SMSL SU-2 Review: $99 DAC with AES/EBU — Only for Certain Setups

The SMSL SU-2 is a $99 DAC that skips USB but adds AES/EBU and balanced outputs—something you rarely see at this price. In this review, I focus on real-world performance, desk usability, and who this DAC actually makes sense for. Tested with a CD transport and headphone setup, the SU-2 delivers clean, transparent sound but is clearly built for a specific type of system. This product was provided by Shenzhen Audio for review. This video is not sponsored. Some links may be affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own. ✅The SMSL SU-2 https://bit.ly/4doKZUY (SHENZHENAUDIO) ✅The SMSL SU-2 https://amzn.to/4dYholf (Amazon) * As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases* My Amazon Affiliate Link http://amzn.to/2sfgypU Amazon Store https://www.amazon.com/shop/frugaltech ✅ Check out Amazon Music HGD https://amzn.to/3G32V5D Review Gear for Desktop HIFI ✅ Topping D70 Pro Sabre Dac https://amzn.to/4dziMJ7 ✅ SMSL DO400 Dac and Headphone Amp ✅ HIFIMAN Arya Organic Headphones https://amzn.to/46Uw7dD ✅ KEF Q150 https://amzn.to/4cvNYGI ✅ Wiim Ultra https://amzn.to/4jj9Vw7 ✅ XDuoo TA20 Plus Tube Amp https://amzn.to/43sWsvT ✅ SMSL PL100 https://amzn.to/4jjxSnj ✅ Fosi ZPE3 https://amzn.to/4fF5njJ ✅ HIFIMAN HE1000 https://amzn.to/4kCzsBy ✅ Fosi ZA3 Mono Blocks https://amzn.to/3FrDGx0 ✅ HIFIMAN EF400 Dac and Headphone Amp. https://amzn.to/4keYDdV ✅ HIFIMAN EF600 Dac and Headphone Amp ✅ Headphone Stand https://amzn.to/3Sq9aXo Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:11 Meaningful Specifications 02:45 Desk-Ability 03:35 Sound Performance 04:34 The Verdict