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Despite not driving low-Ω loads to perfection, the D1 is a great USB-powered DAC/headphone amp. Its output is nearly hissless, and it is powerful. And while it may not look as good in pictures as the D3, I prefer it. For 169$, it is a steal.
I've got more to say about it at Headfonia.
And it's a good read. Here's how Marcus sums things up:
“The D3 tonally surprised me. Granted it’s my first USB “stick” and there is a lot more to try out there in the market but I honestly wasn’t expecting much. I got a lot more than I expected to be fair. More than enough power for most on the go cans and high impedance headphones and a nice analog natural sound that really made the old classics and a lot of folk music sounding rather authentic and appealing. It is a great contrast to the more digital sounding FiiO E18 and more in league with the likes of the smoother Cypher Labs Piccolo AMP/DAC which is a big step up in price and quality for me.”
I think Marcus adds in a bit too many to me's, but he stays away from tossing around the term impedance, which, at this juncture, is a good idea. Overall, this is another excellent review of an excellent DAC.
Hardware Canucks's beautiful YouTube review is probably the most helpful, and then there is mine, at Headfonia, which hands down, is the best shot.
The D3 DAC may be the perfect solution for your portable needs if the built-in DAC on your notebook/ MacBook just doesn't cut it. The linear and clean response should excite most audio enthusiast that like the reference sound.
Speaking of Audioengine's D3 USB DAC, have a go at Hardware Canucks's video review (embedded above), which in my opinion, is the most-helpful D3 review out there. Actually, Hardware Canuck's reviews of products from mice to cameras, are incredible.
My review will be out this evening at Headfonia.
Tsukuba, Japan