Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Technology journalist specializing in audio, computing and Apple Macs. The Topping DX5 II sets a new benchmark for budget desktop ...

China's Fiio – which recently announced a mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC – has launched a new flagship desktop media streamer and headphone amp/DAC combo that's dominated by a slick ...

Motherboard audio is good enough for most people. When it is not, the obvious upgrade is usually an external DAC or headphone amplifier: Easy to connect, easy to reach and easy to carry over to the ...

With signature FiiO power, innovative engineering and sleek aesthetic sensibility, the K15 is a full-system desktop DAC/amp built for audiophiles. I’ve always been a fan of FiiO IEM’s, and I’ve tried ...

Audioengine modernizes their new N22 Mini Desktop Amplifier with Class D, Bluetooth aptX and the convenience of USB Type-C inputs. Audioengine has introduced a $269 desktop integrated amplifier that ...

Rotel’s DX-3 ($1,499)is a DAC, headphone amp, and preamp all in one. The compact DX-3 is designed to be the “ultimate desktop companion,” ready to drive your favorite headphones or powered speakers.

The Schiit Audio Folkvangr Headphone Amplifier is $1,800 and uses 10 tubes. The limited run of 250 won’t last long. The $1,800 Folkvangr is the most expensive Schiit headphone amplifier so far and an ...

IK Multimedia’s Arc On Ear DAC and headphone amplifier is now compatible with 50 models of in-ear monitors for studio ...

Now that pretty much every major streaming music service — except Spotify — offers lossless audio options at CD-quality or better, you may be wondering how you can hear that extra level of sound ...

Even with the widespread availability of lossless quality tracks from most major streaming services (sans Spotify), you still need a pair of wired headphones for those tracks to sound best. However ...

— Orchard Audio Because the Valencia is a pure power amp, the user must control the volume using a pre-amp or DAC with built-in volume control. Orchard points out that because the Valencia is so ...