The Cambridge DAC Magic 200 is a high-quality digital-to-analog converter that is designed to enhance the audio performance of any digital source. **The main idea** behind the Cambridge DAC Magic 200 is to provide audiophiles and music enthusiasts with a device that can accurately reproduce the full range of sound from their digital music files. The DAC Magic 200 uses state-of-the-art technology to convert digital audio signals into analog signals that can be played through your existing audio system. One of the standout features of the Cambridge DAC Magic 200 is its ability to upsample audio to a higher resolution. This means that even lower-quality digital files can be enhanced and improved, resulting in a richer and more detailed sound. Another notable feature is the asynchronous USB input, which allows for a direct connection between your computer and the DAC Magic 200.
For $500, it’s going to be hard to beat the combination of sound quality and features offered by the DacMagic 200M. While the headphone amp is top-notch, I really recommend this product for those looking for a first standalone DAC or to upgrade the DAC built into their existing gear. They may be suprised at how much this compact box improves the sound of their system.
Easy to use, it s not only an excellent desktop audio device that ll drive headphones to good effect, but it will also serve up a storm in a main audio system with its crisp, rewarding and expressively-detailed sound. So what I m saying is that the products don t just suit those like me, poking around at sound quality to the nth degree, deconstructing a product to the extent perceptions may exist of unworthiness.
Another notable feature is the asynchronous USB input, which allows for a direct connection between your computer and the DAC Magic 200. This bypasses the internal DAC of your computer, ensuring a cleaner and more accurate audio signal. The DAC Magic 200 also offers a range of connectivity options, including optical and coaxial digital inputs, as well as balanced XLR outputs and unbalanced RCA outputs.
Comment+ : DAC shoot-out (DacMagic 200M, Mojo 2, Ares II)
More thoughts on my DAC Shoot-out. Zing…Zip…Pow….Kapow!
1. Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M
It would be easy to think my video is a criticism of the DacMagic 200M, for it isn’t. Comparisons undeniably lead to perceptions about value but it’s how individuals draw those themselves that matter, crucially in the process of short-listing using HiFi reviews. Us reviewers – we are not to be so big headed to think everything we say goes. Also let’s remember too that in the US the Cambridge is a fraction of the Mojo 2’s price and as an AV hub it has more connections too.
Also the Cambridge – ubiquitous with thoughts about punting and boating lakes, for Cambridge Audio’s abbreviated name-sake might conjure, being tuned for detail and high frequencies has a marketing advantage….Playing devils advocate, in the pantheons of us pretentious audiophiles, forwardness connotes something to avoid…..but who says so in the right HiFi system. Also too, we must remember that products have to appeal to a market. Those who are content on sound quality improvements visiting their local store, however achieved, may not even associate with the word ‘Audiophile’. I don’t think I did ten years ago when buying HiFi.
So what I’m saying is that the products don’t just suit those like me, poking around at sound quality to the nth degree, deconstructing a product to the extent perceptions may exist of unworthiness. No No No. Products suit the entirety of a market who come across them. And as I alluded to, one review is rightly based on the experiences of one set of gear or a few sets, not those who may have differing experiences or HiFi which is more price and performance commensurate. The DacMagic 200 is compared to the others since Mojo 2 is price comparable in some locales and a very worthy (and hard to beat) product….
2. Chord Mojo 2
How much has been said already about this DAC, considered my favourite in this DAC shoot-out. I’ve assessed it to completion in my Mojo 2 review and now the bullets have stopped ricocheting in the shoot-out. But maybe not – for there is one more test to do and watch this space for Poly, Chord’s add on streamer module. I’m late to the party, sure! – 5 years late in fact, as this unit came out in 2017, but a review is a review nonetheless and a test using Mojo 2 against the output of newer smartphones, like those from the Apple stable, is a new test.
A correction to the above film3. Denafrips Ares 2
I think I have said as much as I can on the Ares 2, featured in my previous video here in a comparison to the Chord Qutest, and RME ADI-2 DAC FS. But one thing being mentioned on the Denafrips Facebook group at the moment, is grey imports of the Ares 2, being sold at considerably reduced prices.
A grey import is essentially a product that doesn’t have a manufacturer warranty for a number of reasons. So beware!
Incidentally…
Whilst talking consumer matters, if you are buying remotely and are UK or EU based, be aware that HiFi dealers CANNOT charge restocking fees, if you decide to return a product, under the auspices that they haven’t got the item in stock at the time you buy and have had to order with the manufacturer. Restocking fees are a charge on items returned when buying online or via tele-sales, in difference to in situ shop purchases. I saw a UK dealer charging a 20% restocking fee in their policy recently. Distance selling allows a useful means of trying a product and cancelling an order within 14 days, if you should desire, and good UK/EU dealers honour this.
This makes it compatible with a wide range of audio devices and systems. In terms of design, the DAC Magic 200 is sleek and minimalist, with a solid aluminum case that helps to shield against electrical interference. It also features a front-panel display that shows information about the current audio signal, such as sample rate and source. Overall, the Cambridge DAC Magic 200 is a top-of-the-line digital-to-analog converter that offers exceptional audio performance and versatility. With its advanced features and high-quality construction, it is a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their digital music listening experience..
Reviews for "Understanding the Technical Specifications of the Cambridge DAC Magic 200"
1. John - 2/5 - I was extremely disappointed with the Cambridge Dac Magic 200. While it promised high-quality audio and superior digital-to-analog conversion, it fell short in several areas. Firstly, the build quality was subpar, with cheap and flimsy materials used in its construction. Secondly, the sound quality was average at best, with a noticeable lack of depth and clarity. Lastly, the user interface was unintuitive and difficult to navigate. Overall, I would not recommend the Cambridge Dac Magic 200 to anyone looking for a high-quality DAC.
2. Emily - 1/5 - The Cambridge Dac Magic 200 was a complete letdown for me. I had high expectations for this DAC, but it simply did not live up to them. The sound quality was mediocre, with a lack of detail and a muddy bass. Additionally, I found that the device had a tendency to overheat after extended use, which was concerning. The build quality was also questionable, with cheap plastic casing that felt flimsy and easily breakable. Overall, I regret purchasing the Dac Magic 200 and would not recommend it to others.
3. David - 2/5 - I had high hopes for the Cambridge Dac Magic 200, but unfortunately, it did not meet my expectations. While it did provide a noticeable improvement in sound quality compared to my onboard audio, the difference was minimal and not worth the price. Additionally, the device had a tendency to produce a high-pitched whine when connected to certain headphones or speakers, which was incredibly irritating. The build quality was also subpar, with a fragile volume knob that broke easily. Overall, I found the Cambridge Dac Magic 200 to be an underwhelming and overpriced product.