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SMSL C100 vs SMSL DO100 or SMSL SU-1?

kotc

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Sep 2, 2024
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I’ve recently purchased a SMSL C100 DAC which I really like the sound quality but about to return it back to Amazon for a refund due to an internal rattling noise issue.

I have been looking at the SMSL DO100 DAC as a replacement over the SMSL C100.

Would the SMSL DO100 DAC be a good upgrade over the SMSL C100 offering better sound quality?

I’m also considering the SMSL SU-1 DAC with plenty of rave reviews, fantastic quality sound for the money, super bargain & etc

I believe the SMSL SU-1 is virtually identical to the SMSL C100, using the same chip set inside but the C100 have the bonus of Bluetooth, remote control & some extra features.

Not sure if there would be any significant difference between the SMSL C100 vs the SMSL SU-1 so I’m kind of edging towards the SMSL DO100 instead as an upgrade?

Any advice out there?
 
Don’t really want to spend more than £200!

The SMSL DO100 PRO is on offer, Amazon, under £200.

Is this the one to go for?
 
Is this the one to go for?
IMO: YOU have to live with the ultimate decision YOU make.
Though, it may depend on what kind of system you are trying to build for today and perhaps for the future.
Each SMSL model (as w/most manufacturers) offers features that different customers may desire.
One feature may be streaming capability, another could be HDMI/ARC, or XLRs, or I2S, or AES/EBU, and like an 'a la cart' menu; the customer [=YOU] must decide. No? ;)
 
the D100 non Pro seems to be not available any more

i seriosuly think the AKM4490 whatever in the C100 is sonically identical to the D100 Pro's ESS 9039

but its twice the price

the D100Pro is a much much much higher end product with a lot more nicer features like IEC, HDMI and XLR and good BT- so buy this if the features make sense to you

like if i was running single ended the D100 makes no sense to me


buy on feautures not on supposed SQ
 
I don't really need features like IEC, HDMI & XLR & etc

I want to use it as an external DAC for my older cd players ( cd players used as the transport )

Possibly, Bluetooth as well.

Based on my requirements, the SMSL C100 is ideal.

TBH, I would prefer sound quality over features.
 
I don't really need features like IEC, HDMI & XLR & etc

I want to use it as an external DAC for my older cd players ( cd players used as the transport )

Possibly, Bluetooth as well.

Based on my requirements, the SMSL C100 is ideal.

TBH, I would prefer sound quality over features.
I recommend considering the SMSL D-6 too
I have two of those and I love their sound (AKM chip)
 
Generally, I'd recommend getting the better featured option within your price range. Meaning all the inputs and outputs you could possibly need, and: volume control. Depending on the rest of the system you might not need it, but generally it enables you to use a simple power amplifier without another preamp. Source -> DAC -> poweramp is the simplest and therefore best value system possible, by principle.
 
I’ll stick with the SMSL C100 as this DAC seems to have the features I require and cheap as chips!

Used as an external DAC on my older cd players, the sound quality is surprisingly good, offering a cleaner, detail, open & natural sound, like removing a veil from the sound before!

The only snag is I’m not to sure about the reliability of the SMSL C100 DAC as I’m returning this one back to Amazon for a refund (internal rattling noise issue) only to buy a replacement one!

I suppose the SMSL C100 is such an excellent sounding, bargain basement DAC, so what you get & the price outweighs the uncertainty of its reliability!
 
The only snag is I’m not to sure about the reliability of the SMSL C100
In my experience, 8 months lifetime. :(
Would the SMSL DO100 DAC be a good upgrade over the SMSL C100 offering better sound quality?
Yes and no. At same output level, both will sound 100% the same, but the DO100 does have balanced XLR outputs and may provide twice the voltage. If you could tell more about the rest of your system, this would help to understand your needs.
 
Sony ES amp & cd player, a few other retro 1990’s Hi End cd players

No need to use balanced XLR outputs.

I was curious If a modern, budget price DAC from China used as an external DAC, improve my retro cd players sound quality and the answer is YES, definitely!
 
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Sony ES amp & cd player, a few other retro 1990’s Hi End cd players

No need to use balanced XLR outputs.

I was curious If a modern, budget price DAC from China used as an external DAC, improve my retro cd players sound quality and the answer is YES, definitely!
I'd echo the sentiment to buy for facilities and visual presentation and not to worry in the slightest about 'sound quality' as, if heard without knowing which is which, they really will 'sound' exactly the same if levels are identical. It's all but hidden away, but I remain delighted with the SU1, but may need something 'posher' at some point in the main rig, which is set for a major overhaul depending on imminent speaker choices.
 
I use the C100 for my patio speakers since July last year behind a (also powered by) RPI, no problems so far. Cross my fingers.
No rattling noise! Seems no loose screws in it.:)
 
I use the C100 for my patio speakers since July last year behind a (also powered by) RPI, no problems so far. Cross my fingers.
No rattling noise! Seems no loose screws in it.:)
Addendum: I bought the C100 from Audiophonics France may be a little more expensive, but I have 2 years European warranty just in case.
 
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