Audiolab extends the M-DAC range with its smallest, most affordable high-resolution DAC/headphone amp yet.

Since the launch of the original M-DAC in 2011, Audiolab’s range of standalone DACs has earned widespread acclaim. Last year’s arrival of the range-topping M-DAC+ and an all-in-one DAC/amp called the M-ONE extended the family by building upon the same technology. Now, a fourth model is set to join the M-DAC range: M-DAC Mini.

As the name suggests, the M-DAC Mini is the smallest hi-res DAC/headphone amp in the range. At less than £300, it is also the most affordable. Yet it contains the same core technologies as others I the M-DAC range with the ES9018 Sabre32 Reference DAC nestling at its heart. It is designed to be flexible, with wired and wireless connectivity eabling the use of a wide range of digital devices, from phones and computers to TVs and games consoles. It is also the first M-DAC product to cut ties with the mains supply, its built-in rechargeable battery.

There are optical and coaxial digital inputs and outputs, Type-A and Mini-B USB inputs (these are asynchronous with two dedicated master clocks to eliminate jitter), stereo RCA hifi outputs and a high-quality 6.3mm headphone socket – great for all manner of headphones, including larger hifi designs. Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, with support for the sonically superior aptX codec, adds further flexibility.

Like the M-DAC+, the M-DAC Mini is equipped to process PCM audio data up to 32-bit/384kHz via USB, ensuring it is primed to take full advantage of hi-res digital sound both now and in the future. The USB input also supports DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256.

Available from June at an RRP of £299.95.