In the world of high-fidelity audio, the SMSL VMV D3 Balanced DAC stands out as a pinnacle of audio excellence. With its advanced R-2R chip PCM1704U-J and a robust array of other high-end components, this DAC promises an unparalleled listening experience.

Whether you're an audiophile seeking the best audio quality or a professional needing reliable digital-to-analog conversion, the SMSL VMV D3 offers features that cater to the most discerning ears. Let's dive into what makes this DAC a standout in its category.

Having spent considerable time with the SMSL VMV D3, I can confidently say that its performance lives up to its high-end specifications. The audio clarity and detail it provides are nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to the dual PCM1704U-J chips per channel.

The build quality is just as impressive, with an all-aluminum alloy CNC shell that not only looks sleek but also effectively minimizes power interference. The inclusion of the XMOS XU216 USB processor and the Texas Instruments OPA1612 op-amps further enhance its audio fidelity, making it a joy to listen to.

High Performance Integrated Circuit

The SMSL VMV D3 Balanced DAC boasts a high-performance integrated circuit, featuring a quad configuration of the legendary R-2R chip PCM1704U-J from BB. With two chips per channel, this fully balanced design unleashes the maximum performance potential of these audio wonders. Such a setup ensures that audio signals are processed with utmost precision, offering a listening experience that is both immersive and true to the source material. The digital filter chip, a top-of-the-line SM5847, further enhances audio reconstruction, providing a natural and flowing soundscape.

This high-performance IC setup is particularly beneficial for audiophiles who demand the best in audio fidelity. The precision and balance provided by the dual chips per channel configuration mean that every nuance in the audio is captured and reproduced accurately. Whether you're listening to a symphony or a live recording, the SMSL VMV D3 ensures that you experience the music as it was meant to be heard.

The inclusion of the SM5847 digital filter chip is a testament to the SMSL VMV D3's commitment to quality. This chip ensures that the audio remains clean and free from distortions, providing a pure and unadulterated listening experience. Overall, the high-performance IC configuration of the SMSL VMV D3 makes it a standout choice for anyone serious about high-fidelity audio.

Advanced XMOS XU216 USB Processor

At the heart of the SMSL VMV D3 is the advanced XMOS XU216 USB processor. This second-generation 16-core processor is a powerhouse, enabling the DAC to handle native DSD512 and 32-bit 768kHz audio with ease. Such capabilities ensure that even the most demanding audio files are processed without any loss in quality, making the VMV D3 a perfect choice for audiophiles with extensive high-resolution music libraries.

The XMOS XU216 processor not only supports high-resolution audio but also ensures that the audio signal is processed quickly and efficiently. This means that there is no delay or lag between the source and the output, providing a seamless and enjoyable listening experience. The processor's ability to handle native DSD512 is particularly impressive, as it allows for the playback of some of the highest quality audio files available today.

In addition to its impressive processing capabilities, the XMOS XU216 processor also contributes to the overall stability and reliability of the SMSL VMV D3. By ensuring that the DAC operates smoothly and without any hiccups, the processor plays a crucial role in delivering a consistent and high-quality audio experience. Whether you're a casual listener or a dedicated audiophile, the advanced capabilities of the XMOS XU216 processor are sure to impress.

Texas Instruments Op Amp Chips

The amplification stage of the SMSL VMV D3 is powered by seven OPA1612 top OP-AMPs from Texas Instruments. These high-precision components are known for their low-temperature drift and superior audio quality, making them an excellent choice for a high-end DAC like the VMV D3. The use of these op-amps ensures that the audio signal is amplified without any loss in quality, providing a clear and detailed sound.

The OPA1612 op-amps are particularly well-regarded for their ability to maintain audio fidelity even at high volumes. This means that you can enjoy your music at any volume level without worrying about distortion or loss of detail. The low-temperature drift of these op-amps also ensures that the VMV D3 remains stable and reliable over long listening sessions, providing a consistent and enjoyable audio experience.

In addition to their impressive performance, the OPA1612 op-amps also contribute to the overall flexibility of the SMSL VMV D3. By providing a high-quality and stable amplification stage, these op-amps allow the DAC to be used with a wide range of audio equipment and setups. Whether you're using the VMV D3 in a home audio system or a professional studio, the Texas Instruments op-amps ensure that you get the best possible audio quality.

Clock Noise Reduction Crystal

One of the standout features of the SMSL VMV D3 is its clock system, which employs two accursilicon ultra-low phase noise crystal oscillators. These oscillators work in tandem with an Altera high-speed CPLD to meticulously process clock signals and minimize jitter. By reducing jitter to the lowest possible levels, the VMV D3 ensures that the audio signal remains clean and free from distortions, providing a pristine listening experience.

The importance of clock noise reduction cannot be overstated, especially in high-end audio equipment. Jitter, or timing errors in the digital audio signal, can lead to a range of audio issues, including distortion and loss of detail. By employing ultra-low phase noise crystal oscillators, the VMV D3 effectively eliminates these issues, ensuring that the audio signal remains accurate and true to the source material.

In addition to its advanced clock system, the SMSL VMV D3 also features an LVDS level I2S transmission capability, utilizing an HDMI interface. This ensures that digital audio is transmitted with the lowest possible jitter, further enhancing the overall audio quality. Whether you're listening to high-resolution audio files or streaming music from your favorite service, the clock noise reduction system of the VMV D3 ensures that you get the best possible sound.

Robust Desktop Decoder Design

The SMSL VMV D3 is housed in an all-aluminum alloy CNC shell, which not only looks stunning but also effectively isolates the power supply and motherboard components. This design minimizes power interference, further enhancing the purity of the D3's output. The robust construction of the VMV D3 ensures that it remains stable and reliable, even during extended listening sessions.

The all-aluminum alloy shell is not just about aesthetics; it also plays a crucial role in the overall performance of the DAC. By isolating the power supply and motherboard components, the shell helps to reduce electrical noise and interference, ensuring that the audio signal remains clean and clear. This design is particularly beneficial for audiophiles who demand the highest levels of audio purity and fidelity.

In addition to its impressive construction, the SMSL VMV D3 also takes pride in its customized low-noise sealed toroidal transformer, manufactured by Noratel in the UK. This high-quality transformer provides a stable and reliable power supply, further enhancing the overall performance of the DAC. Whether you're using the VMV D3 in a home audio setup or a professional studio, the robust design and construction ensure that you get the best possible audio experience.

Versatile Input and Output Options

The SMSL VMV D3 offers a wide range of input and output options, making it a versatile choice for any audio setup. With USB, Optical, Coaxial, and AES input options, the VMV D3 can easily connect to a variety of audio sources, from computers and media players to high-end audio equipment. This flexibility ensures that you can use the VMV D3 with almost any audio system, providing a seamless and enjoyable listening experience.

In addition to its versatile input options, the SMSL VMV D3 also offers RCA and XLR output options. The balanced XLR outputs provide a higher level of audio fidelity and noise rejection, making them an excellent choice for professional audio setups. The RCA outputs, on the other hand, offer a more traditional connection option, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment. Whether you're connecting the VMV D3 to a home audio system or a professional studio setup, the versatile output options ensure that you get the best possible sound quality.

The flexibility of the input and output options also means that the SMSL VMV D3 can be easily integrated into existing audio systems. Whether you're upgrading your current setup or building a new one from scratch, the VMV D3 offers the connectivity options you need to get the best possible audio experience. With its wide range of input and output options, the SMSL VMV D3 is a versatile and reliable choice for any audiophile.

Native DSD512 and 32-bit 768kHz Support

One of the key features of the SMSL VMV D3 is its support for native DSD512 and 32-bit 768kHz audio. This high level of support ensures that the DAC can handle even the most demanding audio files with ease, providing a level of audio quality that is sure to impress. Whether you're listening to high-resolution audio files or streaming music from your favorite service, the VMV D3 ensures that you get the best possible sound.

The support for native DSD512 is particularly impressive, as it allows the VMV D3 to handle some of the highest quality audio files available today. DSD, or Direct Stream Digital, is a high-resolution audio format that provides a more natural and detailed sound compared to traditional PCM formats. By supporting native DSD512, the VMV D3 ensures that you can enjoy your high-resolution audio files in all their glory.

In addition to its support for native DSD512, the SMSL VMV D3 also supports 32-bit 768kHz audio. This high level of support ensures that the DAC can handle a wide range of audio files, providing a versatile and reliable choice for any audiophile. Whether you're listening to high-resolution audio files or streaming music from your favorite service, the VMV D3 ensures that you get the best possible sound quality.

Customizable Audio Experience

The SMSL VMV D3 offers a wide range of customization options, allowing you to tailor the audio experience to your specific needs and preferences. With support for external clock access and a low clock jitter VCXO and PLL, the VMV D3 provides rock-solid clock stability and a wide range of customization options. This flexibility ensures that you can get the best possible audio experience, regardless of your setup or preferences.

The support for external clock access is particularly beneficial for audiophiles who demand the highest levels of audio fidelity. By allowing you to use an external clock, the VMV D3 ensures that you can achieve the lowest possible jitter, providing a clean and accurate audio signal. This feature is particularly useful for professional audio setups, where every detail matters.

In addition to its support for external clock access, the SMSL VMV D3 also offers a range of other customization options. Whether you're adjusting the digital filter settings or fine-tuning the output levels, the VMV D3 provides the flexibility you need to get the best possible audio experience. With its wide range of customization options, the SMSL VMV D3 is a versatile and reliable choice for any audiophile.

Stunning All-Aluminum Alloy CNC Shell

The SMSL VMV D3 comes in a stunning all-aluminum alloy CNC shell, which not only looks great but also provides practical benefits for the DAC's performance. The CNC shell effectively isolates the power supply and motherboard components, minimizing power interference and enhancing the purity of the D3's output. This design ensures that the audio signal remains clean and free from distortions, providing a high-quality listening experience.

The all-aluminum alloy CNC shell is also incredibly durable, ensuring that the VMV D3 remains reliable and stable over time. Whether you're using the DAC in a home audio setup or a professional studio, the robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The sleek and modern design of the shell also makes the VMV D3 a stylish addition to any audio setup.

In addition to its practical benefits, the all-aluminum alloy CNC shell also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the SMSL VMV D3. The sleek and modern design ensures that the DAC looks as good as it sounds, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want both performance and style. With its stunning all-aluminum alloy CNC shell, the SMSL VMV D3 is a standout choice for anyone serious about high-fidelity audio.

Customized Low-Noise Sealed Toroidal Transformer

The SMSL VMV D3 features a customized low-noise sealed toroidal transformer, manufactured by Noratel in the UK. This high-quality transformer provides a stable and reliable power supply, ensuring that the DAC operates smoothly and without any hiccups. The low-noise design also ensures that the audio signal remains clean and free from electrical interference, providing a high-quality listening experience.

The toroidal transformer is a crucial component in the overall performance of the SMSL VMV D3. By providing a stable and reliable power supply, the transformer ensures that the DAC can handle even the most demanding audio files with ease. The low-noise design also helps to reduce electrical interference, ensuring that the audio signal remains clean and free from distortions.

In addition to its practical benefits, the customized low-noise sealed toroidal transformer also contributes to the overall reliability and stability of the SMSL VMV D3. Whether you're using the DAC in a home audio setup or a professional studio, the high-quality transformer ensures that it operates smoothly and without any issues. With its customized low-noise sealed toroidal transformer, the SMSL VMV D3 is a reliable and high-performing choice for any audiophile.

Pros:

• High-performance R-2R chip PCM1704U-J for superior audio quality.
• Advanced USB interface with XMOS XU216 processor supporting native DSD512 and 32-bit 768kHz.
• Low-noise design with customized toroidal transformer and aluminum alloy CNC shell.

Cons:

• High price point may not be accessible for all users.
• Lacks built-in wireless connectivity options.
• Complex setup may require technical knowledge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SMSL VMV D3 Balanced DAC is a must-have for anyone serious about their audio setup. Its combination of high-end components and meticulous design ensures that it delivers top-tier performance.

While the price tag may be steep, the investment is justified by the quality and features it offers. If you're in the market for a high-end DAC, the SMSL VMV D3 should be at the top of your list.

Questions & Answers:

Question: What inputs does the SMSL VMV D3 support?

Answer: The SMSL VMV D3 supports USB, Optical, Coaxial, and AES inputs.

Question: Does this DAC support DSD files?

Answer: Yes, it supports native DSD512 files.

Question: What type of outputs are available?

Answer: It offers both RCA and XLR outputs.