SMSL DA-9 Class D Amp, Affordable High Quality Sound

S.M.S.L DA-9 Amplifier
TBR Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Price: $250 (April, 2021) bit.ly/2Pj3jGa
amzn.to/3v4UXkE
Pros: Good Power, Affordable Balanced Design.
Cons: Tiny Clipping Sound when Switching Inputs.
Impressive sound quality for the price.
Music by Evie Sands: amzn.to/3b7QEOF , ebay.us/IGrnI2
Associated Equipments (Music Den)
QUAD S2 Speaker: bit.ly/3xhTEAK
Musician Pegasus R2R DAC: amzn.to/3n6JLBB
Loxjie D50 DAC: amzn.to/3afpe8J
Wharfedale Evo 4.2: amzn.to/32A27lc
Denon PMA-2000IVR Amplifier: ebay.us/sd6Agv
Marantz UD7007: ebay.us/8uYEDJ
Mogami W2534 RCA Cables: ebay.us/OSu4ii
Canare L4ES RCA Cables: ebay.us/mVpFuK
Canare 4S11 Speaker Cables: amzn.to/3eoJiFN, ebay.us/JN6pCo
PS Audio AC-5 Power Cord: ebay.us/hMN9wp
Monolith XL Audio Stand: amzn.to/3tHKStU
B&W STAV24 Speaker Stands & A few custom made AC power cables.
Hey!
Only Option To Listen KZbin Sound Demo is with good headphones, not your favorite sound system because listening to two rooms at once is not a good thing, no matter how good your sound system is.
My Preferred Headphones For KZbin Sound Demos: amzn.to/2wAkk54 , amzn.to/3ssgcN6 , amzn.to/39zCvaP
If you use these links to purchase any items from Amazon or eBay(No Extra Cost To You), I get a small percentage which help support my work and helps me keep going.
Video Timeline
0:00 Review
7:03 Setting Menu
9:18 Easy Choice
9:53 Sound Sample
#goodsoundtoyou

[@jimmieholman3183]

I rarely "subscribe" ... but you are most definately one of my exceptions! I sincerely appreciate the slow and articulate (and clearly understandable) detail you provide. Many thanks to you!

[@Tharbamar]

Wow, thank you!

[@sinclabs]

Your content and coverage of products is getting better and better. Great work!

[@Tharbamar]

Thank you.

[@anthony2010707]

I can't believe the sound of this one, it has good clear sound for it's size.

[@OOnti-dz4jd]

I just ordered it. Paired with Elac b6.2. Your professional reviews are appreciated.

[@javiers.3433]

You are quickly becoming one of the more thorough and professional audio reviewer on YT. Given that you review gear through speakers and mix and match the same, very few of your peers just aren’t hanging with you. We’ll done!! Congrats.

[@Tharbamar]

Thank you.

[@mcaddc]

I agree. More immersive content is what other mainstream reviewers completely lack. We just hear their POV, with nothing to reference from.

[@ramixpAPEX]

Hello twin

[@sktfan3843]

Mine is coming in a few days and will be matched with SMSL SU-8 DAC. Ordered it last May 2 and coming after 5 weeks! There is a shortage of stock here in Australia.

[@cameronkrause4712]

You covered the main points very well. When I say main points I mean the points that I am interested in: power, signal to noise and a few others. I would be interested to know just how well the sound holds together when the amp is pushed hard. I realize that it is supposed to be stable down to 2ohms and thus one would think that it can handle being pushed hard but the specs do not always reveal the real character of an amplifier.

[@shuckylad]

These small class d are getting very good. I brought a very very small and cheap one from Amazon just to fit in a tight space for my desktop gaming pc and it’s great. For £50 it’s a bargain.

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

yeah thing abt audio it isnt like pc gaming where fps & high graphics equal to better, if it sounds good then its good

[@carlosvalverde4544]

Thank you for all your excellent and unbiased reviews and sound demos, very usefull, would you please test this little beauty´s BLUETOOTH specially in the LDAC and UAT formats (to test the UAT format you´ll need a Hiby DAP) to discover once for all how much improvement can we get from this bluetooth codecs compare to wired connection. Thanks

[@Michiganman08]

I took delivery of the DA9 yesterday. I've had it on for a day and having my first listen. I think of myself having a very discerning set of ears and brain. Lifelong musician etc. This piece really is an unbelievable experience and bargain!! It's replacing my pre amp and Linn LK 140 power amp, and 1 set of cables. This has a very strong recommendation from me as well. 5 stars. 249.00 is rediculous.

[@Tharbamar]

I’m glad you liked it, thanks for sharing.

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

The DA-9 took over your full fledged system? Is it that good? Are you using it with a preamp/dac or by itself?

[@andersdahlgren2723]

Same here. Going from a Lyngdorf to this one. Its even better

[@AmbientWanderer]

@@AbsoluteFidelity Did you buy it Mark?

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

@@AmbientWanderer oh yes... its still one of my favourite sounding amps and I also have the PA5 among many others. One might call it lean sounding, I call it clean and transparent. :) Its a very good small amp, and cheap too, if you are looking for a clean and clear sounding amp. No colouration, nothing added. Very useful for cheaper speakers that lack clarity. I have left mine on since the day I bought it and its still going strong after 1 year. :) Trust me, the first sentence after you hear in your system will be "God damn thats one clear sounding amp!"

[@Spartak582]

Спасибо, отличный ознакомительный разбор! Звук - потрясающий! 🤝

[@ufarkingicehole]

Went with the smsl 0200 and its incredible how good these are getting. Plus the 0200 has 2 sub out that im using as a biamp out

[@Tharbamar]

Yes AO200 is slightly better than DA-9.

[@mrt6349]

When your power cable is thicker than the amplifier :) Love your content.

[@Tharbamar]

Cool, thanks!

[@ProjectOverseer]

Great review. I noticed when first using this amp, it needed at least an hour of warm up play, then the magic happened. It sounds a little brittle out the box, but that issue vanishes very quickly. I didn't notice any unit noise though I did notice an improvement in overall sound quality when using a balanced XLR connection.

[@koenplatteeuw9798]

Hey Chris, does the amp need to warm up every time or just the one time to loosen it up. I have another small class D amp but thinking of upgrading to this one.

[@JG-pj3bg]

Probably the best sounding $250 amp money can buy

[@Leo-yn5fx]

Was having trouble deciding between this and the a0200 but then i saw a ocmment from you saying the latters a better buy. Awesome imma place the order.

[@Tharbamar]

AO200 is very good choice 👍🏼

[@AmbientWanderer]

@@Tharbamar What do you prefer with AO200 over the DA9 ?

[@giwrgospa]

Great review, as always !! We still need to know where to get those Quad S2 speakers from though......

[@Lex90909]

true :)

[@aeipee13]

I ordered a Da9 yesterday, no joke.

[@stevenholt5484]

Aw shit Tharbamar, you're making me regret buying the Sprout 100! Great review (as usual) and it's clear to me that great things are coming from SMSL! Now on the Amazon.....

[@stonefree1911]

Interesting. Nice speakers! Where did you get your wall treatments?

[@thekittencult]

I've narrowed my choices down to this, the ETZ EDGE A2-300, and the Schiit Vidar. Recommendations? btw I am not running balanced. Looking for an amp to really open up the detail on my Focal bookshelf's/ Open to any ideas. Thanks!

[@GlueeeeGuy]

smsl best budget gear and tiny boxes i really like that if you have a tiny house

[@KonradSkowronski]

I know it's another question but I would be very grateful if you could advice. What is the better sounding option, this SMSL DA-9 or Topping MX5? Topping is pricier but the difference would go on DAC for SMSL-DA9. This SMSL + budget DAC (what DAC?) or Topping MX5?

[@jombbch1228]

Very good review

[@randallparr154]

Hi Tharbamar how does this amp compare to the Cyrus One, as both of them are class D.

[@LeeBlaske]

Thanks for doing this review! Is the noise you're hearing from the power supply electronics, or is there a small fan inside the unit?

[@Tharbamar]

No fan inside, just a little faint noise from power supply, thanks

[@davidryan7785]

Hi, Good Day to all! Wherever you are. How would the compatibility and sound be if I were to combine the SA9, SU-9 with the S2s? Could you give me an opinion on this setup?

[@landosazo7506]

Hello...how does this compare to the Sabaj A10a or A20a? thanks

[@aledwidge]

Hello, what are you using (make, manufacture) for your speaker cables?

[@jamotter8967]

What device does the host/speaker have plugged into the XLR port? I know it is possible to plug a mic or a guitar into that port, but is he plugging some other music source (CD player, PC, etc.) into it. And is it likely that he has similar XLR ports on that source device too?

[@mag290]

You need to try out M&K Sound S150 (neutral sound) speakers and X10 or X12 Subwoofer.

[@nivsole0717]

Do you think the tone 2 would be a good match with this amp? It's not balanced but you give the tone 2 a good review. Or maybe s.m.s.l. new dac you reviewed to match which one would you pick? One more question your go to speakers for 1000$?

[@jesushuerta9878]

Thanks for the review..Its a drool gadget (for all of us that we have smsl SU9 ), and it would save me lots of space but then I see your image of that Denon integrated amplifier that you have ..and I turn to see my Sony Ta F707 ES (class AB)and still im not ready to let it go and change it for DU-9 because this vintage its so perfect despite its aging since 90s .I Still Use tape deck, turntable etc and I wouldnt let go old technology and instead meet SU9 with their old uncles (deck ,cd player etc )and having everything plugged in the same device (big ass amplifier ) that is very low distortion also.

[@HiFiGOAudio]

Which power cable have you connected to the DA-9? Is that some custom cover near the adapter?? Looks pretty good.

[@Tharbamar]

I’m using custom made cables, thanks

[@mikeshaddock7772]

I use an iota integrated I see you are using it dav I am new to stereos do I need a dac or can I just switch it out in place of my by iota . I have been wanting to try a class D amp. Thanks for all your vids I enjoy them

[@Tharbamar]

Yes, you will need a DAC for playback with PC but you can stream via Bluetooth without external DAC and you can also connect CD player, streamer directly with RCA or XLR cables. Thanks

[@johngault-9597]

Love your reviews but small request...can you possibly increase the audio volume, those of us with weak phone speakers will be muchas gracias..

[@Tharbamar]

Please check out newer videos, thanks

[@eXarace]

GREAT REVIEW!!! @Tharbamar I just have a SMSL SA300 my smsl sa300 not have more power for my desktop configuration with Lonpoo LP42 (85dB). I listen Qobuz from PC Windows 10 -> DAC Topping E30 -> SA300 -> Lonpoo have this DA-9 more power for me? ps: over 60% volume the SA300 have a noise rumor

[@ufarkingicehole]

Yes

[@YannickKhong]

How's the bass rendition?

[@johnsweda2999]

Had anything to do with the smsl A1 class A looks good similar to a valve amplifier but solid-state fet, no reviews I can see you should get one!! Should be a good amplifier both current driven amplifiers. You didn't show the EQ setting

[@stevempil5948]

Nice review as always...It is very enjoyable watching you. Two questions if you don't mind. Have you tried thru bluetooth? If yes is there any downside in comparison to other inputs? I think that thru bluetooth you can't streaming hi res audio files... Also i saw that you mention between this amp and sabaj a10 this one was better in power and more clear...So you mean has a better clarity? I don't need more power but if has better sound quality then this is an upgrade comparing to sabaj right? I only care about bluetooth streaming...so i don't know if should replace sabaj with this one...I also use a ifi zen blue dac... Anyway, thanks for your time....

[@sktfan3843]

Zen blue Dac Bluetooth is better than the SMSL DA9 as Zen blue has all the current advanced High-Resolution audio codec (LDAC, AAC, Qualcom Aptx-LLC, HD, adaptive, and HWA (Huawei codec). While SMSL D9 supports Qualcomm Aptx only. So if you are interested only in Bluetooth then the iFi Zen blue is the only one you need. Both are Bluetooth version 5.0 but Zen blue has a mile advantage and no other gadget can beat it right now. I got the Zen blue and it is an amazing unit.

[@stevempil5948]

@@sktfan3843 Thanks. Then maybe a sabaj a20 will be a better choice. I've read about pop noises for the smsl da-9 also... Regarding the zen blue, i've only playing thru bluetooth and haven't testing other sources...Have you notice any differences on sound with other inputs in comparition with bluetooth?

[@sktfan3843]

@@stevempil5948 I haven't tried other inputs as I have other DAC's (FiiO K5 pro and D30). I only use Zen Blue for Bluetooth only.

[@JohnB-ws4ge]

hello sir! I recently got the criton 1tdx. Do you think is good for those? I'm looking to spend around 300-400. But if you think I should dig a bit deeper I would.

[@Tharbamar]

This DA-9 sounds very good with 1TDX in my system, thanks

[@MrStevedore1]

Just ordered a few minutes ago. The 'thud' sound when switchng inputs is also inherent with the SA300. Same chip used but one only. I guess if SMSL will correct this defect, it will be cost more mayba more pricey. Nice review.

[@fatboyvin]

SMSL AO200 with external dac such as schiit modi 3e/ifi zen dac v2/smsl d300/topping e50/e70 etc vs class AB amp from marantz pm7000n/pm8006, cambridge audio cxa61/c / dxa81 or avr85/100? Which one would you recommend for wharfedale diamond 12.2 / kef ls50 meta / wharefedale denton 85. I know this video was posted some 2 years back, would be greatly if you can reply to this query dear sir.

[@Panslapper]

Are the two analogue inputs (rca/xlr) able to allow two different sources and does the DA-9 allow switching from one to the other?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes there is two inputs.

[@MrStevedore1]

The noise coming out from the unit is not inherent to the DA9. Mine is dead silent. Nice review..

[@randomfootprints]

Hi, I like you video, hope you could review harbeth m30.2 speaker.

[@Tharbamar]

I will try

[@felixlaboy1453]

Great review buddy I’m getting one for my bedroom for simple music. Can you recommend a set of bookshelf speakers for around $500.

[@MrStevedore1]

Klipsch RP500M...

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

Wharfedale Diamond 12.2

[@felixlaboy1453]

@@AbsoluteFidelity Thank you

[@felixlaboy1453]

@@MrStevedore1 thank you

[@mykeldg]

How does this compare to your old time favorites Denon PMA 2000 --- is it still incomparable to such caliber of class AB amps? Thanks

[@Tharbamar]

Tone quality and background noise is not comparable, depth as well is better on 2000IVR, I actually tried them back to back, thanks

[@mykeldg]

@@Tharbamar thanks! really looking into denon int amps soon.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

How would one go about connecting it to a turntable or CD player via the balanced inputs?

[@Tharbamar]

You will need a phono stage or CD player with balanced outs, thanks

[@gregsmall8774]

da9 smsl or a300 which one is the better

[@floreempongase8684]

I'm contemplating on getting the SMSL DA-9 or the Rega IO. I know Rega IO is $200 more expensive but I would like to know what would be the better choice for me. I'm planning to hook it up with the Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2.

[@cjcarlos]

Exact same. What did you end up getting? Did you demo both?

[@jamotter8967]

I just bought the DA-9 to drive a pair of Elac Unifi UB5s in a desktop, near-field application. It will be interesting to see (hear) how it works.

[@johnretzelrejuso4798]

Is it possible to stack preamp like topping A90 with the da9? Topping e50,topping A90,da9 combo?

[@Tharbamar]

Should be able to do that but I can't confirm it.

[@DIEGOCHRISTful]

Is this a integrated amplifier?

[@bop2864]

How is the synergy with either the Khadas Tone2Pro or the SMSL M400 with Polk R200 speakers?

[@Tharbamar]

Never tried them with R200.

[@ltlai9465]

I wonder will this SMSL DA-9 together with the SU-9 DAC, will they able to match with my old Elac Debut B6 speaker? By the way, wonder these going to be a good matching setup?

[@ufarkingicehole]

Yes

[@gbmwaz]

Using SMSL SA98E with Debut 2.0 52 and 62 Elacs sounds great.....wondering how much better this amp is?

[@tallpaull9367]

Do you think this DA-9 could match (or better) the sound of a Denon PMA-600ne?

[@Tharbamar]

May be in Bass but other frequencies 600NE will have more refinement, thanks

[@rudrarroy]

Superb review. I am looking for amplifier under 500 $ which are small and compact like this. Can you review similar products so we can learn from reviews.

[@Tharbamar]

I will try, thanks

[@hifimaster603]

Hello, good review again and again... please which model is the furniture Hifi black where are the SMSL DA 9 AMPLIFIER please Best Regards

[@Tharbamar]

Hi it’s listed in the video description, thanks

[@hifimaster603]

@@Tharbamar oupss thank you.. I like you setup congratulations good taste 👍

[@gustavomartinez8144]

I have this amplifier with the SU-9 DAC, the speakers are Pioneer SP-BS22-LR, I would like to know how to configure the subwoofer (Acoustic Audio PSW-10).

[@Tharbamar]

You just need to connect cable from sub out on DA-9 to your subwoofer.

[@gustavomartinez8144]

@@Tharbamar Well that part is obvious but the gain level and the crossover cut-off range of the subwoofer is the interesting part to calibrate.

[@Tharbamar]

@@gustavomartinez8144 There is no high pass filter in DA-9, you have to do it on subwoofer.

[@jaguarcastor]

I have this little amp plugged a Klipsch rp 500m and a ifi zen dac and I don't understand why the sound is very low when the volume is between 0-15 and it starts to be present from level 20

[@Tharbamar]

Could be due to RP500 sensitivity and also check on output of level of Zen DAC.

[@jaguarcastor]

@@Tharbamar Thank you! Yes, I checked the output level of the dac and it is at maximum, I also tried using some more sensitive Canton speakers and the result is the same. I think maybe the volume knob Being digital, it delivers very little gain at first. Anyway I'm going to check it with another dac to see if there is any difference.

[@donvito8652]

Very impressive ... especially for the $price... Could it be that this unit can actually drive Magnapan LRS's? If so, it would be an outstanding sonic bargain! What do you think Thar?

[@Tharbamar]

Should be fine with LRS for normal loudness, thanks

[@earlismarks7108]

@@Tharbamar Fascinating! I would love to hear about that combination....

[@josesoares1931]

Olá.smsl da9 or loxjie a30 with mission lx2 .obrigado.

[@marksobotkin6141]

which one actually sounds better? The SMSL or the Sabaj?

[@Tharbamar]

DA-9 is a little more clearer with better driving power. Thanks

[@cpromvijitify]

I think da9 has 2 infeneon chip while sa300 has only one chip so it could explain increasing in power?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes

[@GodfreyMann]

How does it pair with your Evo 4.2s? What’s the best amp you’ve found so far for that speaker?

[@Tharbamar]

It sounds very nice with Evo 4.2, my favorite is with my Denon PMA-2000IVR and 2nd favorite is Yamaha AS-801,thanks

[@brucepruzansky5830]

Have you heard Demon PMA A110. Just curious what you think.

[@Tharbamar]

Same as PMA-2500NE with a few upgraded parts.

[@brucepruzansky5830]

@@Tharbamar I asked about the Denon 110 amp because I respect your opinion and own a Sony HAP Z1ES and Denon DP 47F turntable, both of which I think I saw on your video. The 110 amp is as good as Denon gets in Canada but I can not audition because of covid lock downs, however, I can purchase. I asked about the 110 because I am looking for an amp with tone controls that matches well with my sources. Luxman, Rotel Michi X3, NAD M33 and others are possible. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thank you

[@brucepruzansky5830]

Check out the website. According to Denon the 110 amp design has more in common with the sx series than the 2500.

[@paulgibson3259]

I wonder how a Bluesound node would sound with this amp going into the quarts with a REL 5X sub.?

[@Tharbamar]

It should sound nice, AO200 is better version of this amp.

[@paulgibson3259]

@@Tharbamar I meant the Quad S2 not quarts.:)

[@stsimtso]

@@Tharbamar Greetings Tharbmar, what specifically makes the AO200 a better quality unit? The physical construction or the inputs ? Thank you :)

[@AmbientWanderer]

@@stsimtso I'd like to know as well

[@dbrgr68]

whats on the wall behind your speakers and where can i buy a pair? Thx Cheers

[@Tharbamar]

Custom made acoustic panels with natural wool. Thanks

[@dbrgr68]

@@Tharbamar they are beautiful. Great job and thx for the timely response. Have a great weekend

[@Sorin_F]

Hi! I have a question that keep me "unbalanced"...anyway I do not have even an balanced dac ...to be fair. The question for what I need a rely fair response it is: It is a better option this D-class amp to upgrade from an vintage middle class solid state amp like my HK 590I, praised at his time for the superior qualities? Or is better to upgrade from middle class solid state amp to high class solid state amp that could be found at the same price as this D-class amp? Could this da-9 beat an vintage high end amp in the same price range? Or it is better to stick to vintage gear praised from so long? I want to upgrade my power receiver Hartman Kardon hk590I and I could not get an clear answer to witch direction to go...this small da-9 or some vintage hi end receiver. Another question I see that this is rated at 50W in 8ohm...it is for real...because on my HK receiver of 45W I could not pass one quarter of the volume because risk of windows breaking but on this smsl I see people keeping the volume at 40 from 70 max and the sound seems just a little over normal listening. Thank you!

[@Tharbamar]

Class D amps are getting better but good old sold state amp with good power supply is still better than modern class d amps, you’ll have to spend more for comparable sonic quality.

[@Sorin_F]

@@Tharbamar Tx! I placed order for one...if not to keep at least to make an impression about how it sound...because actual reviews of the product I keep an reasonable expectation that the sound to impress me over my actual hk590i...in some regards...will see...if not I will sell it and return my money toward high end vintage solid state.

[@hotjazzbaby]

You could also get a great solid state amp on the used market... Denon Luxman NAD Rotel etc.

[@Sorin_F]

@@hotjazzbaby Now I am pleased with the adi 2 dac fs and smsl da 9...I have also an hk 590i but da9 it is much more precise and clear more hires resoving.

[@paulwibb.8944]

Hi, I'm confused,, is the review of the amp, or the amp and separate dac,?

[@Tharbamar]

DA9 Amp.

[@paulwibb.8944]

@@Tharbamar👍

[@somanpeter7868]

brother goodmorning. i would like to buy this amp. i have 3way speaker box @6ohms 100watts. will this suit for this amp?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes, It will be fine for normal loudness level. Thanks

[@roni801129]

what happened to your new Denon amp?

[@Tharbamar]

Nothing, these are samples.

[@halim5184]

hi, i own a smsl sa300, is it worth it to upgrade to smsl da9?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes If you like balanced design.

[@jonuiuc]

I guess you need a seperate DAC for this. I suppose SMSL has one with a matching case size.

[@Tharbamar]

Yes and No if you stream via Bluetooth.

[@jonuiuc]

@@Tharbamar if you stream via bluetooth, is there a dac inside that does the conversion, or is there a dac before the wireless connection on your sending device that handles that. its confusing if they have a dac inside, it would have been nice to have a usb or optical input.

[@LucasDaltro]

@@jonuiuc I bet they do it on purpose, this way you have to buy their dac as well

[@AmbientWanderer]

@@LucasDaltro i think so as well

[@Sam-ne9ns]

Is it really producing that powerful bass and mids?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes but it also depending on the room as well.

[@Sam-ne9ns]

@@Tharbamar Impressive, indeed. Thank you!

[@hermann5880]

Hello Tharbamar, Unfortunately, I am not able to speak English, but I am very interested in your explanations. Can you tell me what the output power of the amplifier is? Keep it going......

[@carlbaastrup]

S.m.s.l da-9 vs sabaj a10a Which one is the better sounding amp?

[@Tharbamar]

DA-9 is a little better.

[@carlbaastrup]

Thanks for the response appreciate the channel and content

[@johnretzelrejuso4798]

Hi sir need your advice..can this amp match the Wharfedale Evo 4.2?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes it will sound nice together, thanks

[@johnretzelrejuso4798]

@@Tharbamar thanks I'm rega io right and I thinks its too warm..hopefully the treble side opens up a bit

[@Tharbamar]

Try to toe them in to see if they can get better, also UBR62 match really well with warm amp, Thanks

[@johnretzelrejuso4798]

Ubr62 or Evo 4.2 sir?

[@kisssanya7442]

do you handle 6 ohm speakers?

[@AmbientWanderer]

yes

[@ahambhramasmii]

I have aiwa sx fns905 Does it work fine with this amplifier

[@Tharbamar]

I don’t know about the speakers you have but these amplifiers should work fine with average sensitivity speakers.

[@ahambhramasmii]

@@Tharbamar let me know, if this amplifier support the watts and ohm's mentioned in the video. My other concern is that from one single speaker 2 pair of wires coming. One for 3 way tweeter and other one for sub woofer. So do you think i can get a hifi out put from this speaker

[@Michiganman08]

Humm looks like I'm might have a defective unit or not enough power. I can't go above 46 on the volume. It is loud, but sometimes I just want a tad more. Under 46 all fine, the right channel gets a lot of distortion.. Could be clipping. I'm returning for a replacement. Hoping this one is defective. If same thing happens I'll need the 400.

[@Tharbamar]

Please check polarity of cables first to make sure.

[@Michiganman08]

@@Tharbamar will do, I tried 2 different cables same results same music, right at 46\47

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

@@Michiganman08 have you sorted it out?

[@Michiganman08]

@@AbsoluteFidelity I did. I realized the static I was hearing was clipping I did return it for the money it is an incredible value if you want to listen at ultra high levels look somewhere else I'm looking at the SA 400 right now.

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

@@Michiganman08 at what volumes were you listening at with what speakers?

[@OOnti-dz4jd]

Would this run the 4 ohm Elac UB5?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes it will be fine for normal listening levels but you don’t want to push them too loud.

[@OOnti-dz4jd]

@@Tharbamar Thanks.. I’ll save a little more for the UB52s 6 ohm.

[@OOnti-dz4jd]

@@Tharbamar I really appreciate your answer. I’m using the DA-9 unbalanced with Elac B6.2. Should I invest in the UB5.2 or get the Schiit balanced DAC?

[@Tharbamar]

@@OOnti-dz4jd They are ok but very limited features, not worth the money IMO.

[@johngault-9597]

Your power cord must be more expensive than the DA9, we live in a funny upside down world...reminds me of those guys in South Houston who drove around in cars where the sound system cost more that the car...

[@fluxcapacitor3273]

This amp has '' freeze at smsl logo'' issue wide spread. Buyers be aware.

[@gregsmall8774]

Quads sound better then Elac reference .

[@paulmercier8754]

Worth 100$ more than Sabaj a10?

[@Tharbamar]

Yes if you want balanced design with Bluetooth.

[@thorvilkwilliams9596]

No USB? :(

[@tarikzayad4364]

Those of you who have been using this unit for quite a while. What's your feedback. I'm willing to buy one. Thanks in advance 🙏

[@chuan890]

Hope you get enough sleep, cheers.

[@sc0or]

Ah!... A regulated switching power supply unit ))) There is a math that states that in order to reproduce the higher frequency (let's say 20kHz) with the same THD as A/B class is able to do, D class amplifier must switch at 27GHz. All current "acceptable" numbers are made artificially (with cutoff filters and so on). What you really hear is 5-10% at 20kHz. More over, a negative feedback is taken _before_ the last LC filter without fixture of a hysteresis of a ferrite choke. Check out IRS datasheets for example. So, you can imagine what signal presents there. Of course, nobody will permit to take an A/B amplifier on Mars, but as we still have plenty of space and energy here on Earth, I see no reason to use worse technology. I'm an A/B/G guy.

[@jimtek59]

The DA-9 has functional defects and is problematic. Spend $30 more and get the DA-9's newer big sister AO200. You'll gain a USB DAC + U-disk input and dual SW outputs. It also has better build quality and no functional or technical issues. I've driven it down to 3 ohm loads for several hours at 3/4+ volume levels. This remarkable puppy stayed cool and never even broke a sweat. The DA-9 will eventually have it's issues fixed, but why take a chance?

[@alvinang332]

What are the defects?

[@Tharbamar]

Mine was a review sample, I have no issues with my unit.

[@mtlovesongs]

10 months of audio joy, then it died. no lights, no sound, nothing. It has been sent back to China for repair. I miss it!

[@SacreDro]

For 500$ get an Yamaha A-S301/501.

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

The 301 dont hold a candle to the DA9 in terms of clarity, pinpoint imaging and coherence.

[@nivaldosiqueira5178]

@@AbsoluteFidelity Hello!! I've seen your comments on other audio channels. in your opinion, would the Arcam SA10 be much superior in general to the DA-9 or is the difference not worth the price? To play a KEF Q150. Thanks!

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

@@nivaldosiqueira5178 Hi Nivaldo! Power wise the SA10 would have the upper hand but that dont really matter to the Q150s. The Q150s are rather muddy in the bass (in comparison to other speakers), the DA9 will do a great job in cleaning that up as its a VERY clean sounding speaker. The SA10 might give you more soundstage depth but that doesnt mean its accurate sounding. Why do I say so? This is what the designer of the AH2B amp have to say : Stereo depth is very dependent upon a precise phase matching between the right and left channels at all frequencies in the audio band. Differential (left/right) phase errors will blur the location left to right and especially front to back. Left to right positioning can be overridden by left to right amplitude differences. Depth can only be conveyed by accurately preserving the phase response in both channels all the way from a stereo microphone pair to the pair of loudspeakers. You also must be seated in the sweet spot to hear depth. Many very fine studio recordings have absolutely no depth because the left/right stereo image was entirely created with pan pots. The left/right positions of the musical voices are entirely determined by the left/right amplitude differences. Some fine examples are all of the tracks on Steely Dan's "Two Against Nature". This CD is a great recording but it has absolutely no stereo depth when played on a system with an accurate phase response. Systems with a poor phase response may give these tracks a false sense of depth. This false sense of depth is easily identifiable because each musical voice will fill the entire depth instead of locating to a specific distance behind the plane of the speakers. If you want a good explanation of depth and a good demonstration play tracks 4 and 5 of "The Ultimate Demonstration Disk" from Chesky Classics. In fact, the entire disk contains tracks that have wonderful stereo depth with pinpoint focus of location. These recordings were made with stereo microphone arrays and the stereo images were simply captured (not created with pan pots). It is now possible to artificially create stereo recordings that have depth. DSP techniques can be used to place a musical voice anywhere in a 3-D space. This 3-D space can then be rendered by a pair of stereo speakers or by an array of speakers (Atmos). 3-D position is determined by phase and amplitude. Left/right phase errors will expand the size of each musical voice (blurring its location). Whenever a musical voice is mixed to the phantom center of the stereo image, this image is easily blurred by differential phase errors. If the high frequencies seem to come from the speakers instead of from the phantom center image, this is an indication that there is a left/right differential phase error at high frequencies. I have some recordings that are essentially mono in stereo. In other words, the entire mix is dead center. Phase errors immediately destroy this phantom center image by moving some frequencies away from the center and toward the speakers. Some of the tracks on Eric Clapton's "Old Sock" CD are useful for this test. So to put things in perspective, there isnt any real depth in most music we listen to and the DA9 conveys that the way it is. Just make sure you pair a good DAC and pre to the DA9.

[@nivaldosiqueira5178]

@@AbsoluteFidelity Thank you for taking the time to answer my question. Helped me make some decisions!!

[@BabeTheAstrologer]

Onkyo A-9110 with REAL zero digital footprint vs this DA-9...class D.. ummmm.... I like the Onkyo 100% better. And yes I have both right here.

[@Tharbamar]

Hard to beat good solid state amp.

[@hotjazzbaby]

I have an Onkyo too, very powerful. I will keep it and not watch any more amp videos.

[@ArtVandelayOfficial]

Not a chance

[@arthurpug]

no balance control is annoying

[@user-qi4sv5nn7p]

Нет перевода русского

[@nuttyl283]

Class D again? Why not class A 20-25 watts it should be ok for music in small room. The kit just like clone of First Watt F7 PCBs and power supply is very easy to make. Or class AB such as OCL DC servo AMP 60 watts. Price / Performance is very good you get Class A and Class AB depends on what you need.

[@Tharbamar]

Hi I can only review the samples I received.

[@nuttyl283]

Hence you should get sample of First Watts F7 or F8 kit, make it and review. It more benefit to audiences and not expensive. It will be good if you show the measurement of F7 or F8. The result will be very satisfactory. Schematics of F7 or Even kit are not difficult to find. If you have a lot of good speakers, result will be very listenable. You are in audiophile business. You knew it. The point is what is the benefit of Class D 50 watts at cost of $249???

[@mykeldg]

@@nuttyl283 His Denon is already class A. It would indeed be interesting to compare with PASS.

[@reveme]

@@nuttyl283 249$ it's definitely on the cheap side for a compact amplifier, if it sounds good...

[@nuttyl283]

@@reveme There are First watts F7 clone kit cheaper better. Class D I only interested only power but I rather avoid due to Class A 20-25 watts is more than enough to enjoy music. If need more power class AB is good alternative and not expensive such as 60 or 120 watts OCL DC servo amp. It also cheap and good.

[@REX4340]

Sound not great, maybe the recording

[@flyindo]

Not great? One of the best sounding KZbin sound demo recordings imo