The FLOW's comber aesthetic and washing-machine aesthetic take a little getting used to. But its ease of use, perfectly legible OLED screen, plug/unplug safety features, and remote control functionality, are perfectly endearing.

In case you're wondering, this 1300$ DAC:

1. has a low (but not silent) background noise floor
2. boasts lots of current into low ohm loads
3. pumps good volume, high-quality signal into high-ohm loads
4. works with both iPhone and iPad (as well as Android devices)
5. boasts decent stereo separation and detail levels across all frequencies
6. has a battery and can be used on the road
7. has external controls that interface directly with your device

And, it is machined impeccably. Korean portable Hi-Fi units have the unique advantage of being produced in Korea, by Koreans. They look, and feel, wonderful next to outsourced competitors. And the FLOW is the best-feeling Korean unit yet.

FLOW is a wonderful device. It probably isn't the be-all-end-all of performance DACs, but it boasts headphone safety features, is well-machined, and speaks for itself as an important member of an impressive, and growing, family of products.

I will be reviewing it at Headfonia in the new year.

More about the FLOW: Aurender FLOW personal entertainment

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