The SMSL M500 is a DAC combo with balanced and unbalanced outputs that also has an amplified headphone output. Behind its small dimensions are hidden high-end audio components that allow it to deliver excellent performance while enjoying many features.

Complete connectivity

On the connector side, the SMSL M500 is well provided since it offers a complete panel in order to be able to adapt to different systems. At the input of the USB-B with XMOS XU216 interface, there are two Toslink Optics and a Coaxial SPDIF. On the output side, the M500 offers 6.35mm jack for the amplified headphone output and unbalanced RCA as well as balanced XLR for the preamplifier outputs.

Headphone amplifier

The M500's amplifier stage contains many discrete components that provide it with high power and current as well as a very good damping factor. This allows it to be associated with many helmet models, up to 300Ω. There is also an LDO ES9311 controller with a noise level of only 1µVrms.

Review by Audio Science Review

SMSL packs just about every desired feature into a DAC and headphone amplifier including MQA decoding with great measured and subjective performance. The only weakness is that its amplifier doesn't blow your ear drums.

Digital filters

The SMSL M500 also includes 7 digital filters for PCM signals, allowing you to adapt the playback to your listening needs.

1. Fast linear
2. Slow linear
3. Apodizing
4. Fast minimum
5. Slow minimum
6. Fast hybrid
7. Brickwall

Independent preamplifier and headphone volume

The volume of the preamplifier and headphone amplifier circuits are totally independent and do not interfere with each other. It is therefore possible to choose a different volume level for the headphone output and preamplifier outputs.

Screen & Housing>

The SMSL M500 is equipped with a beautiful bright display on the front panel, allowing it to display all the information about the current playback. This includes the volume level, active input, flow and file type, as well as the sampling rate of the read file. This screen is protected by a tempered glass pane.

The components are hidden under a beautiful and robust CNC machined anodized Aluminium housing.

The unit also comes with an IR remote control for easy remote control.