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DACs — Schiit Audio MODI
Description, images, technical data and specifications
Schiit Audio MODI
Image source — © Schiit Audio
The MODI is a tiny digital-to-analogue converter from Schiit Audio, built around the well-regarded ESS ES9018 conversion chip in a remarkably compact chassis. The MODI brings Schiit Audio's value-focused engineering to an accessible standalone digital conversion format.
Key specs that matter
The ESS ES9018 conversion chip handles digital-to-analogue conversion, a well-regarded chip within the ESS Sabre family. PCM support reaches up to 24-bit/192kHz. Output level reaches 2V single-ended, with output impedance at 75 ohms. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds an exceptional 119dB, with total harmonic distortion plus noise under an exceptionally low 0.0002% at 22kHz - remarkable figures for such an accessible, compact device. At a remarkably small 127 x 89 x 32mm and just 0.45kg, the MODI is among the smallest and lightest DACs currently available.
Sound and use context
Expect exceptionally clean, detailed conversion reflecting the extraordinary 119dB signal-to-noise and near-immeasurable 0.0002% distortion figures - these measurements rival considerably larger desktop DACs, packed into a remarkably tiny and lightweight chassis.
Pairing
As a compact standalone DAC, the MODI connects directly to a preamplifier or integrated amplifier's line-level input without needing a separate outboard converter.
Alternatives
Schiit Audio's own BIFROST offers a more substantial alternative within the same broader accessible catalogue, while the YGGDRASIL sits at the flagship tier.
Key specs that matter
The ESS ES9018 conversion chip handles digital-to-analogue conversion, a well-regarded chip within the ESS Sabre family. PCM support reaches up to 24-bit/192kHz. Output level reaches 2V single-ended, with output impedance at 75 ohms. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds an exceptional 119dB, with total harmonic distortion plus noise under an exceptionally low 0.0002% at 22kHz - remarkable figures for such an accessible, compact device. At a remarkably small 127 x 89 x 32mm and just 0.45kg, the MODI is among the smallest and lightest DACs currently available.
Sound and use context
Expect exceptionally clean, detailed conversion reflecting the extraordinary 119dB signal-to-noise and near-immeasurable 0.0002% distortion figures - these measurements rival considerably larger desktop DACs, packed into a remarkably tiny and lightweight chassis.
Pairing
As a compact standalone DAC, the MODI connects directly to a preamplifier or integrated amplifier's line-level input without needing a separate outboard converter.
Alternatives
Schiit Audio's own BIFROST offers a more substantial alternative within the same broader accessible catalogue, while the YGGDRASIL sits at the flagship tier.
Specifications
Model name
MODI
Conversion type
N/A
Engine
ESS ES9018
DSD compatability
N/A
Parameters
up to 24 bit / 192 kHz
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
20
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
20 000
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Output Level (balanced) (V)
N/A
Output Level (single-ended) (V)
2
Input Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Input Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
75
Analog outputs
N/A
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
>119
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (% at 22 kHz)
<0.0002
Dimensions (mm)
127 x 89 x 32
Weight (kg)
0.45
Official link
