For those new to the professional-grade audio world, the number of terms and different devices may seem complex at first. Today, we will discuss the differences between a DAC and an amp are.
To start with, we need to understand what each device is used for. A DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) is responsible for taking the digital audio signal and converting it to analog sound waves. This is a crucial component in any audio player/setup.
An amp (Amplifier), on the other hand, is responsible for amplifying the audio signal to an audible level and sending it to your headphones or speakers with the necessary amount of power for them to work properly.
These are not the only differences between DACs and amps. There are several other ones that we will cover in this article. We will also go through the factors you need to consider to decide which type of device is the right one for you. Keep reading to learn more!
Also Read: What is a DAC/AMP Combo?
What is a DAC?
A Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) is a hardware component that converts digital audio signals into analog audio signals. It does this by sampling the incoming signal and converting it into an analog waveform based on the sample rate of the incoming signal.
A DAC can be used in several different ways—it can be an external component that is connected to a computer or other device, or it may be part of an integrated circuit (IC) chip called “the system on a chip” (SoC).
By converting digital audio, the DAC will turn it into an analog signal that can be properly reproduced by your headphones or speakers. This process may sound simple, but it is quite complex, so the quality of the components present inside a Digital-to-Analog Converter will impact your sound quality.
The main benefit of using an external DAC is that you have more control over your audio quality. Most built-in DACs that come with smartphones and laptops are prone to noise and may not perform its best depending on your level of expectation.
What Are the Benefits of a DAC?
There are several benefits to using an external DAC. One of the most important is that it improves the sound quality of your music by reducing noise and distortion. A DAC will also improve the quality of any analog signal it processes, such as an audio output from a video game system or another device recorded digitally. Another benefit of a DAC is that it can reduce electrical noise. This can be particularly helpful when using an analog signal source, such as an audio player, which is prone to picking up interference from nearby electrical devices. All these benefits will depend, of course, on the quality of the DAC you choose to buy. It is worth spending a little more to make sure you get a unit with high-quality components.
Pros and Cons of a DAC
Pros:
- Higher sound quality overall.
- A DAC significantly reduces noise, especially in the case of analog audio players.
- An external DAC will sound better than a built-in one.
- A DAC isn't that expensive and brings a lot of improvement to your listening experience, depending on your particular use case.
Cons:
- The improvement in audio quality is very subtle.
Will a DAC Improve Sound Quality?
Yes, A DAC will make your music sound better. It removes noise from the signal and boosts the overall audio quality, making it sound more crisp and clear. If you’re using a laptop to listen to music, having a DAC can improve the quality of any audio player, even if it already features a built-in one. However, the sound quality improvement depends on the DAC you purchase. A high-end model will outperform a budget one in most cases.
A DAC is a great way to improve the quality of your music, however, it’s not an essential piece of equipment. If you don’t have one or just want to save some money, there are plenty of other ways to get better sound from your computer, such as using quality speakers and removing background noise with software like Audacity.
When Do You Need a DAC?
If you’re a professional music producer or an audiophile, a DAC could be a great addition to your setup. The higher the quality of your audio output, the better your listening experience will be. If you just want to listen to music while doing other things on your laptop (such as writing code), then there are cheaper units available that will work just as well.
However, if you're not experiencing any issues with external noise and distortion in your current setup, then a DAC could be an unnecessary investment, since it will only improve the audio quality of your system to a certain extent.
How to Choose a DAC?
When you’re looking for a DAC, there are several factors you need to consider. The first is whether your laptop or player has an auxiliary input or not (this will depend on the make and model). If so, then that’s all you need; otherwise, you will need to purchase a USB audio interface. Next up is the resolution of your DAC—the higher it is, the better quality sound you will be able to get out of it. Some DACs also have a USB output. This is an excellent feature as you can just plug it into your laptop and listen to your music.
What is an Amp?
An amplifier is a device that boosts the output level of an audio signal. This can be useful for driving headphones or passive speakers, as well as boosting the volume of your laptop, so it’s audible over other noises in the room (such as people talking). A good amp will also have controls for bass and treble to help you fine-tune the sound quality. Most amps nowadays are portable and have several different connectivity options. You can connect it to laptops and audio players using an RCA connection, 3.5mm and P2 jack or even via USB.
Also Read: The Difference Between Active and Passive PA Speakers
What Are the Benefits of an Amp?
Amps are useful to make your headphones or speakers perform their best. For example, a high impedance pair of professional studio headphones, such as those with 600 Ohms of impedance, will need an amp to work properly since your laptop most likely can't supply it with the necessary power.
External dedicated amps will also sound better than the built-in ones in your smartphone or laptop since they are built with better components, and you get more control over your sound if they have extra features such as a built-in EQ and DAC, for example.
Pros and Cons of an Amp
Pros:
- The device will amplify and supply your headphones or speakers the necessary power for them to work properly.
- If you choose a high-quality amp, then you will see a big improvement in sound quality.
- Many amps offer several extra features, such as a built-in EQ.
- A high-quality amplifier will reduce noise.
Cons:
- Some amps are quite expensive.
Will An Amp Improve Sound Quality?
Yes, an amplifier will most likely make your headphones or speakers sound better because it provides them with the power they need to produce clear and detailed audio. However, this doesn't mean that every amp is going to sound better than yours right out of the box.
Depending on the quality of the amp you choose and how compatible it is with your headphones or speakers, you will have a different listening experience. It is important to consider specifications such as the amp's power and connectivity options to ensure the best audio quality.
When Do You Need an Amp?
There are a few different scenarios in which you will need an amp. First, if your headphones or speakers don't have enough power to drive themselves, then they will benefit from being plugged into an amplifier. Secondly, if you want to hear music at high volumes without distortion or background noise interfering with your listening experience, then an amp can help with this as well. Most consumer-grade headphones or speakers have a low impedance, meaning the output in your laptop or smartphone will most likely be able to deliver the necessary power they need to work properly.
In the case of studio-grade headphones with a high impedance, for example, then an amp is needed to provide you with the best listening experience.
How to Choose an Amp?
First, you must consider the amp wattage. Usually, the higher the wattage, the louder and more powerful the amp will be. And it is a feature that shouldn't be ignored since larger speakers will need more power to function properly. There is a multitude of amps on the market; some are more portable than others, so it is a great idea to consider your use case versus the size of the amplifier. Most amps feature an RCA input and a P2 output, but the number of connections may vary greatly depending on the model, according to our research. For example, one of the amps we reviewed further down the article can only be used with speakers but not with headphones due to the lack of a headphone output.
Last but not least, consider your budget. As we mentioned before, more expensive units will certainly perform great due to having higher-quality components.
Also Read: Should Speaker Wattage Be Higher Than Amp Wattage?
Amp vs. DAC: The Key Differences
Both an amplifier and a digital-to-analog converter are two key components in any digital audio setup. Both devices serve an important purpose, but they work in very different ways. Here's a look at the key differences between amps and DACs:
- An amp takes a digital signal and amplifies it so that it can be played through speakers. A DAC converts a digital signal into an analog signal that can be used by an amplifier.
- Amps are typically used to power speakers, while DACs are used to connect digital audio sources (like a computer or CD player) to an amplifier.
- DACs typically offer better sound quality than amps by reducing analog noise, but they are not as good at boosting volume. Amps, on the other hand, are not as good at improving overall sound quality, but they can make a big difference in volume.
- Both can be used in conjunction.
Below is a table we created so you can see the key differences between amps and DACs more easily:
Should You Get An Amp or DAC?
It really depends on the rest of your setup and your intentions. If you have a CD player, for example, and would like to connect it to your laptop, then a DAC may be a better option since it will improve the conversion of digital to the analog signal. An amplifier is the best option if you have a pair of studio headphones or monitors that have a high impedance and need extra power to function. When you choose a high-quality amplifier to pair with it, the results are outstanding, and you get a big improvement.
Keep in mind that both DACs and amps will only improve the audio quality of your setup to a certain extent. In some cases, it is best to invest in a higher-quality pair of headphones or speakers if you're looking to upgrade the overall quality of your audio system.
What to Look For When Purchasing an Amp or a DAC?
When purchasing an amplifier or DAC, it is important to consider the quality of the unit. Look for an amp or DAC with a good reputation and consider the features that are important to you. Also, be sure to read reviews of the product you are considering before making your purchase.
Another thing to consider is the power output of the amp or DAC. If you plan on using it with sensitive headphones or speakers. If you plan on using it with less sensitive headphones or speakers, then you'll want a higher-powered unit.
Finally, keep in mind the price. Amps and DACs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. It's important to find one that fits your budget and your needs.
Should You Buy a DAC-Amp Combo?
Buying a DAC-amp combo can be a great idea, depending on your application. If you need both to convert a digital to analog signal as well as amplify your signal, then buying a combo device can save you some money. DAC-amp combos are very convenient as well.
The only drawback is that you won't have the same level of customization you would when choosing a separate DAC and amp, but that shouldn't be a problem for most users.
Bonus: Best DACS & Amps in 2024
1. FX-Audio DAC-X6 Mini HiFi 2.0 Digital Audio Decoder
This DAC from FX-Audio is compact and quite affordable: only $64.99 by the time this article was written. We like the fact that the unit offers several connectivity options: optical, USB, and coaxial, meaning you can use it both with CD players and laptops.
Features
- High-Quality Chipsets.
- Optical, USB, and Coaxial Connectivity.
- Portable design.
- Includes a Plug Adapter, Power Adapter, and a USB Cable.
We recommend the FX-Audio DAC-X6 to anyone on a budget looking for their first Digital to Analog Converter.
2. HIFIMAN EF400 Desktop Balanced Headphone DAC& Amplifier
If you're looking for a DAC-Amp hybrid, then the HIFIMAN is an excellent choice. It is quite expensive due to the high-quality components present inside the unit, but it should greatly improve any audio setup.
Features
- Portable Design.
- Balanced & RCA Outputs.
- USB-C & USB Inputs.
- Low Energy Consumption.
Since this unit is quite expensive, we only recommend it for professionals and advanced hobbyists. There are more affordable options if you're looking for your first unit.
3. Moukey Audio Amplifier 2 Channel Bluetooth 5.0
We were quite impressed with the features presented by this amp since it is very affordable. The Moukey Audio Amplifier has a built-in EQ and Bluetooth connectivity and only costs $59.99.
Features
- Built-In EQ.
- Bluetooth Connectivity.
- RCA Inputs & Outputs.
- 200 Watts Power.
This amp is an excellent choice for hobbyists and casual listeners. We like the fact that it can be controlled via Bluetooth.
4. Kinter MA170+ 2-Channel Auto Home Cycle Arcade DIY 2 x 18 W Mini Amplifier
With a portable, slick design, this amp was priced at only $18.88 by the time this article was written, being the most affordable unit we could find. Not only that, but it has several interesting features, such as a built-in EQ, and lots of positive reviews online.
Features
- Built-in EQ.
- Aluminum Case.
- Portable Design.
- RCA Inputs.
This amp is an excellent choice for anyone on a budget and provides every feature expected from a high-quality amplifier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a DAC or Amp If I'm Using an Audio Interface?
No, since your audio interface most likely already has enough power to deliver to your headphones or audio monitors. However, an amp should be necessary if you're using a high-impedance pair of studio headphones, such as one with more than 80 Ohms.
Should I Get an Amp or DAC for Gaming Purposes?
A DAC can be a useful addition to your gaming setup if you're using a 7.1 surround sound system. Some DACs can improve the soundstage and allow you more customization options on that matter. Plus, many come with an integrated amplifier as well.
Should I GET an Amp or DAC for Listening to Music?
If you're only listening to music, then in most cases it is better to go for an amplifier. It will greatly improve your overall experience and bring up the volume of your audio signal. A DAC could be useful in case you're using a CD player or analog audio players.
Do I Need to Connect an External DAC to an Amplifier?
Yes, external DACs need amplification, so in most cases, you will need an external amplifier to go with it.
Also Read: 8 Best Surround Sound Amplifiers For 5.1 & 7.1 Systems
Conclusion
As you can see, using an external DAC and amp can greatly improve your listening experience depending on your particular setup and use case. The best option between the two will largely depend on your expectations and your goals regarding audio quality. If you're experiencing any issues with noise and distortion, then we recommend getting an external DAC. There are great options on the market that won't cost much. However, if you're not experiencing any of these problems and would just like to improve the overall quality of your audio, a DAC might not be the best solution.
An amplifier is a great addition to your setup if you're using a high-impedance pair of headphones or a pair of speakers that require a great amount of power. These devices will bring up the volume of your audio signal and send it to your reproduction system. For both types of units, there are several options on the market, so we recommend that you research extensively before making your purchase. You most likely won't need to spend too much on a DAC or amp since there are many great budget options as well.
We hope this article was helpful in explaining the differences between DACs and amps. Thanks for reading!
