Miniwatt drop N4 USB DAC/headphone amplifier

After the rather smashing miniature N3 tube amplifier, Hong Kong’s Miniwatt have launched a new product – the Miniwatt N4. It’s a UAC2.0, async 32bit/192Khz all-in-one DAC and headphone amplifier.

Note the stitched leather extrusion – a nice way of acknowledging the rough and tumble of portability.  It’s good to have an edge in this increasingly-crowded portable DAC/headphone space; especially in the wake of Audioquest’s Dragonfly and Meridian’s Explorer.

Here the skinny:

• USB 2.0 Async Mode (480 Mbits/sec), supports up to 32bits/192kHz
• Electrical Noise Immunity via USB Digital Link
• PCM1795 DAC with 32bits/192k – 123dB Dynamic Range
• LM4562 op-amp at analogue filter and driver stages
• Independent L and R channel circuit at output stage
• Digital volume attenuation (0 dB to –120 dB, 0.5db/step)
• USB-powered, no external power supply required
• Dimensions: 115mm (L) x 74mm (W) x 20mm (H)
• Finish: CNC silver powder coated aluminium panel with laser etching

But wait!  See that coaxial connector marked ‘Digital’?  That’s a digital output.  The N4 can also be used as a USB-S/PDIF convertor.

The Miniwatt N4 can be purchased direct from the manufacturer for US$488.

Further information: www.miniwatt.com.hk