After having two dacs with esssabre chips, I think they cannot beat the musicality of AKM4999s. I keep retesting them with my schiit freya+ with all three modes and my gustard p26 preamps. Within one hour will go back again to my loxjie d50.
It will be depends on your preference, Loxjie D50 is one of the best even for today, it will have more transparent sound than D300 for sure but D300 is more artistic and musical sound with deeper sound stage in my system, Thanks
@@Tharbamar in my test smooth sound with deep bass not like the flat sound.
@@Tharbamar which one you prefer if d300 compared with su9n