This is the best bluetooth DAC for the cost!
I came across this product when searching for a Bluetooth 5.0 receiver that has stereo balanced out. The only choices outside of this price came to be a Denon Professional unit that is very dated and full of complaints, a couple of small mono XLR male only units that are rechargeable, and extremely high cost "audiophile" geared devices. The fact is, this hits all the marks! It features unbalanced L+R RCA, coax, Toslink, and balanced L+R XLR outputs.
The build quality is excellent and simple. The case is a satin black alloy with a composite front and rear panel. The XLR pins and antenna connector are gold plated. The oled screen is simple yet functional. I like that it is crisp, but not overly bright. It easily fits in with your gear while not being obtrusive. There is only one button on the entire unit, and it serves as a power button, un-pair device, and factory reset.
NOTE: This receiver automatically powers on if USB voltage is supplied, thus allowing you to connect it to your receiver's switched outlet or your main power supply.
Upon disassembly, I was delighted to see that this does indeed contain the ESS 9018K2M chip and the Qualcomm QCC5125! Too many false advertisements to not check nowadays. All solder joints look good with no slop.
The included USB and Toslink cable are 3ft. and feel of good quality.
The sound through this device is strong and clear with no perceived distortion. It is very quick to connect with no dropouts while in use.
My final take on this is that is a no-brainer! A good DAC should not "color" sound as it is completely digital. Some may call me incorrect. Fine! Go sit at home and try to find the difference between your $1k unit and this one while sipping brandy by yourself. The rest should take advantage of this excellently built and priced device and keep all of the extra money in your pocket!
Blafili B3 for the win!
