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SMSL DS20 Portable DAC/Amp

Sale price$189.99 USD

Quad-DAC power in your pocket

The SMSL DS20 is a portable DAC and headphone amplifier made for serious listening when you’re away from your desktop system. With a quad-CS43131 decoding array, a fully-balanced amplifier circuit, and a dedicated low-noise power supply, it delivers reference-grade performance from your pocket. 

Four CS43131 DACs

The DS20 uses four Cirrus Logic CS43131 chips in parallel—two per channel—for improved dynamic range, reduced distortion, and enough decoding power to handle PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD256. 

Fully-balanced to the core

The entire amplifier circuit follows a fully balanced PLFC (Precision Linear Feedback Circuit) topology, minimizing crosstalk and distortion. The result is higher output power, lower noise, and better channel separation across the board. 

Dead-quiet clock circuitry

Thanks to a dedicated audio clock and independent power supply, the DS20 minimizes timing errors that smear detail and shift tonal balance. This translates to more accurate soundstage positioning, better microdynamics, and that feeling of everything clicking into place.

Magnetic frame, minimalist appeal

The DS20 is housed in a slim aluminum chassis with magnetic shielding, isolating sensitive components from electromagnetic interference. And it doesn’t need a fan or vents to stay cool. You’ll get stable performance during long sessions, whether you’re commuting, working, or listening in bed.

Game console compatible

Thanks to dual USB modes, the DS20 connects not only to computers and phones but also to gaming consoles. USB 1.1 mode is compatible with PS5 and Nintendo Switch, giving you better audio for games without the need for an adapter. USB 2.0 mode opens the door to high-res PCM and DSD playback on traditional platforms.

Long-lasting battery, smart power design

Inside the DS20 is a 6000mAh battery—enough juice to drive full-size headphones for hours without plugging in. The USB-C input supports 5V, 9V, or 12V charging, giving you more flexibility with your gear. 

Specs you’ll actually hear

Numbers don’t tell the whole story, but they can still say a lot. The DS20 pushes 500mW per channel into 32Ω, boasts THD+N to 0.0002% at 300Ω, and maintains a 126dB dynamic range on both outputs. For portable gear, that’s serious performance—measurable and audible.

Product highlights

  • Quad-CS43131 DAC configuration
  • Fully balanced PLFC headphone amplifier circuit
  • Native DSD256 and PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz
  • MQA full decoding
  • Dedicated low-noise power supply and clock circuit
  • USB 1.1 mode supports PS4, PS5, and Switch
  • Dual headphone outputs: 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced
  • 6000mAh battery with USB-C input (5V/9V/12V support)
  • Compact, magnetically shielded aluminum chassis
  • Output power up to 500mW ×2 into 32Ω
  • Dynamic range and SNR: 126dB on both outputs
  • Output impedance: approx. 0Ω

Specs

  • DAC chips: 4× Cirrus Logic CS43131
  • USB receiver: 3rd Gen XMOS XU-316
  • USB transmission: Asynchronous
  • Compatibility: Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch
  • Bit depth: 1bit, 16–32bit
  • Sampling rate:
    • PCM: 44.1–768kHz
    • DSD: 2.8224–11.2896MHz (DSD64–DSD256)
  • Output impedance: Approx. 0Ω
  • THD+N (unweighted): 0.0002% at 300Ω
  • Output power:
    • 16Ω: 500mW ×2
    • 32Ω: 500mW ×2
    • 64Ω: 350mW ×2
    • 150Ω: 240mW ×2
    • 300Ω: 120mW ×2
    • 600Ω: 60mW ×2
  • Dynamic range: 126dB (3.5mm and 4.4mm)
  • SNR: 126dB (3.5mm and 4.4mm)
  • Battery: 6000mAh / 3.7V (22.2Wh)
  • Size: 2.8in × 0.67in × 4.7in (71 × 17 × 118.5mm)
  • Weight: 0.61lbs (275g)
  • Inputs: USB-C
  • Outputs: 3.5mm headphone, 4.4mm balanced headphone
  • Controls:
    • Function button: volume adjust, USB1.1/2.0 toggle (short press)
    • Power button: long press for shutdown

What’s included

  • SMSL DS20 Portable DAC & Headphone Amplifier
  • USB-C to USB-C cable
  • USB-C to USB-A adapter
  • Quick start guide
  • Warranty card
Apos Audio SMSL Headphone DAC/Amp SMSL DS20 Portable DAC/Amp
SMSL DS20 Portable DAC/Amp Sale price$189.99 USD

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