SMSL's SU-2 is a Compact, Budget-Friendly Desktop DAC Designed for Monitoring, Desktop Audio, and Active Speaker Systems

• Fully balanced DAC with XLR and RCA outputs
• ES9039Q2M DAC with low measured distortion
• Four OPA1612A op-amps in the analog stage
• AES/EBU, coaxial, and optical digital inputs

Fully Balanced

The SU-2 is designed around a fully-balanced architecture, from digital input through analog output. Balanced XLR outputs reduce noise over longer cable runs and help preserve signal integrity when feeding active monitors or balanced amplifiers. 

AES/EBU Connectivity

An AES/EBU input provides a professional-grade digital connection with strong noise rejection and clock stability. It's great for monitoring chains and desktop systems where reliability matters. Coaxial and optical inputs are also available for broader source compatibility.

ESS ES9039Q2M DAC

The SU-2 uses the ES9039Q2M DAC chip, chosen for its low distortion and high dynamic range. Measured THD+N reaches as low as 0.00006 percent, with SINAD up to 123.5 dB on balanced output.

Low-Noise Amplification

The analog stage uses four OPA1612A operational amplifiers arranged in a symmetrical layout. This design prioritizes channel matching and low crosstalk. The result is stable linear amplification across a wide bandwidth, with consistent left-right balance and controlled noise.

Desktop-Friendly Design

The SU-2 measures 5.9 inches wide, 1.7 inches tall, and 5.2 inches deep (150 × 42.5 × 133.1 mm). It fits easily on a desk or shelf without crowding other gear. Power-off memory and automatic input detection reduce the need for repeated adjustments.

The front-panel indicator array shows input selection, signal lock status, channel activity, and sampling rate at a glance. Sampling rate changes are briefly indicated, while left and right channel indicators respond to incoming audio. It is functional feedback, not decoration.

Specifications

• Digital Inputs: AES/EBU, optical, coaxial
• Analog Outputs: XLR, RCA
• Output Level: 15.4 Vrms balanced (4.7 Vrms XLR), 2.3 Vrms RCA
• THD+N: 0.00006 percent XLR, 0.00008 percent RCA
• Dynamic Range: 130 dB XLR, 126 dB RCA
• SNR: 130 dB XLR, 126 dB RCA
• Bit Depth: 16-bit to 24-bit PCM, 1-bit DSD
• Sampling Rates: PCM 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz, DSD64 via DoP
• Power Consumption: Under 2.3W
• Standby Power: Under 0.1W
• Dimensions: 5.9" × 1.7" × 5.2"
• Weight: 1.17lbs

In the Box

• SMSL SU-2 DAC
• AC power cable
• Manual