The Cambridge Audio DAC Magic is a digital-to-analog converter that has been highly regarded for its performance and value. This review will discuss the key features and performance of the DAC Magic. One of the standout features of the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic is its ability to handle a wide range of digital audio formats, including PCM, WAV, FLAC, and even DSD. This makes it a versatile option for audiophiles who have a variety of high-resolution audio files. Additionally, the DAC Magic has the ability to up-sample audio files to 24-bit/192kHz, which further improves the sound quality. In terms of build quality, the DAC Magic is built like a tank.
However, the DacMagic’s lack of 24-bit USB means you can’t play your high-res recordings through it from a computer without a sound card or other PC digital audio output. Apple users are lucky in that all of its computers have a combo optical digital/analog audio port capable of full 24-bit,96 kHz digital audio output.
However, the DacMagic s lack of 24-bit USB means you can t play your high-res recordings through it from a computer without a sound card or other PC digital audio output. The Chord edges ahead in performance, delivering even greater subtlety and rhythmic precision, but it can t match the DacMagic 200M s impressive feature versatility.
In terms of build quality, the DAC Magic is built like a tank. It features a sturdy metal casing that feels premium and well-constructed. The front panel has a clean and minimalist design, with a power button and a source selection button.
Cambridge Audio DacMagic review: Cambridge Audio DacMagic
The Cambridge Audio DacMagic is an excellent musical upgrade for CD players and DVD players alike, and could improve your PC sound as well.
Ty Pendlebury EditorTy Pendlebury is a journalism graduate of RMIT Melbourne, and has worked at CNET since 2006. He lives in New York City where he writes about streaming and home audio.
- Ty was nominated for Best New Journalist at the Australian IT Journalism awards, but he has only ever won one thing. As a youth, he was awarded a free session for the photography studio at a local supermarket.
First came vinyl, then came CD, and then (very briefly) came DVD-Audio and SACD, but now a new, high quality music platform is upon us: the digital download. While MP3s have been with us for over ten years, they've never been viewed as a "hi-fi" solution. Instead, newer formats like Apple Lossless and FLAC have become the standard for CD-quality and better music. But what to play them on?
The rear panel includes RCA outputs, optical and coaxial inputs, and a USB input for connecting to a computer. When it comes to performance, the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic shines. It has a well-balanced sound signature with an excellent sense of detail and resolution. The bass is tight and controlled, the midrange is smooth and natural, and the treble is extended without being harsh or sibilant. The DAC Magic also has a wide soundstage, which adds to the overall listening experience. Another noteworthy aspect of the DAC Magic is its versatility. In addition to being a standalone digital-to-analog converter, it also functions as a headphone amplifier. This means that it can be used to drive a wide range of headphones, from efficient IEMs to power-hungry planar magnetic headphones. The headphone output is clean and powerful, providing an enjoyable listening experience. Overall, the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic is an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their audio system. It offers impressive performance, versatility, and build quality at a competitive price point. Whether you're a casual listener or a serious audiophile, the DAC Magic is sure to impress with its sound quality and features..
Reviews for "Enhancing Your Audio Experience with the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic: A Critical Review"
1. Mark - 2/5 - I was really disappointed with the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic. While it claims to offer high-quality audio and improved sound clarity, I found the results to be underwhelming. The overall sound quality was average at best and didn't provide the level of detail I was expecting. Additionally, its build quality felt cheap and unreliable. Overall, I don't think it lived up to the hype and there are definitely better options out there.
2. Sarah - 3/5 - The Cambridge Audio DAC Magic had some decent features, but it didn't meet my expectations. The sound quality was decent, but it didn't offer a significant improvement from my previous DAC. Additionally, I found the design and interface to be quite outdated and clunky. The device was also quite bulky and took up a lot of space on my desk. For the price, I expected more from Cambridge Audio and will probably be looking for an alternative in the future.
3. Ryan - 2/5 - I found the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic to be a disappointment. The sound quality was average, and I didn't notice a significant improvement compared to other DACs in the same price range. The device was also quite bulky and took up a lot of space on my desk, which was inconvenient. Additionally, I experienced some technical glitches and connectivity issues with the device. Overall, I would not recommend the DAC Magic to others looking for a high-quality DAC.
4. Emily - 2/5 - I was not impressed with the Cambridge Audio DAC Magic. The sound quality was underwhelming, and I expected more from a product at this price point. I also found the interface to be quite confusing and not user-friendly. Additionally, the build quality felt cheap and flimsy. Overall, I think there are better options available in the market, and I would not recommend the DAC Magic to others.