M-DAC Nano Mobile Dac/Head Amp From Audiolab

The latest addition to Audiolab’s M-DAC range is the new M-DAC Nano – a ‘pocketable’ mobile DAC/headphone amp 

The M-DAC Nano connects wirelessly to Android phones, iPhones, tablets and more via Bluetooth. The M-DAC Nano’s built-in battery supports Qi wireless charging – pop it on the supplied charging pad to deliver up to eight hours of playing time.

Hi-res 32-bit/384kHz is supported with upsampling of data received over Bluetooth. The integrated Bluetooth v4.2 receiver supports aptX and AAC codecs, in addition to Bluetooth’s standard SBC format, coupled to Class H analogue amplification, with auto-sensing to adapt the output to suit the load.

A choice of ‘standard’ and ‘enhanced’ audio modes is available – the former offers extended battery life while the latter optimises sound quality. A press of the ‘function’ button (labelled ‘f’) engages enhanced mode, using digital filtering with upscaling.

Volume is adjusted using a side-mounted, 64-step rotary control; this also has a ‘press’ function, which can be used to pause content and skip forward or back. A built-in MEMS microphone enables hands-free calls when paired with a smartphone and may also be used to engage Siri or Google Assistant on iOS or Android devices respectively. Other useful features include auto-pause when headphones are disconnected and auto-power-off to conserve battery charge after 10 minutes of inactivity.

You can also use the unit to add Bluetooth reception to a home-based audio system – simply connect the M-DAC Nano’s 3.5mm headphone output to a 3.5mm ‘aux’ input or RCA-phono inputs (cable not supplied).

Measuring 44x44x14mm and weighing 28g, the M-DAC Nano comes with a protective faux leather pouch, with a clip to attach to a shirt, belt or bag, whilst keeping the controls accessible.

The M-DAC Nano mobile DAC/headphone amp is available from late October at an RRP of £149.

For more information, click www.audiolab.co.uk

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