dB Audio Labs USB DAC Review: A Relaxing, Immersive Sonic Escape

Reviewing The dB Audio Labs USB DAC  

Holy moly, this thing has a relaxing presentation. Not relaxed, mind you — relaxing. Incredibly detailed, and the soundstage really brings me into this tiny little DAC’s universe. I can turn up the volume and be increasingly immersed in the music, with no fatigue whatsoever.

I read on a Darko dB Audio Labs Tranquility Signature Edition DAC review that the theory behind creating a DAC with only USB input is based on the premise that a DAC without S/PDIF inputs sounds better than one with all types of digital inputs.

Whatever the case, I’ll say that, as a professed USB-disliker (I’m a massive fan of DLNA streaming), I very much like the way this sounds over USB.

At TMR, our test stations are outfitted with PS Audio Stellar components, and comparing the dB DAC against the Gain Cell DAC, I get less congested middle of the spectrum and a slightly more organic, natural feel in the dB Audio Labs, with no details lost.

I’m sad to put this DAC into inventory, which is a good sign. Snap this little gem up if you’re in the market!