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Recommendation please: Small inexpensive DAC for smart phone to receiver

I have a late '80s McIntosh mac4280 stereo receiver and have been using the headphone output of my Android phone connected to the Aux input of the receiver. 

I'd like to install a small inexpensive USB DAC between the phone an receiver to improve the sound quality.

I went to eBay and Amazon and was overwhelmed with all the Dacs, many from China, some with headphone output only, others with rca outputs which I need. I don't know where to begin looking. I'd like to keep it around $100 - $150 for a first phone Dac for my Android phone to stereo receiver.

What do you recommend?
mjcmt
dbtom2
383 posts
 
It depends on how the dac is powered. In your config, the phone powers the dac. 

I am not familiar with other techniques at your price point. 
erik_squires
16,924 posts
 
I really like the UFO DAC's but mine died after like a month, however when it did work it was marvelous, very close to the Pono or best Fiio outboard headphone amps.

mjcmt's avatar
mjcmt OP
711 posts
 
I'm thinking of getting the Auris BluMe bluetooth receiver/Dac. Anyone have experience with this one for use w/ a smart phone and vintage receiver?
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,507 posts
 
mjcmt,
I use the Auris bluMe and very highly recommend it. Look at my system page. Though I use a Samsung tab for Spotify and other apps, I also use it with my smart phone. You will be amazed what it can do. It is amazing that Bluetooth audio can sound so good. My only concern - it does not come with the power adapter. I use a Apple 12W power adapter with mine. They have dropped the price on Auris, at Amazon to $141 for the Black one.
Will love to hear from you, if you get it. I love mine.
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