Dacmagic 200M Vs Mojo: Unraveling The Secrets Of Hi-Res Audio

In the realm of high-fidelity audio, digital-to-analog converters (DACs) play a pivotal role in transforming digital music into the analog signals that power our speakers and headphones. Two renowned contenders in the DAC market are the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M and the Chord Mojo. This comprehensive comparison delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each device, guiding you toward the best choice for your discerning audio needs.

Design and Build Quality

The DacMagic 200M boasts a sleek and compact aluminum chassis, while the Mojo features a more rugged and portable design with a unibody construction. Both devices offer a solid build quality that exudes durability.

Connectivity

The DacMagic 200M offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB, optical, coaxial, and balanced XLR inputs. The Mojo, on the other hand, has a more limited selection of inputs, with only USB and optical connections. However, the Mojo’s USB input supports both data and charging, making it more convenient for use with portable devices.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of both the DacMagic 200M and the Mojo is exceptional, with each device offering a unique sonic signature.

The DacMagic 200M delivers a warm and balanced sound with a wide and spacious soundstage. It excels at reproducing the nuances and details of music, offering a natural and immersive listening experience.

The Mojo, on the other hand, produces a more neutral and analytical sound with a slightly tighter soundstage. It emphasizes clarity and precision, making it ideal for critical listening and analytical tasks.

Features

The DacMagic 200M features a built-in headphone amplifier with a variable gain setting, allowing you to use it directly with a wide range of headphones. It also has a built-in DAC bypass mode, which allows you to use it as a preamplifier.

The Mojo lacks a built-in headphone amplifier, but it does have a high-power USB output that can drive even demanding headphones with ease. It also features a switchable filter mode that allows you to tailor the sound to your preference.

Portability

The DacMagic 200M is a desktop DAC designed for use in a home or studio setting. The Mojo, on the other hand, is highly portable and can be easily carried in a pocket or backpack. Its compact size and long battery life make it an ideal companion for on-the-go listening.

Price

The DacMagic 200M is priced at around $600, while the Mojo is priced at around $500. Both devices offer excellent value for money, but the Mojo’s lower price point makes it a more affordable option for those on a budget.

Takeaways

The Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M and the Chord Mojo are both exceptional DACs that offer a unique blend of features and sound quality. The DacMagic 200M is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and feature-rich DAC for home use, while the Mojo is an ideal option for those who prioritize portability and affordability. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q1: Which DAC has a wider soundstage?
A1: The DacMagic 200M has a wider and more spacious soundstage compared to the Mojo.

Q2: Which DAC is better for critical listening?
A2: The Mojo is better suited for critical listening due to its neutral and analytical sound signature.

Q3: Which DAC has more connectivity options?
A3: The DacMagic 200M offers a wider range of connectivity options, including balanced XLR inputs.

Q4: Which DAC is more portable?
A4: The Mojo is more portable due to its compact size and long battery life.

Q5: Which DAC has a built-in headphone amplifier?
A5: The DacMagic 200M has a built-in headphone amplifier with a variable gain setting.