Audioengine D1, D1P and DAC3 Reviews from Top Publications
What are the differences?
The Audioengine D1, D1P, and DAC3 each offer a distinct approach to enhancing your music. The D1 is a classic choice for desktop setups, transforming ordinary computer audio into something rich and clear. It’s designed for those who want to elevate their home listening without the hassle of complex equipment.
The D1P takes the D1’s strengths and packs them into a more portable form. It’s ideal for those who need high-quality sound on the go, without sacrificing performance. The D1P’s compact size makes it easy to carry, but its sound remains powerful and precise.
Then there’s the DAC3, the most advanced of the three. It delivers studio-quality sound in a sleek, portable package, perfect for those who demand the best audio performance no matter where they are. The DAC3 is versatile, connecting easily to modern devices while ensuring every note is captured with perfect clarity.
Each model serves a purpose, whether you’re setting up at home, traveling, or simply wanting the best sound possible. Audioengine has designed these DACs to meet the needs of every listener, ensuring that your music always sounds its best.
On this collection page you'll find detailed reviews from industry experts and major publications that applaud Audioengine's D1, D1P, and DAC3.
These reviews collectively affirm the top-tier performance and reliability of our digital-to-analog converters and headphone amplifiers. Each piece is celebrated for its precision engineering and outstanding audio fidelity, offering users an unrivaled listening experience.
Audioengine D1 vs. D1P: Key Differences
The Audioengine D1 and D1P are both 32-bit digital-to-analog converters designed for outstanding audio performance, but they cater to different preferences and use cases.
Audioengine D1 is equipped with the PCM5102 DAC chip, making it a robust choice for desktop audio setups. It features USB and S/PDIF optical inputs and provides outputs for headphones and powered speakers. This makes the D1 an ideal solution for users looking to enhance their home audio systems.
On the other hand, the Audioengine D1P is built for portability without compromising sound quality. It features the ESS ES9219C DAC chip, supports high-resolution audio formats, and offers MQA rendering. The D1P includes a toggle switch for easy switching between headphone and line-out modes and is powered via USB-C, ensuring compatibility with various modern devices like laptops and smartphones. This makes the D1P a versatile choice for audiophiles who seek premium sound quality in a compact design.
By offering features tailored to different applications, both the Audioengine D1 and D1P maintain the brand’s commitment to providing high-fidelity audio solutions, whether at home or on the go.
Audioengine D1P Professional Review:
NEW Audioengine D1P DAC and Headphone Amplifier
For those demanding the best sound quality, the D1P enhances music streaming to high-fidelity, exceeding the capabilities of traditional audio equipment.
It bypasses the limitations of standard device sound cards, ensuring that your favorite tracks from platforms like Tidal, Apple Music, or Spotify are delivered in studio-level quality. Supporting high-resolution audio formats — including PCM up to 32bit 384KHz, DSD up to 256, and MQA files — the D1P allows you to immerse yourself in the full depth of your music, unveiling every note with clarity and detail.
Audioengine DAC3 and Headphone Amplifier
Professional Review by The Honest Audiophile
More Professional Reviews:
Best DAC and Headphone Amplifier of 2024: Audioengine D1
C-Tech by CalCalist
"The D1 by Audioengine has been honored as the "Best DAC and Headphone Amplifier of 2024" by C-Tech by CalCalist. This prestigious accolade highlights our dedication to excellence and innovation in audio technology. The D1 is praised for its superior sound quality and advanced features, making it the preferred choice for audiophiles seeking the ultimate in audio performance and convenience."
Audioengine HD3 - Hi-Fi Stereo Desktop Speakers w/ Built-in 10K OHM Headphone Amplifier
Reddit R/Headphones
"The HD3 features a PCM5102 DAC and a OPA2134 headphone amp that's separate from the main speaker amp...The 3.5 mm headphone output does exactly what it's supposed to do: power your headphones without coloring the sound.
There was no noticable hiss or distortion at either end of the volume range. All you get is clean power with no coloration.
At $399 -- $319 refurb -- the HD3 is an awesome value that rolls 2 channel powered speakers, a DAC, a headphone amp, and Bluetooth receiver all into compact and attractive package."
