D3

About the D3

The Audioengine D3 is a compact, high-performance USB digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to bypass your computer's headphone output for improved sound quality and higher volume output. It supports native 24-bit audio up to 96kHz sample rates, with internal upsampling to 24-bit for all bit depths, and asynchronous USB data transfer for reduced jitter. The DAC uses the AKM4396 chip known for low noise and high fidelity, while the headphone amplifier is based on the Texas Instruments LME49726 low-noise opamp, capable of driving headphones with impedances from 12 ohms to 10k ohms. The D3 outputs a 2.0V RMS analog signal via a 3.5mm stereo mini-jack and features a digitally-controlled analog volume control managed by the computer's OS. It is USB bus powered with dual-stage power regulation for low noise and ripple, housed in a metal injection molded aluminum case. The device includes a relay-controlled stereo output for connecting to powered speakers or audio systems. It is plug-and-play with no drivers required and comes with a 3-year warranty. Dimensions are approximately 0.8" W x 0.4" H x 2.63" D, weighing about 0.8 lbs. The D3 is praised for its warm, well-rounded sound signature, low distortion (<0.002% THD+N), high signal-to-noise ratio (>110 dB), and ability to drive a wide range of headphones including demanding planar magnetic models.