Audirect Beam 3S Portable Headphone DAC/Amp

The Audirect Beam 3S Portable Headphone DAC/Amp is a tiny audio stick that packs a ton of value into a pocketable footprint. To summarize, it’s an MQA-supported, dual-OPA DAC that delivers sensationally detailed audio conversion alongside impressively nuanced amplification for a well-balanced listening experience. The ES9281 AC Pro chip at the center handles all of the decoding with ease—providing resolutions up to 32 bits at 768 kilohertz—while the DSD support keeps that decoding is polished and accurate. The 4.4-millimeter balanced output allows you to plug in your favorite headphones, and with three gain settings (ranging from 615 mVrms to 4.1 Vrms), you’ll have your choice of output response based on your specific needs. The whole thing comes in a sleek little all-black package with a glossy tempered glass topper that looks slick but also resists cracking and scratching over time.