SMSL PS100 best budget USB DAC with HDMI ARC

SMSL PS100 is a multifunctional audio converter from the company Foshan Shuang Mu San Lin Technology, which specializes in the development and production of high-quality audio devices. The PS100 is an ultra-compact and affordable device with various features and high specifications, designed to significantly enhance the sound quality of your TV, phone, or computer.

The multifunctional design of the PS100 supports various types of audio inputs, including Bluetooth, coaxial, optical, HDMI, and USB. This allows you to connect the device to different audio sources.

The PS100 is equipped with just one button, making it user-friendly even for those not well-versed in technology. A long press turns the device on and off, while a short press switches between inputs.

Now, let me provide more details about the audio inputs of the SMSL PS100. The device features a reversible audio channel via HDMI (ARC), allowing you to connect it to your TV's HDMI interface and output sound, through the PS100, with volume control from your TV remote.

 

The PS100 also has a USB port, that can be used for connecting to a computer or smartphone, improving audio signal quality. The sampling frequency for USB, ranges from 44.1 to 48 kHz. It is compatible with Windows 7 to 11, Mac OS X 10.6 or newer versions, and Linux.

On the rear panel, you'll find optical and coaxial inputs for connecting CD players, TVs, or other signal sources. These inputs support audio signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz, ensuring hi-res audio playback.

The device has a dynamic range of 96 dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 98 dB. For complete technical specifications, please refer to the link in the description.

The SMSL PS100 is equipped with an integrated ES9023 DAC chip, with jitter suppression. The ES9023 chip is a 24-bit stereo audio DAC with an integrated operational amplifier. Developed based on the industry-proven Sabre DAC technology, this chip combines excellent audio quality with low system cost and high performance, making it an ideal DAC for CD/DVD players, game consoles, digital TVs, and portable audio converters.

The PS100 also boasts a high-performance power supply system, ensuring excellent sound quality, even when powered solely via USB.

The audio converter comes in a compact and elegant black case, with dimensions of 105 mm in width, 22 mm in height, and 80 mm in depth. It weighs 90 grams.

In the package, you'll find the SMSL PS100 audio converter, HDMI and USB cables. The device is designed for connecting to active speakers or an amplifier.

I tested the SMSL PS100 with a Mission 778x amplifier connected to Klipsch RP 600M2 speakers. The signal source was a TV, connected via HDMI, and the test materials included content from Netflix and Tidal.

The SMSL PS100 audio converter, delivered remarkably clean and confident sound for its budget price range. I would rate the quality as full-fledged entry-level hi-fi. It provided excellent vocal articulation and a powerful, dynamic bass suitable for both movie watching and music listening. The clear handling of high frequencies, added volume and airiness to the sound. It offers astonishing audio quality for a $30 budget at the time of this review.

In summary, the SMSL PS100 is a compact and multifunctional audio device, that can significantly enhance the sound quality of your audio system. It truly stands out as the best DAC in its price category. SMSL supports various input types and boasts outstanding technical specifications, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles who value sound quality and ease of use. You can order the SMSL PS100, from the Aoshida - Audio store by following the link bellow. That's all for now; may the power of sound be with you.

✅🛒 Aoshida Audio: https://aoshida-audio.com/products/smsl-ps100

✅🛒 AMZN: https://amzn.to/3EFQEmZ