Schiit Modi Vs Smsl Su1: The Battle For Budget Dac Supremacy

What To Know

The SMSL SU-1 offers a slightly better feature set and performance, but the Schiit Modi is still a great value for its price.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DAC with excellent sound quality and a compact design, the Schiit Modi is a great option.

Both the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 have wide soundstages, but the SMSL SU-1 may offer a slightly wider and more spacious presentation.

In the realm of audiophile-grade DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters), the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 stand as two highly sought-after options. Both devices promise exceptional sound quality and a budget-friendly price point, making them ideal for music lovers and audio enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1, exploring their features, performance, and overall value to determine which one emerges as the superior choice.

Features

Schiit Modi

USB input
Optical input
Coaxial input

RCA outputs
3.5mm headphone output

SMSL SU-1

USB input

Optical input
Coaxial input
RCA outputs

XLR outputs (balanced)

The SMSL SU-1 offers a wider range of connectivity options compared to the Schiit Modi, including balanced XLR outputs. This makes it a more versatile choice for those who plan to connect to a variety of components.

Performance

Sound Quality

Both the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 are known for their excellent sound quality. They deliver a neutral and accurate sound signature, with a wide soundstage and excellent detail retrieval. However, some users have reported that the Schiit Modi has a slightly warmer tone, while the SMSL SU-1 offers a more analytical presentation.

Noise and Distortion

The Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 both exhibit extremely low noise and distortion levels. This ensures that your music will be reproduced with exceptional clarity and purity.

Dynamic Range

The Schiit Modi has a dynamic range of 112dB, while the SMSL SU-1 has a dynamic range of 115dB. This means that the SMSL SU-1 can handle a wider range of audio signals, resulting in more nuanced and detailed sound reproduction.

Design

Aesthetics

The Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 have distinct aesthetic designs. The Schiit Modi is housed in a compact, aluminum chassis, while the SMSL SU-1 features a sleek, black acrylic case. Both devices are well-built and durable, but the SMSL SU-1 may appeal to those who prefer a more modern and minimalist look.

User Interface

The Schiit Modi has a simple and intuitive user interface. It features a single LED indicator that changes color to indicate the input source. The SMSL SU-1 has a more advanced user interface, with a small display that shows the input source, sample rate, and volume level.

Value

Pricing

The Schiit Modi is typically priced around $99, while the SMSL SU-1 is priced around $129. The SMSL SU-1 offers a slightly better feature set and performance, but the Schiit Modi is still a great value for its price.

Warranty

Both the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 come with a 2-year warranty. This provides peace of mind and ensures that your investment is protected.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DAC with excellent sound quality and a compact design, the Schiit Modi is a great option. However, if you need more connectivity options, a balanced output, and a slightly more analytical sound signature, the SMSL SU-1 is the better choice.

Beyond the Comparison: Other Factors to Consider

In addition to the features and performance of the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1, there are a few other factors to consider when making your decision:

Listening Environment: The size and acoustics of your listening environment can impact the sound quality of any DAC. Make sure to consider these factors when choosing between the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1.

Headphone Amp: If you plan to use headphones with your DAC, you may need a separate headphone amplifier. Both the Schiit Modi and SMSL SU-1 have headphone outputs, but they may not provide enough power for high-impedance headphones.
System Synergies: The sound quality of your DAC can be affected by the other components in your audio system. Make sure to consider the compatibility of the Schiit Modi or SMSL SU-1 with your speakers, amplifiers, and other equipment.