What is it?
A portable digital to analogue audio converter (DAC).
Good points?
During development of smartphones and computers, manufacturers have a lot to pack in and certain aspects, such as audio quality components like DACs, often take a back seat or are omitted entirely.
These devices take digital files and present them to analogue audio output equipment allowing our ears to pick up the sound waves.
The Onyx is a dedicated DAC adapter offering more power than the converters built into smartphones and laptops. With a dynamic range of 118 decibels, it packs a mighty punch which is so hard it comes with a safety warning.
It supports many audio codec types from CD audio standards to higher quality sound files, such as Master Quality Audio (MQA), which is essentially the studio recording version.
Aimed firmly at those who stream music from portable devices, the Onyx easily fits in most pockets and has an embedded magnet which allows both ends of the adapter to snap together reducing its spatial footprint to the size of a flash drive.
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Set up requires no extra software. You simply connect your preferred audio player via USB-C or the included USB-A extension to headphones using the 3.5mm jack port. This flexibility across devices sets it apart from similar devices that provide only USB-A connections.
Bad points?
The price point is a little steep for anyone other than those who have swallowed the red pill and are descending into the audiophile rabbit hole.
Best for ...
Those seeking to take their musical enjoyment beyond the basic serving you get from multifunctional devices like smartphones.
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Avoid if ...
You don't subscribe to MQA providers, such as Tidal, which allow you to take full benefit of this device.
Score: 9/10.
THX Onyx, £199.99 (razer.com)
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