The Laiv uDAC is a compact, high-quality R2R DAC that punches well above its weight. This review dives deep into its performance, build quality, and sound signature, comparing it to competitors like the Holo Cyan 2, SMSL SU-8, and even its more expensive sibling, the Laiv Harmony. We'll explore its impressive feature set, including multiple digital inputs and balanced XLR outputs, while also examining its limitations, such as the lack of single-ended outputs and the impact of using balanced-to-single-ended adapters.This in-depth analysis will determine if the uDAC lives up to the hype surrounding its small size and impressive specifications. We'll assess its measured performance, subjective listening experience, and overall value proposition, helping you decide if this pocket-sized powerhouse is the right DAC for your audio setup. We'll cover its strengths and weaknesses, ultimately providing a clear verdict on whether it's worth the investment.
Pros And Cons
- Compact size (fits in pocket)
- Matching build and aesthetic to LA's higher-end products
- Good build quality
- Includes galvanic isolation between digital and analog sections
- Dedicated output stage with lower output impedance
- Comprehensive I/O (optical and coaxial SPDIF, USB, and I2S inputs)
- Warmer, more lush presentation
- Excellent spatial presentation and soundstage
- Option to use in NOS or oversampling mode
- Good value for under $1000
- Lacks single-ended analog outs (only balanced XLR)
- Lower performance compared to the Harmony deck (e.g., higher distortion and noise)
- Some jitter/phase noise issues
- Less detail retrieval compared to some other products like SMSL's raw decks
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Laiv uDAC arrived in surprisingly compact packaging. Its small size is immediately apparent; it truly lives up to its 'pocket-sized' claim. The build quality feels premium, with a sleek matte finish and subtle gold accents that add a touch of elegance.
Initial impressions are positive. The unit feels solid and well-constructed, exuding a sense of quality that belies its price point. The included accessories are minimal but sufficient. The first power-up and initial sound test were promising.
Build Quality and I/O
The uDAC boasts a sophisticated build, mirroring Laiv's higher-end models. The matte finish and gold detailing make for a stylish device. Both silver and black variants are available, offering consumers a choice to match their aesthetic preferences.
I/O is impressively comprehensive for its size. It includes optical and coaxial SPDIF, USB, and I2S inputs, ensuring broad compatibility. However, a notable omission is the lack of single-ended analog outputs; it only offers balanced XLR outputs.
Measurements and Performance
Measurements reveal a respectable performance for the uDAC, particularly in balanced mode, achieving around -85dB THD+N. However, using a balanced-to-single-ended adapter significantly degrades performance, dropping to around -74dB THD+N.
The reviewer emphasizes the importance of avoiding balanced-to-single-ended adapters unless explicitly approved by the manufacturer. Such adapters can damage the DAC or significantly compromise its performance, as seen in this instance.
Internal Design and Features
Despite its compact size, the uDAC incorporates thoughtful design elements such as galvanic isolation between the digital and analog sections. This effectively prevents noise from the PC from affecting audio quality, even under heavy load.
A notable improvement over the Harmony is the inclusion of a dedicated output stage in the uDAC, resulting in significantly lower output impedance. This makes it compatible with a wider range of amplifiers, including those with lower input impedance.
Subjective Listening Experience and Comparisons
Subjectively, the uDAC's sound signature is very similar to the Harmony, but with a slightly warmer and more lush presentation. While not as detailed as some competitors like the SMSL SU-8, it delivers a more enjoyable and natural sound.
Compared to the Topping A90, the uDAC excels in its broader compatibility with various amplifiers due to its lower output impedance. The reviewer contrasts the uDAC's warmer sound signature with the often clinical presentation of ESS-based DACs.
Comparison with Competitors: Holo Cyan 2 and Others
The Holo Cyan 2 emerges as a direct competitor, offering a similarly priced discrete R2R DAC. However, the reviewer points out the Cyan 2's lack of internal oversampling as a drawback compared to the uDAC's flexibility.
The uDAC offers a more convenient plug-and-play experience with its built-in oversampling, while the Cyan 2 might require external tools like HQ Player to reach its full potential. The choice depends on the user's prioritization of convenience versus pure sound quality.
Conclusion: Is the Laiv uDAC Worth It?
The Laiv uDAC isn't a flagship killer, but it comes remarkably close to the performance of its more expensive sibling, the Harmony. It offers around 80% of the Harmony's performance at a significantly lower price.
The reviewer concludes that the uDAC is a compelling option, especially for those seeking a warmer, lush sound in a compact form factor. Its main competitors are the Holo Cyan 2 (with caveats) and the SMSL SU-8, depending on user preferences for detail and soundstage.