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This A$739 asking price is ambitious, sitting well above the 75th percentile of A$574 and significantly higher than the median of A$430 for used AUD listings; it’s not a bargain by any measure. The SU-9 is now a generation old, replaced by the SU-9 Ultra, which uses a newer AKM chipset and retails around A$750 new, so there’s little upside in timing unless the condition is pristine and accessories are complete.
Still, the SU-9 remains well-regarded for its ESS9038Pro chip, native MQA decoding, and the best-in-class Bluetooth 5.0 with UAT support at this price tier. If this listing is from an original owner with the LCD interface working, all cables, and the box, it could still be a worthwhile buy for Bluetooth/MQA enthusiasts who don’t need the Ultra’s DSD512 or LDAC. But at A$739, you’d need confidence in the condition to justify the premium over the typical used market.
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.
