Asked by Mark R.(2026-08-25)272 answers
Is the SMSL SU-2 worth it for a desktop studio setup?
I am upgrading my home desk audio chain to drive active studio monitors. Does this unit provide genuine balanced output without unwanted noise?
Verified Answer: Verified Audio Engineer
Answered on: 2026-08-25For desktop studio use, it is an outstanding piece of hardware. Equipped with the ES9039Q2M architecture and four OPA1612 operational amplifiers, it ensures a very clean floor and high dynamic resolution. Integrating SMSL SU-2 DAC into your active monitoring chain ensures true balanced XLR line-level output, removing ground loops and distortion that cheaper unbuffered converters produce. It easily handles professional-grade audio feeds with absolute signal purity.
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David S.
The balanced XLR connections are rock solid on my desk. Background hiss is completely gone.
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