SMSL SU-1 Review: A Compact Desktop DAC for Budget Stacks
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AK4493S DAC chip with XMOS USB input in a very small case
See S.M.S.L SU-1 MQA DAC AK4493S XU316 76… on AmazonShort version: the SMSL SU-1 is a compact, low-cost desktop DAC built around the AK4493S chip, with USB, optical and coaxial inputs and RCA outputs. It’s a sensible core for a budget headphone stack or powered speakers. It has no headphone output and no balanced output, so you’ll pair it with an amp.
Buy it if you’re building a budget desktop stack, feeding powered speakers, or need optical or coaxial inputs. Skip it if you want one box (consider the FiiO K11) or a balanced XLR chain (the SMSL DO200 MKII).
Key specs
| SMSL SU-1 | |
|---|---|
| DAC chip | AK4493S |
| USB input | XMOS-based |
| Inputs | USB, optical, coaxial |
| Outputs | RCA (single-ended) |
| Headphone output | None |
What it does well
A clean core for a stack. DACs at this level are typically measurement-transparent for most listeners. The SU-1’s job is to convert cleanly and get out of the way, and its feature set is aimed at exactly that.
Inputs. Optical and coaxial let you connect a TV, console or CD transport as well as a computer.
Size. It’s small enough to sit beside a laptop or under a monitor.
Where it falls short
No headphone output. You need a separate amplifier, such as a budget Topping or JDS Labs amp. See our Topping amp lineup guide.
No balanced output. If your amp has XLR inputs and you want a balanced chain, step up to a balanced DAC.
How it compares
| DAC | Choose it if… |
|---|---|
| SMSL SU-1 | You want the smallest, cheapest clean DAC for a stack |
| Topping E30 II | You want a display and remote |
| SMSL DO200 MKII | You want balanced XLR outputs |
| FiiO K11 | You want a DAC and headphone amp in one box |
For a deeper look at how DAC chips differ, see our DAC chip explainer.
Verdict
The SU-1 is a tidy, low-cost DAC for budget stacks and speaker setups. Pair it with a small amp, or choose an all-in-one if you’d rather not run two boxes.
How we chose
This review is compiled from manufacturer specifications, current product listings and published measurements. We don’t test products ourselves.
SMSL S.M.S.L SU-1 MQA DAC AK4493S XU316 768kHz DSD512 Hi-Res DAC: Pros & Cons
- AK4493S DAC chip with XMOS USB input in a very small case
- USB, optical and coaxial inputs
- Low price for a dedicated desktop DAC
- RCA output only: no balanced XLR
- No headphone output: needs a separate amp
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the SMSL SU-1 have a headphone output?
No. It's a DAC only, with RCA line outputs. Pair it with a headphone amp, or choose an all-in-one like the FiiO K11 if you want one box.
SMSL SU-1 or Topping E30 II?
They're similar in purpose: compact AK4493S-based DACs for budget stacks. The SU-1 is smaller and usually cheaper; the E30 II adds a display and remote. Choose on size, features and price.
Is the SU-1 worth it over a dongle?
If you have a desktop setup with a separate headphone amp or powered speakers, yes: it adds optical and coaxial inputs and line-level outputs a dongle doesn't have.
Where to Buy
SMSL S.M.S.L SU-1 MQA DAC AK4493S XU316 768kHz DSD512 Hi-Res DACSee S.M.S.L SU-1 MQA DAC AK4493S XU316 76… on Amazon
