Audioengine just announced the availability of DAC3, a portable, powerful headphone amplifier/DAC (digital-to-analog converter) that offers better-than-CD sound and compatibility with every major streaming format on the market.
The Audioengine DAC3 (buy at Crutchfield – $149.00), which measures a 1.9 inches, relies on the low-power output of a smartphone or tablet to elevate the sound quality to levels that are typically associated with large-scale, high-priced home audio equipment.
“We often hear from music lovers who want to enjoy the benefits of great sound without having to invest hundreds of dollars in oversized, bulky equipment,” says Nate Rodriguez, CEO and President, Audioengine. “The DAC3’s minimal size and massive output make it a perfect fit for listeners who love music and want to make their favorite recordings sound their best.”
Audioengine focused on performance, flexibility, and convenience when developing the DAC3 amplifier/DAC, designing it for sonic output that brings out the best in headphones and computer audio.
Music lovers who will appreciate the way in which the DAC3 supports audio from every currently available streaming service, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Qobuz, and more.
The integrated headphone amplifier can power a wide range of headsets, from inexpensive models designed for casual listening to some of the most demanding high-end headphones on the market. In addition, it substantially improves the sound quality of computer audio by adding a bridge of amplification between a laptop and a pair of desktop speakers.
As a truly portable device, the DAC3’s minimal proportions are supported by a metal injected molded aluminum case that withstands the demands of extensive use, hour after hour, day after day.
The History of AudioEngine
AudioEngine is an American company that has made a significant mark in the audio industry since its founding in 2005. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the company specializes in producing high-quality audio products, including speakers, amplifiers, and wireless audio solutions. AudioEngine was founded by Dave and Brad, two engineers with a passion for music and audio equipment, with the goal of creating high-performance audio products that were both affordable and easy to use. From its early days, the company focused on delivering products that would appeal to audiophiles, casual listeners, and home audio enthusiasts alike.
AudioEngine’s first product, the AudioEngine 5 (A5) powered speakers, was released in 2005 and quickly garnered attention for its superior sound quality and straightforward design. The A5 speakers were designed to deliver high-quality sound without the need for additional amplifiers or complicated setups. These powered speakers featured built-in amplifiers and a range of connectivity options, making them easy to integrate into a home audio system or connect to a computer, smartphone, or other audio devices. The A5’s clear, balanced sound and ease of use helped establish AudioEngine’s reputation as a company that could provide high-end audio performance in a compact, user-friendly package.
Building on the success of the A5, AudioEngine continued to expand its product range in the following years. The company introduced new models of powered speakers, including the AudioEngine 2 (A2) speakers, which offered a smaller and more affordable option for customers looking for high-quality audio. Like the A5, the A2 speakers featured built-in amplifiers and were designed to offer an enhanced listening experience without the need for external components. AudioEngine’s ability to offer a range of speaker options catering to different budgets and spaces helped it attract a growing customer base.
In the following years, AudioEngine began to broaden its focus to include wireless audio products. With the increasing popularity of streaming services and wireless audio devices, the company introduced the AudioEngine W3 Wireless Audio Adapter, which allowed users to stream audio from a computer to their stereo system without the need for additional cables. This product marked the beginning of AudioEngine’s move into the growing market of wireless audio solutions, a category that would become increasingly important as consumer preferences shifted toward wireless technologies.
In 2012, AudioEngine released the A5+ Wireless speakers, a major milestone for the company. These speakers combined the high-quality sound of the A5 series with the convenience of wireless connectivity. The A5+ Wireless speakers featured Bluetooth technology, allowing users to wirelessly stream audio from a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. The A5+ Wireless speakers received praise for their excellent sound quality, easy setup, and versatility, helping to solidify AudioEngine’s reputation as a leader in the wireless audio market.
As the company grew, AudioEngine continued to innovate with new products aimed at enhancing the home audio experience. The company introduced the D1 24-bit DAC (digital-to-analog converter) to improve audio playback quality for users who wanted to connect their computers or mobile devices to high-quality speakers. AudioEngine’s DAC products received praise for their ability to deliver clearer, more detailed sound by bypassing the limitations of standard internal sound cards in computers and mobile devices.
In 2015, AudioEngine expanded its portfolio to include the AudioEngine HD3 Wireless speakers, which offered even greater portability and convenience while maintaining high sound quality. These speakers were designed with a compact, bookshelf-style form factor that allowed them to fit in a variety of home or office environments. The HD3 speakers featured Bluetooth and Wi-Fi streaming capabilities, giving users multiple options for connecting to their audio sources. The HD3 speakers were well-received for their balanced sound, ease of use, and modern design, making them a popular choice for customers who wanted high-quality sound in a compact and stylish package.
AudioEngine’s product range continued to grow in the years following the release of the HD3 speakers. The company introduced additional wireless solutions, amplifiers, subwoofers, and accessories, all while maintaining its focus on high-quality sound reproduction and simple, user-friendly designs. AudioEngine’s commitment to offering high-performance audio products with straightforward setups and a clean, modern aesthetic has contributed to its success in both the consumer audio market and among audiophiles.
Today, AudioEngine continues to produce a wide variety of products aimed at improving the home audio experience. The company’s powered speakers, wireless audio systems, and accessories remain popular for their reliable performance, ease of use, and excellent sound quality. AudioEngine’s ability to stay ahead of trends, such as the shift to wireless and streaming audio, while staying true to its core principles of providing affordable, high-quality sound, has allowed it to maintain a strong presence in the audio market.
