Dac Duel: Schiit Modi 3 Plus Vs 3E – Which Offers The Best Bang For Your Buck?
What To Know
- However, the Modi 3E has a slight edge in terms of noise reduction and detail retrieval, resulting in a more refined and immersive listening experience.
- However, if you require additional connectivity options, appreciate the benefits of a lower noise floor, or anticipate future upgrades, the Modi 3E is the superior choice.
- The Modi 3E adds optical and coaxial digital inputs, a lower noise floor, and upgradable firmware to the feature set of the Modi 3+.
In the realm of budget-friendly DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters), few contenders have garnered as much attention as the Schiit Modi 3+ and 3E. These compact and affordable devices promise to elevate your digital audio experience by bridging the gap between your digital music files and your analog sound system. But how do these two DACs compare? Which one should you choose? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each device, exploring their features, performance, and value proposition to help you make an informed decision.
Unpacking the Features
Modi 3+
- USB Input Only: The Modi 3+ features a single USB input, making it ideal for connecting to computers or other USB-equipped devices.
- Optical and Coaxial Inputs (Modi 3+E): The Modi 3+E variant adds optical and coaxial digital inputs, providing greater connectivity options for a wider range of sources.
- Fixed Output: Both the Modi 3+ and 3+E offer a fixed output level of 2.0V RMS, ensuring compatibility with most amplifiers and powered speakers.
Modi 3E
- Additional Inputs: As mentioned above, the Modi 3E includes optical and coaxial inputs in addition to the USB input.
- Upgradable: The Modi 3E’s firmware can be upgraded, allowing for potential performance enhancements in the future.
- Lower Noise Floor: The Modi 3E boasts a lower noise floor than the Modi 3+, resulting in cleaner, more detailed audio reproduction.
Performance Comparison
Audio Quality
Both the Modi 3+ and 3E deliver impressive audio quality for their price range. They offer a wide soundstage, accurate imaging, and a natural tonal balance. However, the Modi 3E has a slight edge in terms of noise reduction and detail retrieval, resulting in a more refined and immersive listening experience.
USB Performance
The USB input is a crucial aspect of any DAC, especially for those who primarily use computers as their audio source. Both the Modi 3+ and 3E support USB 2.0 and employ asynchronous transfer mode, which helps minimize jitter and ensure accurate digital-to-analog conversion. However, the Modi 3E has a slightly lower USB jitter level, which may translate to marginally improved audio performance in some systems.
Connectivity
The Modi 3+E’s additional optical and coaxial inputs provide greater flexibility in connecting to various digital sources, such as CD players, streaming devices, and game consoles. This makes it a more versatile option for those who have multiple digital audio components in their setup.
Value and Conclusion
The Schiit Modi 3+ and 3E offer exceptional value for money. The Modi 3+ is an excellent entry-level DAC that provides a significant upgrade over onboard sound cards and budget-friendly alternatives. The Modi 3E adds additional features, improved performance, and upgradability for a modest price increase.
Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on your specific needs and budget. If you primarily use USB as your audio source and value portability, the Modi 3+ is a great option. However, if you require additional connectivity options, appreciate the benefits of a lower noise floor, or anticipate future upgrades, the Modi 3E is the superior choice.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
Power Supply
Both the Modi 3+ and 3E can be powered via USB or an optional external power supply. Using an external power supply can further reduce noise and improve audio performance.
Headphone Output
Neither the Modi 3+ nor 3E features a built-in headphone output. If you plan on connecting headphones directly to your DAC, you will need a separate headphone amplifier.
Subjective Preferences
Audio quality is ultimately subjective, and personal preferences can vary. It is recommended to audition both the Modi 3+ and 3E in your own system to determine which one best suits your sonic tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the difference between the Modi 3+ and 3E?
A: The Modi 3E adds optical and coaxial digital inputs, a lower noise floor, and upgradable firmware to the feature set of the Modi 3+.
Q2: Which one has better audio quality?
A: The Modi 3E has a slightly better audio quality due to its lower noise floor and improved detail retrieval.
Q3: Is the Modi 3E worth the extra cost?
A: If you require additional connectivity options, appreciate the benefits of a lower noise floor, or anticipate future upgrades, the Modi 3E is worth the extra cost.
Q4: Can I use an external power supply with the Modi 3+ or 3E?
A: Yes, both the Modi 3+ and 3E can be powered via an optional external power supply to reduce noise and improve audio performance.
Q5: Do the Modi 3+ and 3E have headphone outputs?
A: No, neither the Modi 3+ nor 3E features a built-in headphone output.