SMSL SU-9nFrom real comments

Verdict distilled from 25 mentions across 11 aspects in comments under product review videos.

Positive sentiment64%
PROS 64%
CONS 36%

Rank based on 25 mentions across 11 aspects

View the verdict as

Buy this if...

  • You want an ESS9038PRO DAC without paying extra for MQA/UAT features
  • You value a neutral, highly resolving sound with XLR output and multiple filters/sound colors
  • You're upgrading from an entry-level or older DAC like a Dacmagic or Topping E30

What users love

Skip this if...

  • You need Windows 7 driver support
  • You want a warm or analogue-like sound signature rather than clinical clarity
  • You're on a tight budget and can get similar performance from cheaper alternatives like the Soncoz LA-QXD1

What users complain about

Compare in seconds

Based on user comments

Best choice
1Premium
SMSL VMV D2
Natural, non-fatiguing soundMQA and AK4499 chip appealClear upgrade over harsher rivalsUncertain heat outputHigh priceNo sharper sound signature option
SMSL VMV D2
Natural, non-fatiguing sound
MQA and AK4499 chip appeal
Clear upgrade over harsher rivals
Uncertain heat output
High price
No sharper sound signature option
2Premium
SMSL H400
Strong power deliveryReliable alternative to competitorsSound-tuning flexibilityCosts more than cheaper alternativesHigh price
SMSL H400
Strong power delivery
Reliable alternative to competitors
Sound-tuning flexibility
Costs more than cheaper alternatives
High price
3
HiFiMan Goldenwave GA10
Fully Balanced ArchitecturePremium, Understated BuildRich Tube Sound
HiFiMan Goldenwave GA10
Fully Balanced Architecture
Premium, Understated Build
Rich Tube Sound
4Premium
iFi iCAN
Drives almost any headphoneUnique xBass and 3D tuning controlsMusical, layered, engaging soundHigh price questionedOverdamped decay / odd dynamics reportedCannot switch preamp and headphone outputs independently
iFi iCAN
Drives almost any headphone
Unique xBass and 3D tuning controls
Musical, layered, engaging sound
High price questioned
Overdamped decay / odd dynamics reported
Cannot switch preamp and headphone outputs independently
5Budget
SMSL VMV SAP1
Excellent value for moneyDrives demanding headphones with easeExceeds initial expectationsInconsistent regional pricingCheap-feeling volume knobLimited availability at some retailers
SMSL VMV SAP1
Excellent value for money
Drives demanding headphones with ease
Exceeds initial expectations
Inconsistent regional pricing
Cheap-feeling volume knob
Limited availability at some retailers
6Premium
iFi Pro iCAN
Extremely versatile tuning options
iFi Pro iCAN
Extremely versatile tuning options
7Mid
Monoprice Monolith THX AAA 887
Balanced XLR ConnectivitySought for Driving Hard-to-Drive HeadphonesSolid Metal Volume Knob
Monoprice Monolith THX AAA 887
Balanced XLR Connectivity
Sought for Driving Hard-to-Drive Headphones
Solid Metal Volume Knob
8Mid
Creative Sound Blaster E3
Strong Value on SaleGaming Software FeaturesImproved Dynamic RangeFull Price Feels HighUncertain Value vs E5
Creative Sound Blaster E3
Strong Value on Sale
Gaming Software Features
Improved Dynamic Range
Full Price Feels High
Uncertain Value vs E5
9Budget
SMSL RAW-HA1
Strong speaker amp performance
SMSL RAW-HA1
Strong speaker amp performance
10Mid
iFi Hip-DAC
Detailed, engaging sound
iFi Hip-DAC
Detailed, engaging sound
Best valueYou are here
31Mid
SMSL SU-9n
No MQA supportClear, detailed soundStrong dynamics and soundstagePrice debated relative to alternativesNeutral/clinical rather than warm soundSubtle filter and sound color differences
SMSL SU-9n
No MQA support
Clear, detailed sound
Strong dynamics and soundstage
Price debated relative to alternatives
Neutral/clinical rather than warm sound
Subtle filter and sound color differences

Who wins on what

Ranked by what users actually praise

Overall Impression

Owners describe the SU-9n as clear, dynamic and an upgrade over older or cheaper DACs. Multiple commenters who replaced Topping DX7s, Cambridge Audio Dacmagic, or entry-level units reported noticeably more dynamic, detailed and authoritative sound, with wider soundstage. One listener called it 'way more dynamic and detailed' than their well-loved Dacmagic, while another said it made time pass quickly while listening. It was also compared favorably in width against other $400-range DACs.

Dropping MQA was praised by many as a principled, welcome move by SMSL. Several commenters explicitly bought or considered buying the SU-9n specifically because it removed MQA support, viewing this as a stance against a format they consider unnecessary or lossy. This sentiment was echoed across multiple comments, with some saying it swayed their purchase decision entirely, and hoping other manufacturers follow suit.

Sound is generally neutral and clinical rather than warm, and filter differences are subtle. Multiple owners described the sound as neutral or 'usual DAC clarity' rather than warm or smooth, unlike R2R DACs, with one needing a short break-in period. Filter and sound-color options were noted as producing only subtle audible differences, and one commenter found the DAC pleasant but not especially engaging, comparing it to vanilla ice cream.

Outdated / Not-accurate data?