Introduction

Cambridge is one of the brands that really kicked off high-end audio for PCs by releasing their competitively priced DacMagic series some years ago. As with everything else around, their products keep on getting smaller, and today, we will take a look at the DacMagic XS, a small USB-powered DAC/Amp. It packs a brilliant DAC setup and a potent amplifier section, which should drive most of the headphones produced today.

Specifications

• Digital to Analogue Converter: ESS9023 24-bit DAC
• USB 1.0 mode: 16/24-bit, 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz
• USB 2.0 mode: 16/24-bit, 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz
• Output Voltage 2V RMS
• Max. Power Consumption: 150mW
• Min. Headphone Impedance: 12 Ohms
• Frequency Response: +/-0.2dB 20Hz – 20kHz
• THD (unweighted): <0.004%
• SNR: 103 dBr (unweighted)
• Crosstalk: 66dB
• Output Impedance 0.5 Ohms
• Volume Steps: 53 steps (54 different volume levels)
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 30 x 10 x 53.5mm (1.2 x 0.4 x 2.1’’)
• Weight: 100g (3.5oz)

The Package

Cambridge Audio ships the tiny DacMagic XS in a small box that highlights its neat features.


Like the product, the bundle is small. You only get a small USB cable and a small carrying pouch.