SMSL SU-3 USB DAC with AK4496, 32-Band PEQ and DSD512

SMSL SU-3 High-Resolution USB DAC

The SMSL SU-3 is a compact high-resolution digital-to-analog converter built around AKM's AK4496 decoding chip and XMOS XU-316 audio master control system. With support for PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD512, 32-band fine PEQ adjustment, and both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA line outputs, it brings serious digital audio control to a desktop or home Hi-Fi system.

Key Features

• AKM AK4496 high-performance decoding chip
• XMOS XU-316 audio master control system
• PCM support up to 32-bit/768kHz
• DSD512 high-resolution audio decoding
• 32-band fine PEQ equalization with EQ power-off memory
• USB, optical, and coaxial digital inputs
• Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA line outputs
• Dual high-precision, low-phase-noise femtosecond crystal oscillators
• Dedicated USB power filtering system
• CNC-machined anodized aluminum alloy housing

AKM AK4496 Conversion with Ultra-Low Distortion

The SU-3 uses AKM's AK4496 decoding chip for accurate digital signal conversion. SMSL's circuit refinement and acoustic tuning are designed to reduce signal loss and harmonic interference, with a stated THD+N of 0.00012% (-118dB). The result is a clean, detailed signal path for music playback across a wide range of systems.

Stable Timing with Femtosecond Clock Oscillators

Two high-precision, low-phase-noise femtosecond crystal oscillators provide the main clock reference. By reducing phase noise and controlling transmission timing, the SU-3 is designed to support more stable and accurate digital-to-analog conversion.

PCM 768kHz and DSD512 Support

The XMOS XU-316 multi-core audio control system supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 decoding. This high-resolution capability is designed to preserve subtle overtones, spatial information, dynamic changes, and fine musical texture in compatible recordings.

32-Band Fine PEQ Equalization

The built-in 32-band parametric equalizer lets you fine-tune the listening experience across the audio range. Adjust tonal balance, bass and treble gain, brightness, and soundstage presentation to suit different music styles, connected equipment, and personal preferences. The EQ power-off memory function automatically recalls your settings after restart.

USB, Optical, and Coaxial Inputs

The SU-3 supports asynchronous USB transmission as well as optical and coaxial digital inputs. Connect it to a computer, streamer, CD transport, game system, or other compatible digital source and select the input that best suits your system.

Balanced XLR and RCA Line Outputs

For system flexibility, the SU-3 provides both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA line outputs. The XLR output is designed to offer strong resistance to interference over longer signal paths, while the RCA output provides broad compatibility with desktop and home Hi-Fi equipment.

USB-Powered Filtering and Refined Construction

A dedicated power filter system is designed to reduce noise, ripple, and electromagnetic interference from USB power while maintaining stable operation for the decoding and clock circuits. The compact housing is made from CNC-machined anodized aluminum alloy with a clean front-panel design that suits desktop and home audio environments. The SU-3 can be placed flat, vertically, or on its side to fit different setups.

Specifications

• Product type: Digital-to-analog converter (DAC)
• Decoding chip: AKM AK4496
• USB audio controller: XMOS XU-316
• Inputs: USB, optical, and coaxial
• Outputs: Balanced XLR line out and single-ended RCA line out
• Balanced output level: 4Vrms
• Single-ended output level: 2Vrms
• THD+N: 0.00012% (-118dB)
• Dynamic range: 126dB (XLR), 123dB (RCA)
• SNR: 126dB (XLR), 123dB (RCA)
• USB transmission: Asynchronous
• USB PCM support: 44.1kHz–768kHz
• USB DSD support: 2.8224MHz–22.5792MHz, up to DSD512
• Optical/coaxial sampling rate: 44.1kHz–192kHz
• USB bit depth: 1-bit–32-bit
• Optical/coaxial bit depth: 16-bit–24-bit
• Equalizer: 32-band fine PEQ with power-off memory
• Compatible systems: Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11, Mac OS X 10.6 or later, and Linux
• Power consumption: Less than 5W
• Standby power consumption: Less than 0.1W
• Dimensions: 116 × 40 × 87mm (W × H × D)
• Weight: 310g / 0.683lb

Frequently Asked Questions

What digital inputs does the SU-3 support?

It supports USB, optical, and coaxial digital inputs.

Does it support balanced output?

Yes. The SU-3 provides a balanced XLR line output as well as a single-ended RCA line output.

Can I adjust the sound with an equalizer?

Yes. The built-in 32-band fine PEQ lets you customize the frequency response, and the EQ power-off memory recalls your settings after restart.