Digital Analogue Convertor (DAC)

Digital to Analogue Converters, or DACs, are used to convert the digital signal from a source such as a TV, computer, CD transport, music streamer or network player into an analogue signal that can be played through an amplifier and speakers.

Many DACs are used to improve the sound quality of built-in converters found in computers, TVs and other digital devices, while others are designed to add digital inputs to a traditional hi-fi system. Some models are simple and compact, with just optical and coaxial inputs, while others include USB, Bluetooth, headphone amplifiers and balanced outputs.

When choosing a DAC, it is worth considering which devices you want to connect and which features you need. Some are ideal for improving TV or computer audio, while higher-end models are designed for more advanced systems with dedicated streamers, CD transports and high-resolution music playback.