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ywheng89
100+ Head-Fier
Pros: Very consistent update from Neutron with each update offering certain additional features
Natural sound with good dynamics
Highly customizable with the Nconfigurator App
Very low battery drain while maintaining high quality sound
Customizable double tap action
Nconfigurator App released for Android as well
Natural sound with good dynamics
Highly customizable with the Nconfigurator App
Very low battery drain while maintaining high quality sound
Customizable double tap action
Nconfigurator App released for Android as well
Cons: It comes with only essential accessories
Limited power output
Limited power output
General/Packaging/Build
The Neutron moniker resonates deeply within the audiophile community, primarily associated with their renowned Neutron Music Player, a software powerhouse celebrated for its fidelity and customization. Expanding their portfolio beyond software, Neutron has ventured into hardware with the introduction of the Hifi DAC V1, a "smart" portable digital-to-analog converter. While adhering to a single-ended output design, this dongle packs a substantial feature set and exhibits a remarkably robust build, suggesting a focus on durability and performance.
The product's packaging adopts a minimalist approach, providing the core essentials: the Hifi DAC V1 unit and a standard USB-C cable. For those seeking enhanced protection and premium connectivity, Neutron offers optional accessories. A tailored leather protective case can be acquired separately, providing a touch of elegance and safeguarding the device from daily wear and tear. Furthermore, users can opt for higher-grade USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables, catering to diverse connectivity needs and potentially enhancing signal integrity. A standout feature of the Hifi DAC V1 is its auto-rotating display, a thoughtful addition that dynamically adjusts the screen orientation, eliminating the frustration of misaligned visuals regardless of the device's positioning. The dongle also incorporates tap-sensitive controls, enabling intuitive interactions such as play/pause, track skipping, and screen activation, all configurable through the NConfigurator application, a crucial component of the Neutron ecosystem.
My experience with the Hifi DAC V1 has been extensive, spanning several months of consistent use and direct engagement with the brand's owner and development team. This period has been characterized by a series of firmware updates and enhancements to the NConfigurator app, demonstrating Neutron's commitment to continuous improvement and user feedback. Each update has consistently introduced new functionalities and refinements, showcasing a dedication to evolving the product beyond its initial capabilities. This proactive approach to software and firmware development underscores Neutron's ambition to deliver a truly versatile and future-proof audio solution
Specifications
Link to the product page
IEMs used for testing
- Dita Mecha
- Aune SR7000
- Dunu DK3001BD
- Grado SR80x
- Neutron Hifi DAC V1 + Isolator V1
- iPhone 16 Pro + Neutron DAC V1
- Fiio JM21 + Neutron DAC V1
NConfigurator
Let’s talk about the NConfigurator, which is the main application that connects to the DAC V1 to customise the features and also to apply PEQ as well as DSP, also used to perform firmware update for the DAC V1.
Let’s take a look at the feature set, as you can see from the screenshot below, there are multiple tabs that are properly categorised in terms of the function assigned
I will not go through each and every tabs as that will be up to you to explore and customise according to your preference, but one specific feature that i would like to highlight is that, the inclusion of a Neutron exclusive DAC filter which the developer worked alongside with ESS to achieve, the Neutron Linear Tube Filter, which as the name implies, to emulate the tube-ish sound signature, warm and rich and boy, it does deliver
Sound Impression ( With Neutron Linear Tube Digital Filter )
The sound signature of DAC V1 is leaning towards neutral warm with very good dynamics across the freq range. Timbre reproduction is excellent and natural sounding, not to mention it works quite well in terms of synergy with most of my IEMs.
Listening Impression with IEMs
Dita Mecha
- A single dynamic driver IEM that is priced at 899$
- Mecha’s signature is leaning towards a more musical tuning rather than technical, warmish and thick sounding
- Pairing with DAC V1 which is fairly neutral with a slight warmth seems to work quite well based on my listening experience
- Bass has slightly better control, sub bass seems to have a better extension while the mid bass punch remains tight
- Mids are full and thick but they don’t sound overly bloated
- I noticed slightly better dynamics but soundstage does seems to take a step back but not by much
- My listening experience suggests that the Mecha possesses latent capabilities that could be unlocked with a more powerful amplification source. The Hifi DAC V1, while commendable, may not fully exploit the Mecha's dynamic range and soundstage potential
- The DK3001BD is a tribrid IEM, consisting of 1DD+4BA+4Planars, the sound signature is leaning towards a subbass focused and clean midrange with very good details on the top end, with the wrong pairing, the DK3001BD can be a little fatiguing for some
- With the DAC V1, the note weight somehow thickens a little and the highs are being tamed a little, while retaining the exceptional technicalities making it a very enjoyable listening experience overall
- Soundstage somehow is something I noticed with the DAC V1, somehow sound a little 2D-ish, sounding just slightly out of your head rather than sounding “big”
- SR7000 headphone is a warmish closed back sounding headphone that emphasis on musicality rather than technicalities, this is not to say the technicalities are bad, just not the intended tuning from the brand
- Pairing it with the DAC V1, however I find that the potential is not fully being unleashed, it sounds alright with decent dynamics, but somehow the overall experience is slightly dull compared to using a desktop stack and also a slightly more powerful dongle
- The SR80x is a bright and dynamic headphone from Grado, the sound signature for some is either you like it or hate it
- The headphone itself is fairly efficient and easy to drive, and works very well with warm or neutral warm source, which makes the DAC V1 a suitable candidate for this test
- The dynamics are retained but slightly tame and not as forward, more forgiving for those who are sensitive to trebles
- Bass has a slightly thicker note weight and better punch, but the sub bass remains largely unchanged since it’s an open-back earphone
- In terms of sound, The KA17’s tuning is neutral with a slight elevation on the top end, due to the borderline thin note weight, it is not advisable to pair with IEMs that has a lot of energy on the top end
- In terms of specifications, the KA17 does look better on paper, power output, single ended and balanced output, vs the DAC V1
- The higher power output from the KA17 does allow it to drive slightly demanding planar headphone, DAC V1 on the other hand works very well with IEM and efficient headphones, but not so much when it comes to planar headphone
- Which one is better you ask me? I would personally say both are good in their own ways and they have their own pros and cons, ultimately it boils down to your preference
After several months of using the DAC V1 and comparing it to other recent dongle releases, I've found it to be a highly versatile device. Neutron consistently updates the NConfigurator software; since I began using the DAC V1, the application has been updated multiple times. Notably, an Android application has also been released (the APK is available [here] -- I plan to update this review with my impressions after testing it).
The DAC V1 delivers a natural sound, avoiding the harshness often associated with ESS chips ("ESS glare"). Its custom-designed Neutron Linear Tube Digital Filter adds a subtle warmth that enhances musicality. Battery performance is also impressive: after an hour of streaming Tidal on an iPhone 16 Pro with the DAC V1's screen always on, the phone's battery only dropped to 93%.While the DAC V1 is priced slightly higher than some competing products, it offers excellent value. Neutron provides outstanding software and technical support.
I eagerly anticipate a future DAC V2, perhaps with a balanced output, possibly in 2025. Highly recommended.
If you are interested in getting one, head over to Neutron’s site to get one
DAC V1 Product Page
DAC V1 Store’s Page - Non Affiliated
Optional Accessories available for purchase
The DAC V1 Leather Case - Product Page
Neutron Hifi USB Cable - Product Page
*A big thanks to Neutron for the opportunity as well as sending over the sample for the purpose of this review
Ichos
Reviewer at hxosplus
Pros: + Stellar sound quality
+ Great technicalities and transparency
+ Natural timbre
+ Not much digital glare
+ Dynamic and impactful bass
+ Spacious mids and smooth treble
+ Good resolution and refinement
+ Power efficient
+ No background noise
+ Customizable through application
+ Powerful DSP with global PEQ
+ OLED display and double-tap actions
+ Lightweight and compact
+ Well made
+ Great technicalities and transparency
+ Natural timbre
+ Not much digital glare
+ Dynamic and impactful bass
+ Spacious mids and smooth treble
+ Good resolution and refinement
+ Power efficient
+ No background noise
+ Customizable through application
+ Powerful DSP with global PEQ
+ OLED display and double-tap actions
+ Lightweight and compact
+ Well made
Cons: - Without accessories
- Power output limited to 2V
- No independent volume control
- The application is not yet available for Android
- Power output limited to 2V
- No independent volume control
- The application is not yet available for Android
Neutron HiFi
Neutron HiFi is the software developer of the most famous Neutron Music Player application, an advanced music player with the bare-metal 32/64-bit Neutron HiFi™ audio engine which delivers the best possible Hi-Fi grade quality of sound. As you may already know, it offers high-resolution audio playback without frequency resampling and bit truncation if the internal/external DAC supports it. The Neutron music player allows in-depth customization of various audio parameters and is the favorite application of the audiophile community with thousands of downloads.
Neutron HiFi DAC V1
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is an ultra portable audiophile USB DAC and preamplifier with a powerful DSP machine. This is the first audio device by Neutron HiFi, the developer of the Neutron Music Player.
Technical highlights
The DAC chip inside the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is the ES9219Q by ESS that supports decoding up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD256. The device also features ultra-low noise power supply and dual master clocks. This DAC chip is commonly used in many other similar USB DAC dongles but Neutron HiFi spent hundreds of hours of hardware layout before they reached the desired audio performance. The PCB had many revisions until the final 4.1 version that was finally used.
Where the DAC V1 breaks new ground is the inclusion of a real-time ARM Cortex-M4 controller that is driven by an advanced Neutron HiFi firmware which ensures reliable high-power audio output and smart power consumption at the same time. Moreover, the Neutron HiFi firmware is enriched with many features such as a powerful DSP engine that supports many features such as parametric EQ, crossfeed, persistent settings and smart power saving. Kindly note that you don't have to use the Neutron Music Player application in order to listen to music with the DAC V1 as it is plug ‘n play with all supported OS.
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 DSP engine
People familiar with the Neutron Music Player will know that it allows the user to perform many in-depth audio customizations thanks to the powerful DSP. This Neutron HiFi DSP engine is also an integrated part of the DAC V1 for any audio PCM content. No matter whether you listen to music or watch video, DSP is working in any scenario as it is a completely app and content independent DSP with a global audio effect.
By default, the DSP is inactive and DAC V1 is operating in audiophile bit-perfect mode. The DSP can then be activated and managed via the NConfigurator program. After the configuration, all user settings are stored into the device memory so you don't have to use the NConfigurator anymore.
The premium feature of the DSP is the powerful 20-band per-channel Parametric EQ (PEQ). You can adjust each channel individually for a personalized soundstage or choose from a variety of presets optimized for different music genres. You can even upload ready-made EQ (corrected frequency response) profiles from a large database (the well known AutoEq) that includes hundreds of earphones profiles.
Other features include Crossfeed and Surround mode while the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 supports execution of multiple DSP effects simultaneously. The options are: 10-band PEQ & Crossfeed, 10-band PEQ & Surround, 10-band PEQ & FRC, FRC & Crossfeed and FRC & Surround.
DAC V1 also supports standard 3-button in-line headset media controller.
The NConfigurator program
The DSP and all other features can be activated and managed via the NConfigurator program which is available for Windows, Mac OS and Linux. You must also use the NConfigurator in order to update the firmware of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1. Neutron HiFi is currently developing an Android version of the NConfigurator which will make customization of the DAC V1 easier and more simple.
The double-tap action
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is the only USB DAC dongle (as far as I know) that features a configurable double-tap action. You can double-tap the top/bottom or any side of the device to invoke the desired media action which can be assigned via the NConfigurator app. The options are: none, play/pause, switch on display, next, previous, enable voice command. You can assign different actions for the top and the side of the device. A very useful and cleverly designed feature that allows the user to control the device without the bulk of physical buttons.
Non Audio stuff
The main frame of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is made from high quality aluminum alloy that is reliable and robust while it also protects the sensitive electronic components from external EMI. The DAC V1 incorporates a high-contrast, low-power OLED display that provides useful information about output audio format and device state.
The outer surface of the display is made from Gorilla Glass 3 to be shock, scratch resistant and it also adds a premium and luxurious look. The display is user configurable and offers a black-or-white mode, auto-orientation or fixed view. Build quality is very good and flawless while the DAC V1 is available in two finishes, silver and iron gray.
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is a compact (50 x 19.9 x 9.6 mm) and lightweight (13g) device, especially considering that it embodies an OLED display. It is easy to use, it doesn't add much clutter under your phone and it fits inside a small pocket.
Accessories
In order to save costs and keep the price competitive, the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 doesn't include any accessories at all. You can use a USB type-C cable of your own or order one of the high quality USB cables that Neutron HiFi makes.
Optional accessories
Neutron HiFi makes some optional accessories for the DAC V1 such as a luxurious protective case that is made from genuine leather and is available in five different colors (black, red, green, blue, gray and pink). They also make high quality, audiophile USB cables that have gold plated connectors, tinned copper cores and nylon braiding. They are available in three versions: USB type C to C, type A-micro to B and type A to C, in two different sizes (15cm and 1m).
Power output and efficiency
The device has a single 3.5mm headphone jack with a maximum power output of 2Vrms and <0.5Ω of output impedance. You can optionally set the power output to 1Vrms for use with very sensitive earphones. The DAC V1 has a clean and noise free background even with sensitive earphones, like the FiiO FX15 and the Soundz Avant. The power output of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is enough for earphones but it can also drive some efficient headphones like the Sivga Luan.
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 incorporates a smart power saving function that consumes only 0.05A/0.28W until you plug an earphone. Then it will consume 0.13A/0.69W thus making it a power efficient USB device that is not going to deplete your phone's battery too fast.
Audio stuff
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 has stellar audio performance with a sound signature that combines excellent fidelity with plenty of musicality and a mostly natural timbre. The measured frequency response is absolutely flat, the sound is crystal clear and transparent with class leading definition and separation. The tuning is neutral, the device doesn't impart any sonic character of its own and it will not add or subtract anything that is not already there. It virtually acts as a link between the source material and the transducers, however it doesn't sound clinical or sterile.
The DAC V1 delivers great bass which is extended, tight and controlled with very satisfying definition and layering. It is fast and precise with good timing so it can handle busy tracks without losing its pace or definition. The textures are surprisingly full bodied and weighty, the bass produced by the DAC V1 is rich and not lean or dry at all, while it can sound dynamic and impactful as long as you respect its driving limits.
The mid-range is spacious and open, the sound is flowing just like spring water, the textures are lush while the timbre is surprisingly natural. The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is carefully tuned to sound lifelike and engaging with emphasis on timbre realism while retaining prestigious transparency. Voices and instruments are reproduced with great tonal accuracy, plenty of harmonic variety and strong emotional content.
The higher frequencies, unlike other devices that utilize the ES9219Q DAC chip, don't sound sterile or clinical and don't have too artificial timbre. The treble is energetic and luminous while at the same time it manages to remain under control and steer away from brightness. Clarity and definition are among the best of the category while the DAC V1 is surprisingly resolving. The timbre is quite natural and the textures as rich and weighty as in lower frequencies so the sound is very cohesive without the usual tendency to become thinner and drier in the higher frequencies.
The soundstage is both open and spacious with stellar imaging in the horizontal plane where every single instrument is accurately positioned in its given place. However, the presentation is mostly flat without much depth layering or holographic relief but on the other hand there is no sign of audible congestion even during large scale symphonic works.
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1, unlike most of the competition, manages to communicate the real music message rather than reproducing plain sound. And while it doesn't have the most organic and analog timbre, I still have to admit that I wasn't expecting such a natural and vivid listening experience from such an affordable device. This is a great tuning achievement considering the sharp and somewhat harsh nature of the ES9219Q chip but in the end, what matters the most is the whole hardware implementation and not only the DAC chip. A skilful audio engineer can make miracles and produce great sound with the same hardware components when others fail to do.
Conclusion
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is one of this year's best surprises. A software developer, without much prior experience in electronic engineering, has made one of the best sounding USB DAC dongles within its category. And being such an experienced software developer, Neutron HiFi has made sure to equip the DAC V1 with their powerful DSP engine. Lightweight, compact, efficient and very well made, the DAC V1 is an excellent option and the only to support such a deeply customizable PEQ.
The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. The price of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is $179 (€165.95) and you can buy it from the Neutron HiFi online shop .
Neutron HiFi is the software developer of the most famous Neutron Music Player application, an advanced music player with the bare-metal 32/64-bit Neutron HiFi™ audio engine which delivers the best possible Hi-Fi grade quality of sound. As you may already know, it offers high-resolution audio playback without frequency resampling and bit truncation if the internal/external DAC supports it. The Neutron music player allows in-depth customization of various audio parameters and is the favorite application of the audiophile community with thousands of downloads.

Neutron HiFi DAC V1
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is an ultra portable audiophile USB DAC and preamplifier with a powerful DSP machine. This is the first audio device by Neutron HiFi, the developer of the Neutron Music Player.
Technical highlights
The DAC chip inside the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is the ES9219Q by ESS that supports decoding up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD256. The device also features ultra-low noise power supply and dual master clocks. This DAC chip is commonly used in many other similar USB DAC dongles but Neutron HiFi spent hundreds of hours of hardware layout before they reached the desired audio performance. The PCB had many revisions until the final 4.1 version that was finally used.
Where the DAC V1 breaks new ground is the inclusion of a real-time ARM Cortex-M4 controller that is driven by an advanced Neutron HiFi firmware which ensures reliable high-power audio output and smart power consumption at the same time. Moreover, the Neutron HiFi firmware is enriched with many features such as a powerful DSP engine that supports many features such as parametric EQ, crossfeed, persistent settings and smart power saving. Kindly note that you don't have to use the Neutron Music Player application in order to listen to music with the DAC V1 as it is plug ‘n play with all supported OS.

The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 DSP engine
People familiar with the Neutron Music Player will know that it allows the user to perform many in-depth audio customizations thanks to the powerful DSP. This Neutron HiFi DSP engine is also an integrated part of the DAC V1 for any audio PCM content. No matter whether you listen to music or watch video, DSP is working in any scenario as it is a completely app and content independent DSP with a global audio effect.
By default, the DSP is inactive and DAC V1 is operating in audiophile bit-perfect mode. The DSP can then be activated and managed via the NConfigurator program. After the configuration, all user settings are stored into the device memory so you don't have to use the NConfigurator anymore.
The premium feature of the DSP is the powerful 20-band per-channel Parametric EQ (PEQ). You can adjust each channel individually for a personalized soundstage or choose from a variety of presets optimized for different music genres. You can even upload ready-made EQ (corrected frequency response) profiles from a large database (the well known AutoEq) that includes hundreds of earphones profiles.
Other features include Crossfeed and Surround mode while the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 supports execution of multiple DSP effects simultaneously. The options are: 10-band PEQ & Crossfeed, 10-band PEQ & Surround, 10-band PEQ & FRC, FRC & Crossfeed and FRC & Surround.
DAC V1 also supports standard 3-button in-line headset media controller.

The NConfigurator program
The DSP and all other features can be activated and managed via the NConfigurator program which is available for Windows, Mac OS and Linux. You must also use the NConfigurator in order to update the firmware of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1. Neutron HiFi is currently developing an Android version of the NConfigurator which will make customization of the DAC V1 easier and more simple.

The double-tap action
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is the only USB DAC dongle (as far as I know) that features a configurable double-tap action. You can double-tap the top/bottom or any side of the device to invoke the desired media action which can be assigned via the NConfigurator app. The options are: none, play/pause, switch on display, next, previous, enable voice command. You can assign different actions for the top and the side of the device. A very useful and cleverly designed feature that allows the user to control the device without the bulk of physical buttons.

Non Audio stuff
The main frame of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is made from high quality aluminum alloy that is reliable and robust while it also protects the sensitive electronic components from external EMI. The DAC V1 incorporates a high-contrast, low-power OLED display that provides useful information about output audio format and device state.
The outer surface of the display is made from Gorilla Glass 3 to be shock, scratch resistant and it also adds a premium and luxurious look. The display is user configurable and offers a black-or-white mode, auto-orientation or fixed view. Build quality is very good and flawless while the DAC V1 is available in two finishes, silver and iron gray.
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is a compact (50 x 19.9 x 9.6 mm) and lightweight (13g) device, especially considering that it embodies an OLED display. It is easy to use, it doesn't add much clutter under your phone and it fits inside a small pocket.
Accessories
In order to save costs and keep the price competitive, the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 doesn't include any accessories at all. You can use a USB type-C cable of your own or order one of the high quality USB cables that Neutron HiFi makes.

Optional accessories
Neutron HiFi makes some optional accessories for the DAC V1 such as a luxurious protective case that is made from genuine leather and is available in five different colors (black, red, green, blue, gray and pink). They also make high quality, audiophile USB cables that have gold plated connectors, tinned copper cores and nylon braiding. They are available in three versions: USB type C to C, type A-micro to B and type A to C, in two different sizes (15cm and 1m).

Power output and efficiency
The device has a single 3.5mm headphone jack with a maximum power output of 2Vrms and <0.5Ω of output impedance. You can optionally set the power output to 1Vrms for use with very sensitive earphones. The DAC V1 has a clean and noise free background even with sensitive earphones, like the FiiO FX15 and the Soundz Avant. The power output of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is enough for earphones but it can also drive some efficient headphones like the Sivga Luan.
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 incorporates a smart power saving function that consumes only 0.05A/0.28W until you plug an earphone. Then it will consume 0.13A/0.69W thus making it a power efficient USB device that is not going to deplete your phone's battery too fast.

Audio stuff
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 has stellar audio performance with a sound signature that combines excellent fidelity with plenty of musicality and a mostly natural timbre. The measured frequency response is absolutely flat, the sound is crystal clear and transparent with class leading definition and separation. The tuning is neutral, the device doesn't impart any sonic character of its own and it will not add or subtract anything that is not already there. It virtually acts as a link between the source material and the transducers, however it doesn't sound clinical or sterile.
The DAC V1 delivers great bass which is extended, tight and controlled with very satisfying definition and layering. It is fast and precise with good timing so it can handle busy tracks without losing its pace or definition. The textures are surprisingly full bodied and weighty, the bass produced by the DAC V1 is rich and not lean or dry at all, while it can sound dynamic and impactful as long as you respect its driving limits.
The mid-range is spacious and open, the sound is flowing just like spring water, the textures are lush while the timbre is surprisingly natural. The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is carefully tuned to sound lifelike and engaging with emphasis on timbre realism while retaining prestigious transparency. Voices and instruments are reproduced with great tonal accuracy, plenty of harmonic variety and strong emotional content.
The higher frequencies, unlike other devices that utilize the ES9219Q DAC chip, don't sound sterile or clinical and don't have too artificial timbre. The treble is energetic and luminous while at the same time it manages to remain under control and steer away from brightness. Clarity and definition are among the best of the category while the DAC V1 is surprisingly resolving. The timbre is quite natural and the textures as rich and weighty as in lower frequencies so the sound is very cohesive without the usual tendency to become thinner and drier in the higher frequencies.
The soundstage is both open and spacious with stellar imaging in the horizontal plane where every single instrument is accurately positioned in its given place. However, the presentation is mostly flat without much depth layering or holographic relief but on the other hand there is no sign of audible congestion even during large scale symphonic works.

The Neutron HiFi DAC V1, unlike most of the competition, manages to communicate the real music message rather than reproducing plain sound. And while it doesn't have the most organic and analog timbre, I still have to admit that I wasn't expecting such a natural and vivid listening experience from such an affordable device. This is a great tuning achievement considering the sharp and somewhat harsh nature of the ES9219Q chip but in the end, what matters the most is the whole hardware implementation and not only the DAC chip. A skilful audio engineer can make miracles and produce great sound with the same hardware components when others fail to do.
Conclusion
The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is one of this year's best surprises. A software developer, without much prior experience in electronic engineering, has made one of the best sounding USB DAC dongles within its category. And being such an experienced software developer, Neutron HiFi has made sure to equip the DAC V1 with their powerful DSP engine. Lightweight, compact, efficient and very well made, the DAC V1 is an excellent option and the only to support such a deeply customizable PEQ.
The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. The price of the Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is $179 (€165.95) and you can buy it from the Neutron HiFi online shop .
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L
LikeHolborn
"The Neutron HiFi DAC V1, unlike most of the competition, manages to communicate the real music message rather than reproducing plain sound. while it doesn't have the most organic and analog timbre" what would say is the most like this, this or a colorfly m2, i heard good things about it's bass, strictly compliments the midrange is what i like. you're right any technicality is not worth sacrificing overall engagement or enjoyability.

dmitrykos
With NConfigurator 1.8.1 (was released yesterday) it is now possible to configure DAC V1 remotely from another PC or mobile device. This functionality is for the usage case when you have DAC V1 operating as preamplifier serving sound from a streamer PC (Raspberry Pi or similar) to amplifier.
Also, it hasn't been mentioned yet in this thread that with Firmware 51 added support for up to 40-band PEQ + Crossfeed. It works up to 48 kHz but allows very fine tuning of frequency response for the headset. And, with Firmware 54 it is possible to design and set own Oversampling Filter with additional NEUTRON_XXX filters provided in addition to DAC chip's built-in linear and minimum-phase filters. The instructions related to OSF are on Neutron's forum.
Also, it hasn't been mentioned yet in this thread that with Firmware 51 added support for up to 40-band PEQ + Crossfeed. It works up to 48 kHz but allows very fine tuning of frequency response for the headset. And, with Firmware 54 it is possible to design and set own Oversampling Filter with additional NEUTRON_XXX filters provided in addition to DAC chip's built-in linear and minimum-phase filters. The instructions related to OSF are on Neutron's forum.
L
LikeHolborn
that's ok, am goin with the heartfield r1 with a adv model 3 ba2 lol

- Spending additional time to fully understand the features to complement the hard work that the brand poured into this project