Neutron HiFi™ DAC V1
portable USB DAC with DSP

Neutron HiFi DAC V1 (aka Virtuoso 1) is an audiophile-grade, powerful, high-precision Digital-to-Analog Converter (USB DAC) from Virtuoso series of ultra-portable devices suitable for any type of headset.

Ultra-reliable asynchronous USB DAC
On-board DSP: Parametric EQ (PEQ), Adaptive Loudness Compensation (ALC), Frequency Response Correction (FRC, AutoEq), Crossfeed, Surround, PCM/DSD Balance
True high-res audio: up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM, DSD64 - DSD256
7 linear-phase, minimum-phase oversampling filters including user-customizable
Drives all headset types - over the ear headphones (up to 600 Ohm) and IEMs
3.5 mm 24K gold-plated single-ended output
OLED display with format/state indication
Supports In-line mic and media buttons
Virtual media buttons by double-tap
Energy efficient (does not drain battery)
USB Audio 1.0 (UAC1) / USB Audio 2.0 (UAC2)
Premium exterior: Aluminum and Gorilla Glass 3
Fully configurable with NConfigurator app

Technical Details Buy

Smart & Reliable
platform

Real-time NXP ARM Cortex-M4 MCU

Experience flawless audio, always. Our cutting-edge, hard real-time system delivers crystal-clear, stable sound at any supported sample rate.

Device is operated by the proprietary Neutron HiFi firmware that enriches it with many features such as DSP, persistent settings and smart power saving.

Stable Audio Quality

Realtime system ensures absence of audible glitches and instability, fully deterministic behavior guarantees highest possible audio quality.

Over-the-air updates (OTA)

Neutron HiFi firmware updates are backed by NConfigurator companion app over the Internet, therefore you get always latest and flawless firmware.

Power Saving

For longer music listening, we've developed smart power-saving features that optimize battery life of your mobile device without compromising the performance.

Audiophile
clocking mode

Dual Master Clock

2x ultra-tolerant (10 ppm), ultra-phase noise, femto-precise Crystal oscillators (SPXO) eliminate jitter and ensure pristine audio quality. By operating in Integer Mode, we bypass fractional conversions, achieving the lowest possible distortion (THD+N) for unmatched listening.

This dual clock mode is common in larger DACs or DAPs, but we implemented it in a tiny DAC V1 device to avoid any compromise on sound quality!

Clock: 45.1584 Mhz

For tracks with frequency: 44100, 88200, 176400, 352800 Hz

Clock: 49.152 Mhz

For tracks with frequency: 48000, 96000, 192000, 384000 Hz

Highest possible
audio precision

Ultra-low noise design

For superb audio quality, the accuracy of converting digital information to analog sound is crucial. Inaccurate conversion can introduce unwanted noise, like pops and crackles, due to uneven variations in volume or timing.

Precision of audio signal and its noise can be measured and expressed as Total Harmonic Distortion Plus Noise (THD+N) where 0.0001% is the residual distortion of measurement equipment. i.e the lowest. Highest audio quality has lowest THD+N.

DAC V1 boasts an ultra-low noise design that delivers unmatched audio clarity. By minimizing distortion (THD+N), we achieve sound quality that surpasses even complex devices.

High-quality components

DAC V1 cuts no corners. Built with premium, ultra-low noise components exceeding industry standards, it delivers exceptional audio performance, remarkable durability, and virtually silent operation.

Intelligent routing

Our intelligent circuit design minimizes noise interference, ensuring pristine audio quality. We've carefully considered how components connect to prevent digital noise from affecting the sensitive analog circuitry.

Drives
Pro Headphones

Based on independent measurements (ASR) showing 68 mW into 33 Ω and 14 mW into 300 Ω, the DAC V1 delivers enough clean power for the majority of modern headphones, including many planar-magnetics and most professional monitoring models. Because the DAC V1 supports 2Vrms output and uses a high-fidelity, low-distortion output stage, it maintains clarity even at maximum drive levels.

The table below summarizes how the DAC V1 performs with a wide range of popular studio, audiophile, and professional headphones. These are the perfect matches, but not limited to - if your headphones are around these specs then you are good to go!

Headphone Model	Impedance (Ω)	Sensitivity (dB/mW)	Power Req. for 110 dB SPL	Driving Notes
Grado SR Line (SR60 / SR80 / SR225e)	32	99.8 dB/mW	10.5 mW	Typical dynamic headphones — easy to drive; plenty of headroom on DAC V1.
Meze 99 Classics / Neo	26	103 dB/mW	5.0 mW	Very easy to drive; low gain (1 Vrms) gives finer control for sensitive listening.
Philips Fidelio X2HR / X3	30	~100 dB/mW	~10.0 mW	Good match; DAC V1 gives sufficient power and headroom for home/studio use.
Audeze LCD-GX	20	100 dB/mW	10.0 mW	Planar-magnetic; easily driven by DAC V1 with good peak headroom.
Sennheiser HD 560 S	120	110 dB/V	~10.0 mW	Neutral reference headphone; DAC V1 provides adequate drive for monitoring.
Sennheiser HD 600	300	~97 dB/V	~18–20 mW	High-impedance classic — DAC V1’s 300 Ω capability (~14 mW measured) will reach loud levels.
Sennheiser HD 650 / HD 6XX	300	~103 dB/V	~6–7 mW	Will reach loud levels on DAC V1.
Sennheiser HD 25	70	~102 dB/mW	~6.3 mW	Portable monitoring favorite — easily driven, good headroom on DAC V1.
Beyerdynamic DT 700 / 900 Pro X	48	100 dB/mW	10.0 mW	Comfortable drive from DAC V1; solid headroom for monitoring.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ω)	80	96 dB/mW	25.1 mW	Studio classic — comfortable volume and headroom on DAC V1.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (250 Ω)	250	~100 dB/V	~8–10 mW	Higher-impedance variant — DAC V1 will drive to usable levels.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 Ω)	250	~100 dB/V	~8–10 mW	Bright studio headphone — DAC V1 can reach high SPL.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x	38	99 dB/mW	~12.6 mW	Common studio/headphone — comfortably driven by DAC V1 for tracking and monitoring.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70x	470	99 dB/mW	~12.6 mW	Very high impedance; DAC V1’s measured 300 Ω power (~14 mW) may leave little headroom.
AKG K240 Studio	55	91 dB/mW	~79 mW	Lower sensitivity — may push DAC V1 toward its upper limits.
AKG K702 / K712 Pro	62	~105 dB/V	~8–10 mW	Reference monitors — DAC V1 will drive.
Sony MDR-7506 / V6	63	106 dB/mW	~5.0 mW	Nearly effortless to drive; ideal for portable monitoring setups with DAC V1.
Shure SRH840A	40	102 dB/mW	~6.3 mW	Studio monitoring headphone — comfortable and simple to drive on DAC V1.
Shure SRH1540	46	99 dB/mW	~12.6 mW	Premium closed-back — well within DAC V1 capabilities with good headroom.
Neumann NDH 20	150	103 dB/mW	~5.0 mW	Extremely efficient for their impedance — excellent match; minimal power required.
Hifiman Sundara	37	94 dB/mW	~39.8 mW	Comfortably driven by DAC V1’s 32 Ω rating (68 mW measured); ample headroom for peaks and EQ.
Hifiman Edition XS	18	92 dB/mW	~63.1 mW	Close to DAC V1’s max — will reach 110 dB.

Note: 110 dB SPL is used as a standardized reference for comparing headphone power requirements. For safe listening, typical levels are 70–85 dB SPL, which require significantly less power and provide ample headroom.

IEM Friendly
with optional 1Vrms mode

For high-sensitivity IEMs, the 2 Vrms output can sometimes provide more power than needed, making the volume control very sensitive and increasing the risk of listening fatigue or even hearing damage. Switching to 1 Vrms mode with NConfiguator app effectively halves the output voltage, giving you finer volume control and safer listening levels, while still delivering the DAC’s full sonic clarity.

Below is a selection of popular professional IEMs and how they pair with the DAC V1’s measured output power. It demonstrates that even very sensitive IEMs are well‑matched — and the low‑gain (1 Vrms) mode offers a refined driving option for ultra‑sensitive monitors.

IEM Model	Impedance (Ω)	Sensitivity (dB/mW)	Power Req. for 110 dB SPL	Driving Notes
Shure SE846	9	114	~1.3 mW	Very easy to drive; 1 Vrms mode recommended for fine volume control.
64 Audio U12t	10	114	~1.5 mW	Excellent match; very sensitive IEM, 1 Vrms mode provides safer listening levels.
Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020	12	112	~2.0 mW	Plenty of headroom; low-gain mode recommended for ultra-sensitive listening.
Westone UM3X	14	102	~3.2 mW	Comfortably driven; volume control manageable even at 2 Vrms.
Sony IER-M9	16	104	~4.0 mW	Good match; 1 Vrms mode helps avoid excessive volume on sensitive monitors.
Audeze LCD-4z IEM	20	110	~5.0 mW	Easily driven; ample headroom even at low gain.
Campfire Audio Solaris 2020	12	109	~2.2 mW	Effortless to drive; low-gain mode optional for fine volume control.
64 Audio tia Fourté	10	114	~1.5 mW	Extremely sensitive; perfect for 1 Vrms mode to avoid overly loud peaks.
Unique Melody MEST	15	110	~4.0 mW	Well matched; comfortable volume with DAC V1.
64 Audio U18t	11	115	~1.2 mW	Extremely easy to drive; use 1 Vrms mode for precise volume control.

Tip: For very high sensitivity IEMs (100 + dB/mW, <20 Ω), begin with the 1 Vrms mode and set your listening volume comfortably. You’ll still have plenty of headroom for peaks. 110 dB SPL is used as a standardized reference for comparing headphone power requirements. For safe listening, typical levels are 70–85 dB SPL, which require significantly less power and provide ample headroom.

Driver-less operation
USB Audio 1.0/2.0 compliant

Plug-and-Play with any USB host

DAC V1 fully complies with USB Audio Class 1 (UAC1) and USB Audio Class 2 (UAC2) standards, ensuring native compatibility with USB hosts—no additional drivers required.

It works seamlessly with Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and any other operating system that supports UAC1 or UAC2. Simply connect DAC V1 to your device and it is immediately recognized as a standard sound card.

DAC V1 also supports popular game consoles, including Sony PlayStation 4 / 5 and Nintendo Switch (generation 1 and 2), operating in a pure UAC1 mode for maximum compatibility.

No installations, no configuration, no delays - DAC V1 is ready for instant, hassle-free audio playback, delivering a truly plug-and-play listening experience.

Built-in DSP
for any audio content

Legendary Neutron HiFi DSP

Tiny device hosts high-quality advanced audio effects (DSP), well known to you if you are using Neutron Music Player. DSP is optionally available for any audio PCM content when using DAC V1, no matter whether you listen to the music or watching video, DSP is working for you in any scenario. It is completely platform and app independent DSP that means EQ and other effects will work with any app and with any OS! DSP configuration is saved on the device and does not require re-configuration every time the device is turned on again.

By default DSP is inactive and DAC V1 is operating in audiophile bit-perfect mode. DSP can be activated and managed via the NConfigurator app.

Parametric EQ (PEQ)

Fine-tune your listening experience with DAC V1's powerful 10-40 band per-channel Parametric EQ (PEQ). Adjust each channel for a personalized soundstage, or choose from a variety of presets optimized for different music genres.

Adaptive Loudness Compensation (ALC)

Automatically adjusts the frequency balance (boosting low and high frequencies) based on the playback volume level to maintain a consistent and natural perceived tonal balance at any volume level, compensating for how human hearing changes at low volumes (equal-loudness contours, ISO 226:2003/ISO 226:2023).

Crossfeed

Crossfeed DSP mimics the natural sound experience of listening to speakers in a room. By subtly blending the left and right channels, it creates a wider, more natural stereo image that's easier on your ears during extended listening sessions.

Surround

Surround DSP is based on Ambiophonics R.A.C.E. algorithm. It creates the surround effect for any music conent when played through external speakers. Ambiophonics R.A.C.E. is a special technology that works with your regular stereo speakers to create a wider, more immersive listening experience.

Frequency Response Correction (FRC)

DAC V1 combats frequency inconsistencies in headphones with advanced correction. It utilizes a massive database (AutoEq) containing thousands of headphone profiles to automatically tailor the sound for your specific model. This ensures a balanced, accurate listening experience across all frequencies.

DSP Effect Chaining

DAC V1 supports execution of multiple DSP effects simultaneously (DSP chaining). Refer DSP Mode Max Frequency table for available possibilities.

Personalized audio
to please your hearing

Neutron HiFi DSP is caring for you

Hear music exactly how you like it. DAC V1 recognizes that everyone hears differently. Its advanced DSP lets you personalize the sound by adjusting for your unique hearing or preferences. No more unpleasant tones or disbalanced stereo image – just pure listening enjoyment.

Per channel EQ

Does your hearing favor certain tones? With DAC V1's Parametric EQ, you can tailor the sound to your preferences! Easily adjust the frequency response in each channel for a personalized listening experience.

Lossless Balance

Fine-tune your lossless listening experience. Adjust the balance for PCM and DSD audio, without sacrificing pristine sound quality. This ensures a perfectly personalized soundstage without altering the original audio.

Versatile & Revolutionary
media controls

Control media playback easily

DAC V1 supports standard 3-button in-line headset media controller. We went even further and provide possibility to control media playback by simply double-tapping the device enclosure with a finger - no weak buttons, just tap the device!

Headset

DAC V1 supports in-line 3-button media controller with Volume +/-, Headset/Play/Pause buttons. Implementation is fully compliant to the Android AOSP requirements (see Figure 3).

Double-tap action

DAC V1 supports double-tap actions thanks to its internal accelerometer. You can double-tap top/bottom or any side of device to invoke the desired media action which can be assigned via NConfigurator app. You get: Next, Previous, Pause actions in addition to the headset's media buttons.

+

Informative
display

Know your audio output format

DAC V1's clear OLED display keeps you informed about the output format and device status, ensuring you're always in control of your listening experience.

Bits

Bit depth reflects the granulation of audio data. More bits result in better audio quality (less granular, lower Quantization Noise). DAC V1 supports all common bit depths - 16, 24 and 32 bits.

Frequency

Frequency reflects the density of audio data. Higher density results in higher audio quality. DAC V1 supports multiples of 44.1 kHz up to 352.8 kHz and multiples of 48 kHz up to 384 kHz.

State

Stay informed with Neutron V1's OLED display! It clearly shows if DSP effects are on, letting you know when you're in bit-perfect mode for purest sound. Plus, it indicates playback status, so you can see if audio is currently playing.

Configurable
display

Convenient indication

See clearly, anywhere. DAC V1's intelligent display can be adjusted to your environment with convenient modes like inversion, static brightness, and even automatic rotation.

Inversion

Perfect for any lighting! DAC V1's display offers a sleek black-on-white mode for easy reading in bright environments or to match your design preferences.

Auto-Orientation

Always in view! No matter how you hold DAC V1, the built-in sensor automatically adjusts the display for perfect readability.

Configurable Orientation

Prefer a fixed view? DAC V1 lets you customize the display orientation through the NConfigurator app. Simply disable the auto-rotate and choose your preferred setting.

Stylish
accessories

Packed with custom accessories

Indulge your audiophile spirit with premium accessories designed to complement your DAC V1.

Genuine Leather Case

Luxurious genuine leather cases are available for unmatched protection and a touch of elegance. 5 colors are available: Black, Red, Green, Blue Grey and Pink!

Professional USB cable

Custom USB cables with 24K gold-plated connectors accompany DAC V1 and deliver a statement piece alongside top-notch performance.

High-end functionality in a tiny form factor

PCM bits

16, 24, 32

PCM frequencies

44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192, 352.8, 384 kHz

DSD

64, 128, 256

DSD over PCM (DoP): 64, 128

USB

USB-C jack

Via cable: USB-C, USB-A, USB Micro-B

Display

96 * 16 pixels

OLED, Gorila Glass 3

Enclosure

50 * 19.9 * 9.6 mm

Aluminum

Advanced & Serious
but always your friend!

When developer of Neutron audio player told me he was working on a hardware DAC, I just about told him he was out of his mind! Boy did he prove me wrong. His software skills shows in incredibly powerful and useful software abilities of the DAC V1. It renders almost any other DAC as "dumb." What's more, the hardware platform is highly capable, achieving full transparency as far as noise and distortion. The only thing I would wish for is balanced/differential output of 4 volts in a future device. Yes, $180 is a lot for a dongle but for that, you get a device that lets you squeeze the bester performance out of your headphone and IEM. And good looks as well.

I am happy to recommend the Neutron HiFi™ DAC V1. It is a model of innovation and performance in a portable audio product.

The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 stands out as one of the most impressive discoveries of the year. Despite lacking extensive experience in electronic engineering, Neutron HiFi, a software developer has successfully created a USB DAC dongle that delivers exceptional sound quality in its class. Leveraging their background in software development, Neutron HiFi smartly incorporated a powerful DSP engine into the DAC V1 adding great versatility. This device is also lightweight, compact, and well crafted, making it a superb choice, especially since it uniquely offers an extensively customizable PEQ.

Neutron HiFi DAC V1 is an ultra-portable DAC/Amplifier in form of a USB dongle that stands out as a highly portable and versatile digital-to-analog converter that promises to significantly enhance the audio experience for users. With its advanced ES9219Q DAC chip, powerful headphone amplifier, and support for high-resolution audio formats, it delivers a superior sound quality across a wide frequency range. The device’s durable construction, user-friendly features like an OLED display and customizable actions, and the inclusion of a sophisticated DSP engine further contribute to its appeal. The Neutron HiFi DAC V1 offers an expansive and precise sound profile, ensuring that every note is dynamic, detailed, and naturally reproduced, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking a portable audio solution with an ultra-small footprint.

After using three IEMs and 11 songs to compare 15 dongles across 11 level-matched rounds, the $179 Neutron HiFi DAC V1 landed on top. Going back to the previous review, I’ve evaluated nearly two dozen units, and the DAC V1 is easily the best-sounding dongle I’ve ever heard. If sonics are your top priority, and you’re an IEM listener, the DAC V1 is the dongle to buy. It’s almost impossible to fault the DAC V1’s design and build, either, and with the NConfigurator app, the DAC V1 endlessly tweakable.

The biggest potential knocks on the DAC V1 are its lack of physical buttons, single-ended output, price, and power. But I can’t imagine that most audiophiles would long for either buttons or a 4.4 mm jack after trying the DAC V1. Price and power are different issues, though. The former is subjective, and the latter is practical. Combined, the DAC V1 and a Neutron USB-C cable cost $194. That’s about as much as the comparatively feature-poor, but more powerful Moonriver 2 TI and less than the previously reviewed Questyle M15 or iFi Go Bar. In that light, the DAC V1 seems like a bargain.

So I am pretty excited about that one, as Neutron Player is my goto choice audio player due to unparalleled sound quality it provides. So when Ive learned that mastermind behind Neutron had released the first hardware that uses same decoding routines and DSP I just had to try it. And that was - spoiler - excellent decision! Learn why in my video review of this small gem :)

Verified
Hi-Fi Audio Performance

Technical Details

FAQ

What Does "V1" really mean, is "V1" a version?

The Neutron HiFi™ DAC V1 is not just a digital-to-analog converter; it's the inaugural model in our esteemed Virtuoso Series of devices. Here, "V1" doesn't signify a revision number, but rather denotes the Virtuoso 1 model – a specific, feature-rich audiophile-grade USB DAC engineered for unparalleled audio precision and portability. It's a powerful, high-precision instrument designed to transform your digital audio into a rich, immersive, and incredibly detailed listening experience suitable for any type of headset, all packed into a tiny and extremely portable device enclosure.

Think of it like the BMW X1. There are various iterations and packages of the X1 available, yet they all remain fundamentally the X1 model. Similarly, the Neutron HiFi™ DAC V1 (or Virtuoso 1) is a distinct and complete model within our lineup, characterized by its specific, high-performance capabilities and portability, rather than being merely "version one" of a product. It's built from the ground up to deliver a truly virtuoso performance.

Is it compatible with my device?

My device's USB is Full-Speed only, is it ok?

Why should I use this DAC if my phone has 3.5 mm headphone jack?

Why this DAC performs better than my mobile device with built-in audio capability?

Does it support bit-perfect output?

How do I get maximum from this DAC? Do you recommend any special music player software?

Neutron HiFi™ DAC V1portable USB DAC with DSP

Smart & Reliable platform