S.M.S.L - SU-1

Desktop Digital To Analog Converter (DAC)

Sale price₹ 7,699 Regular priceMRP: ₹ 7,999
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DELIVERY
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What does "ships within 24/48 hours" mean?

In a nutshell, ships within 24/48 hours basically means that your product will be shipped out or dispatched from our warehouse within 24/48 hours after placing the order. It also indicates that the products are readily available at our warehouse and once we receive your order, we dispatch it out at the earliest either on the same day or the next working day depending on when you’ve placed your order.


What it does not mean:

A lot of our customers assume that it means their order will get delivered to them within 24/48 hours, but that’s not what it means. For an order to reach you, it can take anywhere up to 3-4 business days, depending on which part of India you are placing an order from.

For an accurate timeline, you can enter your pin code on the product page and check for an estimated date of arrival.

Delivery By:

7 Day Replacement Guarantee

In case you receive the S.M.S.L - SU-1 with a manufacturing defect, please raise a return request within 7 days of delivery.

However, if you receive an incorrect / damaged / different product or one with missing accessories, please raise a return request within 24 hours of delivery. In case you receive a product with a missing, incorrect, or faulty accessory, you will be given a replacement accessory instead of the entire product.

Please make sure that the product is in the original packaging with all the accessories it came with. We'll also need an unboxing video and images of the parcel to investigate about the discrepancy. You may be asked to share images of the product and the packaging received for us to determine the damage or defect prior to approving the return request. The free replacement will be shipped only once the original order is returned.

A replacement will be issued only if:

- It is found to be defective
- It is determined that the product was not damaged while in your possession
- The product is not different from what was shipped to you
- The product is returned in original condition (with brand’s/manufacturer's box, MRP tag intact, user manual, warranty card and all the accessories therein)

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Warranty & Services

Don't sweat it, this S.M.S.L - SU-1 comes with a 1 Year warranty from S.M.S.L that covers manufacturing defects. All products featured on Headphone Zone are backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.

Read more about S.M.S.L's warranty in India.

Club Audiophile

Join Club Audiophile to begin your pursuit of great sound. Earn points and save on every purchase.

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Why S.M.S.L is Special

🇨🇳

Designed in China

Established & Reputed

Trust us, our reputation speaks for itself 🏆!


I believe that when a brand has decades of proven excellence, you can invest with confidence knowing your purchase is backed by years of audio engineering expertise. These products come from manufacturers with extensive histories of innovation and unwavering commitment to sonic excellence. Think of them like luxury watch brands - their reputation has been earned through decades of consistent quality and innovation.


With their extensive history of innovation and countless satisfied customers worldwide, you can be confident your investment is backed by proven audio engineering expertise and industry leadership 📈.


When you see "🎖️ Established & Reputed" products, expect time-tested excellence from manufacturers who've consistently demonstrated mastery in audio engineering for generations.

Specialist

A masterpiece from experts who know audio inside and out 🔧!


I tend to describe specialist manufacturers as "audio artisans" who focus exclusively on perfecting specific categories of equipment. These products are meticulously crafted by dedicated experts who possess deep knowledge of sound reproduction, ensuring every technical aspect is refined to perfection. Think of them like master craftsmen who spend their entire careers perfecting one specific skill - their focused expertise shows in every detail.


These dedicated experts bring years of specialised knowledge to the design process, resulting in products that consistently achieve exceptional performance standards through focused engineering excellence 🎯.


When you see "🌟 Specialist" products, expect focused expertise from manufacturers who dedicate their entire efforts to perfecting specific audio equipment categories.

🐣

Born in 2009

Why we love this DAC/Amp

Value for Money

I've found that the best gear isn’t always the most expensive. Some products punch well above their weight and deliver performance that rivals higher-priced alternatives. That’s what we mean with the "Value for Money" badge. It’s our way of telling you that you’re getting something special without breaking the bank. 🥜


These products are all about maximum returns for minimal investment. You’re not just saving money — you’re gaining an audio experience that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s build quality, tuning, or bundled accessories, these picks overdeliver.


When you see '🥜 Value for Money' products, expect impressive performance at an affordable price, making them a smart pick for budget-conscious buyers or first-time audiophiles.

Ideal for Beginners

Lost in the vast world of audio equipment?


Don't worry, we're here to guide you 🤝! I believe that everyone's audiophile journey should start with something approachable and welcoming. These carefully selected products serve as the perfect entry point into high-quality sound, specifically chosen to help you navigate through sometimes overwhelming technical options. Think of them as your friendly neighbourhood guide who knows exactly where to start without getting lost in complex specifications.


These products strike an ideal balance between quality and accessibility, featuring user-friendly designs and straightforward functionality. They're specifically selected as the perfect starting point for your audiophile journey, offering serious performance without intimidating complexity or premium pricing that might discourage exploration.


When you encounter "🌱 Ideal for Beginners" products, expect approachable excellence - these are your stepping stones into the world of premium audio, designed to grow with your developing appreciation for great sound.

Incredibly Popular

Some things deserve all the attention ⭐!


I've found that when something becomes incredibly popular in the audio world, it's usually for very good reasons. This exceptional audio gear has earned widespread popularity by consistently delivering outstanding performance that resonates with listeners across diverse preferences and experiences. Think of it like that blockbuster movie that everyone loves - sometimes, universal appeal indicates genuine quality rather than just marketing hype.


The widespread acclaim isn't just about trend or marketing - it's a testament to genuine quality and performance that has been consistently demonstrated through real-world usage. This popularity has been earned through merit, delivering reliable satisfaction to countless users 📈.


When you encounter "🥇 Incredibly Popular" products, expect proven excellence validated by the collective experience of satisfied users who've made these their go-to choice.

For Audiophiles at Home

I’ve always loved the ritual of coming home, settling into my favourite chair, and firing up a dedicated setup. Gear labelled For Audiophiles at Home is made for those moments — when you can really sit back and appreciate music in its purest form 🛋️. These products tend to be more powerful, larger, and often require wall power — perfect for a stationary rig.


Here’s the trade-off: these setups often involve external DACs, amps, or full-size headphones, which means more space, more power, but also more immersive listening. They shine when used in quiet environments, where detail, depth, and dynamics can truly be appreciated.


When you see '🏠 For Audiophiles at Home' products, expect: exceptional fidelity, stronger output, and the kind of soundstage that makes you never want to leave your listening chair.

Connect With Cable

In my experience, there’s still nothing like the dependability of a wired connection when it comes to audio 🎧. I love describing it as the direct flight of music — no delays, no turbulence. When a product says “Connect with Cable,” it means you’re getting the most reliable signal path, with zero wireless compression and minimal interference.


Here’s what’s actually happening: a physical cable transmits uncompressed analog or digital signals directly from your source to your gear. This results in lower latency, no signal drops, and consistently better sound — especially when paired with a good DAC or amp. It’s ideal for critical listening, gaming, and professional use. The trade-off? You’re tethered — but for a lot of audiophiles, that’s a small price to pay for sonic purity.


When you see '🔗 Connect With Cable' products, expect: pure, uninterrupted sound quality that lets your gear perform at its full potential — perfect for focused, high-fidelity listening.

Built like a Tank

Durability concerns? Rest assured 💪.


I tend to describe these products as audio equipment that's built to survive anything you can throw at them. These headphones incorporate high-grade metal components and reinforced design elements that ensure they can handle demanding conditions while maintaining structural integrity. Think of them as the military-grade vehicles of the audio world - over-engineered for reliability and built to last decades, not just years.


The metal construction provides exceptional strength and longevity while contributing to a premium feel that serious audio enthusiasts appreciate. Whether you're a professional who needs reliable daily-use equipment or someone who values long-term investment in audio gear 🏗️.


When you encounter "🪖 Built like a Tank" products, expect unmatched robustness and durability you can count on for years of intensive use.


Why it Sounds Amazing

DAC Chip

I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.


Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips — like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic — offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.


When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high-quality headphones — perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.

Decodes Upto

When I see "Decodes up to" listed in product specs, I think of it like a music translator that speaks more languages than you’ll ever need. It tells you how far a DAC or audio device can go in handling hi-res formats—think PCM, DSD, or MQA—and at what resolution. 🧠🎶


Technically, this refers to the maximum bit depth and sample rate a DAC can process—like 32-bit/768kHz PCM or DSD512. The higher these numbers, the more detailed and lifelike the audio can potentially sound. But remember, real-world improvements depend on the recording quality and your headphones, not just specs alone.

S.M.S.L Introduces Their Latest Desktop DAC – The SU-1

S.M.S.L SU-1 is a compact yet high-performance desktop digital-to-analog converter (DAC) built for audiophiles. It supports high-resolution audio formats including PCM, DSD, and MQA. Featuring the latest AK4493S DAC chip and XMOS XU-316 USB processor, the SU-1 delivers accurate and immersive sound. With USB, optical, and coaxial inputs, it offers flexible connectivity across a wide range of devices.

Featuring AKM DAC Chip and XMOS Processor for Pristine Audio

S.M.S.L SU-1 is powered by the AK4493S DAC chip from AKM, known for its clean and smooth sound reproduction with ultra-low distortion (<0.00013%). Paired with the 16-core XMOS XU-316 processor, the SU-1 handles audio formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512, ensuring precise and detailed playback.

MQA-Enabled DAC With Multiple Input Options

S.M.S.L SU-1 supports full MQA and MQA-CD decoding, delivering studio-quality sound from compact files. It includes USB, optical, and coaxial inputs, allowing easy integration with CD players, TVs, and computers. Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, the SU-1 offers effortless connectivity for modern setups.

Crafted With Aluminium Alloy Housing for Durability

Built with a CNC-machined aluminium alloy body, the S.M.S.L SU-1 is both sturdy and heat-efficient. Its compact size saves desk space, while its clean anodised finish gives it a sleek, professional look, perfect for any high-end audio setup.

Featuring AKM DAC Chip and XMOS Processor for Pristine Audio

S.M.S.L SU-1 is powered by the AK4493S DAC chip from AKM, known for its clean and smooth sound reproduction with ultra-low distortion (<0.00013%). Paired with the 16-core XMOS XU-316 processor, the SU-1 handles audio formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512, ensuring precise and detailed playback.

MQA-Enabled DAC With Multiple Input Options

S.M.S.L SU-1 supports full MQA and MQA-CD decoding, delivering studio-quality sound from compact files. It includes USB, optical, and coaxial inputs, allowing easy integration with CD players, TVs, and computers. Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, the SU-1 offers effortless connectivity for modern setups.

Crafted With Aluminium Alloy Housing for Durability

Built with a CNC-machined aluminium alloy body, the S.M.S.L SU-1 is both sturdy and heat-efficient. Its compact size saves desk space, while its clean anodised finish gives it a sleek, professional look, perfect for any high-end audio setup.

LED Indicator

S.M.S.L SU-1 features an LED indicator that displays the input option.

Control Button

S.M.S.L SU-1 embeds a control button that allows you to access various features.

Meticulous Design

S.M.S.L SU-1 is crafted from a CNC-machined aluminium alloy body to make it sturdy and heat-efficient.

Accessories to Get you Started

1. Type-A to Type-C USB Cable x1
2. User Manual


All You Need To Know About The S.M.S.L SU-1

DAC Chip
AKM AK4493S
Input
USB
Optical
Coaxial
Output
RCA
Output Level
2.0Vrms
THD+N
0.00013%(-117dB)
Dynamic Range
121dB


1 Year Warranty

Don't sweat it, this S.M.S.L - SU-1 comes with a 1 Year warranty from S.M.S.L that covers manufacturing defects. All products featured on Headphone Zone are backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.

Read more about S.M.S.L's warranty in India.

Unveiling Cutting-Edge Audio Technology

Established in 2009, Foshan ShuangMuSanLin Technology Co. Ltd. is based in Shenzhen, China. S.M.S.L specializes in audio equipment including DACs, stereo headphone amplifiers, and power amplifiers. With an in-house R&D, manufacturing, and marketing team, S.M.S.L has built an extensive sales network covering 33 cities in China. Additionally, S.M.S.L has developed strategic partnerships with several countries, including Japan, Britain, Germany, Portugal, and Singapore. Their products are exported to over 30 countries worldwide and have garnered high customer satisfaction.

Explore Collection
Considering its input flexibility, clean implementation of the AKAK4493S dac, and good dynamics, this could be a perfect upgrade or starter DAC for audiophiles assembling their first desktop audio stack.
SU-1 in my opinion is well built, sounds good when paired with a good amp, depending on your preference. For the price and the features that come alongside with SU-1, I think it is a no-brainer and easy recommendation.
The SMSL SU-1 is a quite compact and highly capable desktop type of Digital to Analog Converter that shows good technical capability and just a very low amount of sonic coloration, which makes it to an ideal source for amplifiers.

Have a question? Get in touch!

Check out the most common questions our customers ask. Still have questions? Talk to our Headphone Gurus.

Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 10.30am-6:30pm.Average answer time: 2-3 Hours

Other Details


Generic Name Digital Audio Converter
Importer Details Importers Name: Ferrari Video
Address: 63/18, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Chennai - 600020
Contact No: 044-24420733
Net Quantity 1
Package Contents S.M.S.L SU-1 MQA DAC
Type-A to Type-C USB Cable x1
User Manual


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    Some things deserve all the attention ⭐!


    I've found that when something becomes incredibly popular in the audio world, it's usually for very good reasons. This exceptional audio gear has earned widespread popularity by consistently delivering outstanding performance that resonates with listeners across diverse preferences and experiences. Think of it like that blockbuster movie that everyone loves - sometimes, universal appeal indicates genuine quality rather than just marketing hype.


    The widespread acclaim isn't just about trend or marketing - it's a testament to genuine quality and performance that has been consistently demonstrated through real-world usage. This popularity has been earned through merit, delivering reliable satisfaction to countless users 📈.


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  • Our Team's Favourite

    Cause after all, we are audiophiles first 🎧!


    In my experience, when our entire team gets excited about something, you know it's genuinely exceptional. This audio gear has captured the hearts and minds of our seasoned experts, distinguishing itself as a standout favourite among people who test hundreds of products every year. Think of it like getting a unanimous recommendation from a panel of audio critics - when everyone agrees, you pay attention.


    These selections have not only met but exceeded our rigorous standards, earning enthusiastic endorsement from our audio specialists who've tested everything from budget options to flagship models. When you choose these products, you're selecting gear that has been thoroughly vetted and passionately embraced by genuine experts 🏆.


    When you choose "💙 Our Team's Favourite" products, expect expertly vetted excellence backed by genuine enthusiasm from people who live and breathe audio every day.

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    I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.


    Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips — like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic — offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.


    When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high-quality headphones — perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.

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    I like to think of power output in audio gear like engine horsepower, it determines how much muscle your setup really has 💪. Whether you’re trying to drive a pair of power-hungry planar headphones or just want headroom for dynamic peaks, power output is the spec you want to check first.


    Technically, it refers to the amount of electrical power (measured in mW or Watts) an amp or DAC/Amp combo can deliver to your headphones. More power means better control, improved dynamics, and the ability to handle demanding gear without distortion. But more isn’t always better, too much power with sensitive IEMs can introduce hiss or harshness.


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    These products are all about maximum returns for minimal investment. You’re not just saving money — you’re gaining an audio experience that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s build quality, tuning, or bundled accessories, these picks overdeliver.


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    Some things deserve all the attention ⭐!


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  • DAC Chip

    I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.


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    These products are all about maximum returns for minimal investment. You’re not just saving money — you’re gaining an audio experience that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s build quality, tuning, or bundled accessories, these picks overdeliver.


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    These selections have not only met but exceeded our rigorous standards, earning enthusiastic endorsement from our audio specialists who've tested everything from budget options to flagship models. When you choose these products, you're selecting gear that has been thoroughly vetted and passionately embraced by genuine experts 🏆.


    When you choose "💙 Our Team's Favourite" products, expect expertly vetted excellence backed by genuine enthusiasm from people who live and breathe audio every day.

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    When you see '✂️ Use Wirelessly with Bluetooth' products, expect: tangle-free convenience and solid sound quality — great for commuting, workouts, or casual listening.


  • DAC Chip

    I like to say the DAC chip is the heart of any audio device — it’s the part that actually transforms digital files into music you can hear 🎧. Think of it like a chef decoding a recipe to create a delicious meal. The better the DAC chip, the more faithfully it translates your music. And in my experience, a great DAC can completely change how your headphones sound.


    Now, here’s what’s actually happening: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) takes digital signals (your MP3s, FLACs, or streams) and converts them into an analog waveform your ears can enjoy. Different DAC chips — like those from ESS, AKM, or Cirrus Logic — offer their own sound signatures, levels of clarity, and noise performance. A good DAC ensures accurate timing, minimal distortion, and exceptional resolution.


    When you see '⚙️ DAC Chip' products, expect: clean, detailed audio and better synergy with high-quality headphones — perfect for anyone upgrading from average sound to audiophile quality.

Customer Reviews

Based on 30 reviews
90%
(27)
7%
(2)
3%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
A
Ajay Singh Parmar (Mohali)

S.M.S.L - SU-1

We’re so grateful for your fantastic rating!

S
Srikant Rao (Hyderabad)
The most suggested & recommended DAC

I am just loving this! The sound output which comes from this equipment is very soothing for the ears and doesn't give any ear fatigue.

That’s wonderful! So glad you’re loving the soothing sound and fatigue free listening. Keep the music playing!

M
Mohammad Aaftab (Nellore)

Awesome value for money

So glad you think so! Nothing better than great sound at a great price. Keep the music playing!

A
Anish Lall (Dehradun)
Big package in small size !

I am posting this review after using the DAC for a month.

Purchase Decision: Wanted a DAC which had a musical presentation and this one fit the bill perfectly. It has a AKM DAC chip which is known for its warm and musical sound signature. Many seasoned audiophiles had great things to say about this little gem. Glad that HZ had it in their catalogue at an attractive price point, hence there was no hesitation in placing the order.

My Experience: This small DAC is a no frills box with all the connectivity options (sans BT option, which is not missed). I initially used the DAC with USB cable connected to MacBook (for both power and audio stream) and it sounded really nice. After some days added SMSL PD100 Pro DDC (also ordered from HZ) to my audio chain and that elevated the listening experience to yet another level. The highs were much more clear and defined, vocals were more lifelike and the lows were more refined. I am using OPT TOSLINK cable from DDC to DAC and powering it up with a power bank via USB cable (have experienced cleaner sound with the power bank, hope to get my hands on a good quality linear power supply to take it up another notch or so). Really happy with the purchase and this DAC is now my primary DAC for extended listening sessions.

Recommendation: Have no hesitation in recommending this awesome DAC to anyone who is looking for a desktop DAC (not for headphone). Its a great VFM product, don’t think there is any better option at this price point as of now. Requires min 70 hours or so of burn in to attain its optimal level. Highly recommend paring it with SMSL PD100/PD100 Pro DDC and powering it with a power bank.

Pros:

1. Best cost to performance option.
2. Very low power consumption.
3. Very Small form factor.

Cons:

None, it easily surpasses in all the right departments at this price point.

Thank you for this detailed, thoughtful review! Love how you’ve shared your clear, real-world impressions and setup journey, especially pairing it with the SMSL PD100 Pro for that next-level clarity and lifelike vocals.
Glad it’s become your primary DAC for extended listening, and your practical recommendations will help many others looking to build a clean, musical desktop chain without overspending. Enjoy every note, and thank you for trusting us with your audio journey!

P
Pt ravindran Pt ravindran (Salem)
Fantastic dac thanks to headphones zone

It's good for music. Connect with cd player and Bluetooth sound is clean mids low and high is fantastic overall it performance is fantastic if you listen good music you purchase smsl su 1 dac thanks to headphones zone

Thank you so much for the fantastic rating and review! We're thrilled you enjoyed it—keep the music playing!

V
Vinay Rawat (Gurugram)
Absolutely Value for money.

This cute little DAC is amazing. I hooked it with Sony blueray player and Cambridge Audio Amp. And 20 yrs old CD collection never sound so beautiful. I was planning for schiit Modi but end with SMSL . Absolutely worth every penny. Happy and Satisfied

That’s such a heartwarming experience! So glad the little SMSL DAC brought new life to your CD collection, sounds like a perfect match.

N
Nadeem Siddiqui (Kolkata)
Smsl su 1 best budget friendly dac with big sound

I purchased this dac the second time.
Gear I own:-
Nad c370 stereo amplifier.
Pioneer A400 stereo amplifier
ASR A700 Canadian bookshelf speakers
Tanmoy mercury 7.4 floorstanding speakers
SMSL SU-1 dac
Apple music subscription (lossless music)
Now hear comes the review of SMSL SU-1
A dac is extremely necessary to play music on apple music lossless and SMSL su1 is the most budget friendly dac but sound is extremely detailed with nice,tight bass.vocals are forward ,sounstage is broad .

Thank you for such an in-depth and thoughtful review! Your insights are incredibly valuable and will surely help other audiophiles make informed decisions.

Y
Yogeshwar Lokesh (Bengaluru)

S.M.S.L - SU-1

Thank you for your wonderful ratings.