Neutron HiFi DAC V1 Review

[dmitrykos]

Firmware 48 was just released for DAC V1 (Release Notes).

It now allows to use [FRC + Crossfeed] and [PEQ 10-band + Crossfeed] at 176.4 kHz and 192 kHz frequencies. CPU load analysis showed that DSP processing leaves enough time for other tasks. Earlier frequency was limited up to 96 kHz. Probably DAC V1 is the only USB DAC of all others currently available (in the same category) supporting such combination of DSP up to 192 kHz

 

[DamienH]

Firmware 48 was just released for DAC V1 (Release Notes).

It now allows to use [FRC + Crossfeed] and [PEQ 10-band + Crossfeed] at 176.4 kHz and 192 kHz frequencies. CPU load analysis showed that DSP processing leaves enough time for other tasks. Earlier frequency was limited up to 96 kHz. Probably DAC V1 is the only USB DAC of all others currently available (in the same category) supporting such combination of DSP up to 192 kHz

Regular improvements you are bringing to your product are amazing. Not forgetting the microphone part is also something I would like to applaude

I read most of your posts and, since you have mentionned Crossfeed is quite light in term of processing power, do you think a PEQ 20-band + Crossfeed (or PEQ 10-band + FRC + Crossfeed) would be possible (even at lower frequencies).

Maybe I am in the minority camp but I love crossfeed and usually use more than 10 bands PEQ.

Whatever is possible, I think I will support this V1 version, waiting for a V2... which I hope will have volume controls and possibility to select several profiles directly on the device. That is nice to see things moving on the dongle dac market.

 

[dmitrykos]

do you think a PEQ 20-band + Crossfeed (or PEQ 10-band + FRC + Crossfeed) would be possible (even at lower frequencies).

Thank you for this question! Tests showed positive result and these additional combinations are possible up to 96 kHz:

• PEQ 20-band + Crossfeed
• PEQ 10-band + FRC + Crossfeed

Both DSP combinations are useful for listening with headset.

Will address this advancement in the next firmware update of DAC V1.

I think I will support this V1 version, waiting for a V2

DAC V1 is planned to be long living model - 3.5mm single-ended, high precision, smart, power efficient. There are no plans to get into a race with frequently appearing new models (can I name it a sustainable development practice?). DAC V1, as you have noticed, is a complex device in terms of hardware and what is the most important - software/firmware. It does take time to develop software and this process is ongoing. New more powerful model means more power drain from the mobile device, therefore DAC V1 has its niche. More powerful model may come (as additional model of course, not replacing DAC V1) after software functionality is settled and DAC V1's potential is fully realized.

 

[dmitrykos]

PEQ 20-band + Crossfeed (or PEQ 10-band + FRC + Crossfeed) would be possible (even at lower frequencies)

NConfigurator 1.6.6 is released and now supports discussed DSP combinations:

• PEQ 20-band + Crossfeed
• PEQ 10-band + FRC + Crossfeed

Max PCM frequency is 96 kHz for above listed combinations.

See Release Notes for more details.

 

[DamienH]

Thank you for this question! Tests showed positive result and these additional combinations are possible up to 96 kHz:

• PEQ 20-band + Crossfeed
• PEQ 10-band + FRC + Crossfeed

Both DSP combinations are useful for listening with headset.

Will address this advancement in the next firmware update of DAC V1.



DAC V1 is planned to be long living model - 3.5mm single-ended, high precision, smart, power efficient. There are no plans to get into a race with frequently appearing new models (can I name it a sustainable development practice?). DAC V1, as you have noticed, is a complex device in terms of hardware and what is the most important - software/firmware. It does take time to develop software and this process is ongoing. New more powerful model means more power drain from the mobile device, therefore DAC V1 has its niche. More powerful model may come (as additional model of course, not replacing DAC V1) after software functionality is settled and DAC V1's potential is fully realized.

Thank you for the topnotch support. I have ordered the V1. Once I will have received it and played with it, I will be happy to give a more mature feedback. Have a great day

 

[ShadowBoxer]

A few years ago, I paid for Neutron Music Player at expensive price

Eight dollars is "expensive"?

Or did it cost more back then?

 

[dmitrykos]

I have ordered the V1. Once I will have received it and played with it

I am sure you will enjoy it