airDAC vs Musical Fidelity X-DAC v3
The X-DAC v3's max sample rate is 192 kHz against the airDAC's 96 kHz and its signal-to-noise 121 dB against 106 dB. Both share bit depth (24-bit) and thd (0.002%).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
airDAC
ArcamDigitalDACsStreamersDiscontinued
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$415
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the airDAC
The Arcam airDAC is a high-fidelity digital-to-analog converter designed to integrate AirPlay and UPnP streaming into any audio system, allowing wireless music streaming from Apple devices and network sources. It features SPDIF coaxial and Toslink optical digital inputs, as well as a SPDIF output to connect to other DACs. The airDAC uses a TI PCM5102 DAC chip and supports 16-bit and 24-bit audio at sample rates up to 192kHz (44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz supported for inputs). It offers a class-leading line-level output of 2.15Vrms, a frequency response of 10Hz to 20kHz ±0.1dB, and a low total harmonic distortion plus noise of 0.002%. The device is housed in a stylish cast aluminum case and consumes a maximum of 7 watts of power. It is praised for its ability to stream music wirelessly with audiophile quality, including support for NAS streaming via UPnP, making it a versatile and convenient solution for modern digital audio setups.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 24-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 96 kHz
- MQA Support
- No
- DAC Chip
- TI PCM5102
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.002%
- SNR
- 106 dB
- Output Voltage
- 2.1V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- Yes
- Ethernet
- No
- Digital Inputs
- SPDIF (Coaxial), Toslink Optical, AirPlay, UPnP
Streaming Services
Supported streaming platforms and protocols
- AirPlay
- v1
- Chromecast
- No
- Roon Ready
- No
- Spotify Connect
- No
- TIDAL Connect
- No
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 190 × 44 × 120 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 1.1 kg (2 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions