Need DAC recommendation with EQ (not headphone-focused)

[Janck O'Neill]

I know ADI-2 is #1, but it’s about 1/3 too expensive and hard to find used. Looking for a DAC with a real, functional EQ that can be controlled from a smartphone app or PC software. Connection: USB from PC, output RCA for now, XLR later.
I need to buy an amplifier and all the ones I like don’t have tone controls, so I’m planning to replace that functionality with the EQ in the DAC.

 

[staticV3]

Topping E50II
miniDSP 2x4HD
miniDSP Flex
WiiM Pro Plus

If you want native RCA and Bal Line out + USB input + App control, then the E50II will be hard to beat.

The miniDSPs give you more flexibility (e.g. Subwoofer integration), but they have either RCA out, or Bal out. Not both.

The WiiM is probably the easiest to use (smartphone App with automatic room correction), but it lacks USB input.
You'd have to buy a Hifime UT23 or similar and do PC->USB->Hifime->Optical->WiiM.

 

[Janck O'Neill]

@staticV3 hanks, I’ll read through them. The worst part is that I’ve just bought the Eversolo Z8 DAC. I’ve barely had time to start liking it, and now it turns out I’ll have to sell it and buy something else - probably something less exciting

 

[Peterinvan]

Consider analogue tone controls…

 

[Janck O'Neill]

Consider analogue tone controls…

Thanks, but I need something that can be fully managed through an app/PC etc. - I can't walk.

 

[Yoshiji927]

I know ADI-2 is #1, but it’s about 1/3 too expensive and hard to find used. Looking for a DAC with a real, functional EQ that can be controlled from a smartphone app or PC software. Connection: USB from PC, output RCA for now, XLR later.
I need to buy an amplifier and all the ones I like don’t have tone controls, so I’m planning to replace that functionality with the EQ in the DAC.

You might consider the Topping DX7 Pro or SMSL SU-9, both have EQ features and app control. They are more affordable than ADI-2 and should work with USB to RCA now, XLR later. Make sure the EQ is accessible via software for easier tone adjustments with your amp.

 

[staticV3]

You might consider the Topping DX7 Pro or SMSL SU-9, both have EQ features and app control.

Neither the DX7 Pro, nor the SU-9 has EQ or App control.

 

[Beave]

Neither the DX7 Pro, nor the SU-9 has EQ or App control.

You mean the AI they used to write that post was wrong? I'm shocked, shocked I tell you!