ЦАПы — Schiit Audio Modi 5

The Schiit Modi 5 is a compact standalone DAC from Schiit Audio, sold for USD 149. Assembly and quality control take place in Corpus Christi, Texas, and the chassis is made in California. Schiit pitches it as a converter for buyers who do not want to spend a fortune, and it brings together three of the brand's own technologies - Mesh conversion, the Unison 384 USB interface and Linear Override powering.

Key specs that matter

Mesh conversion combines a 32-bit Microchip processor with an ES9018 delta-sigma modulator, and the analogue stage is based on the OPA1656 with precision thin-film resistors. The Unison 384 USB input is UAC2 compliant and handles up to 32 bit and 384 kHz, while optical and coaxial S/PDIF inputs accept up to 24 bit and 192 kHz. Output is a single-ended RCA pair at 75 ohm output impedance, delivering 1.5 V RMS on USB power or 2.0 V RMS with Linear Override. Frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 0.04 dB. Schiit quotes THD+N of 0.0003 percent, IMD of 0.0004 percent CCIR, crosstalk of minus 125 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and 118 dB S/N referenced to full output. The case measures 127 x 89 x 32 mm and the unit weighs 0.45 kg.

Engineering and use context

On bus power the Modi 5 reports itself as a 500 mA USB device and uses a charge pump to generate its plus and minus 5 V rails. Linear Override adds an optional 12 to 16 V AC wall adapter rated at 0.5 A or more, which provides plus and minus 12 V rails instead - and that is why the output rises with it connected. The Unison 384 interface is Schiit's in-house USB receiver, and as a UAC2 device it works with Windows 10 and later, macOS 10.10 and later, Linux, iOS and Android, and it is also supported by Roon. With three digital inputs, one box can take a computer over USB, a TV or console over optical, and a CD transport over coaxial. Schiit gives a limited two-year warranty for parts and labour plus a 15-day return period, less a 15 percent restocking fee.

Pairing

There is no volume control and the output level is fixed, so the Modi 5 needs to feed a headphone amplifier, a preamp, an integrated amplifier or powered speakers that have their own level adjustment. Owners who want the full output level should add the AC adapter.

Alternatives

The Schiit Mimir is the balanced DAC above it at USD 299, adding XLR outputs, an AES input and support for the optional Forkbeard module.