SMSL DS300 Review: One of the Best Desktop DACs With Retro-Futuristic Style
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SMSL DS300 Review: Retro-Futuristic Looks Meet Serious Sound
The SMSL DS300 is proof that desktop audio gear doesn't have to look like it belongs in a server rack. While most DACs and headphone amplifiers play it safe with plain black or silver boxes, the DS300 leans into a bold, cyberpunk-inspired design that immediately grabs your attention. The silver chassis paired with bright orange accents gives it a personality that's hard to ignore — and honestly, it's refreshing to see.
Thankfully, the DS300 has the hardware to back up its looks.
Under the Hood
At the heart of the DS300 sits an ES9039Q2M DAC chip from ESS, working alongside a third-generation XMOS USB processor. Together they handle high-resolution playback up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512, with full MQA and MQA-CD decoding on top. On the amplification side, SMSL uses a quad of OPA1612A op-amps to deliver up to 3 watts per channel — plenty of muscle for driving demanding full-size headphones with authority. Three selectable gain settings give you room to fine-tune the output, so whether you're running sensitive in-ear monitors or power-hungry over-ears, you can dial in a level that suits your gear.
Build & Connectivity
The build quality feels excellent — a sturdy metal enclosure with a reassuring weight that makes it feel every bit like a premium desktop component. Around back, you get a genuinely versatile set of connections, including USB, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth, and balanced XLR outputs, plus dual headphone jacks up front — a standard 6.35mm output alongside a 4.4mm balanced jack. Whether you're wiring it into a full listening station or just plugging in a single pair of headphones, there's an option that fits.
Bluetooth deserves its own mention here too. This isn't a bare-bones wireless bolt-on — it supports high-quality codecs including LDAC and aptX HD, so streaming from your phone still sounds genuinely good rather than feeling like a compromise.
Lighting That Matches the Attitude
One of my favorite additions is the customizable lighting. SMSL lets you cycle through five modes — breathing effects, a music-rhythm mode that pulses in sync with your track, solid colors, or lights off entirely. It's a small feature, but one that perfectly matches the personality of the DS300. You can make it as flashy or as understated as you want.
Who's It For?
The SMSL DS300 is a great fit for desktop audiophiles, headphone enthusiasts, gamers, and anyone who wants a capable DAC/amp without settling for another boring black box. If you're simply looking for the cheapest way to power a pair of headphones, this is probably more than you need — but if you care about sound quality, build, and a little visual flair on your desk, it's an easy piece of gear to enjoy every day. Or if your like me and just love SMSL stuff, buy it!
Our Take
Audio gear has gotten a little too serious lately. The SMSL DS300 is a reminder that great sound doesn't have to come wrapped in a plain metal rectangle. Between its capable DAC section, genuinely powerful amp, versatile connectivity, quality Bluetooth streaming, and customizable lighting, the DS300 backs up its head-turning design with performance to match. It's proof that hi-fi can have a little personality.
