M4 Macs – What DAC/Amps will pair best?

It’s once again getting to that time of year where Apple starts updating their computers. Starting October 29, Apple will begin unveiling new M4 Macs. Rumor has it that the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac Mini will receive updates. As Apple’s line of computers continues to grow, so have personal audio devices. Whether you’re on the go with a laptop or at your desk, your Mac computer is one of the best ways to create a control center for your music and create your perfect yet simple setup. In this article, we’ll show you some of our favorite DAC/Amps, from dongles to top of the line machines. One thing is for sure: there’s something here for every type of Mac user. 

Dongles

One of the most important aspects to consider when buying an audio device is considering use case. This includes comfort, size, and portability. For users of the new M4 Macbook Pro, taking your hifi setup on the go might be pretty important. So we have some dongle recommendations that should meet those needs.

iBasso DC06 Pro

The iBasso is one of our favorite more affordable dongle options. That said, just because it’s a dongle doesn’t mean it doesn’t have power. On the contrary, this and other devices on this list have plenty of powerful specs. Among the DC06 Pro’s specs is a dual ES9219C quad-DAC chipset. The DC06 Pro supports sample rates of up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256.

Connection to a Macbook Air, or any Mac for that matter, is quite simple with its USB-C connection. It also includes a USB-C to USB-A adapter in case you want to use it with an older generation model as well. The DC06 Pro also uses an independent power supply, which means minimized interference, and more importantly, it won’t drain your power as a device that gets its power from its source. 

Astell & Kern HC4

The Astell & Kern HC4 is a perfect DAC/Amp dongle for someone looking to bring A&K’s signature sound to their Mac devices. Utilizing a high-end AKM AK4493S DAC chipset, the HC4 can also handle up to 32-bit/384kHz sample rates and DSD256. It comes with a USB-C connector for easy compatibility with the Macbook Air or other Mac devices. Along with that, A&K supplies a USB-C to Lightning cable so it’s compatible with older iPhones as well. And with its signature edged aluminum build, the HC4 actually pairs nicely with Apple’s silver aesthetics. One of our favorite nifty features is the ability to upsample audio using the Digital Audio Remaster mode. The HC4 is a great product for someone who wants advanced features on the go, at an affordable price. 

iFi Go Bar Kensei

Jumping up the ladder to something a little more advanced is the iFi GO Bar Kensei. This dongle DAC/Amp provides great build and excellent sound, not to mention a robust feature set all for $449. Crafted from Japanese stainless steel, the GO Bar Kensei offers a single ended and 4.4mm balanced audio output. It also introduces some advanced settings options like IEmatch for sensitive IEMs, X-Bass to enhance bass without degrading other frequencies, and X-Space to widen soundstage. Apple users will be relieved to know that iFi includes a USB-C cable, a Lightning to USB-C cable for iPhone use, and USB-C to USB-A adapter for use with older generation MAC devices. 

Woo Audio Tube Mini

The Woo Audio Tube Mini isn’t your standard dongle DAC/Amp. It looks like a USB thumb drive, small enough to carry in a pocket. Except it actually holds double Raytheon JAN 6418 tubes. So yes, you can get a taste of the “tube sound” just by using this tiny device. There are some quirks, though. You will need to use the supplied USB-A to USB-C connector to use it with the new M4 Mac devices. It also is best used in a static environment, unexposed to cellular signals. This is because Woo Audio warns that signal interference can cause noise in playback with the device. That said, the Tube Mini’s “Mighty Drive” combines solid-state power with tube warmth, delivering ample drive for demanding headphones. 

Compact DAC/Amp combos

Now for the M4 Mac Mini and iMac that are rumored to be announced, you may want a fuller sized system that can live on your desk and meet more of your audio needs. All of the below connect via USB-C and can be made more versatile with the addition of adapters. 

iFi Zen DAC 3

The Zen DAC 3 from iFi continues on the company’s legacy of creating excellent affordable audio devices. Inside, a 16-core XMOS processor and Burr-Brown DAC chip support playback of high-resolution files up to 768kHz PCM, DSD512, offering audiophiles detailed, bit-perfect sound reproduction. Its Power Match and XBass features enhance compatibility with different headphones, providing gain control and bass boost for a tailored listening experience. The Zen DAC 3’s smooth, natural sound, with a slight warmth, makes it ideal for vocals and various genres. For entry- to mid-level audiophiles, the Zen DAC 3 is a robust DAC/Amp that balances affordability, power, and rich sound quality.

Chord Mojo 2

Jumping up a little bit, we get the Chord Mojo 2. While portable, its bulkier physique makes it a good suitor for static use as well. Unlike other DAC/Amps we’ve mentioned, the Mojo 2 uses an upgraded FPGA processor, which enhances digital-to-analog conversion for exceptional sonic precision. A new UHD DSP menu offers listeners a range of sound filters for personalized output. Sonically, the Mojo 2 shifts from the warm, smooth character of the original to a more neutral, dynamic profile. The soundstage and imaging are expansive and detailed, showcasing impressive depth and separation. While the lack of balanced headphone inputs is a minor drawback, the Mojo 2 delivers a high-fidelity performance supporting up to 768kHz PCM and DSD 256.

Questyle CMA 18 Portable

The CMA 18 Portable from Questyle is a powerful mid-tier audio solution. Equipped with a USB-C port for easy connectivity, the CMA 18 connects with Mac computers and other Apple devices. The DAC utilizes an AKM AK4493 chipset and PCT-class current-mode SiP chips for amplification, supporting up to 768kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD512 playback. Its aluminum casing and glass window reveal the internal circuitry, which also serves as an indicator for the source and volume level. With balanced 4.4mm and unbalanced 3.5mm headphone outputs, the CMA 18 provides versatility for various headphones and IEMs, making it ideal for portable use without sacrificing sound quality. The CMA 18’s ability to reveal depth and dimension in audio—whether with high-end IEMs or headphones like the Final Audio D7000—delivers an immersive experience, making it a compelling, high-quality companion for Mac users who demand more from their portable DAC/amp setups.

iFi iDSD Diablo 2

Yes, we’ve got one last iFi product on this list as they make great affordable options and high end ones as well. The iFi iDSD Diablo 2 offers Mac users a powerful, high-resolution listening experience with enhanced connectivity and compatibility. The Diablo 2 packs stems from the dual-core Burr-Brown True Native DAC chipset supporting DSD 512 and PCM up to 768kHz. It includes dual USB-C connectors, one for data transfer and one for charging, so it’s compatible with every one of the new M4 Macs. And with its Turbo and Nitro gain settings, the Diablo 2 has the power to drive demanding headphones, making it an ideal companion for Mac users looking to power some harder to drive headphones.

Full-sized desktop setups

Okay, now we’re moving into high end and top of the line DAC/Amps that can process all the audio from the new M4 Macs. 

Fiio K19

Fiio’s flagship, the K19, looks to offer top tier audio quality at a relatively modest price. It can do high-resolution decoding up to 768kHz/32-bit and native DSD512 playback for a premium listening experience. The K19’s robust build, featuring a CNC-milled aluminum alloy casing makes it durable but light, making it a practical desktop companion for Mac setups. Its standout feature, a 31-band lossless EQ with customizable presets, allows audiophiles to fine-tune their listening preferences directly from the device, giving listeners full control over their sound profile without needing additional software. It’s a modern device for a modern computer. 

Ferrum Erco 2

The Ferrum Erco 2nd Generation is a high-end DAC/amp designed to bring precise, natural sound to desktop setups. With support for high-resolution formats up to PCM 768kHz and DSD512, the Erco 2nd Gen leverages its AKM DAC chip and discrete/IC balanced design to deliver pristine sound quality that meets the demands of audiophiles. The unit’s metal chassis keeps it sturdy.he Erco 2’s clean, noise-free performance is further supported by Ferrum’s advanced circuitry, which minimizes interference and provides excellent imaging. With its transparent, neutral sound signature, listeners can enjoy a highly detailed and natural listening experience that makes the most of high-quality audio files and premium headphones.

Questyle CMA Eighteen Master

Now we’re getting into top of the line territory. The Questyle CMA Eighteen Master DAC/Amp brings high-quality audio to Mac users. The DAC/Amp makes it easy to get high-resolution playback up to 768kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD512 straight out of your Mac. It is on the larger side but with the reportedly smaller footprint of the Mac Mini, you should have plenty of room to spare. Sound-wise, it offers an expansive, detailed soundstage with nuanced imaging, ensuring precise placement of instruments and a natural decay that gives recordings a lifelike quality.

Final Thoughts

Whether you seek a pocket-sized DAC for music on the go or a full-sized, high-end desktop setup for a dedicated listening station, the options on this list provide excellent choices for Mac users. From affordable DACs that pack a punch to top-of-the-line desktop solutions, there’s a device here for every audiophile. 

All the products mentioned in this article are available at Audio46.