SMSL DO300EX Review

Sound & Performance

The DO300EX features a neutral-warm sound signature. Its sound is dynamic, detailed, and musical. The DO300EX is impressive with its sound quality, offering exceptional value at its price point. Let’s delve deeper.

Bass

The low-end of the DO300EX is agile, richly textured, and resolving. Dynamic and impactful, the bass delivers impressive resolution. The mid-bass is optimal, neither too thick nor too thin. Instruments like the brass family are rendered with warmth and precision, and there’s a seamless transition from bass to midrange, maintaining a cohesive sound throughout the spectrum. The sub-bass extension is noteworthy, providing a tangible rumble that enhances the overall dynamism.

Midrange

The midrange of the DO300EX is where it truly shines, striking an excellent balance between sweetness and clarity. Vocals emerge with definition and texture, and the detail retrieval is striking. Mid-centric instruments like guitars are conveyed naturally with excellent detail rendition. While the upper midrange is clean and energetic, the control is quite good, with elements like cymbals and hi-hats to be present but not overpowering. The resolution and clarity in this range are excellent, particularly for an all-in-one device. 

Treble

The treble is delicate, airy, spacious, and controlled. The DO300EX shows excellent control across the treble range. It feels resolving and clean but never hot. The DO300EX is a fast DAC when it comes to PRaT; the transients are fast and quick. The fine treble enhances the overall clarity as well. The DO300EX manages to extend to the highest octaves without introducing harshness, maintaining good detail and a faithful representation of harmonics. The balance across the spectrum is very good, with the extension matching the depth of the lowest and highest notes, staying true to the original recording without roll-off.

Technical Performance

Moreover, the DO300EX excels in PRaT, showcasing a level of technical prowess that is exceptional for a mid-tier all-in-one device. While the soundstage is broad, the depth can vary with different headphones, indicating that synergy plays a role. That said, the depth is satisfactory with compatible IEMs. The clear and airy signature, coupled with impressive instrument separation, ensures precise imaging and positioning. All things considered, the DO300EX is a technically remarkable DAC and AMP combo.

vs. Topping DX5

When comparing the SMSL DO300EX to the Topping DX5, both stand out as high-fidelity DAC/AMP all-in-one units with excellent decoding support and many IOs. The DO300EX’s AK4499EX DAC chip is superior compared to the Topping DX5’s ES9068AS DAC chip, but DX5 features dual chips, whereas the DO300EX comes with only one 4499EX. So, no dual mono. Both offer Bluetooth functionality with high-quality codec support. 

Soundwise, the DX5, to my ears, sounds a tad cleaner with less warmth and a more analytical approach. However, both devices are excellent DAC AMPs and pure DACs. If I had to choose between the two, I would get the DO300EX if I were to use it as a single DAC and no HPO because of the less HPA power it offers. If I were to use it as a DAC and AMP, I would go for the DX5. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to user preference or brand loyalty based on past experiences.

Last Words

Wrapping up, the SMSL DO300EX is an impressive all-in-one DAC, PRE, and AMP that demands consideration from any audiophile looking for high-fidelity audio in a compact package and reasonable pricing. Its great design and excellent build, cutting-edge flagship DAC chip from AKM, and comprehensive input/output options represent a significant value proposition in the market. Its performance, matched with user-friendly controls and a versatile feature set, ensures it stands tall alongside competitors like the Topping DX5. The DO300EX not only continues SMSL’s tradition of excellence but also raises the bar for what consumers can expect at this price point.

Pros

+ Neutral-warm signature

+ Excellent price to performance ratio

+ Excellent SQ

+ Good design

Cons

– Output power could be better

Page 1: SMSL, D0300EX, Packaging & Accessories, Design & Build Quality, Features & Controls 

Page 2: Sound & Performance, Technical Capability, Comparisons, Last Words