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This is a very solid mid-tier DAC, and A$372 lands in fair-to-good territory for an SU-9n. New pricing was around A$600–A$650 equivalent when these were current, so this sits at a sensible used discount rather than a standout bargain.
What makes it worth a look is the feature set: balanced XLR outs, remote volume control, Bluetooth, and the ESS flagship-class conversion that made the SU-9 line popular for clean, low-noise desktop and rack systems. If the unit is genuinely clean and comes with the remote and original accessories, it’s a practical buy at this price. No major red flags here beyond the usual used-DAC check: confirm inputs work, the display/remote are healthy, and it hasn’t been abused in a hot stack.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
SMSL, founded in 2009 as Foshan ShuangMuSanLin Technology Co., Ltd. in Shenzhen, China, emerged from the country's burgeoning tech hub to specialize in digital audio innovation. The company quickly expanded with a Hong Kong branch, VMV Technology, in 2013, targeting higher-end exports and establishing a global footprint across more than 30 countries. Its early focus on domestic sales laid a solid foundation, evolving into a recognized name in affordable hi-fi.
The brand excels in digital-to-analog converters (DACs), headphone amplifiers, and power amplifiers, delivering high-performance components like the iconic Sanskrit series—featuring DACs, preamp-capable headphone amps, and linear power supplies. SMSL emphasizes in-house R&D for stylish, well-built devices incorporating premium technologies such as THX AAA-888 amplification, prioritizing audio fidelity without unnecessary frills.
Positioned as a mid-tier leader in the value-driven hi-fi market, SMSL earns praise for punching above its weight, offering audiophile-grade sound at accessible prices that rival pricier competitors. Popular among discerning buyers seeking reliability and transparency, it stands out for meticulous component selection, though some note occasional quality concerns with budget imports. For the knowledgeable enthusiast, SMSL represents smart, modern Chinese engineering at its finest.
See all SMSL listings on RADAR.
