AshKCAMBRIDGE AUDIO’S NEW DacMagic XS is a matchbox sized digital to analogue converter and headphone amplifier that’s designed to bring audiophile quality sound to any computer.
The headphone output of a typical laptop or desktop computer uses extraordinarily cheap parts and is simply not good enough to get the best from a good set of headphones. The DacMagic XS USB DAC is an instant upgrade to any computer’s sound output. It connects quickly and easily to any USB port and even though it’s smaller than a matchbox, DacMagic XS uses technology from Cambridge Audio’s high-end DACs. Anything from MP3s to high resolution lossless files, streaming services such as Spotify and Pandora, Skype, as well as games and films will all benefit, especially if users have paid for a higher quality subscription service.
DacMagic XS also features a volume control, easily adjusted at the tap of a finger, while a convenient LED shows current sample rate.
At home, the DacMagic XS can be used as the link between a laptop and home hi-fi amp for high-quality digital audio without the space implications of a larger DAC. And finally, the sleek, sturdy black aluminium case minimises interference and ensures the DacMagic XS is built to last.
In more detail:
High quality DAC – The DacMagic XS uses a high quality 24-bit digital to analogue Converter.
More power – The built-in headphone amp puts out 150mW of power, for the bass and volume users need even in the noisiest environments.
Analogue volume control – Finger-tip volume control fully bypasses the soundcard and volume control of a computer. Not only does this improve sound quality, but also means no more combinations of button presses with two hands, or several mouse clicks to change volume.
High resolution audio – Featuring asynchronous USB audio clocking, and supporting both USB Class 1 and USB Class 2, the DacMagic XS can be used to play everything from MP3 to the highest quality 24-bit/192kHz studio master recordings from a computer, free from unwanted noise, jitter and distortion.
USB Class 2 audio – When running in Class 2 mode, the DacMagic XS can also use Cambridge Audio’s dedicated Windows USB Class 2 USB driver (driver not required for Apple computers). This allows users to bypass their computer operating system’s poor audio path, preventing unwanted interference and re-sampling.
Versatile connections – Micro USB and 3.5mm headphone connections mean the DacMagic XS isn’t just easy to connect laptop to headphones, it can also be used to connect a laptop to a home hi-fi.
LED sample rate indicator – Ensures that users always know they’re getting the best quality or when they’ve hit maximum/minimum volume.
Micro USB cable included – By plugging in via a cable, the DacMagic XS avoids adding a bulky and easily-bashed lump to the side of a laptop.
Tiny case – The (W x H x D) 30 x 10 x 53.5mm brushed aluminium case weighs a mere 100g, protects the electronics from shock or damage, and minimises undesirable interference.
Units will be available soon at a RRP of $239.
