SMSL M8A (ES9038Q2M) DAC w/ Optional SAP-12 Amp

This new generation of the SMSL M8A features the ES9038Q2M, an upgrade to the highly regarded series of ESS SABRE DAC chips. Like the last generation, this version includes the XMOS XCore 200 XU208 USB receiving chipset, widely regarded as one of the best USB interface chips on the market. Featuring a high-precision CNC aluminum housing and an ultra-low-jitter asynchronous design, the unit is ideal for sending out a signal to a high-quality headphone amplifier. It makes an especially convenient pairing with SMSL’s SAP-12 amp, which stacks flush on top of the M8A.

In the world of portable amplifiers, the SMSL SAP-12 delivers a whole lot of bang for the buck. Featuring a newly designed class A/B output stage circuit, a custom power supply, an ultra-low-distortion op-amp, and top audio capacitors for coupling, it promises a very low distortion of just 0.0003 percent. With a rated output of 210 mW at 32 ohms, this amp can comfortably drive low- to mid-range impedance headphones, like the Massdrop x AKG K7XX.