Fosi Audio K5 ProvsSMSL D-6s
A detailed side-by-side comparison of the Fosi Audio K5 Pro and SMSL D-6s — two popular dacs in the Chinese HiFi space.
Specifications
Spec
Fosi Audio K5 Pro
SMSL D-6s
Chipset
Texas Instruments NE5532 (Op-Amp)
ESS ES9039Q2M
Inputs
USB-C, Optical, Coaxial, 3.5mm Mic In
USB-C, Optical, Coaxial, Bluetooth 5.1 (LDAC)
Outputs
6.35mm Headphone, RCA Line Out
XLR (Balanced), RCA
Features
Microphone Input, Tone Controls, PS5 Compatible
Remote Control, Sound Color Modes, 5V/2.4V Output Switch
Remote Control
✗
✓
Tube Stage
✗
✗
Headphone Amp
✓
✗
Price (estimated)
Price
~$54
~$199
Difference
~$145.00 cheaper (Fosi Audio K5 Pro)
Things to Know
Fosi Audio K5 Pro
- ⚠Microphone input has no gain control; volume depends entirely on the OS/Console settings.
- ⚠The internal DAC is limited to 24-bit/96kHz, which is lower than most audiophile competitors.
- ⚠Tone controls can introduce distortion if cranked to maximum.
SMSL D-6s
- ⚠The display is a simple 7-segment LED, which looks dated compared to OLED screens.
- ⚠The 'Sound Color' modes are very subtle and barely audible to most users.
- ⚠Bluetooth antenna is plastic and feels a bit cheap.
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