SMSL C200 Pro

Exceptional Transparency and Power in a extremely Compact and Pragmatic-priced Package

SMSL makes an incredible number of very impressive DAC and amplifiers in every price range, so does the C200 Pro continue this trend? A common trend with SMSL is to incrementally update different product lines of products with the latest chips, so from a specification perspective, the C200 Pro represents a nice incremental upgrade over the previous very impressive C200.

Hopefully, in this review, I will give you an idea of the upgrades over the C200 but also for newcomers to SMSL headphone DAC amplifiers what you can expect.

After spending several weeks with this amplifier, I’ve found it to be an extremely nicely implemented transparent headphone amplifier. But it is not with some oddities which I will get into in this review. I especially found upgrading the firmware (I will provide details later in the review) is a must as some of the ‘plug and play’ aspects were a little challenging before doing the upgrade.

But I think what is the most impressive aspect of the C200 Pro is we now have a tiny desktop Headphone DAC Amp, that when used just as a DAC (via either RCA or TRS outputs) has the performance of top end standalone DAC’s, and when used as a headphone amplifier you get all the power you need for almost any headphone. Basically, it is an excellent 2 for the price of 1 device.

But before I get into the detail, let’s look at the unboxing experience:

Unboxing and Build Quality

The SMSL C200 Pro arrives in a clean, professional packaging that reflects the company’s focus on delivering value through sound quality:

Opening the box reveals the amplifier nestled securely inside:

Taking everything out of the box, you’ll find:

The complete package includes:

• SMSL C200 Pro DAC/Amplifier
• Remote control
• Power adapter
• Bluetooth aerial
• USB cable
• User manual

The remote control is a nice addition, allowing convenient adjustment of volume and input selection from a distance:

The build quality of the C200 Pro is good, with a solid aluminum chassis that feels significant and durable. The front panel features a clean layout with a large volume knob, a clear display, and minimal buttons for essential functions.

Note: I believe the spacing between the headphone jacks was increased compared to the original C200.

The rear panel houses all the necessary connections, providing flexibility for various setups:

For those interested in how the C200 Pro compares in size to some of my other SMSL products:

What is especially impressive is the size compared to the SMSL d6S which I bought as a standalone DAC because of its measurements (so I could measure other DACs) using it with the high-quality Cosmos ADC-iso, yet the smaller C200-pro not only has better measurements but of course includes a headphone output as well.

I did like given its compact size, how the C200 Pro took little space on my Work from Home desktop setup, and I have being using it with various headphones over the past few weeks as well as providing extremely clean output to my power desktop speakers. So in this case, with both the Grell Audio OAE1 and the Forte A5 Mk2:

Features and Performance

The SMSL C200 Pro builds upon the previous generation of SMSL headphone DAC amplifiers (including the excellent C200) to provide many excellent updates. SMSL are continuously upgrading their device models, sometimes with confusing overlapping names, but I think in this case it is a clear upgrade over the C200 as these are the major changes:

DAC Chip: The C200 Pro uses the ES9039Q2M, an upgrade over the ES9038Q2M used in the original C200, this allowed SMSL to get better measurements. Headphone Output Power: The C200 Pro offers higher power output, reaching 3W x2 @ 16Ω, compared to the C200’s 2.6W x2 @ 16Ω. C200 Pro has 1.5W into 32Ω and C200 was 1.3W into 32Ω.
Inputs: The C200 Pro adds Bluetooth 5.1, C200 was Bluetooth 5.0 Display: The C200 Pro features a better brighter OLED display. Layout: The headphone jacks also have slightly larger spacing between them.

I would suggest if you already have a C200 these are smaller incremental upgrades, but for those looking for an excellent starter headphone DAC amp, it is nice to have all the latest specs and features to be expected in this price range.

But let’s get into detail on some of the key features of the C200 Pro:

Powerful Output Stage

The C200 Pro delivers good power output that can drive most demanding headphones with ease. During my testing period, I had no issues driving any of my headphones, from sensitive IEMs to power-hungry planar magnetic headphones.

Headphone or Line Output options

While many high-end amplifiers use XLR outputs, the C200 Pro uses TRS outputs to maintain its compact form factor. Despite this difference, the performance of the TRS outputs is exceptional as you will see later in the measurements.

You switch between Headphone and Lineout using the remote or using the menu system via the power button:

Note: I initially thought this was the Low and High gain but there is only Low gain that ramps up when you go past 80%.

It’s also worth noting that the output level is the same from both the single-ended (6.35mm) and balanced (4.4mm) headphone outputs. Given how good the output is from both, this isn’t a problem, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re expecting different performance characteristics from the different outputs.

High-Quality DAC Implementation

At the heart of the C200 Pro is a well-implemented DAC section n ES9039Q2M DAC chip, an XMOS XU316 USB interface and four OPA1612A OPAs that extremely provide clean, detailed conversion of digital signals. The unit supports high-resolution audio formats up to 32bit 768kHz and DSD512, ensuring you get the most out of your digital music collection.

Multiple Input Options

The C200 Pro offers several input options similar to its predecessor, including USB, optical, and coaxial digital inputs, the display will show you which input option you have currently selected:

For Bluetooth, there is a pairing option within the menu.

You can also tweak the usb between 2.0 and 1.1 (for compatbility) and some jitter setting via the DPLL configuration as in the page above.

OLED Display

The front panel display provides clear information about the current input, volume level, and sampling rate. While it’s easy to read from a distance, I did find it a little hard sometimes reading it from an angle when sitting on my desktop but this is a minor issue.

Remote Control

The included remote control adds convenience, allowing you to adjust volume, switch inputs, and access menu functions without having to get up from your listening position.

Firmware Updates

While the C200 Pro mostly worked fine for me, there were a couple of times where it was not connecting correctly with my Macbook pro via usb. So I found getting the latest firmware updates mostly fixed these connectivity issues.

One minor problem I had is you need a Windows computer to apply the firmware updates I wish SMSL could find a way to
allow Mac only users (But I do luckily do have a window’s laptop, for windows specific audio software and for upgrades like this).

You can download the latest firmware from the official SMSL website: https://www.smsl-audio.com/portal/product/downlist/id/13.html

I also noticed some comments online about users also recommending upgrading the firmware.

Listening impressions setup paired with WiiM Pro

For the majority of my evening listening sessions I paired the C200 Pro with my WiiM Pro paired nicely with the C200 Pro providing an excellent match, as the Wiim Pro internal DAC is poor, but like most WiiM / Linkplay products, it has an excellent streaming application and platform:

Together with a nice active speaker setup (taking either the RCA or TRS outputs from the C200 Pro), I believe the C200 Pro can be the centerpiece of a nice little very pragmatically priced setup.

But on with the listening impressions. I personally believe an Amplifier like the C200 Pro needs to be neutral and not color the sound, if I want the sound to change, I would either use a Tube Amplifier or use some EQ. So these opinions below really just emphasize that this is a very linear analytical amplifier:

Bass

The bass response on the C200 Pro is tight, controlled, and extends deep when the recording demands it. There’s no artificial boost or bloat – just clean, accurate low-frequency reproduction. Bass notes have clear definition and texture, allowing you to hear the subtle details in bass instruments.

Testing with tracks featuring complex bass lines, the C200 Pro maintained excellent control and definition, never allowing the low end to become muddy or overwhelming.

Midrange

The midrange presentation is where the C200 Pro’s transparent power really shines. Vocals and instruments are rendered with natural timbre and excellent clarity. There’s no emphasis or recession in this critical frequency range – just honest reproduction of the source material.

Male vocals have appropriate weight and body, while female vocals sound clear and emotive without becoming harsh or strident. Instruments like guitars, pianos, and strings display good timbre and texture.

Treble

The treble response on the C200 Pro is extended and detailed without becoming harsh or fatiguing, while the C200 Pro doesn’t have EQ, there are some options to swap roll off filters which can make subtle tweaks to the upper treble.

Here is the page from the manual about the PCM filters:

High-frequency information is presented with excellent clarity, allowing you to hear the subtle details in cymbal work and other treble-rich content.

Soundstage and Imaging

The C200 Pro presents a well-defined soundstage with good width and depth. Imaging is precise due to the excellent channel matching and ultra low distortion, allowing for accurate placement of instruments and vocals within the sound field. The separation between elements in complex mixes is handled well, maintaining clarity even during busy passages.

The SMSL C200 Pro delivers exceptional sound quality from both the headphone output and the RCA outputs, that belies its price point. But as I mentioned earlier it most notable characteristic is its transparency – it faithfully reproduces the source material without adding coloration or character of its own.

Headphone Pairings

I was impressive with C200 Pro versatility with different headphones. I tested it with several models to assess its performance across various impedance levels and sensitivity ratings.

Sennheiser HD600

The legendary Sennheiser HD600, known for its neutral sound signature and 300-ohm impedance, paired exceptionally well with the C200 Pro:

The C200 Pro had no trouble driving these classic headphones to satisfying volume levels. What impressed me most was how it maintained the HD600’s renowned midrange clarity while providing enough clean power to allow me to EQ subbass on the HD600 without every hearing any distortion artifacts. The pairing resulted in excellent detail retrieval and a well-balanced presentation that highlighted the HD600’s strengths.

Other Tested Headphones

I also tested the C200 Pro with several other headphones in my collection, and it performed admirably with all of them. From power-hungry planar magnetic models to sensitive IEMs, the amplifier provided clean, powerful amplification without coloration. I will be publishing a review of the new Fosi Audio i5 and I almost exclusively used the C200 Pro when testing the i5:

I also used the SMSL for another forthcoming review of the Grell Audio OAE1:

The C200 Pro’s ability to drive such a wide range of headphones makes it an excellent choice for those with diverse headphone collections or those planning to expand their collection in the future.

Specifications and Measurements

Since the C200 Pro is effectively an incremental upgrade over the C200 I thought it would be interesting have both specifications here side by side:

Measurements

SMSL has provided Audio Precision measurements for the C200 Pro, which demonstrate its excellent technical performance:

The TRS output measurements show an incredible SINAD value of 123dB, which is exceptional for a device in this price range. This translates to extremely low distortion that is well below the threshold of human hearing.

Similarly, the RCA output measurements demonstrate fantastic performance with a SINAD value of 122dB, confirming that the C200 Pro functions as an excellent standalone DAC.

The frequency response measurements show a completely flat curve, indicating excellent transparent sound reproduction with no coloration. This confirms my subjective impression that the C200 Pro is one of the most neutral and transparent amplifiers in its price category.

These measurements align perfectly with my subjective listening experience – the C200 Pro is indeed one of the most transparent headphone amplifiers in its price range, with technical performance that rivals much more expensive units.

Comparisons with the FiiO K17 and the JDS Labs Element IV

While these comparisons are unfair as both the below Amplifiers are more expensive and compete more with higher end SMSL offerings like the D0400 (a detailed review will be published in a few weeks). I felt when using the C200 Pro I only missed the following from my experience with the K17 and Element IV:

1. Gain setting - the K17 has many gain switches with a nice physical switch to go between gain levels and the Element IV has a beautifully implemented ‘switch’ between low and high gain. The C200 Pro instead has low gain mostly below 80% volume while ramping up to decent levels after going beyond 80% volume.
2. PEQ capabilities - while becoming more standard, this is still a premium feature
3. Visual Audiophile ‘cat-nip’ - both the Element IV and the K17 offer a more premium look.

But, I never once felt like I missed either Amplifier from a pure sound perspective, especially in my desktop setup. And considering the C200 Pro is 1/3 of the price of the Element IV and 1/5 of the price of the K17 that is impressive.

vs. FiiO K17

The FiiO K17 is positioned at a higher price point and offers additional features like parametric EQ (PEQ) support. While the K17 provides more flexibility in terms of sound customization, the SMSL C200 Pro offers comparable transparency and power output at a more accessible price point. I love the physical look of the K17 with various retro styled switches on its front.

The C200 Pro’s strength lies in its straightforward approach to delivering clean, powerful amplification without unnecessary frills. For those who prefer a approach and don’t need EQ capabilities, the C200 Pro represents excellent value.

vs. JDS Labs Element IV

The JDS Labs Element IV is a premium desktop headphone amplifier that offers exceptional build quality, powerful output, and comprehensive PEQ functionality. While the Element IV provides more features and a more refined user experience (with that large volume dial), it comes at a significantly higher price point.

The C200 Pro delivers comparable transparency and power output at a fraction of the cost, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality over additional features. If you are a fan of PEQ then the Element IV is still the better choice, but I was happy to use the PEQ capabiltiies of the WiiM Platform so never really missed PEQ in my even listening sessions with the C200 Pro.

vs. Schiit Midgard as a headphone amplifier

The Schiit Midgard is a well-regarded headphone amplifier known for its excellent build quality and performance. However, the Midgard lacks a built-in DAC, requiring an additional component for digital sources.

The C200 Pro’s integrated DAC/amp design offers a more convenient all-in-one solution, eliminating the need for separate components and additional cables. For those looking for a complete solution, the C200 Pro provides excellent value.

The C200 Pro was the equal of the Midgard in sound quality, though the additional gain settings and the volume control on the Midgard are much better implemented, resulting in a better experience but as I mentioned you need a decent extenal DAC with the Midgard to get the best performance from it.

Rating

The SMSL C200 Pro earns a 5-star pragmatic rating based on its exceptional performance, value and compact size:

1. Sound Quality: Excellent transparency with incredibly low distortion and a neutral, faithful reproduction of the source material
2. Build Quality: Solid construction with a durable aluminum chassis and high-quality components
3. Features: Comprehensive input options and a clear display, though it lacks PEQ capabilities found in more expensive alternatives
4. Value: Outstanding performance-to-price ratio that competes with amplifiers costing significantly more
5. Power Output: Excellent power delivery capable of driving a wide range of headphones with ease

In an ideal world, as mentioned earlier, it would also support parametric EQ like the FiiO K17 or JDS Labs Element IV, but those are much more expensive headphone DAC amplifiers. The C200 Pro’s focus on delivering exceptional core performance at an accessible price point makes it a standout product in its category.

Conclusion

The SMSL C200 Pro represents an exceptional value proposition in the headphone DAC amplifier market, especially at its current price of $179 with the current 10% discount.

There are some slight quirks are related to keeping the size down (it uses TRS rather than the more typical XLR outputs) and the gain setup. However, given the exceptional sound quality and value, these minor considerations are easily overlooked.

For those building a headphone system on a budget, you should definitely check out the C200 Pro, making it an easy recommendation.