The Cambridge DacMagic is a highly regarded digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that has received positive reviews from audiophiles and experts in the field. This device is designed to enhance the sound quality of audio devices, such as CD players and digital music players, by improving the conversion of digital audio files into analog signals. The DacMagic offers various features and functionalities that contribute to its outstanding performance and versatility. One of the standout features of the Cambridge DacMagic is its high-quality digital processing technology. This DAC utilizes advanced digital algorithms to upscale lower-resolution audio files to higher resolutions, resulting in a more detailed and immersive sound experience. The device also includes a digital filter that helps to reduce noise and distortion, further enhancing the overall audio quality.
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The Steep filter is a simple low pass filter designed, at the cost of more ringing and less coherence, to stop any noise outside the core audio band. As a matter of fact, the performance of the DacMagic is so good that it moves me to write this review, despite the abundance of other reviews out there.
The device also includes a digital filter that helps to reduce noise and distortion, further enhancing the overall audio quality. Another key feature of the DacMagic is its wide-ranging connectivity options. The device offers multiple inputs, including coaxial, optical, and USB, allowing for easy connection to various audio sources.
Cambridge DacMagic Review
The Cambridge DacMagic has been out for a while now, and last year I did have a chance to listen to them, but I was unimpressed. Well, at that time I was in the midst of auditioning high end CD Players for my main source, and in that environment, yes the DacMagic at $400 is simply outclassed. I know, sometimes a great gear sound dull when put to even better gears. But in retrospect, even now, there are things that the DacMagic does better, even when compared to the $1,600 CEC CD Player. As a matter of fact, the performance of the DacMagic is so good that it moves me to write this review, despite the abundance of other reviews out there.
The DacMagic with the vertical base.
The DacMagic is one of the many DACs equipped with highly popular Wolfson WM8740 D/A chips. As I’ve found out during the comparisons, the D/A chip alone doesn’t tell much about the sonic performance, but the DacMagic is certainly one of the better excellent ones. Cambridge Audio makes a lot of CD Players, from the 340C to the 840C model, each having a slightly different D/A design. But the technology that we find on the DacMagic actually trickles down from two of the flagship models, the 740C and the 840C. The 740C CD Player comes with the same dual WM8740 chip configuration, and though I don’t imply that the circuitry would be 100% identical, coming from the same manufacturer, surely that is highly probable. Additionally, the asynchronous upsampling process that is used in the DacMagic is also used in the 740C and the 840C, though at higher rates: 384kHz for the 840C and the 740C, and only 192 kHz on the DacMagic. Using a 32Bit DSP chip, combined with an Adaptive Time Filtering (ATF™) process, the DacMagic upsamples any incoming files to a fixed 24/192 resolution. Still, 24/192 is no slouch, considering ultra high end DACs a few years ago only comes at 24/96 resolutions.
When compared to a newer DAC offerings with 24/96 support straight from USB (like the Dr. DAC2 DX) the DacMagic does look a little outdated, with only 16/48 support from USB. Luckily, the sonic quality makes up for slightly inferior specifictions. Anyway, if the DacMagic automatically upsamples everything to 24/192, and it does a fairly great job at that, does it matter if it’s limited to 16/48 from the USB interface? Yes, 24/96 files upsampled to 24/192 is still better, but as we’ll see later, the final sound quality of the DacMagic really makes you forget about all the numbers.
Build quality is one of the best I’ve seen on this price range. Sure it doesn’t have fancy display like the Matrix Mini-i, but the smooth dark grey finishing simply belongs in another class. The DacMagic is also a pure DAC box, void of any headphone jacks. Hence the front panel is pure minimalism with just the necessary buttons and LED indicators. The buttons have a superb tactile feel, and the whole experience feels more expensive than the other $400 units we’ve come across.
Cambridge Audio supplied 4 pieces of circular rubber foot to attach to the DacMagic, as well as a base for standing the DacMagic in a vertical position. Nothing too fancy, but they get the job done when you want to save real estate on your work desk. The supplied power supply is a wallwart, and I’m already thinking of building a “real” power supply just to see how much better the DacMagic can get.
Operational is very simple and intuitive. There are three sets of digital inputs at the back (two S/PDIFs with coax and toslink, one USB), a balanced XLR analog out and an RCA analog out. There is also a digital output through S/PDIF interfaces that passes through the signal with no modifications to it. The digital out supports DTS and 5.1 signals passthrough. The source button toggles between the three source inputs, and the filter/phase button toggles between the three available filter modes, and holding the same button will invert the phase of the music signal. Lastly on the right side you’re given led indicators to display the sample rate of the files coming in.
Left to right: On/off switch, source indicator, source selector, digital filter indicator, digital filter and phase selector.
The three different filter settings, and the incoming sample rate indictors. Notice the phase inverter indicator next to the sample rate indicators.
Left to right: RCA analog out, XLR analog out, S/PDIF digital inputs, S/PDIF digital outputs, USB input, and power supply input.
Get your cables ready and start plugging the right cable to the right connector. Plug in the wallwart supply, and turn the power on. No lights at the power on? That’s normal, the DacMagic will unmute itself and comes into operational after 4-5 seconds.
The front panel is very clean and clutter free.
Select your brand of headphones below.
It also includes both balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, catering to different audio systems and preferences. Additionally, the DacMagic supports various audio formats, including PCM and DSD, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio files. The build quality of the Cambridge DacMagic is another aspect that receives praise from users. The device features a sturdy and well-designed chassis, which helps minimize vibrations and interference that can affect the audio quality. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls also make it easy to set up and navigate. The DacMagic even comes with a remote control, providing convenient access to its features from a distance. Overall, the Cambridge DacMagic is highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality and versatile features. Whether you are an audiophile looking to elevate your listening experience or a music enthusiast seeking to enhance the performance of your audio devices, the DacMagic is a top choice. With its advanced digital processing technology, wide-ranging connectivity options, and excellent build quality, this DAC offers excellent value for its price point and consistently delivers exceptional audio performance..
Reviews for "Assessing the Price-to-Performance Ratio of the Cambridge DAC Magic"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the Cambridge DAC Magic. The sound quality was not impressive at all, and I found it to be quite overhyped. I expected a lot better considering the price tag. It seemed to lack depth and clarity, and overall just sounded average. I ended up returning it and investing in another brand.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I can't comprehend the positive reviews for the Cambridge DAC Magic. I found it to be incredibly underwhelming. The sound was flat and lacking in dynamics. I tried different settings and configurations, but nothing seemed to improve the overall sound quality. It also gave off a slight hissing noise, which was really annoying. Overall, not worth the money in my opinion.
3. Michael - 2 stars - I had high hopes for the Cambridge DAC Magic, but it let me down. The sound was decent, but nothing extraordinary. I expected a more significant improvement in audio quality, especially considering the price. It also didn't integrate well with my existing audio setup, and I experienced quite a few compatibility issues. I ended up returning it and finding another DAC that suited my needs better.
4. Lisa - 2 stars - The Cambridge DAC Magic failed to impress me. I found the sound to be quite average and lacking in detail. It simply didn't live up to the hype. Additionally, the build quality felt a bit cheap for the price point. I would have expected better craftsmanship. Overall, there are better options available that offer better sound quality and build quality for the same or lower price.