AUDIO DEVICE
Reference Portable DAP
Specifications
| Category | Dap |
|---|---|
| Brand | Reference Audio |
| Form factor | Handheld |
| Power source | Battery |
| DAC chip | Dual ES9038Q2M |
| Amp topology | Class A balanced (BTL) |
| Output power @ 32Ω | 650 mW |
| Output power @ 300Ω | 210 mW |
| Output impedance | 0.8 Ω |
| SNR | 125 dB |
| THD | 0.0006 % |
| Max PCM rate | 32-bit/768 kHz |
| Max DSD | DSD512 |
| MQA support | yes |
| Price (USD) | $2499 |
| Release year | 2024 |
Overview
Flagship-class portable digital audio player intended as a reference target for desktop-grade fidelity in a handheld form factor. Supports the full PCM and DSD ranges over balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn and single-ended 3.5mm TRS outputs.
Output jacks
Recommended pairings
Reference Open-Back Planar
32Ω · planar-magnetic
Reference Single-Dynamic IEM
16Ω · dynamic
Hybrid Tribrid IEM
18Ω · hybrid
Frequently asked questions
What headphones pair well with Reference Portable DAP?
Reference Portable DAP delivers approximately 650 mW into 32Ω and 210 mW into 300Ω with an output impedance of 0.8 Ω. That makes it well-matched to demanding planar headphones and high-sensitivity IEMs alike.