Pocket-sized DAC/headphone amplifier from Campfire Audio touts high-quality audio output
Campfire Audio, a renowned name in the audio industry, has unveiled its latest offering - the Relay DAC/AMP. This compact and portable device aims to cater to the demands of modern portable hi-fi, offering a high level of performance and variable parameters in a robust form factor.
The Relay DAC/AMP stands out with its versatile connectivity options. It boasts both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs, making it compatible with a wide range of headphones. Moreover, it can be directly plugged into USB-C-toting smartphones, such as the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro, enhancing its portability.
In the competitive portable DAC market, the Relay DAC/AMP faces competition from several notable options. One such contender is the iFi UP DAC/AMP, priced at $99. Known for its compact design and high-quality audio output, the iFi UP is a budget-friendly alternative without compromising too much on performance.
Another competitor is the Audioquest DragonFly Cobalt, a USB DAC design renowned for its portability and high-quality audio playback. While similar in design to the Relay, the DragonFly Cobalt is known for its five-star performance and might be considered more established in the market.
For audiophiles seeking high-resolution audio support and balanced outputs, the FiiO E10K could be a viable option. Although not entirely portable like the Relay, the FiiO options are known for their strong audio capabilities and might be considered if size is less of a concern.
Budget-conscious consumers might find appeal in the Showsky Retro Nano, priced at $60, or the extremely affordable AZLA A100, priced at $19.99. However, these options may not match the technical capabilities and build quality of the Relay DAC/AMP.
The Relay DAC/AMP is equipped with the AKM 4493 SEQ DAC chip, supports hi-res audio files up to 32-bit/768kHz, and handles PCM and DSD playback formats. It offers a 60-step volume control, built-in media playback controls, and six filter modes for users to customise their audio experience.
Measuring 57mm x 23mm x 10mm, the Relay DAC/AMP is wallet-friendly, priced at £229 / $229. It comes with a 6cm USB-C to USB-C cable, a microfibre cleaning cloth, and a black cushioned Ripstop carrying bag.
At the time of writing, pricing and release details for the Relay DAC/AMP in Australia are unavailable. If you're in the market for a portable DAC, you can compare the Relay DAC/AMP with other options in our list of the best DACs. However, it's important to note that the author has not yet tested the Campfire Audio Relay DAC/AMP.
- Campfire Audio, a recognized name in the audio industry, has introduced the Relay DAC/AMP, a compact and portable device designed for modern portable hi-fi.
- The Relay DAC/AMP features versatile connectivity options, including both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs.
- In addition to its compatibility with a wide range of headphones, the Relay DAC/AMP can be directly plugged into USB-C-toting smartphones like the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro.
- The market for portable DACs is competitive, with the Relay DAC/AMP facing competition from the iFi UP DAC/AMP and the Audioquest DragonFly Cobalt.
- For audiophiles seeking high-resolution audio support and balanced outputs, the FiiO E10K could be a viable option, although it's not entirely portable.
- Budget-conscious consumers might find appeal in the Showsky Retro Nano or the AZLA A100, but these options may not match the technical capabilities and build quality of the Relay DAC/AMP.
- The Relay DAC/AMP is equipped with the AKM 4493 SEQ DAC chip, supports hi-res audio files up to 32-bit/768kHz, and handles PCM and DSD playback formats.
- Priced at £229 / $229, the Relay DAC/AMP comes with a 6cm USB-C to USB-C cable, a microfibre cleaning cloth, and a black cushioned Ripstop carrying bag. At the time of writing, pricing and release details for the Relay DAC/AMP in Australia are unavailable.
