The SMSL M20 is a tiny powerhouse, challenging the notion of what a compact DAC can achieve. This palm-sized device delivers surprisingly powerful audio, boasting 700mW into 32-ohm headphones, a feat made possible by its efficient internal design and robust components. Despite its miniature form factor, it offers a full desktop-style experience, exceeding expectations in both power and performance. Its dual USB-C input, necessitated by its high power demands, ensures reliable operation, while compatibility with UAC1 mode broadens its device compatibility.The M20's exceptional sound quality stems from its quad-DAC design utilizing four Sirrus Logic CS43131 chips. This results in a crisp, detailed, and spacious audio profile that rivals much larger and more expensive devices. A simple yet effective LED interface provides clear visual feedback on various settings, while its multiple output options (4.4mm, 3.5mm headphone, and 3.5mm line out) all deliver consistent high-fidelity audio. While a minor drawback exists with the LED lighting on the feet, the overall performance and value offered by the SMSL M20 are undeniably impressive.
Pros And Cons
- Tiny and powerful
- Affordable ($130)
- Outputs 700mW into 32-ohm headphones
- Great with high-impedance headphones due to fantastic digital volume control
- Multiple outputs (4.4mm, 3.5mm headphone, 3.5mm line out capable of 2.5V output)
- All outputs sound similar
- Crisp, detailed, spacious, and refined sound
- Clean and simple interface with LED lights indicating sample rate, volume, output mode, filter selection, and UAC mode
- Lovely wide soundstage
- Good depth and separation of sounds
- Presents music naturally, not clinically
- Ridiculously compact
- Needs additional power source beyond a smartphone USB; computer USB or 5V charger recommended
- The feet light up distractingly in a set color cycle; doesn't match the sample rate
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
Size and Power: A Tiny Giant
The SMSL M20 is astonishingly compact, defying expectations of its power output. Imagine a device smaller than your palm capable of driving even demanding headphones. This miniaturization is remarkable, offering a desktop-style experience in a remarkably small form factor.
Despite its size, the M20 boasts impressive power, delivering 700mW into 32-ohm headphones. This is a testament to its efficient internal design and powerful components. For its price point and size, the power is impressive.
Power Requirements and Connectivity
The M20's high power demands necessitate a dual USB-C input design. One port provides data, while the other supplies additional power. A standard smartphone USB port may not provide sufficient power.
The device also supports UAC1 mode, making it compatible with various devices including computers and potentially even gaming consoles. A standard 5V phone charger can be used to supplement power if needed.
Internal Components and Sound Quality
The M20 employs a quad-DAC design, featuring four Sirrus Logic CS43131 chips. This contributes significantly to the device's exceptional sound quality. The result is a remarkable audio experience.
The sound profile is crisp, detailed, spacious, and refined, exceeding expectations for a device in its price range. All output options (4.4mm, 3.5mm headphone, and 3.5mm line out) deliver comparable audio quality.
Interface and Design
The user interface relies on color-changing LEDs to indicate sample rate, volume, output mode, filter selection (including NOS mode), and UAC mode. This is intuitive and visually appealing.
While the LED lights on the feet cycle through colors, this feature might be considered distracting by some users. A future firmware update to address this would be appreciated.
Comparison and Conclusion
Compared to the FiiO K11 R2, the SMSL M20 offers a crisper sound but sacrifices a little in soundstage depth and layering. However, the M20's superior resolution and detail make it a compelling choice.
Overall, the SMSL M20 offers remarkable sound quality, a compact form factor, and excellent functionality for its price point. Despite minor shortcomings, its strengths far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a fantastic value proposition.