Sumiko Pro-Ject USB Box (Silver)

• Provides Digital Audio Conversion via USB

The best thing you can do for your computer audio setup!:
I decided to pick up the Sumiko Pro-Ject USB DAC because of expert reviews currently online, and Pro-Ject's stellar phono stages and turntables. I was able to test the Pro-Ject USB Box pretty extensively on the Integra DTM 5.3 integrated amp connected to a pair of B & W 685's. What I did was connect the stereo output from my laptop's sound card as well as the DAC's RCA output into another input of the Integra. I did a lengthy AB test and the results were pretty significant. One word that sums up the DAC is dynamics. When I listened to FLAC audio files on my laptop I was amazed at the punchy bass drum. The cymbals were much more realistic sounding. Also, the instrument separation was significantly improved. In general, the high and low frequencies benefited the most, but the snare drum also really jumped out of the mix with the DAC. From the laptop sound card, it sounded very flat and compressed. I then wanted to test it with a pair of powered Behringer Truth 2301-A studio monitors. I have personally used these for over 5 years for casual listening and I used to mix with them. I just plugged them straight into this puppy. The improvement is phenomenal compared to using the laptop's audio output. Gone was much of the excess noise generated by the computer and in its place was a new, very dynamic sound. The bass separates clearly from the kick drum and the cymbals became crystal clear. It literally sounds like a whole new setup. For the price, I can't think of a better upgrade for a simple system like that. The result of adding the Pro-Ject USB box would surely be significant enough that anyone with a set of ears could instantly notice a difference. This would surely appeal to the average college student. Unfortunately, I did not have any other DAC's to compare it with. I do like the simplicity and small footprint of the ProJect. It simply has a USB input (no power cord necessary) and an L,R RCA out. I let it run all day and did not even get warm. For an MSRP of $159 this is definitively an affordable piece of audio equipment for a college student or someone working in an office, listening to music on their computer. Also see: Tech Radar Expert Review: http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/hi-fi-and-audio/accessories/pro-ject-usb-box-dac-483623/review?src=rss & attr=all Strengths: Very simple. 1 USB input, L and R RCA output Small footprint Solid construction Fantastic improvement in sound quality (clarity and dynamics) Generates no noticeable heat Comes with driver and Foobar 2000 very straightforward instructions Weaknesses: No Balanced XLR output like others in this price range. Similar Products Used: Pro-Ject Phonostage