What To Know
- The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 boasts a built-in headphone amplifier with adjustable gain, making it ideal for use with a wide range of headphones.
- The Musical Fidelity V90 is better suited for those who prefer a warmer and more musical sound, along with a wider range of connectivity options.
- The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 offers a neutral and detailed sound with convenient Bluetooth connectivity, while the Musical Fidelity V90 provides a warmer and more musical sound with a wider range of connectivity options.
Audiophiles rejoice! Two titans of the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) world, Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 and Musical Fidelity V90, stand ready to elevate your listening experience. This comprehensive comparison will delve into their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimate appeal to help you make an informed choice.
Design and Build
The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 exudes sleek minimalism with its matte black finish and compact footprint. Its front panel features a clear OLED display, while the rear panel houses an array of inputs and outputs. The Musical Fidelity V90, on the other hand, boasts a more traditional design with a silver faceplate and wooden end panels. Its rear panel is equally well-equipped, offering a wider range of connectivity options.
Connectivity
Both DACs provide ample connectivity, but the Musical Fidelity V90 offers a slight edge. It features two optical inputs, two coaxial inputs, a USB input, and an asynchronous USB input for high-resolution audio playback. The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 lacks an asynchronous USB input, but it compensates with a Bluetooth input for convenient wireless streaming.
Sound Quality
The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 delivers a neutral and detailed sound profile, revealing the subtle nuances of your music. Its bass response is tight and controlled, while the treble is crisp and extended. The Musical Fidelity V90, on the other hand, offers a slightly warmer and more musical sound. It adds a touch of richness to the midrange, resulting in a more immersive listening experience.
Features
The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 boasts a built-in headphone amplifier with adjustable gain, making it ideal for use with a wide range of headphones. The Musical Fidelity V90 does not have a headphone amplifier, but it offers a dedicated subwoofer output for enhanced bass performance.
Price and Value
The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 retails for around $200, while the Musical Fidelity V90 comes in at around $300. Both DACs offer excellent value for money, but the Musical Fidelity V90’s wider connectivity options and warmer sound profile may justify the higher price for some listeners.
Which DAC is Right for You?
The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 is an excellent choice for listeners seeking a neutral and detailed sound with convenient Bluetooth connectivity. The Musical Fidelity V90 is better suited for those who prefer a warmer and more musical sound, along with a wider range of connectivity options.
The Verdict: Audiophile Excellence
Both the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 and the Musical Fidelity V90 are exceptional DACs that will elevate your listening experience. The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100 offers a neutral and detailed sound with convenient Bluetooth connectivity, while the Musical Fidelity V90 provides a warmer and more musical sound with a wider range of connectivity options. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and listening needs.
Popular Questions
Q: Which DAC has a more neutral sound signature?
A: The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100.
Q: Which DAC offers more connectivity options?
A: The Musical Fidelity V90.
Q: Which DAC is more affordable?
A: The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100.
Q: Which DAC has a built-in headphone amplifier?
A: The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 100.
Q: Which DAC is better for use with a subwoofer?
A: The Musical Fidelity V90.