The highest MP3 gamers and hi-res audio gamers accessible, all examined by our specialists
The most effective MP3 gamers ship distinctive high-resolution sound by superior, built-in digital-to-analog converters (DACs). These gadgets do greater than merely enjoying lossy MP3 information – and each participant featured on this information has been examined by our skilled crew to make sure it meets the very best requirements.
Trendy MP3 gamers assist hi-res audio codecs like FLAC, DSD, WAV, MQA, and ALAC. Which implies whether or not you are a fan of downloading your favourite tracks or streaming from platforms like Apple Music , Qobuz, or Tidal, these gamers make sure you take pleasure in music in full, lossless high quality.
Digital audio gamers (generally often called DAPs) are an ideal match for the greatest wired headphones, although many additionally embrace Bluetooth assist for pairing with the greatest wi-fi headphones or greatest earbuds. The world of MP3 gamers has modified dramatically in recent times – as soon as dominated by the long-lasting iPod, though lately the iPod Shuffle is extra well-liked as a hair clip. It is now crammed with gadgets that provide unparalleled audio experiences. On this information, you may uncover our prime picks.
With many years of mixed experience, our audio crew rigorously checks every MP3 participant earlier than it earns a spot on this checklist. You possibly can belief our opinions and proposals – if it’s lower than par, it doesn’t make the minimize.
The short checklist
Need to minimize the prolonged explanations and simply discover out which digital audio gamers are the most effective? We’re right here for it – right here they’re. It’s also possible to soar to a full evaluate of every product, and click on by to see the most effective offers on it.
Finest for most individuals
FiiO’s March 2024-release M23 gives a fragile but muscular sound high quality that is lavishly detailed. It is a bit huge in your skinny denims pocket, however if you happen to do not thoughts that…
Learn extra beneath
2. Astell & Kern A&norma SR35
Finest step-up mannequin
Whether or not this beautiful little A&Okay participant could be thought-about ‘entry-level’ is not up for debate – it is too costly for that. However if you happen to can afford it, the SR35 is so, so value it.
Learn extra beneath
Finest low cost ‘A&Okay’ purchase
It does not appear to be an Astell & Kern participant, and it is not priced like an A&Okay participant. However Activo is A&Okay’s subsidiary – so it’s. Additionally, we have examined it and allow us to inform you, it appears like an A&Okay participant…
Learn extra beneath
Finest price range Sony
Sony’s newest hi-res streaming participant has rapidly grow to be the most suitable choice in terms of worth for cash, regardless of supporting significantly high-end codecs.
Learn extra beneath
Finest money-no-object
We gave the Astell & Kern SP3000T a uncommon 5-star evaluate. It’s extremely costly, however sound is stellar and it goes an awfully good distance in direction of justifying the asking value.
Learn extra beneath
Finest reasonably priced FiiO purchase
FiiO’s M11S gives stellar hi-res sound high quality and premium audio participant options – and since it has been outmoded by the M23 (above) it undercuts a lot of the competitors.
Learn extra beneath
Load the subsequent 4 merchandise…
7. Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000T
Finest premium
Astell & Kern is understood for delivering elite and superbly made hi-res audio, and that is on the pinnacle. It is extraordinarily well-specced, and sounds merely astounding.
Learn extra beneath
8. Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 MKII
Finest A&Okay-branded reasonably priced decide
The SR25 MKII’s sound is as expressive, expansive and decisive as Astell & Kern’s trademark brutalist aesthetic. It isn’t low cost, however it’s the most reasonably priced A&Okay-branded decide in our information.
Learn extra beneath
9. Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000
Finest for design
The Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000 is among the absolute best digital audio gamers there may be. The excellent news? It appears to be like beautiful too, with a shocking rose gold end.
Learn extra beneath
Finest ultra-cheap purchase
Look, it will not play hi-res stuff and it is not acquired a touchscreen. However for a fuss-free, depart the telephone at dwelling music choice, it does a job – and it is acquired a clip in your garments.
Learn extra beneath
Becky Scarrott
I’ve reviewed over 150 audio merchandise since turning into a tech journalist, starting from super-budget earbuds to high-end Hello-Res Audio music gamers. Earlier than becoming a member of TechRadar, I spent three years at What Hello-Fi? testing the whole lot the world of audio needed to supply; earlier than that, I used to be an expert dancer. My love of music ties all of it collectively.
December 13, 2024
Refreshed the introduction. Added particulars of the Activo Q1 wired IEMs into our Activo P1 entry as they need to pair effectively collectively. Up to date copy to ensure the whole lot on this information is bang updated.
Finest digital audio gamers 2024: the checklist
Why you’ll be able to belief TechRadar
We spend hours testing each services or products we evaluate, so that you could be certain you’re shopping for the most effective. Discover out extra about how we check.
The most effective MP3 participant general
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You need a excessive commonplace of engineering: The construct and end right here is not precisely luxurious, however it’s a improbable piece of tech.
✅ You need a improbable all-rounder: Different selections on this information do particular issues higher, however this one ticks all of the bins.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You need a flawless listening expertise: Look, general it sounds improbable however we did discover some minor and occasional glitches.
❌ You need a small and moveable machine: It isn’t huge, nevertheless it’s not probably the most dinky or compact choice on this information.
FiiO has grow to be an audio specialist we’re so used to making use of the phrase “nice worth, high-performance moveable audio electronics” to that the M23 might nearly be seen as a run-of-the-mill participant. Nearly. As a result of it is merely not. The corporate has thrown completely the whole lot it will possibly at this high-resolution audio participant by way of specification; we have but to seek out an audio file sort it will not settle for, deal with, unpack and have a good time. Additionally, the design is strong however stylish (if a tiny bit huge in your skinny denims, at 299g), it is snappy in operation and, not like some smaller gamers, its touchscreen is straightforward to make use of.
How does it sound? Minor (and definitely sporadic) audio playback trip-ups apart, that is an absolute audio beast of the very best caliber. In each single circumstance and with each file-type and dimension we feed it, the M23 sounds assertive, muscular, lavishly detailed and vaultingly dynamic – but in addition refined, nuanced and refined. It is even ready to tolerate lowly sub-16bit/44.1kHz content material if you happen to merely should, though if you happen to’re investing on this participant, you actually must also put money into an excellent music streaming service subscription – oh, sure, it really works on amended model of Android (Android 12 on this occasion) and can fortunately load up your Tidal, Apple Music and Qobuz subscription apps by way of the Play Retailer.
It appears mainly unattainable to throw FiiO out of its optimistic, assured stride lately – and this glorious March 2024-issue participant is additional proof.
Learn our full Fiio M23 evaluate
The most effective step up mannequin
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You want the feel and appear of high-end tech: Utilizing this MP3 participant and feeling it in your hand is a luxurious expertise and we will not get sufficient of it.
✅ You’ve small fingers and good eyes: The three.6-inch touchscreen appears to be like nice, nevertheless it’s pretty small in comparison with rivals.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You are not prepared to get an incredible pair of headphones: You will get the most effective expertise from a pair of achieved and (sorry) costly headphones.
❌ You need a slim and compact participant: This feature is not huge, precisely, however you may discover a extra streamlined design elsewhere.
Look, nevertheless a lot Astell & Kern needs to consider that is an ‘entry degree’ participant, it is not – it’s actually fairly costly in anybody’s cash. Astell & Kern does not usually price range choices, and it is $100 (or round £150) greater than the FiiO choice above.
However the excellent news is that the premium nature of the SR35 applies to the specification, the sound high quality and the person interface in addition to the excessive ticket-price. It is an distinctive participant. It is in regards to the dimension of a deck of playing cards and at 184g it is not the lightest DAP in the marketplace, however consider us after we inform you that the 4 onboard DAC filters and improved amp circuitry are value a number of further grams – and if you happen to can afford it, the more-than-few-extra {dollars} you may pay.
Additionally, whereas the SR35 deserves the most effective commonplace of content material you’ll be able to afford to load up onto it, it’s much less fussy than many rival gamers. So whilst you ought to actually be giving it all the 24bit/192kHz FLAC information, this explicit Astell & Kern will readily tolerate and ship 320kbps Spotify streams higher than most.
No matter you are listening to, the sound this participant is able to is deft, detailed and enjoyable such as you wouldn’t consider. Even the shortest listening periods will grow to be prolonged deep-dives into much-loved tracks, to see what this great thing about a DAP can do with them.
Learn our full Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 evaluate
The most effective low cost A&Okay purchase
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You need excessive specs at a low value: In case your price range cannot stretch to the higher-end gamers, you may be proud of this one.
✅ You’ve got already acquired nice headphones: Sure, this is applicable to most gadgets on this information however you may get the most effective expertise from good headphones.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You need to use AirPods: Apple headphones will not play good with the supported audio codecs.
❌ You are a Spotify subscriber: This participant is barely nearly as good as its supply and proper now Tidal and Apple Music are a lot better streamers.
We’ll communicate plain: we actually (actually) like this July 2024-release participant, from Astell & Kern’s audio subsidiary model, Activo. We expect the issues dearer A&Okay gamers can do, that the Activo P1 can’t, aren’t actually noticeable to nearly all of us – and possibly don’t justify spending extra until you’re actually (actually) far into your audiophile journey.
It does not look fairly as costly as its guardian model’s angular, darkish metallic gamers nevertheless it’s what’s inside that counts, and beneath the hood the P1 is superb certainly: it is acquired the identical amplification as dearer gamers and an ESS ES9219Q SABRE Twin-DAC.
In fact, a very powerful factor is how this participant sounds, and in that division it’s greater than deserving of the total 5 stars: it sounds excellent as a participant and in DAC mode it is a helpful audio improve in your laptop. You possibly can craft advanced EQ curves with the equaliser, however throughout our testing we tended to go away effectively alone – the P1 sounded so good with out our tweaks.
Along with its native playback, the P1 additionally works with the most effective music streaming providers and consists of full Play Retailer assist. Any downsides? Two: it runs a bit scorching, and it’s a little slower to begin up than gamers promoting for double, triple or quadruple the value. But when these small shortcomings don’t be concerned you, it is a nice little participant.
Should you just like the look of the Activo P1 and also you’re agonizing over which headphones will pair greatest with it, we have you. As of late 2024, there’s now a set of Q1 in-ears to go together with it, specifically made by Activo in collaboration with Singaporean model, DITA Audio. We’re at present testing these in-ears and can hold you posted on what we expect and whether or not the buds and the DAC are a match made in heaven.
Learn our full Activo P1 evaluate
The most effective price range Sony purchase
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You need hi-res for the bottom value: You will get hi-res audio right here however will not must spend a small fortune for this entry-level providing.
✅ You need a mild and compact choice: It is a small and streamlined machine you will not discover in most pockets.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You need all of your hi-res audio with you: The inner reminiscence storage right here is not the most effective – although you should buy a microSD card.
❌ You need a premium appear and feel: It is an reasonably priced choice and it feels it, particularly in terms of the display screen which might be extra responsive.
Not solely is that this plucky little participant a part of Sony’s new (however previous… however new!) Walkman lineup, it’s constructed to deal with extremely prime quality audio information for a value that’s far more palatable than most of what’s at present on the market. The Sony NW-A306 was launched in 2023 and we’re so grateful that Sony determined to make a comeback with this admittedly nostalgic audio machine – the tape cassette interface is a gloriously retro contact.
The place the NW-A306 is let down will not be in its music-playing ability, however within the slight niggles with its all spherical usability. The menu generally is a little unresponsive at instances, the battery longevity can differ and surprisingly, it sometimes struggles when enjoying a normal 128kbps audio file, which is why we we pressured to regulate our star score beneath intense evaluate (by half a star to be actual). However there’s no denying that the positives vastly outweigh the negatives right here – particularly for the cash.
Should you’re searching for a devoted hi-res audio participant, the Sony NW-A306 boasts a formidable spec sheet straight from the field. It helps audio information far above CD high quality – and greater than that, it actually shines with them. It additionally has a slim design that may slot in your pocket, which isn’t true of many hi-res gamers on this checklist.
Learn our full Sony NW-A306 evaluate
The most effective money-no-object MP3 participant
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You solely need the most effective: It is high-end and costly however oh boy does it nearly justify that eye-watering value.
✅ You do not thoughts a much bigger machine: You will want sturdy pockets as it is a weighty and chunky participant, at the very least in comparison with rivals.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ Longevity is a precedence: If you wish to hearken to hi-res information for lengthy durations of time the battery most likely is not going to final.
❌ You are vegan: The case is constituted of calf leather-based. No, we do not know why that is actually crucial both.
We awarded the Astell & Kern SP3000T a uncommon 5-star score in our evaluate. As a result of regardless of the actual fact that is an extremely costly MP3 participant, it is among the best we have ever examined.
As you would possibly count on, the Astell & Kern SP3000T sounded unbelievable. In our evaluate, we wrote that it delivers “an lively, entertaining hear that prioritizes the enjoyment of music over the trivia of the way it’s been recorded.” It is also value mentioning that though the most important audio information carry out the most effective, this MP3 participant makes the a lot of the information you give it and the headphones you utilize.
Not solely does it sound improbable, the Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000T appears to be like premium. It’s constituted of silver-plated stainless-steel, controls are superbly carried out and it has a steady and logical working system. All the pieces about this MP3 participant delivers a premium expertise, from the way in which it sounds and handles to the way it appears to be like. If cash isn’t any object and also you need solely the most effective sound, that is the MP3 participant you want.
Learn our full Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000T evaluate
The most effective reasonably priced FiiO purchase
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You are on a price range: This is among the extra reasonably priced picks on this information, however you are still getting an incredible participant.
✅ You are comfortable to make use of wired headphones: Sure, you can use wi-fi headphones however wired ones provides you with an infinitely extra pleasing expertise.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You’ve small pockets: It isn’t enormous, nevertheless it’s not probably the most compact alternative both.
❌ You need it for lengthy listening periods: Battery life may not be unhealthy right here, nevertheless it’s solely common.
You don’t must hear lengthy, exhausting, or by notably proficient headphones to grasp the M11S is the real article. In each significant music-making respect, it is acquired expertise – and in some areas, it’s a licensed skilled. It has been outmoded by the M23 on the prime spot on this checklist, however what of it? In hi-res audio, issues transfer a bit slower.
The M11S is intuitive sufficient to make trifling or typically transient data obvious, and it will possibly relay probably the most nuanced, delicate and dynamic variations in a solo instrument with ease. It has greater than sufficient headroom to dispatch greater shifts with out challenge and when referred to as upon, it faithfully describes huge, extensive and correctly outlined soundstages. The treble is probably a bit on the brilliant aspect, however not a lot that we might contemplate it a fault – furthermore that it is our job nitpick and right here, we’ve got famous it.
There’s tons to like right here together with an Android 10 working system, a touchscreen that is easy and responsive, a punchy but managed and detailed sound and a resoundingly stylish construct.
The Fiio M11S does a wonderful job of gently undercutting its closest rival, the Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 Mk II (additionally on this roundup). To not nudge you both means, nevertheless it’s simple to have a look at the saving you may make right here and resolve it is value placing into a pleasant high-capacity microSD card, as an alternative of its pricier rival.
Learn our full Fiio M11S evaluate
The most effective premium MP3 participant
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You want finer issues: Probably the most premium and most costly choices on this information, if you happen to like high-end tech, that is for you.
✅ You possibly can afford headphones which are simply as nice: Solely the most effective wired headphones on the planet will do that participant justice.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You are in any doubt in regards to the value: It is eye-wateringly costly. Sure, the audio is unbelievable however you may discover nice music elsewhere for a lot, a lot much less.
❌ You need a slim machine: It isn’t precisely cumbersome nevertheless it’ll stick out in most pockets.
The Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000T is among the greatest moveable music gamers you should buy proper now if cash isn’t any object. Sure, it is costly, nevertheless it has just lately been outmoded by the SP3000 and SP3000T (each listed right here), so if you need a premium digital audio expertise which may now be accessible at a slight low cost, know that the SP2000T remains to be in A&Okay’s present lineup – and it sounds excellent.
Two amplifier levels supply seven distinct choices, whereas no fewer than 4 DACs are deployed to deal with two channels of audio data. The SP2000T is unconcerned by digital audio file dimension or sort, and it’ll fortunately energy any headphones you care to say.
The management interface is clear and responsive. As for the participant itself, it isn’t a lot constructed as sculpted – hewn or solid, even! – although it’s too giant to slide into your denims pocket. Astell & Kern has continued this design with the SP2000s successor, the SP3000 (above), which additionally is available in a restricted version 24k gold casing.
Learn our full Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000T evaluate
The most effective A&Okay-branded reasonably priced decide
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You care about worth: That is most likely probably the most fully-featured DAP you may discover accessible at this mid-range degree.
✅ Portability is a precedence: The entire gadgets on this information are, technically, moveable, however that is smaller, lighter and can slot in most pockets.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ Your fingers are giant: You will nonetheless be capable to use this participant, however greater choices will swimsuit you higher.
❌ You are on a price range: It is extremely good worth for what you get, nevertheless it’s not precisely reasonably priced by most requirements.
Give this A&Okay your music, sit again and loosen up – if it does not wow you, we do not know what’s going to. (Effectively, perhaps the SP3000T.) The A&norma SR25 MKII is a gifted digital audio participant that can reignite your love of music. And in contrast to lots of the A&Okay’s extra expensive gamers, this one is sufficiently small to place in a pocket and can hold you streaming, pinging or downloading once-treasured songs to it, simply to see what it makes of them. That is why it is our prime decide if you happen to’re searching for a extra reasonably priced Astell & Kern choice.
In addition to the new-for-June-2022 4.4mm headphone jack, the MKII unit (an replace on the A&norma SR25) additionally boasts a brand new Replay Acquire perform to uniformly modify quantity playback from sound sources as much as 24-bit/192 kHz. You are additionally getting AK File Drop (first launched within the pricier A&futura SE180 participant) for simpler wi-fi file transfers; BT Sink perform for easier connection of the SR25 MKII to an exterior Bluetooth machine and further inner silver-plated shielding to guard from electromagnetic interference.
Though it hasn’t been shouted about, 4 fairly different-sounding DAC filters are additionally onboard, which can work if listening in 24-bit/192kHz or much less PCM (though they will not work in MQA and DSD codecs) they usually definitely add worth and scope for personalization on the degree. In case your price range stretches to this participant and never a penny extra, you will not be disillusioned.
And the ultimate vital contact is its distinctive design, with an off-angle display screen and the appears to be like of a deck of playing cards that is been twisted. Everybody will need to maintain it and play with it.
Learn our full Astell & Kern A&norma SR25 MKII evaluate
The most effective MP3 participant for design
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ Seems to be matter to you: It is superbly designed and the end is impeccable; a beautiful object.
✅ You’ve high-end headphones: Once more, you do not want glorious headphones however you may need them.
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You are searching for good worth: All the pieces right here is impeccable, however you may get the same sound for a lot much less.
❌ You are vegan: The case is constituted of goatskin, which can postpone lots of people, particularly vegans.
The Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000 is among the priciest DAPs in A&Okay’s arsenal of pricey DAPs. It’s uncompromisingly specified (six DACs and full unbiased balanced and unbalanced audio circuits are simply two of its highlights) and you would be forgiven for submitting it beneath ‘high-end jewellery’ in its press photographs. However if you happen to suppose you are mainly paying a premium for the spectacular design and casework right here (it is accessible in Black, Silver, Copper or Gold) you actually should suppose once more.
What are you paying for? Merely put, your cash’s occurring the way in which it sounds. Oh, and its huge, lovely touch-screen. It helps each worthwhile digital format going and the ground-breaking unbiased audio circuitry (it’s the solely participant to boast it but) retains the sign path for the balanced and unbalanced outputs solely separated.
It’s abundantly clear that Astell & Kern determined to not compromise the place technical specification was involved with the A&ultima SP3000. And that’s earlier than we point out the bespoke A&Okay-designed ‘Teraton X’ processor that nixes energy provide noise and any conceivable audio nasties derived from the quite a few DACs. The outcome? The SP3000 delivers each amplification and sound high quality that’s cleaner and extra environment friendly than any digital audio participant we have ever heard.
Learn our full Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000 evaluate
The most effective ultra-cheap MP3 participant
Picture 1 of 4
BUY IT IF
✅ You are on a really tight price range: That is probably the most low cost and cheerful choice in our information, nevertheless it nonetheless works effectively.
✅ You do not care about hi-res information: Because the title suggests, this actually is an MP3 participant – it will not unlock and ship hi-res file sorts comparable to FLAC or MQA in all their glory
DON’T BUY IT IF
❌ You need a lot of room: There’s 16GB (though you’ll be able to add an SD card), which probably will not be sufficient if you wish to pack in each single one among your albums.
❌ You want a touchscreen: A tool this low cost has to make sacrifices and a flowery touchscreen is the very first thing to go.
OK, so this participant can not fairly be in comparison with the choices listed above – for starters, the one formally supported file sort is lowly, lossy, easy-to-store MP3 high quality. And it is lower than one tenth of the value of even the next-cheapest DAP right here. Acquired it? Good. Additionally, there is not any touchscreen, it solely holds 16GB natively (though that is round 4,000 MP3-quality songs so, you realize) and even if you happen to needed to broaden on that with an SD card, your most storage is 128GB – or much more low-res songs! – earlier than it will possibly maintain no extra.
It will not stream over an web connection, so no downloading out of your favorite music streaming website, and it will solely settle for your 3.5mm-terminated headphones (no 4.4mm or 2.5mm ports right here) until you need to ditch wires and hook it as much as your wi-fi earbuds, which can influence the in any other case very-good 34-hour battery life.
So it is an MP3 participant which you may must manually obtain songs to – like the olden days. And now we have talked about the whole lot it will possibly’t do, let’s discuss what it will possibly handle: your music, particularly if you happen to’re a runner. This factor is tiny, and it has a beautiful sturdy clip to connect it to your garments. If that is what you are after – and handily, there’s additionally a stopwatch if you happen to’re seeking to beat your 10k PB – you have discovered an affordable and cheerful resolution. To make clear, audiophiles might want to have a look at any of the 9 different choices inside this shopping for information. However perhaps you are not a kind of, and that is simply nice with us.
Learn our full Majority MP3 participant evaluate
Meet the crew
Everybody on the TechRadar crew has years of expertise testing the most recent tech. However our audio tech crew are notably inquisitive about the most effective headphones, greatest audio system and greatest MP3 gamers. With many years of mixed expertise, our audio specialists know precisely what to search for from the most effective MP3 gamers. They’ve put each machine by rigorous testing and, importantly, know an incredible deal in regards to the audio tech house so as to add a lot wanted context – which is important after we’re telling you why to purchase one product over one other.
Matt Bolton
Matt Bolton is the Managing Editor for Leisure at TechRadar. This implies he oversees the platform’s content material on films, TV reveals, televisions, soundbars, headphones, and audio system. Matt has greater than ten years of expertise in tech journalism and joined TechRadar after holding the place of editor at T3 journal. His writing and opinions have been featured in varied publications, comparable to MacLife, PC Gamer, Digital Digital camera World, Edge, PC Plus, and MacFormat, amongst others.
Becky Scarrott
Becky Scarrott is the Audio Editor at TechRadar and leads the platform’s protection of the whole lot to do with audio and hi-fi. Becky joined the TechRadar crew as a Senior Workers Author in 2022. Earlier than this, she spent greater than three years at What Hello-Fi?, the place she examined the most recent audio know-how, from budget-friendly earbuds to premium sound techniques. Becky additionally holds an MA in journalism.
Simon Lucas
Simon Lucas has spent nearly 20 years writing about know-how as a contract journalist, with a selected concentrate on audio and video gear for the house. Simon was additionally the editor of What Hello-Fi? journal and whathifi.com. His writing and tech opinions have additionally appeared in publications comparable to Wired, Metro, the Guardian, HiFi+, GQ, and others.
Tom Bedford was the Deputy Telephones Editor at TechRadar till late 2022, having labored his means up from Workers Author. He now works for the leisure website What To Watch. He has specialised in telephones and tablets through the years, however has additionally reviewed audio tech extensively, together with headphones and MP3 gamers.
Steadily Requested Questions
Pairing among the best MP3 gamers with the most effective wired headphones creates the final word moveable music expertise, which is ideal for street journeys or high-fidelity listening on-the-move. However how do you select the proper one for you?
With the market catering more and more to audiophiles, manufacturers are repeatedly innovating with new gadgets. Improved sound high quality, hi-res audio assist, and highly effective built-in DACs are making these gamers higher than ever. Plus, fashion meets substance. Whether or not you favor Astell & Kern’s daring and delightful designs, Sony’s easy aptitude, or FiiO’s minimal however practical gadgets, you’ll discover one thing that fits your style in our information above.
What’s DSD audio – and is it good?
DSD (Direct Stream Digital) is Sony’s proprietary high-resolution audio format, designed to supply a definite various to the extra widespread PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) system utilized in codecs like WAV, FLAC, ALAC, and AIFF.
Co-created by Sony and Philips within the Nineteen Nineties, DSD was initially developed as an archival format. In contrast to PCM, which makes use of multi-bit recordings (like 16-bit for CD high quality), DSD employs a 1-bit Sigma Delta Modulated (SDM) system. DSD’s sampling charge is 2.8224 MHz. That is 64 instances that of 44.1 kHz, aka CD audio sampling charge, however with 1-bit samples as an alternative of 16-bit. You possibly can learn our hi-res file format explainer for extra.
DSD can seize audio with nice element and the ensuing sound is easy and extra pure. Many audiophiles contemplate DSD to be higher than PCM – however that depends upon private choice. Qobuz just lately started providing DSD downloads to its platform, which is nice information for fledgling audiophiles.
Why do individuals nonetheless use MP3 gamers?
There are a number of the explanation why it’s possible you’ll need to use a devoted digital audio participant. The most important one is sound high quality: many DAPs can help you hearken to higher-quality tracks than what you’ll be able to stream out of your telephone, particularly since most smartphones lack headphone jacks.
Critical music followers respect that Bluetooth audio, whereas enhancing, nonetheless can’t ship full hi-res high quality with out wired headphones. Even high-end wi-fi headphones, just like the AirPods Max, can’t deal with Apple Music’s Lossless codecs wirelessly.
Another excuse is music curation. Not all music you need to hear is out there on the most effective music streaming providers. What’s extra, the tracks which are accessible right now is perhaps gone tomorrow (though this appears to be taking place much less and fewer). With an MP3 participant, you’ll be able to sync and personal your music, guaranteeing you all the time have entry with no month-to-month subscription or adverts.
MP3 gamers have been additionally designed particularly for music playback, which provides them an edge over smartphones by way of audio efficiency, battery life, and storage. Plus, they don’t require a cellular or Wi-Fi connection, so you’ll be able to take your music anyplace, even offline.
Is an MP3 participant value shopping for?
Whether or not an MP3 participant is value shopping for depends upon your wants. Should you’re making an attempt to flee fixed notifications and distractions out of your telephone, an MP3 participant can assist you focus purely on music.
Some individuals additionally want utilizing MP3 gamers for exercises to keep away from carrying their telephone or risking injury on the health club.
Moreover, in case your telephone lacks house for high-resolution music, a devoted participant is a good resolution. Whereas not everybody will discover or care in regards to the improved audio high quality, for some, an MP3 participant is a game-changer.
Is MP3 high quality nearly as good as CD?
The quick reply isn’t any. MP3 is a “lossy” format, which means some audio knowledge is eliminated to cut back file dimension, usually frequencies much less noticeable to human ears.
CDs, by comparability, retailer music at the next decision of 1,411 kbps, whereas the most effective MP3s max out at 320 kbps. Though MP3s intention to take away much less essential sounds, it’s possible you’ll discover a scarcity of deep bass and a “splashy” excessive finish. Whereas MP3s supply comfort, lossless and hi-res codecs present superior sound high quality.
Are hi-res audio gamers value it?
Hello-res audio gamers are undoubtedly value it if sound high quality is your prime precedence. These gadgets assist high-resolution audio information, delivering extra element, depth, and richness in comparison with commonplace MP3s. Hello-res codecs, usually lossless, protect the total high quality of the unique recording, leading to clearer sound, a wider soundstage, and deeper bass.
Nevertheless, whether or not a hi-res participant is value it depends upon your setup. Should you’re utilizing price range headphones or streaming compressed music from providers like Spotify, you may not discover a lot of a distinction. However with high-end audio gear, the advance in sound high quality could be important.
What is the highest high quality method to hearken to music?
The best high quality method to hearken to music includes a number of key issues. You’ll want hi-res audio information (you’ll be able to learn our hi-res explainer and audio file-format explainer for extra about what this implies), a high-quality audio participant, and high-end headphones or audio system.
When you’ve got entry to lossless audio codecs, like FLAC or ALAC, this may protect the unique recording’s element. Then, you may want to make use of a high-res audio participant or digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to make sure the music is processed with the precision it deserves.
And bear in mind, output issues. You must put money into high-quality, over-ear headphones or audiophile-grade audio system. Wired connections are usually most popular proper now over wi-fi as a result of that means you’ll be able to keep away from any lack of high quality resulting from compression. Nevertheless, check out our LE Audio explainer to learn the way advances in Bluetooth can enhance audio high quality. In addition to our Snapdragon Sound explainer for extra on how this know-how will quickly enhance your audio {hardware}.
When you think about all of those components, the result’s a wealthy, immersive listening expertise that’s able to translating each element of your favourite music.
What music gamers do audiophiles use?
Audiophiles are inclined to go for high-resolution audio gamers and digital-to-analog converters (DACs), or gadgets that mix each, to make sure they get the most effective sound high quality.
Manufacturers like Astell&Kern and FiiO are well-liked for his or her distinctive construct high quality, sound efficiency, and superior options. These gamers assist a variety of audio codecs, together with lossless and high-resolution sorts, and sometimes supply customizable sound settings. This flexibility permits audiophiles to fine-tune their listening expertise to match their private preferences, guaranteeing they get probably the most out of their music.
Can I hearken to hi-res music gamers wirelessly?
Sure, you’ll be able to hearken to hi-res audio gamers wirelessly, however keep in mind that Bluetooth often compresses audio. Which means that newer codecs, like LDAC and aptX HD, will usually enhance wi-fi sound high quality, so for the most effective expertise, you may want a hi-res audio participant and Bluetooth headphones that assist these codecs.
That mentioned, some audiophiles argue that even the most effective wi-fi setups can’t totally match the sound high quality of a wired connection, particularly when coping with high-resolution information.
How we check the most effective MP3 gamers
Hello-res file assist: we check dozens of hi-res moveable music gamers yearly at TechRadar, and meaning we all know precisely which options, specs, file assist and wi-fi audio codecs to search for. It is vital for us to match the efficiency of those gamers in opposition to the claims made by their producers, which is why we take the time to ensure the stamina, sturdiness, connectivity and sound high quality claims are legit.
Comparative testing in opposition to like-for-like class-leaders: we be sure that to check every product in opposition to its chief rivals too, so you’ll be able to ensure that if we are saying so, the product is the most effective wager for the cash. We reside with these gamers for weeks and we run them in religiously in order that the elements have ‘bedded in’ earlier than we begin our checks, and we do not end testing till we’re sure of the sound high quality.
A number of headphones; myriad musical genres: on this, we check the audio efficiency utilizing a spread of musical genres and with each wired and wi-fi headphones – and streamed and downloaded music from varied sources, to make sure that these merchandise can deal with the whole lot from thumping dance tracks to softly-spoken podcasts in no matter format we throw at them.
Solely probably the most skilled audio reviewers: after extra collective years on this sport than we would care to disclose, we’re really assured that our star-rated opinions are the most effective indication of the standard. Each reviewer is very educated about audio tech and most of us have a specialism, giving us years of business insights and real-world expertise of different gadgets that add a wealthy layer of context to each evaluate. There are not any gross sales groups concerned in our verdicts and we’re not getting paid bonuses handy out further stars, which provides us full impartiality. It additionally means if we do not prefer it for sound, design, usability and options, we merely will not suggest it right here.
The newest updates to this greatest MP3 gamers information
December 13, 2024
Refreshed the introduction. Added particulars of the Activo Q1 wired IEMs into our Activo P1 entry as they need to pair effectively collectively. Up to date copy to ensure the whole lot on this information is bang updated.
November 15, 2024
Up to date the introduction. Added a ‘Black Friday’ part to share information of Black Friday offers we have noticed on the most effective MP3 gamers. Included extra pictures for every shopping for information entry, so readers can get a greater have a look at our skilled suggestions. Added a ‘meet the crew’ part in order that readers can discover out extra in regards to the expertise and expertise of our skilled audio crew.
October 16, 2024
Rewrote the introduction. Up to date our FAQ part and added a brand new entry ‘what’s DSD audio?’ to assist readers perceive this sort of audio file sort.
September 18, 2024
Rewrote the introduction to make it extra succinct and present. Added ‘purchase it if/do not buy it if’ recommendation to every MP3 participant listed in our information to make it extra helpful for patrons. Rewrote the FAQs part to make data extra present and related.
August 21, 2024
Rewrote our FAQ part to mirror merchandise we now suggest; itemised our ‘How we check’ part to raised clarify our evaluate testing course of.
July 23, 2024
Added the Activo P1 as our ‘greatest low cost A&Okay purchase’ and the FiiO M23 as our ‘greatest general’ decide. Switched the Fiio M11 to ‘greatest reasonably priced FiiO’. Added the Majority MP3 participant as ‘greatest ultra-cheap’ decide.
June 24, 2024
Added the Astell & Kern SP3000T as our ‘greatest money-no-object’ decide. Switched the Astell & Kern SR25 MKII for our ‘greatest reasonably priced A&Okay purchase’ and the Astell & Kern SP3000 as our ‘greatest for design’.
Could 29, 2024
Added this replace log! Up to date the copy to mirror present prime picks and why. Added our audio file sorts explainer to assist listeners higher perceive their music.
April 2, 2024
Eliminated the Onkyo DP-X1A from this checklist as the most effective mid-range digital audio participant resulting from it now not being accessible. There’s additionally no inventory at present accessible within the UK for the A&norma SR25 MKII. This might be right down to it being succeeded by the Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 in Could 2023.
January 30, 2024
Added the Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 and the Astell & Kern A&ultima SP3000. Re-ordered to mirror the newer merchandise and up to date copy all through. The SR25 MkII and SP2000T stay on this checklist as a result of though older, they’re nonetheless within the present lineup at A&Okay they usually could effectively obtain sure reductions in upcoming gross sales occasions.
December 6, 2023
We nonetheless have not but reviewed Astell & Kern’s SP3000 however with a brand new restricted version gold casing being launched, which will very effectively quickly change. For now, although, our checklist has remained unchanged.
September 25, 2023
Added new navigation options to make it simpler to seek out explicit fashions. Up to date the checklist primarily based on our newest opinions, and eliminated fashions now not available for purchase.
