Cheap DAC Dilemma? SMSL has you covered - SU-1 and PS100

[@9Hoots]

Many thanks for the eloquently precise descriptions of the sound stage conjured by SU-1 and PS100. The SU-1 gives out more layers of detail. 6:52 - PS100 10:26 - SU-1 Will help you switch back and forth between tracks and catch their nuances in the act.

[@RickRuizAudio]

You're very welcome. And thank you for watching. I really appreciate it!

[@ramondelgado6778]

What a great review! I have the SU-1 and really am enjoying it. It replaced a Schiit Audio Modi 3E, that is now in my office set up. The SU-1 just sounds more refined with cleaner/warmer mids and smore smooth top end. I also found that the WiiM Pro streamer EQ within the app made things even better. The SU-1 pairs really well with my Wharfedale speakers. Looking forward to seeing more of your work. You earned a sub!!!!

[@RickRuizAudio]

Awesome. Thank you for subscribing. I'll get a WiiM Pro Soon to test out its DSP. It should sound better if it has a more powerful processor. For me, the WiiM Mini sounds better with the EQs off.

[@LoftyVisions]

Reading your comment made me happy as I've got a SU1 on the way to replace my Modi 3E too! How does the soundstage and separation differ from the Modi? Hopefully an improvement 🙏

[@ramondelgado6778]

@@LoftyVisions Sorry for the late response. I found the SU-1 does a better job of separating instruments, improved bass response (bigger and more bold), warmer mid-range and overall weight to the music. The Modi 3E was more detailed/brighter, so there was more detail, but it was almost too much and harsh to the top end at times. This extra detail comes at the expense of losing midrange and low end heft/weight, at times sounding thin. The soundstage was bigger and airier w/ the 3E but I MUCH prefer the SU-1. How do you compare them?

[@richh650]

Your reviews are very well done and explained. I appreciate your understanding of the importance of soundstage as many reviewers don't understand or touch on that aspect of sound presentation when discussing in home sound. I look forward to your other videos. Thanks.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thanks, I appreciate you saying so. Most people are really into Detail or Bass performance. In my 20's it was all about BASS, then in my 30s, Detail and Clarity. Nowadays I'm in the Soundstage camp. 😊 And Thanks for watching, @richh650

[@michaelwright1602]

I just plugged mine in, for a second time. The first system it was in, it came across as veiled and congested. My new setup, I was blown away. This sounds a lot like the Denafrips Ares II I once owned. It is right up there with my PS Audio and Bel Canto DACs, very impressive little box, and only $80? What a great time to be alive in regards to audio gear. Thanks for the tips on the Lokius and WiiM... I need to try that, as I have both in the house. Thanks for the video! Subscribed.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Hey Michael, thanks for watching and the subscribe! I appreciate it! 👍

[@ropeburn6684]

If *any* DAC of the last 10 years sounds "veiled and congested", it isn't the DAC. They already sounded superb 25 years ago.

[@audiojunior174]

I listened to the demo several times and it may even be a matter of taste, we can't debate this, but here on my YAMAHA HS-8 reference speakers and on my AKG headphones that I use to check mixes in my studio, the SU-1 it was superior among the 3, greater presence, more spatiality, greater clarity and definition, the PS-100 comes close, but loses in width, the Cambridge is the finer and less greasy, it comes to be bland compared to the SU-1. This SMSL is extremely good for the price it costs, many are impressed with this DAC and that's why everyone speaks highly of it.... I could even be wrong, mainly because we have to take into account the compression rate of the YT, but for this demo I would without a doubt choose the SU-1

[@RickRuizAudio]

Yeah, for sure it's a matter of taste. The SU-1 is an awesome DAC, particularly for its price. I just got in a Douk U8 as no one seems to have reviewed it, and it trumps the SU-1 for sure, but that one creeps up to $280 USD. I'll post that review on Friday.

[@chewwengtang918]

I agree with u, i like the vocal on Cambridge audio.

[@RickRuizAudio]

The newer stuff isn't as laid back. But still nicely done. 👍

[@russelhaxby6194]

This is a couple reviews you've done lately that interest me. I have the SU-1, and the same Mogami 2964 interconnects. The combination is definitely sharper/brighter than I like. Switched out the WBC's for Blue Jeans LC-1's and the problem went away.

[@RickRuizAudio]

I have a few pair of the wbc w the eminence rcas and mogami 2497. They're darker than the 2964, but for shorter interconnects, tougher to work with because they're a bit thicker and much stiffer. but good stuff as well.

[@ulaby724]

Great review. Was thinking about the PS100. Thank you.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thank you for watching!

[@serinaballerina5783]

very good and well educated review ❤

[@RickRuizAudio]

Why Thank you!

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thank you so much! 😊

[@AllHandlesHaveBeenTaken]

I found that the su-1 sounded similar to my wimm pro+ when I used a standard phone charger. When connected to an ifi ipower2 power supply the su-1 had a wider sound stage and better instrument separation. The pro+ improved also but to a lesser extent than the su-1. Paired with a good power supply, the su-1 is very impressive

[@RickRuizAudio]

Hey John, I'm currently testing SMSL PS200... My new pick for under $100 DACs. I'll have the video up in a few days. And thanks for watching 👍

[@chaosflower4892]

My SMSL has been on 24/7 pretty much since 2010 when I got it. It's just with the way I turn my system off I rarely bother to turn off the DAC and so just leave the DAC on.. It is still going strong. Was very surprisd to find Panasonic capacitors inside it when I had a peak.. hopefully real ones lol Very impressed.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Nice. What model SMSL?

[@chaosflower4892]

@@RickRuizAudio One of the first models they did.. SMSL SD-793. 24bit/96kHz. SMSL started in 2009 and I got the DAC in 2010. When SMSL first appeared you could get them very cheap. But people quickly started to talk about them.. It takes optical out from my motherboard (alas this one has no USB input just optical and coax) then rca outputs go to my vintage Arcam Alpha 10 amp (1997). Speakers are fully refurbed by me Mission M74 and a BK Gemini 2 sub.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Very cool. Nice to hear you can get over a decade on these!

[@hcho8164]

Panasonic is known for quality capacitors. And electrolytic capacitors fail because of leakage. And high heat and repeated heat cycles breaks down seals or sealant. You do the math.

[@kenpell2777]

I definitely prefer the SU1 here despite being quite deaf in one of your other comparisons with the ps200, must now have sporadic hearing. Like your vids btw.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thanks Ken! I appreciate you watching as well 🙏

[@mclarenf8]

Would the SMSL PS100 support Dolby Digital if connected from a TV's HDMI eARC port to a stereo receiver? Thanks!

[@RickRuizAudio]

No, it's PCM only. you probably won't get sound, or if you do, it'll be a strange deep beeping sound.

[@34332]

Imo, the SU-1 takes the cake. It has better dynamics and a more clean and see-through soundstage vs the others. The Cambridge was OK, however, less dynamic or exciting and a bit meh. I guess it comes down to the speakers in the end, where 'warmer' sounding speakers may benefit the most from the SU-1. I noticed a difference in soundvolume between the dacs, therefore it's more difficult to compare. Demo's like this are appreciated, thanks!

[@RickRuizAudio]

SU-1 is great for sure. I'm comparing it to Fiio k11 currently for next video.

[@34332]

@@RickRuizAudio I wouldn't mind that. 😄 I just stumbled on your channel and enjoyed the passion you show. Have to do some catching up I guess 👌

[@RickRuizAudio]

@@34332 Thanks for watching. I appreciate it!

[@victoresteva3246]

My speakers are somewhat bright Boston Acoustics VR3 neodymium tweeter, wouldn't the SMSL SU-1 be convenient for me? which would be recommended. thank you.

[@34332]

​@@victoresteva3246 I would still pick the SU-1. You can possibly use tonecontrol or EQ if you feel your speakers may get too lively. If you have or invest in a WiiM streamer (the mini for example) you even have (P)EQ.

[@erichill5328]

What speakers are pictured in the sound demo? Thanks

[@RickRuizAudio]

They are a custom build. Based on Joseph Crowes' Sabourin Plan, so it has that bass cabinet and the mid was modified from Horn to Open Baffle Dipole and I had him custom design the horn for the super tweeter. 👍 Thanks for watching!

[@erichill5328]

@@RickRuizAudio Awesome Any plans on making a video on those amazing speakers? Thanks

[@RickRuizAudio]

@@erichill5328 People have asked but since they aren't available to purchase, I thought it wouldn't be a useful video. But I think I just might 👍 And thanks again. I appreciate it!

[@dbnpoldermans4120]

Does the SU-1 turn on when the usb cable is inserted? Or does it need to be turn on after that? Also does it remeber the last used input or do I have to select the input every day when I turn on the power in the studio?

[@RickRuizAudio]

It does turn on when you plug in the USB. And yes, it does remember the last input. 👍

[@D1N02]

I think the ps100 is a solution to move TV sound to an amp with no digital inputs. Not aimed at serious audio.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Yeah, I think so as well. 👍

[@RoyFJ65]

The SU-1 is a gem regardless of price point.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Definitely!

[@mostwanted_007]

Does this support CEC Volume Control (Consumer audio control) via HDMI ARC input? I need to use my Yamaha HS5 Studio Monitors with my TV. My TV (Hisense 55U6G) supports CEC. But I'm not sure if SMSL PS-100 supports CEC to be able to control the output from the RCA jacks via TV's Remote Control. Can you please let me know. Have you tested if the volume control works?

[@RickRuizAudio]

Yes, the PS-100 will give you volume control if you use the HDMI ARC input. Then you can control the volume with your TV control.

[@mostwanted_007]

@@RickRuizAudio Thank you for clearing it up!

[@LukasLampe]

trying to find a good dac for my kali audio lp-6's. Do you think the ps100 covers that or the su-1 will give me better audio? Thanx!

[@RickRuizAudio]

PS200! Check out my video on that one. It's $89 I think.

[@JonCurcio]

Excellent review!!

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thanks Jon, I appreciate It.

[@pedrofernandez8729]

I just ordered the SU1, I want to use a phone charger to power it, is that good? First DAC I purchased. I hope I don't regret it.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Phone charger is fine. But check out my new video from today! On SMSL PS200 DAC! 👍 And thanks for watching.

[@pedrofernandez8729]

@@RickRuizAudio Good, useful info without all the dramatics, I subbed

[@RickRuizAudio]

@@pedrofernandez8729 Pedro, let me know what you think when it arrives 👍

[@pedrofernandez8729]

@@RickRuizAudio I purchased one of those $13 jobs from Amazon that are really meant to be used to connect a modern TV to a vintage receiver, thru its optical, not really made for music. I am curious to see the diff in sound, I have the Amazon HD music subscription that I use thru my pc's sound card. It has a digital coaxial output which is better than the headphone output I had been using.

[@pedrofernandez8729]

@@RickRuizAudio I hooked it up and the diff in sound from that little gadget I was using before is quite remarkable. especially the diff in the Amazon streaming sound, also made a diff with the CD player. Better sound all around.

[@adamant3844]

I have both these DAC's and honestly the PS100 sounds more engaging. I like the pronounced and well defined top end and the smooth but heavy bass signature. I find the sound of the SU-1 as being too clinical and transparent which I suppose is what an external DAC is supposed to do. I've had the SU-1 longer but listen to it sparingly. I listen to the PS100 often in comparison. The background instruments are better defined in the SU-1. I'll probably end up selling the SU-1 and picking up a PS200. I really like those ESS Sabre DAC chips.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thanks for sharing your experience Adam 👍

[@adamant3844]

I have since my last comment backtracked on my opinion of these two dac's. I now find myself looking forward to listening to my system consisting of the SU-1 more often than the one with the ps100. I don't know if these things have "break in" periods but I notice a much improved sound from the SU-1. Maybe they are system dependant as I have since my original comment moved the SU-1 to another setup. Nevertheless I'm pleased with how the SU-1 performs.

[@volkiruski1221]

I have the PS100, 35 euro, I also have Fosi and Aiyima DACS....what do you think of these 2 compared to the SMSL?

[@RickRuizAudio]

I haven't heard any Fosi or Aiyima DACs myself. What models do you have? Maybe I can order some for comparisons. Thanks for watching!

[@volkiruski1221]

@@RickRuizAudio I have a cheapy from Aiyima A2, Ifi Uno and a Fosi K5Pro. I have also all in one T9 of Aiyima. I also have some DACS from Prozor, Neotech, Linkfor. From these I like the K5pro and T9 the most. I like your way of explaining. 👍👍

[@RickRuizAudio]

Ahh nice. I can probably get one of those for review. Between the Uno and K5Pro, which do you prefer?

[@volkiruski1221]

@@RickRuizAudio I use K5pro for watch/hear Android TV and the Uno for my desktop. Both sound ok but K5pro has more connections, Uno does not have optical.

[@jhuneclarino]

I find Su-1 sounds better PS100 sounds distorted especially when all elements play together i have SU-1 pair it with Fosi Audio V3 with Kef Q300 bookshelf speaker sound is fantastic

[@RickRuizAudio]

I agree. SU-1 is superior in sound quality between the two.

[@HyunilXY]

Could you compare Su-1 and ps200 ?

[@RickRuizAudio]

I will soon. I have a PS200 on the way!! Thanks for watching!

[@tragicevans4157]

I got this su-1 for $50 on AliExpress compared to my sound blaster G6 dac/amp it's night and day difference.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Damn, nice deal!! 👍

[@francodangelo961]

Hi! What would you recommend to connect a tv to an amp? Since we are loosing the ARC in the SU-1

[@RickRuizAudio]

What's your budget?

[@RickRuizAudio]

Or do you mean what connection?? I would use a optical cable from TV to SU-1, then RCAs from SU1 to the Amp.

[@russunknown]

who sings this song?

[@RickRuizAudio]

It's called Top Floor by JPB.

[@redkh2017]

Listen to: You and your friend By Dire straits, I promise you that the sound will be heard outside of your speakers, no matter the dac

[@RickRuizAudio]

I'll check it out tonight! Thanks for the recco 👍

[@daniannaci3258]

Ha! When I worked selling high end stereos in the late ‘80’s and 90’s I used “You and Your Friend” to sell sooo many speakers. Few people seemed to know that Dire Straits tune at that time, just the big MTV hits of theirs.

[@antoniomaggi424]

Spettacolo.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thanks for watching! 👍

[@deanle604]

I bought 1 tried it and returned it. horrible sounds

[@RickRuizAudio]

Which did you try? The PS100 or the SU-1?

[@кириллкондратьев-ь2й]

PS100 BT? 5?

[@RickRuizAudio]

Doesn't specify but I believe 5.0 because of good range.

[@mastrod747]

Smsl SU-1 sounds better in my opinion. Less Is more.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Thanks for your opinion and comment. ! appreciate it and thanks for watching.

[@s.daniel9224]

To me, this dac sounds like shit. I tried to like it, but nope. Music seemed congested and busy.

[@RickRuizAudio]

Which one did you try? And sure they aren't the best, I wouldn't say they sound like shit. Just better than an analog out on a TV or computer. But for the price, it's a step above the basic built in dacs. Spend $200 and the Topping D50iii and SMSL D-6s blow these away. Assuming the speakers are good as well. Thanks for sharing your experience. I appreciate it 👍