AudioEngine AE-DAC3 Digital Analogue Converter

Features

DAC3 Internal Converter

The heart of the DAC3 is the ES9281A PRO DAC, which is well-regarded for its low noise and high fidelity. Due to the high signal-to-noise specs of the ES9281A PRO and the added benefit of double redundancy power source conversion and filtering, the DAC3 presents impressive low noise and low distortion characteristics. The DAC3 can process digital audio at any bit depth up to 32 bits and any sample rate up to 192kHz. DAC3 pads (up sampled) all bit depths internally to 32-bits, thus achieving a higher signal-to-noise ratio.

DAC3 Headphone Amplifier

The DAC3 contains a high-performance headphone amplifier based on the LME49726 low-noise opamp. This amp is able to provide low-impedance, high-fidelity audio and a 2-volt output which easily drives a wide range of headphones, satisfying even the most demanding headphone enthusiasts. The DAC3’s relay-controlled stereo output can also be connected to any system with an analogue audio input, such as Audioengine powered speakers.

DAC3 Power

The DAC3 is powered directly from the USB bus and power is passed through two stages of regulation to ensure no USB bus power variations affect the audio quality. This low-noise, low-ripple power supply is located on a separate circuit board for extra isolation and thermal management.

DAC3 Volume Control

Volume for headphones and line-out is controlled directly from the DAC3 side panel. Smoothly adjust volume levels at fine increments without any undesirable noise or channel imbalance at lower volumes.

Hear the Difference

Powerful Yet Portable

DAC3 is a powerful yet portable headphone amplifier and DAC that drives enhanced, high resolution audio to your headphones or speakers from your phone, tablet or computer.

Though small in size, DAC3 playback performance reveals stunning detail and music clarity headphones often miss when connected directly to your streaming device. The difference between listening to your music and hearing ALL of it.

High-Performance Headphone Amplifier

DAC3 uses a high-performance headphone amplifier which drives audiophile-grade headphones with ease and ensures plenty of headroom for your headset. Experience maximum dynamic range with the capacity to support the most demanding headphones.

DAC3 isn't just for headphones. Variable line-level output can be connected to any system with an analogue audio input, such as Audioengine powered speakers or an A/V receiver.

• 32-bit precision, high dynamic range and ultra low distortion
• Drivers headphones with impedances of 12 ohms or higher
• Broad support fot hi-res audio formats (MQA, PCM and DSD)

3 Steps to Connect

No Batteries, No Charging, No Hassle

With only 3 steps to connect and no batteries or charging required, your new DAC is ready to go right out of the box. DAC3 simply draws its meager power requirement via a double regulated USB-C connection. Simply plug into your phone, tablet or computer using the included cables and let DAC3 expose you to the missing resolution in your favourite music.

The wired connection gives DAC3s its flex, full-range power for your headphones, and support for your hi-res music files or apps.

Hi-Fi Your Headphones

Enhance Your Streaming Experience

• ES9281A PRO Ultra DAC delivers 32-bit precision, high dynamic range and ultra low distortion
• High-performance amplifier that easily drives headphones with impedances of 12 ohms or higher
• Broad support for standard hi-res audio formats including MQA, PCM and DSD
• Enhanced playback from your HD streaming apps (TIDAL, Amazon Music, Apple Music, Qobuz)

AudioEngine Signature Sound

In 2005, Audioengine was founded on a simple goal: Design purpose-built home music systems that sound great, are easy to use, and make people want to listen to music every day. Each new product gives listeners well-thought updates and improvements inspired by all the ways people listen to their music. The new DAC3 is no exception.

Designed smaller for portability with added power for your hi-res music, DAC3 is the perfect blend of premium performance industry audiophiles love to feel and the modern functionality we all depend on.