DAC · NOVA
SMSL SU-1 “NOVA” Authored DAC
Base device — SMSL SU-1. You source the donor yourself — I return it upgraded, under warranty.
Specification
- Chip
- AK4493S · AKM
- Base unit
- SMSL SU-1
- Class after upgrade
- up to $500–600
- Warranty
- 3 mo
- Turnaround
- 2–3 days
What was done
- Compact Hi-Res DAC on the new-generation AK4493S converter from Asahi Kasei
- A full professional rework of the most affordable SMSL SU-1 DAC
- A proper external power supply is included in the build
- Optionally — a top-tier Sparkos SS3602 op-amp (USA)
- Portable: equally at home with a laptop or in a car
- Windows XP–11 (ASIO/WASAPI), Linux, macOS and Android (OTG, 48 kHz)
Gallery
Video
Teardown and upgrade
Teardowns, sound comparisons and a customer’s video review — on my channel.