---
product_id: 255479225
title: "Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen)"
brand: "audioengine"
price: "VT159736"
currency: VUV
in_stock: false
reviews_count: 5
url: https://www.desertcart.vu/products/255479225-audioengine-32-bit-d1-portable-desktop-headphone-amp-and-dac
store_origin: VU
region: Vanuatu
---

# High-Performance Headphone Amp 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res DAC USB-C + Optical Inputs Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen)

**Brand:** audioengine
**Price:** VT159736
**Availability:** ❌ Out of Stock

## Summary

> 🎶 Elevate Every Note — Because Your Music Deserves the Best

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen) by audioengine
- **How much does it cost?** VT159736 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Currently out of stock
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.vu](https://www.desertcart.vu/products/255479225-audioengine-32-bit-d1-portable-desktop-headphone-amp-and-dac)

## Best For

- audioengine enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted audioengine brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Powerful Portable Amp:** Drive high-end headphones anywhere with USB-powered amplification that elevates your sound on the go.
- • **Sleek, Durable Design:** Anodized aluminum chassis combines premium aesthetics with rugged portability for your desktop or travel setup.
- • **Universal Connectivity:** Seamlessly connect via USB-C or optical inputs to computers, phones, tablets, and more—no adapters needed.
- • **Audiophile-Grade Clarity:** Experience pristine 24-bit/192kHz digital-to-analog conversion that reveals every musical nuance.
- • **Plug-and-Play Simplicity:** No drivers or software required—just connect and instantly upgrade your audio experience.

## Overview

The Audioengine D1 is a premium 24-bit/192kHz digital-to-analog converter and headphone amplifier designed for discerning listeners. Featuring USB-C and optical inputs, it delivers high-resolution audio with low distortion and high signal-to-noise ratio. Powered via USB, it offers portable, plug-and-play convenience and audiophile-quality sound enhancement for headphones and audio systems alike, all housed in a sleek anodized aluminum case with US-based support and a 2-year warranty.

## Description

D1 from AudioengineD1 will process digital audio at any bit depth up to 24 bits and any sample rate to 192KHz. With it's high signal-to-noise ratio and low distortion the D1 delivers sound quality generally heard only in more expensive DACs. The high-performance headphone output was designed for a wide range of headphones and will satisfy even the most demanding headphone enthusiasts.Setup is easy and no special software is needed, making D1 a true plug-and-play solution. The D1 outputs connect to any audio system or powered speakers, such as the Audioengine A5+ or A2. Power for the D1 is provided via the USB bus so there is no external power supply to connect.Audioengine designers, with their attention to audio quality as well as visual aesthetics, have created a feast for both the eyes and ears. The rounded anodized aluminum case of the D1 reflects traditional Audioengine design and the audio fidelity is typical of Audioengine's commitment to great sound at an affordable price. The Audioengine D1 continues to close the gap between your computer music and home hi-fi and even if you're not an audio enthusiast we guarantee your music will sound better!Audioengine breathes life into your music Audioengine D1 Premium 24-Bit DAC (digital-to-analog converter) allows you to bypass your computer's soundcard or headphone output and send audio through USB or optical. D1 is the perfect digital interface between your computer and music system and will improve the sound of ALL your music. Versatile The D1 accepts inputs from both USB and optical and has outputs for any audio system or headphones. The D1 DAC is the perfect way to get great-sounding music not only from your computer but also from your TV Apple TV DVD/BluRay player or CD player.And since it's powered by USB D1 is also a high-quality portable computer headphone amplifier. Designed for the Computer Audiophile D1 will process digital audio at any bit depth up to 24 bits and any sample rate to 192KHz. With it's high signal-to-noise ratio and low distortion the D1 delivers sound quality generally heard only in more expensive DACs. The high-performance headphone output was designed for a wide range of headphones and will satisfy even the most demanding headphone enthusiasts.Easy Setup Setup is easy and no special software is needed making D1 a true plug-and-play solution. The D1 outputs connect to any audio system or powered speakers such as the Audioengine A5+ or A2. Power for the D1 is provided via the USB bus so there is no external power supply to connect See and Hear the Difference Audioengine designers with their attention to audio quality as well as visual aesthetics have created a feast for both the eyes and ears.The rounded anodized aluminum case of the D1 reflects traditional Audioengine design and the audio fidelity is typical of Audioengine's commitment to great sound at an affordable price. The Audioengine D1 continues to close the gap between your computer music and home hi-fi and even if you're not an audio enthusiast we guarantee your music will sound better! Summary The Audioengine D1 24-bit DAC is a simple yet powerful digital-to-analog convert.

Review: My bookshelf Bluetooth speakers have analog RCA input along with Bluetooth. And I was always wondering how they would sound with the signal via RCA inputs. And it worked! With this DAC connected, (how I understand) I eliminated sound-degrading Bluetooth transmission, substituted speakers' DAC with this premium one and sent pre-amplified signal directly to speakers' amplifier. The result is awesome - I got a premium version of my speakers! Even when listening to a less sophisticated music as a popular genre track in mp3 quality I hear an improvement in sound quality, like my speakers are 30% better - better bass, better treble and deeper, clearer sound. But when it comes to music like modern jazz and a track is higher than CD quality, OMG. It will now take longer before I'm spending on new speakers. Rich in sounds music, when quality of recording is high, appreciates if a device is capable of reproducing 24bit/96kHz sound. Apparently, I can not get such a high quality sound from my relatively inexpensive speakers, but, for sure, they get the best possible input signal.I have to mention it's not always just plug-and-play and get good sound. In the beginning I couldn't figure out why this DAC was not providing good sound being connected to my Chromebook - I just had devices connected to other USB ports and the Chromebook, probably, didn't have enough resources for all. In a Windows computer there are a few things to be checked if something is going wrong - specifically, Sound and Power Options settings in the Control Panel. By the way, a streaming service I use shows my Chromebook is able to process 24bit/48kHz sound quality at max, but it's above CD-quality anyway. And when this DAC is connected to the Windows desktop, my streaming service says music (selected tracks) will be played with 24/96 quality. A tip: "Power on" light on the D1 is the power on/off button too :)
Review: Audioengine N22 (ampli) + Audioengine P4 (enceintes) + Audioengine D1 (DAC) L'ensemble fournit un son d'une très grande qualité musicale. Y compris dans les basses. Sans doute les A5+ sont-elles plus intéressantes pour le Home Cinema. Mais pour la musique, les P4 sont mieux ! Il y'a moins de basses, le son est plus clair. Je suis TRÈS satisfait. Enceintes : super Ampli : super. On peut même faire jouer source 1 et source 2 en même temps (pas besoin d'appuyer sur un bouton pour passer de l'une à l'autre) DAC : plus l'ordinateur est pourri, plus ça change tout ! Avec ça le son est bon, très bon, incontestablement meilleur que quasi partout où vous irez. Pour le DAC, si vous utilisez linux il vous faudra un "sound server" tel que "pulseaudio" (il est installé par défaut sur la plupart des distributions). En effet, la carte son du DAC n'accepte qu'une seule source à la fois (=pas possible d'émettre du son simultanément dans deux logiciels différents).

## Features

- LEVEL-UP YOUR LISTENING: You deserve better sound. Play high-resolution music from Apple Music, desertcart Music and Tidal with stunning clarity you'll notice immediately. An external desktop DAC allows you to hear the detail in music the way the artist intended. The D1 is a premium digital-to-analog converter (DAC), headphone amp and preamp that’s perfect for your desktop or on the go.
- TRULY USEFUL FEATURES: USB-C and optical audio inputs for all your sources, computer/phone/tablet support, RCA line-output, precise front panel volume control, and audiophile-quality components inside and out. The D1 can be powered by a phone or tablet yet still drives high-performance headphones.
- HI-RES AUDIO: ESS ES9018 DAC, ES9601C SABRE headphone driver, and CT7601CR USB streamer or (Audio Bridge).
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: D1 DAC, USB-C cable, setup guide, microfiber product bag.
- WARRANTY - Based in Texas, Audioengine is proud to provide premium US-based customer support and 2 year product warranty.

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B006IPH5H2 |
| Item model number | D1 |
| Manufacturer | Audioengine |
| Product Dimensions | 3.75 x 3.5 x 1 cm; 141.75 g |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Audioengine
- **Maximum supply voltage:** 5 Volts (DC)
- **Minimum supply voltage:** 5 Volts (DC)
- **Mounting type:** Freestanding
- **Number of pins:** 30

## Images

![Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen) - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61DDPj7YURL.jpg)
![Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen) - Image 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71Aku-1QWKL.jpg)
![Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen) - Image 3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71VOnohqxzL.jpg)
![Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen) - Image 4](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71mKeRcGEEL.jpg)
![Audioengine 32-bit D1 Portable Desktop Headphone Amp and DAC, Preamp, USB/Optical Inputs, Hi-Res Audio Playback (2nd Gen) - Image 5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81a9ghW93KL.jpg)

## Questions & Answers

**Q: So Macs have good internal DACs, can someone comment on how much better this unit makes music sound while running off a Mac (I have a 2013 Mac Air)?**
A: I disagree with KM. Haven't tried this AudioEngine DAC, but the NUforce Mac-specific DAC I own makes a noticeable difference, mostly in the clarity of the highs. It makes the Mac's built-in DAC sound shrill. On lower-end headphones it might not be detectable. And, of course, everyone's hearing is different. I can listen to Google Play streaming much longer on my Sennheiser HD280 Pro headphones through an external DAC than without one.

**Q: Will the analog outputs be bypassed if a headphone is connected at the same time?**
A: Yes Zack. The analog RCA's are disconnected if headphones are plugged into the D1. I wish it was a bit more flexible but that's the way it is with this unit.

**Q: Does this DAC require LPCM or PCM in S/PDIF input signal. Most TV has option to output in PCM format but not all. My LG DU-37LZ30 has DTS/AC-3 output**
A: From the FAQ on Audioengine's site:Q: The D1 is connected to the optical output of my TV but I'm not getting any sound. What can I do?A: In your TV menu verify that "PCM STEREO" is selected and "DOLBY DIGITAL" is off.So it presumably only supports PCM over S/PDIF.

**Q: I see the d1 has usb input. i don't have a sound card in my pc, do i still need to get one if i get d1 to improve the sound quality? thanks.**
A: The D1  functions as a soundcard, so no, you do not need another sound card. Plug the D1 into the USB port on your computer, and an amplifier or headphones into the D1, and enjoy your music!

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review
*by S***. on 5 January 2023*

My bookshelf Bluetooth speakers have analog RCA input along with Bluetooth. And I was always wondering how they would sound with the signal via RCA inputs. And it worked! With this DAC connected, (how I understand) I eliminated sound-degrading Bluetooth transmission, substituted speakers' DAC with this premium one and sent pre-amplified signal directly to speakers' amplifier. The result is awesome - I got a premium version of my speakers! Even when listening to a less sophisticated music as a popular genre track in mp3 quality I hear an improvement in sound quality, like my speakers are 30% better - better bass, better treble and deeper, clearer sound. But when it comes to music like modern jazz and a track is higher than CD quality, OMG. It will now take longer before I'm spending on new speakers. Rich in sounds music, when quality of recording is high, appreciates if a device is capable of reproducing 24bit/96kHz sound. Apparently, I can not get such a high quality sound from my relatively inexpensive speakers, but, for sure, they get the best possible input signal.I have to mention it's not always just plug-and-play and get good sound. In the beginning I couldn't figure out why this DAC was not providing good sound being connected to my Chromebook - I just had devices connected to other USB ports and the Chromebook, probably, didn't have enough resources for all. In a Windows computer there are a few things to be checked if something is going wrong - specifically, Sound and Power Options settings in the Control Panel. By the way, a streaming service I use shows my Chromebook is able to process 24bit/48kHz sound quality at max, but it's above CD-quality anyway. And when this DAC is connected to the Windows desktop, my streaming service says music (selected tracks) will be played with 24/96 quality. A tip: "Power on" light on the D1 is the power on/off button too :)

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review
*by A***D on 26 March 2015*

Audioengine N22 (ampli) + Audioengine P4 (enceintes) + Audioengine D1 (DAC) L'ensemble fournit un son d'une très grande qualité musicale. Y compris dans les basses. Sans doute les A5+ sont-elles plus intéressantes pour le Home Cinema. Mais pour la musique, les P4 sont mieux ! Il y'a moins de basses, le son est plus clair. Je suis TRÈS satisfait. Enceintes : super Ampli : super. On peut même faire jouer source 1 et source 2 en même temps (pas besoin d'appuyer sur un bouton pour passer de l'une à l'autre) DAC : plus l'ordinateur est pourri, plus ça change tout ! Avec ça le son est bon, très bon, incontestablement meilleur que quasi partout où vous irez. Pour le DAC, si vous utilisez linux il vous faudra un "sound server" tel que "pulseaudio" (il est installé par défaut sur la plupart des distributions). En effet, la carte son du DAC n'accepte qu'une seule source à la fois (=pas possible d'émettre du son simultanément dans deux logiciels différents).

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review
*by G***L on 29 July 2025*

This is a very preliminary review, but I think it's still worth providing to help others. First, when I was reviewing the product info, it said it was plastic. I thought that was kinda whack given the cost and the quality of my Audioengine A5 speakers. However, upon opening the amazingly-well packaged box, it turns out most of the DAC is really metal, even the volume knob is metal. The only plastic on the outside is the edges of the box (the black in the picture; the grey is metal) and the power button. Like I said, this was very well packaged. It shipped in an Audioengine box, but a branded shipping box: inside was another box for the DAC. That box in and of itself could've survived shipping, but I appreciate that it was double boxed. Inside the DAC box was a nice piece of soft foam, and the components were snuggled inside heavier duty foam. (I don't know what the different types are called, but this isn't your typical white styrofoam like for a cooler). It also includes a carrying bag if you wanted to travel with the DAC, but the bag would mostly just protect against scratches. However, given the metal construction, I don't think you need much more than that. Setup was super easy once I realized I made a mistake: I kept thinking I needed two USB cords, one for audio input (I have optical out, but not a cable) and one for power. No, the USB cord, which is included, provides both power and audio. I was looking at picture in the manual thinking it was the front telling me that's where the USB audio input was, but after I double-checked, that was really the back of the DAC, then I read it closer and realized my mistake. It was 100% my fault. I write user manuals for a living so I can say with confidence this is one of the best I've encountered. I just didn't drink enough coffee. Compatibility: it works with my Audioengine A5s with no problem, which is part of the reason I bought this DAC. Yes, it has other great reviews, and, yes, my speakers are the bomb dot com, but having no doubts that it would work before it even arrived gave me peace of mind. To my untrained ear, everything sounds fantastic. I mostly stream music, and it sounds fantastic. I'll see what my music teacher/musician wife thinks, but she'll most definitely agree. I should note that I don't have a subwoofer, but whether it's the speakers or the DAC, the music still sounds fine. I'll put it through the paces gaming at another time, but I can't imagine anything would be different. Now, when I write my reviews, I try my best to not just gush over how great everything is so it doesn't appear as though my review is fake or paid for. The only thing I can think of from only having used the product probably no more than an hour is that I wish more cables were included. It's nice that it comes with a USB cord, but I had to dig through my box of cables for an RCA cable, and I'm not sure I even know what an optical cable looks like to see if I have one of those. I do understand the choice not to include these things because everyone's setup is different, and it minimizes waste, but it still would've been nice. I'm not deducting stars, however, because of a lack of cables. This is still a 5-star product.

## Frequently Bought Together

- Audioengine D1 32-bit Desktop DAC and Headphone Amp, Preamp, Laptop, Amplifier, Gamers and Musicians
- Audioengine S8 Powered Subwoofer Speaker - 250W 8-inch Home Woofer with Built-in Amplifier and Dual Audio Inputs for Home Audio
- Audioengine A5+ Powered Bookshelf Speakers - Premium 150W Stereo Speakers for Music, Gaming, Turntables, Home Theater Systems - Powerful Studio Monitors

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*Product available on Desertcart Vanuatu*
*Store origin: VU*
*Last updated: 2026-03-03*