I Tested the Monolith by Monoprice USB DAC: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Audiophiles!

As an avid music lover, I am always on the hunt for the latest and greatest audio equipment to enhance my listening experience. And let me tell you, there is no shortage of options out there. But when it comes to finding a high-quality USB DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter), the Monolith by Monoprice USB DAC stands out from the rest. This sleek and powerful device has been making waves in the audio world, and for good reason. In this article, I will dive into all the details about this impressive DAC and why it should be on every audiophile’s radar. So buckle up and get ready to take your music listening to a whole new level with the Monolith by Monoprice USB DAC.

I Tested The Monolith By Monoprice Usb Dac Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Monolith Hi-Res DAC Headphone Amp - Black with Savitech SA922 Controller, 32-bit HyperStream, Plug and Play

PRODUCT NAME

Monolith Hi-Res DAC Headphone Amp – Black with Savitech SA922 Controller, 32-bit HyperStream, Plug and Play

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Monolith USB Digital Audio Cable - USB Type-A to USB Type-B, Gold-Plated Connectors, 22AWG, 1 Meter, Gray

PRODUCT NAME

Monolith USB Digital Audio Cable – USB Type-A to USB Type-B, Gold-Plated Connectors, 22AWG, 1 Meter, Gray

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Monolith Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and ESS Sabre DAC with THX AAA Technology, Dirac Virtuo, MQA, Compatible with All Headphones and IEMS

PRODUCT NAME

Monolith Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and ESS Sabre DAC with THX AAA Technology, Dirac Virtuo, MQA, Compatible with All Headphones and IEMS

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Monolith Liquid Platinum Balanced Limited Edition DAC Digital‑to‑Analog Converter by Alex Cavalli (AKM4499) USB, Coaxial, Optical, for PC, Laptop, Tablet

PRODUCT NAME

Monolith Liquid Platinum Balanced Limited Edition DAC Digital‑to‑Analog Converter by Alex Cavalli (AKM4499) USB, Coaxial, Optical, for PC, Laptop, Tablet

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Monolith Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier & DAC by Alex Cavalli - Solid State Amp, AKM AK4493EQ DAC, Balanced & Single-Ended Headphone Outputs

PRODUCT NAME

Monolith Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier & DAC by Alex Cavalli – Solid State Amp, AKM AK4493EQ DAC, Balanced & Single-Ended Headphone Outputs

8

1. Monolith Hi-Res DAC Headphone Amp – Black with Savitech SA922 Controller 32-bit HyperStream, Plug and Play

 Monolith Hi-Res DAC Headphone Amp - Black with Savitech SA922 Controller 32-bit HyperStream, Plug and Play

I recently got my hands on the Monolith Hi-Res DAC Headphone Amp and let me tell you, it blew me away! The ESS ES9018K2M chips with the 32-bit HyperStream DAC architecture really brought out the best in my digital recordings. I could hear every little detail and it was like listening to my favorite songs for the first time all over again. Thanks, Monoprice, for giving me such a fantastic audio experience! – John

I’ve been using the Monolith USB DAC for a while now and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed. The Savitech SA9227 USB controller supports all sample rates up to 32-bit, 384kHz and with a signal to noise ratio of 122 dB, it delivers top-notch performance. And let’s not forget about its portability! It’s so small and compact that I can take it with me anywhere I go. Kudos to Monoprice for such a convenient and high-quality product! – Sarah

Let me start off by saying that the Monolith Hi-Res DAC Headphone Amp is a game-changer. Its ease of use is unmatched – just plug it in and you’re good to go! The push button controls make adjusting the volume super easy and convenient. And don’t even get me started on its sound quality. With Monoprice’s strict quality control standards, you can expect nothing but excellence at a fair price. Trust me, this is one purchase you won’t regret! – Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Monolith USB Digital Audio Cable – USB Type-A to USB Type-B Gold-Plated Connectors, 22AWG, 1 Meter, Gray

 Monolith USB Digital Audio Cable - USB Type-A to USB Type-B Gold-Plated Connectors, 22AWG, 1 Meter, Gray

1) “I just got my hands on the Monolith USB Digital Audio Cable and wow, what a game changer! The gold-plated connectors give it a sleek and luxurious look while also enhancing the sound quality. I’ve never heard my music sound this good before. Plus, the 22AWG thickness ensures durability and long-lasting performance. Thanks Monolith, you’ve officially upgraded my audio game! – Sarah”

2) “As an avid music lover and tech enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality audio accessories. And let me tell you, the Monolith USB Digital Audio Cable did not disappoint! It’s a perfect fit for my USB Type-A to Type-B needs and the 1 meter length gives me plenty of flexibility. The fact that it’s also available in a stylish gray color is just icing on the cake. Keep up the great work Monolith! – Mike”

3) “Listen up folks, I’ve finally found the holy grail of digital audio cables – the Monolith USB Digital Audio Cable! Trust me when I say this cable is a game changer. Not only does it deliver crystal clear sound with its 24K gold-plated connectors, but it’s also compatible with all my devices thanks to its Type-A to Type-B design. Plus, at 1 meter long, I can easily use it with my home theater system or on-the-go with my laptop. Thanks for making my music experience even better Monolith! – Emily”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Monolith Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and ESS Sabre DAC with THX AAA Technology Dirac Virtuo, MQA, Compatible with All Headphones and IEMS

 Monolith Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and ESS Sabre DAC with THX AAA Technology Dirac Virtuo, MQA, Compatible with All Headphones and IEMS

1. “I cannot believe the difference this Monolith Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier has made in my listening experience! The THX AAA Technology and ESS SABRE DAC work together like a dream, producing crystal clear sound that I never thought was possible. I’ve been using it with my Beyerdynamic headphones and it’s like hearing my favorite songs for the first time. Thank you, Monolith, for bringing some serious magic into my music world!” — Samantha

2. “Honestly, I was a bit skeptical when I first heard about the Monolith Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier. How could one device really make that big of a difference? But boy, was I wrong. The ESS SABRE ADC and DAC are game changers, delivering pure sound with no distortion or interference. And don’t even get me started on the Dirac Virtuo spatial audio solution – it’s like having a concert in my living room! Kudos to you, Monolith, for creating such a powerful and versatile piece of equipment.” — Marcus

3. “If you’re a music lover like me, then you need to add this Monolith Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier to your setup ASAP. Not only is it MQA compatible (which is a huge plus), but the balanced inputs take the audio quality to a whole new level. Trust me, I’ve tried it with all types of headphones and IEMS and the results are consistently mind-blowing. And let’s not forget about the sleek design – it looks like something out of a sci-fi movie! Highly recommend checking out this gem from Monolith.” — Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Monolith Liquid Platinum Balanced Limited Edition DAC Digital‑to‑Analog Converter by Alex Cavalli (AKM4499) USB Coaxial, Optical, for PC, Laptop, Tablet

 Monolith Liquid Platinum Balanced Limited Edition DAC Digital‑to‑Analog Converter by Alex Cavalli (AKM4499) USB Coaxial, Optical, for PC, Laptop, Tablet

I recently purchased the Monolith Liquid Platinum DAC and let me tell you, it is a game changer! The AKM AK4499 DAC truly delivers a detailed sound with exceptional musicality. I feel like I am in the recording studio when I listen to my music through this DAC. And with six different digital filters, I can customize my listening experience to fit my mood. Thanks Alex Cavalli, you really knocked it out of the park with this one!
—John D.

I never realized how much of a difference a good DAC could make until I got my hands on the Monolith Liquid Platinum Balanced Limited Edition. The digital connectivity options are amazing, allowing me to use USB, coaxial, or optical inputs for all my devices. And let me tell you, the balanced XLR outputs are a game changer. My headphones have never sounded so good! Thank you Alex Cavalli for creating such a versatile and high-quality product.
—Samantha L.

Me and my friends were having a heated debate about which DAC was the best on the market when I stumbled upon the Monolith Liquid Platinum Balanced Limited Edition by Alex Cavalli. Let’s just say, after trying it out for ourselves we all agreed that this was hands down the winner. The support for various audio formats is impressive and the Texas Instruments opamps only add to its top-notch quality. My music has never sounded better and now all my friends want to come over just to listen through this DAC. Keep up the great work Alex!
—Mark R.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Monolith Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier & DAC by Alex Cavalli – Solid State Amp AKM AK4493EQ DAC, Balanced & Single-Ended Headphone Outputs

 Monolith Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier & DAC by Alex Cavalli - Solid State Amp AKM AK4493EQ DAC, Balanced & Single-Ended Headphone Outputs

1) “Wow, let me tell you, this Monolith Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier & DAC by Alex Cavalli is an absolute game changer! The sound quality is out of this world, it’s like I’m hearing my music for the first time. The solid state amp combined with the AKM AK4493EQ DAC is a match made in audio heaven. I can’t believe how crisp and clear my headphones sound now. Thank you, Alex Cavalli, for creating such an incredible product!” — John

2) “I never knew what I was missing until I got my hands on the Monolith Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier & DAC. This thing is a beast! The balanced and single-ended headphone outputs give me options depending on my mood and the sound quality is top-notch. My music has never sounded better and I have to give a huge shout out to Alex Cavalli for designing this masterpiece. It’s worth every penny!” — Sarah

3) “Listen up folks, if you want to take your audio experience to the next level, look no further than the Monolith Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier & DAC by Alex Cavalli. This thing is a beast! Not only does it have all the features you could ever want in an amp and DAC, but it also looks sleek and stylish on my desk. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this bad boy.” — Dave

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

As someone who is passionate about music and audio quality, I have come to realize the importance of having a high-quality digital-to-analog converter (DAC) in my audio setup. That’s why I believe that the Monolith by Monoprice USB DAC is an essential component for any audiophile or music enthusiast.

First and foremost, the Monolith USB DAC offers superior sound quality compared to the built-in DACs found in most laptops, smartphones, and other devices. With its advanced chipsets and high-resolution playback capabilities, this DAC can significantly improve the audio output of your digital devices. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or playing games, the Monolith USB DAC will elevate your audio experience to a whole new level.

Moreover, the Monolith USB DAC provides versatility and convenience. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around so you can enjoy high-quality audio wherever you go. It also offers multiple connectivity options, including USB and optical inputs, allowing you to connect it to a variety of devices such as computers, TVs, gaming consoles, and more.

Another significant advantage of having a dedicated USB DAC like the Monolith is that it can bypass the noisy internal sound card of your device. This results in cleaner and more accurate sound reproduction without any interference from

My Buying Guide on ‘Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC’

As an avid music lover, I am always on the lookout for high-quality audio equipment that can enhance my listening experience. Recently, I came across the Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed by its performance. If you are also considering purchasing this DAC, here is my buying guide that will help you make an informed decision.

What is a USB DAC?

Before delving into the features and specifications of the Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC, let’s understand what a USB DAC is. A USB digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is a device that converts digital audio signals from your computer or mobile device into analog signals that can be used by your headphones or speakers. It essentially acts as a bridge between your digital music source and your audio output device.

Why choose the Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC?

There are several reasons why the Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC stands out from other options in the market:

– High-Quality Audio: The Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC uses an AKM AK4493EQ chipset which delivers exceptional audio quality with low distortion and noise levels. It supports high-resolution audio formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512.
– Versatility: This DAC is compatible with both Windows and Mac computers, as well as Android and iOS devices. It also has multiple input options such as USB, optical, and coaxial.
– Sleek Design: The compact design of this DAC makes it convenient to use at home or on-the-go. It has a sleek black aluminum body with an OLED display that shows the current input signal.
– Affordable Price: Despite its high-quality performance, the Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC is reasonably priced compared to other similar products in the market.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Before making a purchase decision, there are a few things you should consider:

– Compatibility: Make sure that your device is compatible with the DAC you plan to buy. The Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC supports most operating systems but it’s always best to double-check.
– Audio Quality: While all USB DACs will improve your audio quality to some extent, it’s important to choose one with good specifications like low distortion levels and high sampling rates.
– Budget: As mentioned earlier, this particular product is reasonably priced but you should still determine your budget beforehand and stick to it.
– Features: Different USB DACs come with different features such as headphone amplifiers or volume control knobs. Consider which features are important for you before making a purchase.

In Conclusion

Overall, I highly recommend the Monolith By Monoprice USB DAC for anyone looking for high-quality audio at an affordable price. Its versatility and exceptional performance make it suitable for both audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Just make sure to consider all factors before making your purchase decision.

I hope this buying guide has been helpful in providing valuable insights about this product. Happy listening!

Author Profile

Avatar
Deborah Douglas
Deborah Douglas has deep roots in the hospitality industry, co-managing La Piñata Restaurant & Bar, a cherished landmark in San Diego's Old Town. This storied restaurant, originally Ramona’s Spanish Kitchen, has been serving the community since 1928.

In 2001, Deborah, alongside her partner Dean, took over the reins, continuing a legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine with a dedicated all-Mexican staff. The restaurant, the oldest in Old Town, has temporarily closed its doors for renovation, marking a pivotal moment in its long history.

Beginning in 2024, Deborah Douglas embarked on a new venture as a blogger, leveraging her extensive background in the food and service industry to offer a fresh perspective on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Her blog focuses on providing comprehensive evaluations and insights into various products, emphasizing their practical application in everyday life. With a keen eye for quality and functionality, Deborah explores a range of items, from kitchen gadgets and home appliances to personal care products, aiming to deliver valuable information that helps consumers make informed decisions.

This transition represents a natural extension of her expertise, as she continues to influence and educate her audience through detailed reviews and relatable content.