The affordable desktop DAC/headphone amplifier segment has become very competitive over the past 5 years; Schiit Audio has enjoyed a rather remarkable run over the past decade, but things definitely took a turn with the introduction of Dongle DACs and more affordable desktop amplifiers from rivals like FiiO, Topping, Questyle, and Audioengine. The COVID pandemic was most certainly a turning point as tens of millions of workers had to adjust to a new work reality.
Whilst most people returned to the office in some capacity, it still created an opportunity for manufacturers to offer compact and rather flexible desktop options for people who spend all day in their home office and really want to listen to music through headphones. Products like the new Audioengine D1P make that easier to accomplish.
Built on the foundation of its popular DAC 3 dongle and D1 desktop headphone amp/DACs, the D1P is a portable unit that can easily be used at home or on the go with powered speakers or headphones.
D1P Key Features
Enhanced Audio Quality: With its built-in DAC, the D1P enhances music streaming beyond the capabilities of many audio-listening devices. For example, it bypasses the limitations of standard divide sound cards, so your tracks from platforms like TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, or Spotify are delivered in the highest quality possible. Support is provided for high-resolution audio formats, including PCM up to 32-bit 384KHz, DSD 256, and MQA files.
Efficiency: The D1P is designed to deliver enough power to drive headphones between 10 to 600 ohms without draining unnecessary power from your device. This ensures that listening sessions are extended, with uncompromised sound quality.
Versatility: The D1P provides several connection options including the following:
- USB C Input: Provides connection to compatible devices for both power and audio.
- Optical Input: The provides compatibility with home theater systems, TVs, and other source devices that may provide optical outputs.
- Analog Output: The provides connectivity for powered speakers or external amps and stereo/AV receivers.
- Headphone Jack: Compatibility with a wide selection of headphones for personal listening.
Tip: The D1P is compatible with iOS, Android, MacOS, & Windows
Customized Listening: The D1P features several options to fine-tune your listening experience. One option is an output toggle switch that allows users to switch between headphones or speakers.
At Home or On The Go: Whether listening at your desk or in a café or other spot away from home, the D1P is designed to deliver the best possible functionality and audio listening quality.
What Comes In The Box
- 1 x D1P 32 Bit Portable Headphone Amplifier & DAC
- 1x USB-C cable
- 1 x Microfiber product bag
- 1x Setup guide
- 1 x Lightning to USB-C cable
Comparison
| Audioengine Model | D1P | DAC3 | D1 |
| Device Type | Portable Headphone Amp/DAC | Dongle Headphone Amp/DAC | Desktop Headphone Amp/DAC |
| Price | $169 | $149 | $169 |
| DAC/Heaphone Amp Chip | ES9219C | ES9281A | ES9018 |
| Input Bit-Depth | 32-bit | 32-bit | 32-bit |
| USB | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Optical In | Yes | No | Yes |
| RCA Out | Yes | No | Yes |
| Headphone Port | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heaphone Amp | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Headphone Impedance | 10 to 600 ohms | 10 to 600 ohms | 10 to 600 ohms |
| Supported Audio Formats | PCM, DSD, MQA | PCM, DSD, MQA | PCM, DSD |
Pricing and Availability
The Audioengine D1P is priced at $169 and is available at Amazon and directly through Audioengine.
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