SMSL D6S
SMSL is a well-known audio brand from China that specializes in designing amplifiers, headphone amplifiers, and DACs. They are known for being fast and among the first in the industry to use the newest DAC chips in their products. One of their products, the SMSL D6S, is a standalone DAC that features the brand new ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip. This chip is an updated version of the widely used ES9038Q2M found in many DACs worldwide.
The upgraded ES9039Q2M chip utilizes the HyperStream IV architecture, which improves performance compared to the previous HyperStream II. It boasts improved measurements, with a dynamic range (DNR) of 130dB and total harmonic distortion (THD) of -126dB.
In addition to the advanced DAC chip, the SMSL D6S incorporates four high-end OPA1612 op-amps in the balanced analog stage. It also features a third-generation XMOS XU-316 receiver, which supports PCM up to 32 bit/768 Hz, DSD 512, and full MQA decoding.
Furthermore, the circuit includes a separate audio clock and a built-in low-noise switching power supply with separate rails for the analog and digital stages. These features contribute to the overall performance and audio quality of the SMSL D6S DAC.
Non audio stuff
The SMSL D6S is a versatile audio device with three digital inputs (USB type-C, Coaxial, and optical) and two analogue outputs (XLR and RCA). It also supports wireless Bluetooth connectivity with high-resolution codecs.
In terms of design and build quality, the SMSL D6S features a modern and contemporary look, distinguishing itself from previous generation products. The device has a rectangular panel that houses the LCD display, giving it a unique appearance. The full aluminum chassis is well-made and finished, ensuring excellent build quality.
Operation of the SMSL D6S is user-friendly, with options to control the device using the multifunction knob or the included remote control. The analogue output signal is variable and can be adjusted from 0 to 99 for the full scale. This allows for compatibility with various power amplifiers and active monitors.
Additionally, users can select the desired digital input or Bluetooth reception, adjust the brightness of the LCD display, and choose the digital filter and DPLL level. During playback, the LCD screen only displays the input sampling rate, providing a clear and focused interface.
Audio stuff
The SMSL D6S was tested with various headphone amplifiers including the DROP + SMSL HO150X, Aune S17 Pro, and Violectric V222. The headphones used for testing were the Focal Clear Mg, iBasso SR3, and HIFIMAN Edition XS. All headphone cables used were made by Lavricables. Prior to the listening evaluation, the device was left playing music for approximately 80 hours.
The SMSL D6S is a highly neutral and transparent DAC with excellent fidelity. It converts digital signals to analog without any coloration or intervention. The device has a black and silent background, providing crystal clear sound with detailed retrieval and definition across the frequency range. While slightly analytical and lean in texture, it is not clinical or sterile sounding. The dynamic range is impressive, with impactful and contrasted bass, linear frequency response, and energetic treble. The sound is neutral, bright, and bold with rapid transients, but not harsh or fatiguing. The soundstage is wide and spacious with pinpoint imaging, although depth and holography may not be as pronounced. The SMSL D6S is ideal for studio production and can easily be integrated into various audio chains without altering the sound.
The Bluetooth connection provided by the SMSL D6S is not only fast, reliable, and stable, but it also maintains its performance within a working distance of 5-6 meters. The sound quality of this device is exceptional, although it does exhibit some common Bluetooth issues such as a slight lack of refinement and resolution, a slightly harsher and grainier treble, and a touch of artificiality.
When comparing the SMSL D6S to previous generation SMSL DACs that utilized the ES9038Q2M chip, like the SMSL DO100, it must be noted that there are no significant sonic differences. However, the D6S does offer a slight improvement in transparency, dynamic contrast, cleanliness, and technical proficiency. Apart from these minor enhancements, the sound signature remains largely unchanged. Therefore, if you already own the SMSL DO100 or another ES9038Q2M DAC by SMSL, upgrading to the D6S may not be worth it. However, if you are in the market for a new DAC, the D6S is a worthwhile purchase as it offers marginal improvements and incorporates the latest DAC chip.
Conclusion
The SMSL D6S offers exceptional transparency and linearity at an affordable price, along with an enhanced dynamic range compared to its predecessors. If you are in search of a DAC that delivers impeccable technical performance, a completely neutral sound signature, and a wide range of connectivity options, the SMSL D6S is the perfect choice.
The SMSL D6S is available from Shenzhen Audio
SMSL is a well-known audio brand from China that specializes in designing amplifiers, headphone amplifiers, and DACs. They are known for being fast and among the first in the industry to use the newest DAC chips in their products. One of their products, the SMSL D6S, is a standalone DAC that features the brand new ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip. This chip is an updated version of the widely used ES9038Q2M found in many DACs worldwide.
The upgraded ES9039Q2M chip utilizes the HyperStream IV architecture, which improves performance compared to the previous HyperStream II. It boasts improved measurements, with a dynamic range (DNR) of 130dB and total harmonic distortion (THD) of -126dB.
In addition to the advanced DAC chip, the SMSL D6S incorporates four high-end OPA1612 op-amps in the balanced analog stage. It also features a third-generation XMOS XU-316 receiver, which supports PCM up to 32 bit/768 Hz, DSD 512, and full MQA decoding.
Furthermore, the circuit includes a separate audio clock and a built-in low-noise switching power supply with separate rails for the analog and digital stages. These features contribute to the overall performance and audio quality of the SMSL D6S DAC.
Non audio stuff
The SMSL D6S is a versatile audio device with three digital inputs (USB type-C, Coaxial, and optical) and two analogue outputs (XLR and RCA). It also supports wireless Bluetooth connectivity with high-resolution codecs.
In terms of design and build quality, the SMSL D6S features a modern and contemporary look, distinguishing itself from previous generation products. The device has a rectangular panel that houses the LCD display, giving it a unique appearance. The full aluminum chassis is well-made and finished, ensuring excellent build quality.
Operation of the SMSL D6S is user-friendly, with options to control the device using the multifunction knob or the included remote control. The analogue output signal is variable and can be adjusted from 0 to 99 for the full scale. This allows for compatibility with various power amplifiers and active monitors.
Additionally, users can select the desired digital input or Bluetooth reception, adjust the brightness of the LCD display, and choose the digital filter and DPLL level. During playback, the LCD screen only displays the input sampling rate, providing a clear and focused interface.
Audio stuff
The SMSL D6S was tested with various headphone amplifiers including the DROP + SMSL HO150X, Aune S17 Pro, and Violectric V222. The headphones used for testing were the Focal Clear Mg, iBasso SR3, and HIFIMAN Edition XS. All headphone cables used were made by Lavricables. Prior to the listening evaluation, the device was left playing music for approximately 80 hours.
The SMSL D6S is a highly neutral and transparent DAC with excellent fidelity. It converts digital signals to analog without any coloration or intervention. The device has a black and silent background, providing crystal clear sound with detailed retrieval and definition across the frequency range. While slightly analytical and lean in texture, it is not clinical or sterile sounding. The dynamic range is impressive, with impactful and contrasted bass, linear frequency response, and energetic treble. The sound is neutral, bright, and bold with rapid transients, but not harsh or fatiguing. The soundstage is wide and spacious with pinpoint imaging, although depth and holography may not be as pronounced. The SMSL D6S is ideal for studio production and can easily be integrated into various audio chains without altering the sound.
The Bluetooth connection provided by the SMSL D6S is not only fast, reliable, and stable, but it also maintains its performance within a working distance of 5-6 meters. The sound quality of this device is exceptional, although it does exhibit some common Bluetooth issues such as a slight lack of refinement and resolution, a slightly harsher and grainier treble, and a touch of artificiality.
When comparing the SMSL D6S to previous generation SMSL DACs that utilized the ES9038Q2M chip, like the SMSL DO100, it must be noted that there are no significant sonic differences. However, the D6S does offer a slight improvement in transparency, dynamic contrast, cleanliness, and technical proficiency. Apart from these minor enhancements, the sound signature remains largely unchanged. Therefore, if you already own the SMSL DO100 or another ES9038Q2M DAC by SMSL, upgrading to the D6S may not be worth it. However, if you are in the market for a new DAC, the D6S is a worthwhile purchase as it offers marginal improvements and incorporates the latest DAC chip.
Conclusion
The SMSL D6S offers exceptional transparency and linearity at an affordable price, along with an enhanced dynamic range compared to its predecessors. If you are in search of a DAC that delivers impeccable technical performance, a completely neutral sound signature, and a wide range of connectivity options, the SMSL D6S is the perfect choice.
The SMSL D6S is available from Shenzhen Audio
