DACs

Best DAC £300-£500, Awards 2012

More desirable alternatives exist but the rPac is still a small, inexpensive upgrade for computer-based music collections

An affordable, very listenable DAC, but lacks dynamic reach and scale

A great headphone amp and DAC in one neat box, but needs a touch more precision

A fine-sounding, well-equipped high-end DAC but not best in class

Pricey DAC but one of the most organic-sounding digital products we’ve heard

Want better sound from your laptop or PC? Buy one of these

Versatile and feature-packed DAC/headphone amp majors on detail

A fine DAC, but challenged hard by cheaper rivals

Convenient to use, but wireless USB only