A simple DAC upgrade can do wonders for your audio playback, as for example, a 4K-capable TV might change your movie viewing experience. Their last entry on this list was the PAW Gold Touch, a fantastic and fantastically expensive player that was out of reach for most people. There are some puzzling omissions, however. Balanced and unbalanced connections are often referred to as pro and semi-pro respectively. The quality of these components is proportionate to their price which in turn determines why some DAPs are so much more expensiveHigher-resolution files do sound better than lower ones (and much better than compressed (lossy) ones), and the processing power of the DAC chip determines how such audio characteristics such as transient clarity, harmonics, depth, stereo width and more, are translated from digital to analog. This product can be controlled with your voice through Alexa-enabled devices such as Amazon Echo and Amazon Tap. If youre looking for something with better audio at around the same price, we recommend the Hidizs AP80, above. Its definitely not something you have to use if you buy a DAP, but it sure is nice to have. You may have noticed us ranting about not enough hard drive space in the above picks. So why not take the jump? Try that and youre in for a wild ride. The biggest problem with the NW-ZX507 is that youre paying a lot for nostalgia. maxtor drive hard external basic usb rk 640gb mbps 7200rpm recertified warranty factory Several DAPs can handle that file format, but few do it with as much pizzazz or style as the NW-ZX507 from Sony. A well-built operating system can make using a DAP a real pleasure, and if that sounds good to you, then you need to try the Sony NW-A55. Additional factors come into play - even if your DAP might recognise every audio file in existence, your computer might not, and you might need a dedicated hi-res audio media player installed on your computer. The quality of playback of any digital audio player depends almost entirely on the quality of the DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Conversion) chipset. Storage: 3GB (Expandable to 512GB)Max Sampling Rate: 32-bit/384kHzFile Types: FLAC, WMA, WAV, Apple, LOSSLESS, DSF, DSD, DSDIFFWhat We Like: Lightning-fast, sounds splendid.What We Don't: Still struggles with sensitive in-ears, very pricey. DAPs are tactile objects, and they live and die as much by their physical design as they do by their sound and interface. Whether you're using a portable Bluetooth speaker at the beach, or listening to music in the kitchen, you're virtually guaranteed solid sound quality and a great experience. In regards to the exceptions, we have noticed and flagged some library indexing anomalies with Sonys own OS - stuff like lack of (or awkward) playlist support, and so on. The L&P P3, in particular, excels in DSDthe ultra-high-resolution audio format that usually requires a laptop and dedicated software to play. Other less-expensive players like the $750 Sony Walkman NW-ZX507 would be better choices here. The Bluetooth is only 4.2, which is relatively low, and there's only USB 2.0 charging available, which can get mighty slow. While the FiiO M9 is a better overall pick, the Hidizs AP80 is a genuine winner at this price point. Storage: 64GB (Expandable to 2TB)Max Sampling Rate: 32-bit/768 kHzFile Types: DSF, DFF, ISO, DXD, APE, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, AIF, DTS, MP3, WMA, ACC, OGG, ALAC, MP2, M4A, AC3, M3U, M3U8What We Like: Offers a clever solution to a frustrating problemand sounds great.What We Don't: Very pricey, and very large. Lets talk balanced vs unbalanced connections - quite important, actually. The big draw is the fact that this is the first A&K player with two DACs, one for each channel, which theoretically result in cleaner, more direct sound. The setup here is interesting, with two DACs (one from ESS and one from AKM) that each feed their own twin set of outputs. influenster The slightly theory-heavy explanation is that balanced outputs offer an impedance-balancing (between the individual wires) effect on the connected cable, resulting in a better transference of the audio signal. For while it is fully Wi-Fi equipped, actually getting any of the streaming services you probably use, like Tidal or Deezer, to work is an exercise in frustration. And if you'd like to match your new DAP with a great pair of cans, check out our list of the best high-end headphones and best in-ear monitors (IEMs). Its a beastRead our in-depth reviewSee the FiiO M11. DSD files come in several resolution densities and the highest resolution currently used commercially is the DSD512 (Octa-DSD), which samples audio of rates up to 22.5792 MHz, which is eight times the SACD rate. Even the digital ports play an important role, as they open possibilities for further expansion and sonic improvement. But that doesnt change the fact that its an exemplary DAP nonetheless. However, there are a couple of downsides to the Shanling M8. We also truly dislike the 22 pin proprietary data port that Sony insists on using, as it means yet another cable to cart around with you. The Linux-based system means you cant download any external apps, as you would be able to on less-expensive players like the FiiO M11. 
Its the culmination of everything that makes their products so compelling. Storage: 128GBMax Sampling Rate: 32-bit/384 kHzFile Types: MP3, WMA, WAV, OGG, FLAC, DSDWhat We Like: Some of the best sound quality in this price range, and this player is perfect for DSD.What We Don't: No playlist support? Things can go a lot further than that allowing audio professionals to turn their AK300-series DAP in a fully-equipped ultra high-end field audio recorder by adding A/D (analog to digital) conversion and support for external condenser microphones and recording. Storage: 128GB (Expandable to 1TB)Max Sampling Rate: 32-bit/384kHzFile Types: WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF, MQAWhat We Like: Stellar design, excellent audio quality.What We Don't: The SA700 can get hot during playback, and it's very heavy. The high price here may turn off some people, but we still think the NW-ZX507 is one of the best DAPs around right now.See the Sony Walkman NW-ZX507. Seriously: what the hell. SOMETHING NEW IS COMING STAY UP TO DATE! 
But if all you are doing is listening to Spotify, and you want a simple device that will allow you to leave your phone in your pocket or backpack, then check out the R2.See the Hiby R2. Despite its tiny size, the Q1 is easy to manipulate, and it has an outstanding screen: bright and clean, with great colors to display album art. At 16 hours, its better than any other DAP on this list. SOMETHING NEW IS COMING STAY UP TO DATE! Youre seeing this ad based on the products relevance to your search query. Better than what you might ask? Unfortunately, the Plenue R2 has some real problems. Shanling clearly understand this with their Q1. One of the most interesting things about this DAP is that it echoes the original Walkman, with a digital tape graphic that appears whenever you play music. No? Regardless, the R6 Pro is still a terrific player that deserves a spot on this list.See the HiBy R6 Pro. Dont be surprised if the location audio for the next Star Wars flicks is captured on such or similar devices - the audio quality on offer is nothing short of staggering. Its a simple and effective player that connects directly to your smartphone with Bluetooth 5.0, and will supercharge your Spotify experience. This leads to another important DAP feature. While the sound of the Hiby R2 is good, it pales in comparison to other DAPs here. We adore the sound, which is confident and precise, and we love the modified Android operating system that will be instantly familiar to anybody who has ever used a smartphone. Newly-released models are beginning to feature USB 3.0 (up to 640mb/s transfer speed). The PAW 6000 is ideal for travel, and for those with an extensive music library already, but it definitely has its limitations.See the Lotoo PAW 6000. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. While it might be good to have a range of output options there are four here we just dont think the sound quality is equal on all of them. Sensitive in-ear headphones often suffer when coupled with inferior sources. If ease-of-use is important to you, and youre looking to spend under $300, then the NW-A55 is worth looking at. What a delight to see Lotoo making a relatively affordable DAP. Given that similarly priced models like the $1,299 Astell&Kern SA700 provide up to 128GB of on-board memory for only a slightly higher price, thats very strange. The DAP market has become very competitive, and thankfully, many manufacturers have started to address this issue. Those issues aside, the M11 is a remarkable DAP which we think everyone needs to hear at least once. 
The most common mini-jack connection as found on smartphones, laptops etc. Lastly, providing all your digital connections are optimised, youd need to take good care of how you connect your DAP to your A/V receiver or stereo amp. There is in fact a close relation. You must be joking. The price is one thing, and it may be a little bit too expensive for casual listeners. Unfortunately, the Astell&Kern KANN Alpha has a big problem: streaming. 
This is really when balanced outputs can come handy and act as effective hum-destroyers, as we discussed in our breakdown of the 10 Most Common Home Theater Problems. Its easily better than the operating system on the otherwise brilliant FiiO M11, and it helps that the new amp section and DAC chip make it sound crisp and fresh. If youre interested in sound quality, you may want to skip this one. Shanlings players keep getting better and better, and we think the M8 is one of the best theyve ever made. FLAC, WAV, AIFF, DSD Theres no denying that picking the right type of audio to listen to can be crazy confusing. A lot of additional kit is offered (by normally high-end manufacturers) - such as balanced-out kits, or specific headphone amps reserved for hungry headphones (we mean high-impedance units of course, an explanation of which can be found here.). One minute of DSD256 audio, for example, exceeds 160mb of drive space, which means that an average album takes somewhere between 8 and 12GB. This is the player to go for if you want something that is transportable rather than portable: a desktop player that can be slipped into a bag if need be (its a little hefty to go in your pocket). 
The design is top notch, too, and although we think this player isnt quite as good as the top-ranked SA700, which boasts larger memory and more file types, its a little more affordable. This would of course be an unit which features even higher resolution DACs. You need to be aware of what you are getting, however, as there are some downsides. While its significantly expensive more, even, then the top-ranked Astell&Kern SA700 it sounds splendid, and the design is uniquely forward-thinking. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. On very rare occasions you may see two 2.5mm balanced outs - splitting the stereo feed into two mono feeds: left (L) and right (R). Storage: 16 GB (Expandable to 2TB)Max Sampling Rate: 24-bit, 192kHzFile Types: MP3, WMA, FLAC, WAV, AAC, HE-AAC, Apple Lossless, AIFF, DSD, DSF, DFF, APE, MQAWhat We Like: Smooth operating system and clean, dynamic sound.What We Don't: Outdated data port, and we encountered some issues with album art.
Its the culmination of everything that makes their products so compelling. Storage: 128GBMax Sampling Rate: 32-bit/384 kHzFile Types: MP3, WMA, WAV, OGG, FLAC, DSDWhat We Like: Some of the best sound quality in this price range, and this player is perfect for DSD.What We Don't: No playlist support? Things can go a lot further than that allowing audio professionals to turn their AK300-series DAP in a fully-equipped ultra high-end field audio recorder by adding A/D (analog to digital) conversion and support for external condenser microphones and recording. Storage: 128GB (Expandable to 1TB)Max Sampling Rate: 32-bit/384kHzFile Types: WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DFF, DSF, MQAWhat We Like: Stellar design, excellent audio quality.What We Don't: The SA700 can get hot during playback, and it's very heavy. The high price here may turn off some people, but we still think the NW-ZX507 is one of the best DAPs around right now.See the Sony Walkman NW-ZX507. Seriously: what the hell. SOMETHING NEW IS COMING STAY UP TO DATE! But if all you are doing is listening to Spotify, and you want a simple device that will allow you to leave your phone in your pocket or backpack, then check out the R2.See the Hiby R2. Despite its tiny size, the Q1 is easy to manipulate, and it has an outstanding screen: bright and clean, with great colors to display album art. At 16 hours, its better than any other DAP on this list. SOMETHING NEW IS COMING STAY UP TO DATE! Youre seeing this ad based on the products relevance to your search query. Better than what you might ask? Unfortunately, the Plenue R2 has some real problems. Shanling clearly understand this with their Q1. One of the most interesting things about this DAP is that it echoes the original Walkman, with a digital tape graphic that appears whenever you play music. No? Regardless, the R6 Pro is still a terrific player that deserves a spot on this list.See the HiBy R6 Pro. Dont be surprised if the location audio for the next Star Wars flicks is captured on such or similar devices - the audio quality on offer is nothing short of staggering. Its a simple and effective player that connects directly to your smartphone with Bluetooth 5.0, and will supercharge your Spotify experience. This leads to another important DAP feature. While the sound of the Hiby R2 is good, it pales in comparison to other DAPs here. We adore the sound, which is confident and precise, and we love the modified Android operating system that will be instantly familiar to anybody who has ever used a smartphone. Newly-released models are beginning to feature USB 3.0 (up to 640mb/s transfer speed). The PAW 6000 is ideal for travel, and for those with an extensive music library already, but it definitely has its limitations.See the Lotoo PAW 6000. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. While it might be good to have a range of output options there are four here we just dont think the sound quality is equal on all of them. Sensitive in-ear headphones often suffer when coupled with inferior sources. If ease-of-use is important to you, and youre looking to spend under $300, then the NW-A55 is worth looking at. What a delight to see Lotoo making a relatively affordable DAP. Given that similarly priced models like the $1,299 Astell&Kern SA700 provide up to 128GB of on-board memory for only a slightly higher price, thats very strange. The DAP market has become very competitive, and thankfully, many manufacturers have started to address this issue. Those issues aside, the M11 is a remarkable DAP which we think everyone needs to hear at least once. The most common mini-jack connection as found on smartphones, laptops etc. Lastly, providing all your digital connections are optimised, youd need to take good care of how you connect your DAP to your A/V receiver or stereo amp. There is in fact a close relation. You must be joking. The price is one thing, and it may be a little bit too expensive for casual listeners. Unfortunately, the Astell&Kern KANN Alpha has a big problem: streaming. This is really when balanced outputs can come handy and act as effective hum-destroyers, as we discussed in our breakdown of the 10 Most Common Home Theater Problems. Its easily better than the operating system on the otherwise brilliant FiiO M11, and it helps that the new amp section and DAC chip make it sound crisp and fresh. If youre interested in sound quality, you may want to skip this one. Shanlings players keep getting better and better, and we think the M8 is one of the best theyve ever made. FLAC, WAV, AIFF, DSD Theres no denying that picking the right type of audio to listen to can be crazy confusing. A lot of additional kit is offered (by normally high-end manufacturers) - such as balanced-out kits, or specific headphone amps reserved for hungry headphones (we mean high-impedance units of course, an explanation of which can be found here.). One minute of DSD256 audio, for example, exceeds 160mb of drive space, which means that an average album takes somewhere between 8 and 12GB. This is the player to go for if you want something that is transportable rather than portable: a desktop player that can be slipped into a bag if need be (its a little hefty to go in your pocket). The design is top notch, too, and although we think this player isnt quite as good as the top-ranked SA700, which boasts larger memory and more file types, its a little more affordable. This would of course be an unit which features even higher resolution DACs. You need to be aware of what you are getting, however, as there are some downsides. While its significantly expensive more, even, then the top-ranked Astell&Kern SA700 it sounds splendid, and the design is uniquely forward-thinking. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. On very rare occasions you may see two 2.5mm balanced outs - splitting the stereo feed into two mono feeds: left (L) and right (R). Storage: 16 GB (Expandable to 2TB)Max Sampling Rate: 24-bit, 192kHzFile Types: MP3, WMA, FLAC, WAV, AAC, HE-AAC, Apple Lossless, AIFF, DSD, DSF, DFF, APE, MQAWhat We Like: Smooth operating system and clean, dynamic sound.What We Don't: Outdated data port, and we encountered some issues with album art.