[Firedrops]

Hi all,

I am scoping out a project to make a small balanced DAC/AMP for IEMs/headphones.

I noticed that all the examples I found (e.g. Moondrop Dawn, River, Fiio KA3) double up on the DACs.

Is this simply because there is no single DAC option that can do balanced output? Looking at some references, many of the 2-channel DACs have separate differential positive and differential negative outputs - does this not equate to balanced output?

 

[dunring]

There is, the SMSL M300SE is perfect for balanced IEMs without breaking the bank. I've had a couple of those and can power any IEM on balanced including the planar magnetic ones easily.

 

[Firedrops]

The unit you mentioned is an entire finished product, also using double CS43131s. I am mostly asking about the chips themselves, or any examples of balanced DACs that don't double up on the chips would be helpful well, as reference.