SMSL RAW-MDA1 Review

 

SMSL RAW-MDA1 Review

 

Introduction:

SMSL Audio (Foshan ShuangMuSanLin technology Co., Ltd.) has been founded in 2009 and is located in Shenzhen, China. The company is specialized in R&D, Manufacturing and Marketing of DAC’s (Digital to Analog Converters), Stereo Headphone Amplifiers and Power Amplifier.

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 is a desktop digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and amplifier designed for high-resolution audio playback. Equipped with a dual ES9039Q2M DAC setup and multiple OPA1612A op-amps, the device aims to deliver superior audio quality with low distortion and noise. It supports a wide range of high-resolution audio formats, including PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, native DSD512, and MQA.

To enhance connectivity, the RAW-MDA1 incorporates a high-performance Qualcomm Bluetooth 5.1 chipset, enabling wireless audio streaming with support for various high-resolution codecs like LDAC, AptX HD, and AptX Adaptive. This versatile device caters to users seeking a high-quality desktop audio solution with both wired and wireless options.

 

Disclaimer:

I would like to thank Shenzhen Audio and SMSL Audio for providing me the RAW-MDA1 DAC/AMP as review sample. I am not affiliated with Shenzhen Audio and SMSL Audio beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered, opinions about the product.

  

Price & Availability:

The actual price for the SMSL RAW-MDA1 Digital to Analog Converter is 279.99 US$. More information’s can be found under the link below;

 

Package & Accessories:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 arrives in a black cardboard box with red accents. The packaging is simple and straightforward, with the product name and company logo clearly visible on the front.

This box contains the following items;

  • 1 x SMSL RAW-MDA1Digital to Analog Converter
  • 1 x USB A to USB Type-C cable
  • 1 x Power Cable
  • 1 x Remote Control
  • 1 x Antenna
  • 1 x User Manual & Warranty card

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 comes with a remote controller which is a nice addition.

 

Design & Build Quality:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 is a compact desktop DAC housed in a sleek, black anodized aluminum chassis. Measuring 189mm wide, 179mm deep, and 45mm high, it offers a portable form factor. The chassis is crafted from CNC-machined aluminum alloy for durability and aesthetic appeal.

Its front panel features a volume knob and a larger OLED display that shows input source, sampling rate, and other audio-related information.

The multifunctional knob lets you adjust the volume and gives you access to the device menu, which you can navigate and select with this knob.

The front panel features both 4.4mm balanced and 6.3mm single-ended headphone outputs.

Moving to the rear panel, a well-organized layout showcases a diverse range of connectivity options. Here are XLR and RCA analog outputs, coaxial and optical digital outputs, as well as coaxial and optical digital inputs, USB Type-C input, AC input, Bluetooth antenna, and a power on/off switch.

On the top of the front frame made from plastic material is the RAW-MDA1 barding.

At the bottom of the device are four rubber isolations feet’s.

The RAW-MDA1’s solid construction and thoughtful design contribute to an overall positive user experience.

 

Technical Specifications:

  • Model                                      : RAW-MDA1
  • DAC                                        : ES9039Q2M Dual DAC
  • USB Processor                      : XMOS XU316
  • OPAMP                                  : OPA1612A
  • Input                                       : USB/Optical x2/Coaxial x2/Bluetooth
  • Output                                    : RCA/XLR/HEADPHONE
  • THD+N                                   : 0.00005%(-124.5db non-Weighting)
  • Line Output amplitude            : XLR 5.2Vrms / RCA 2.5Vrms / Headphone 8.2Vrms
  • Headphone output power      : 16Ω 2.5Wx2 / 32Ω 1.7Wx2
  • Output Impedance                 : LINE OUT 100Ω / HP OUT Near 0Ω
  • Dynamic Range                     : XLR 132dB / RCA 127dB / HP 122dB
  • SNR                                       : XLR 132dB / RCA 127dB / HP 122dB
  • USB Transmission                 : Asynchronization
  • USB Compatibility                  : Windows  7/8/8.1/10/11, MAC OS and Linux
  • USB Modes                            : USB1.1 and USB2.0 Dual Mode
  • MQA decoder                         : USB/Optical/Coaxial
  • Sampling Rate USB               : USB PCM 44.1~768kHz(32bit) / DSD.8224~22.5792MHz(1bit) Sampling ate OPT / Coaxial : 44.1~ 192kHz(24bit) / DoP DoP64
  • Bluetooth specification           : BT 5.1 Supports SBC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC
  • Power Consumption              : <30W
  • Standby power                       : <0.5W
  • Size                                        : 189x45x179mm(WxHxD)
  • Weight                                    : 1.02kg/2.24lbs

 

Hardware Features:

A) Digital to Analog Converter:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 incorporates a ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M Dual DAC configuration, designed to deliver high-fidelity audio through advanced signal processing. This DAC excels in performance metrics, boasting a remarkably low THD+N of 0.00005% (-124.5dB non-Weighting) and an impressive dynamic range reaching up to 132dB via XLR. Additionally, the SNR closely aligns with these exceptional dynamic range figures.

In terms of digital input compatibility, the RAW-MDA1 supports high-resolution audio formats. The USB input can handle PCM up to 768kHz/32bit and native DSD up to 22.5792MHz, with DoP support for broader compatibility. While the optical and coaxial inputs are limited to 192kHz/24bit PCM, they still cater to most standard audio formats.

 

B) Amplification & Background Noise:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 employs a high-power output circuit with a “Self-Developed Low-Noise Switching Power Supply” featuring six OPA1612A amplification chips, capable of driving demanding headphones such as the HiFiMAN Arya Organic or SIVGA P2 Pro with authority. This configuration delivers up to 2.5W per channel through the 4.4mm balanced output. Connectivity options include 6.35mm single-ended and 4.4mm headphone outputs, as well as balanced and unbalanced line outputs.

When paired with sensitive in-ear monitors like the Campfire Audio Fathom and HiBy Project ACE, the device is showing an exceptionally low noise floor. Yes, even with sensitive IEMs, I can say that the hissing is tolerable from a subjective perspective.

 

C) XMOS XU316 for Native DSD:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 features a 3rd generation XMOS USB signal processor equipped with an XMOS XU316 16-core processor. This advanced technology enables smooth sound signal transmission and decoding, supporting high-resolution audio formats up to PCM 32-Bit/768kHz and DSD512. The device offers USB1.1 and USB2.0 dual mode connectivity, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices, including gaming consoles.

 

D) Connectivity:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 offers a versatile range of input options, including coaxial, optical, and USB Type-C connections. Its USB input is compatible with Windows (7/8/8.1/10/11 – driver required), macOS (10.6+), Linux (driverless), Android, and iOS operating systems, via dedicated cables.

Moreover, the RAW-MDA1 features a high-performance Qualcomm Bluetooth chipset. This facilitates smooth Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity and supports various high-resolution audio codecs such as LDAC, AptX HD, and AptX Adaptive for exceptional wireless audio quality.

 

E) MQA Decoding:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 supports MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) and MQA-CD decoding. Each file being authenticated by the artist, the producer or the copyright holder.

 

Equipment’s used for this review:

  • DAC                     : SMSL RAW-MDA1
  • Source                : MSI Vector GP68 HX
  • IEM/Headphones: HiFiMAN Arya Organic, SIVGA P2 Pro, CFA Fathom, HiBY Project ACE

 

Albums & tracks used for this review:

  • Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Apple Music Lossless)
  • Adele – My Little Love (Apple Music Lossless)
  • Sarah McLachlan – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
  • Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
  • Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Payer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • Elton John – Rocket Man ((Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
  • Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Sting – Englishman in New York – (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
  • Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Tidal Hi-Fi)
  • Radiohead – Live in Berlin “Album” (Apple Music Lossless)
  • Radiohead – Pyramid Song (Apple Music Lossless)
  • U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
  • Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Bear McCreary’s – Valkyries (Deezer HiFi)
  • Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Deezer HiFi)
  • Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Daft Punk – Instant Crush (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
  • Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
  • Toutant – Rebirth (Deezer HiFi)
  • Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Apple Music Lossless)
  • Hans Zimmer – The Dark Knight OST (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Spotify)
  • Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Vivaldi – Le QuarttroStagioni “The Four Season” (Apple Music Lossless)
  • Pink Floyd – Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Apple Music Lossless)
  • Miles Davis – So What (Deezer HiFi)
  • Otto Liebert& Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
  • Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove it) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
  • Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Tidal Hi-Fi)
  • Rush’s – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
  • Slayer – Angel of Death (Spotify)
  • Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Spotify)
  • Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Spotify)

 

The Sound:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 presents a balanced and neutral sound signature characterized by control, detail, and smoothness across the frequency spectrum. It offers a solid foundation for various headphone types, enhancing their inherent strengths without imposing a strong character. With a focus on clarity and natural tonality, the RAW-MDA1 delivers a listening experience that is both engaging and fatigue-free. Let’s take a closer look at the SMSL RAW-MDA1’s sound performance.

Please note that this review has written after a burn-in period of about 85-90 hours. My sound Impression below are mainly based on pairings with headphones like the HiFiMAN Arya Organic, SIVGA P2 Pro headphones and IEM’s like the Campfire Audio Fathom and HiBy Project ACE.

Bass / Midrange / Treble / Soundstage & Imaging:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 delivers a low-frequency performance characterized by control and precision rather than exaggerated impact and coloration. This balanced character ensures a solid foundation for headphones like the HiFiMAN Arya Organic, where the bass complements the overall clarity without overshadowing the rest of the sound spectrum. Thanks to its well-controlled low-end response the device provides a suitable synergy with headphones such as the SIVGA P2 Pro, maintaining their energetic character. For in-ear monitors like the Campfire Audio Fathom and HiBy Project ACE, the RAW-MDA1 offers a well-integrated bass that contributes to the overall tonal balance.

The midrange presentation of the SMSL RAW-MDA1 is characterized by smoothness and naturalness, allowing vocals and instruments to shine with clarity and detail. This presentation is particularly audible when paired with headphones like the HiFiMAN Arya Organic, where the midrange transparency is enhanced. The SIVGA P2 Pro also benefits from the RAW-MDA1’s neutral midrange, as it prevents any coloration that might interfere with the headphone’s lively upper midrange character. The RAW-MDA1, characterized by its smooth and natural midrange, blends well with the Campfire Audio Fathom’s clarity and the HiBy Project ACE’s warmth. This combination produces vocals and instruments with exceptional detail and presence, while preserving a natural tonality and timbre.

The treble extension of the SMSL RAW-MDA1 is notable for its balance between detail and smoothness. This characteristic makes it a suitable match for headphones like the HiFiMAN Arya Organic, which excel in treble clarity and extension. The SIVGA P2 Pro, with its energetic nature, is well-controlled by the RAW-MDA1’s treble, preventing any harshness or sibilance. In-ear monitors like the Campfire Audio Fathom and HiBy Project ACE benefit from the RAW-MDA1’s treble presentation, as it adds some clarity and airiness without sacrificing smoothness.

The RAW-MDA1 is capable of creating a respectable soundstage that provides a sense of depth and space. This was pretty audible when paired with open-back headphones like the HiFiMAN Arya Organic. While the SIVGA P2 Pro might have a more intimate presentation, the RAW-MDA1 still adds to a well-defined soundstage.

 

Conclusion:

The SMSL RAW-MDA1 distinguishes itself as a commendable desktop DAC/amplifier that harmoniously blends performance and affordability. Equipped with high-quality components such as ES9039Q2M Dual DAC, it delivers a balanced sound signature characterized by clarity, control and smoothness. The device’s versatility, offering a wide range of connectivity options and support for high-resolution audio formats, caters to diverse audiophile preferences. While not a groundbreaking product, the RAW-MDA1 undeniably offers exceptional value for those aiming to enrich their desktop audio without breaking the budget.

 

Pros & Cons:

  • + Balanced sound signature with low amount of coloration
  • + Excellent technical performance for the price
  • + Clean Output with minimal hissing with Headphones (tolerable with sensitive IEM’s)
  • + Hardware Specs (Informative Display, ES9039Q2M Dual DAC, six OPA1612A, etc.)
  • + Versatility in terms of Input and Output Options
  • + Great Value for the Price
  • – Missing a USB-B interface might be a con for some users
  • – Same boring design like with many Chi-Fi products at this price level

 

Thank you for the Read!

 

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