SMSL has been a very prolific manufacturer of reasonably priced, yet very good DACs. Last year’s SU-9 Pro lifted the bar when it comes to what one can expect from a five-hundred-dollar device. Not far behind, the SU-9 Ultra was introduced at a fifty dollars higher price. At the time of writing this review, however, both of these are sold for $499. So let’s find out what is the difference and which one you should choose.
Build and Features
Just like SU-9 Pro, and all previous SU-9 models that came before it, the SU-9 Ultra is built out of aluminium, and has a solid feel. A color display and a remote are also part of the standard features. We have the usual digital inputs such as USB, optical, and coaxial, but there’s also Bluetooth onboard. Regarding analog outs, we can choose between single-ended RCA and balanced XLR ones. Both of these can be used in a fixed or variable output level mode. Lastly, we see an AC power connector, meaning that the SU-9 Ultra is powered directly from the wall socket and there’s no need for an AC/DC adapter.
In the front, we find one volume knob that doubles as a button. Every function and setting is accessible this way but provided remote control is sure a more convenient option. Big LCD unit provides you with easily readable information about inputs, volume, and type of files being played. Once you enter the settings, among other things you’ll find an option to dim the display, change digital filters, etc. But one that stands out is Sound color. Here you can choose between No filter, Rich, Tube, and Crystal, all coming in several varieties. Everybody should try these for themselves and find out if they like how they affect the sound.


The only difference from the Pro model is in the choice of the DAC chip. Ultra rocks the latest and greatest from
Asahi Kasei AK4499EX instead of Sabre’s top dog 9039MPRO that is in the Pro variant. Everything else is the same, at least on paper. You can see the full list of specs in the table below the video. Now let’s see how it sounds.
Sound
Starting with the bassline, we’re talking about fast and agile notes. I wouldn’t describe it as particularly punchy, but there is a certain vigor to it that never makes it sound flat. It’s just more of a skilled martial artist than a heavy-weight boxer. Move up the frequency spectrum and the midbass is equally tidy – bold enough to sound physical and present but without any spilling into the midrange. This makes all vocals and instruments sound very clear and transparent. Leading tones that are prominent in the mix sound present and energetic. High-frequencies are extended, and very clean. This end of the spectrum is generally quite improved and more expressive compared to most previous SMSL models I’ve tested.
Move to the soundstaging and we’re talking about a spacious and layered presentation. If the recording contains backing vocals or instruments deeper into the scene, this DAC will recreate that depth very nicely. Empty space around those, and tiny reverbs are also there so layering is done very skillfully. The soundstage width is as good as it gets at this price point. The same goes for the depth too, with clean and noticeable echoes and reverbs which all join to create what I would call a class-leading imaging.
Finally, this is a very lively-sounding DAC with an energetic presentation. Play something rhythmic and I’ll dare you not to tap with your feet. The full but nimble bassline, decent punch, and good dynamics are contagious. During the test, I have to check several times that I’m actually listening to Ultra (AK version) and not Pro (Sabre version). Which leads us to that comparison.
Comparison
SMSL SU-9 Pro has been discussed already. It’s virtually the same model but with a Sabre DAC chip instead. These two are equally priced now, and bring you the same set of features. However, pit them against each other and you’ll notice that there are some differences. While SMSL SU-9 Pro is a crispy-sounding DAC on its own, Ultra brings even greater tone clarity. The difference is not huge but it’s noticeable. However, the tonality is slightly changed too. Ultra sounds cleaner and more analytical bassline. Pro is not as precise with its own bassline but is warmer and softer sounding instead.
There’s also a noticeable difference in the way these two create the soundstage. Pro is more laid-back in the midrange, often positioning leading vocals and instruments slightly behind the line of your speakers. Ultra is more forward, pushing them closer to you. Neither of these is more correct than the other. It’s difficult to tell for sure if the sound engineer wanted those tones to appear closer or a bit further. They’re just different and it’s on you to choose what suits you more. That said, Ultra shows slightly better dynamics and energy, which leads to a livelier presentation. This only adds to the overall sensation of a more forward, more dynamic-sounding DAC.
Technically speaking, Ultra is a slightly better DAC, and I do prefer it to SU-9 Pro by a small margin. This doesn’t mean that some of you wouldn’t prefer a slightly warmer and more laid-back SU-9 Pro. The Pro model is also more in line with the SMSL’s house sound if you’re a fan.
If you wish for more information on how would this DAC compare to some older SMSL models or different brands – please take a look at my SMSL SU-9 Pro review. UItra and Pro are sound quality-wise close enough so those paragraphs could be copy-pasted.
Conclusion
It still puzzles me how SMSL managed to get this kind of sound signature that feels more like a great Sabre DAC than the real Sabre version itself. I guess it has to come from some other different design choices that are not mentioned in marketing materials or in the spec sheet. After all, the DAC chip itself is only one part of the whole equation. But all of my ramblings aside, SMSL SU-9 Ultra is a great DAC, and undoubtedly a fantastic value. If you’re OK with the sound signature it offers, I have no problem recommending it highly.
SMSL SU-9 ULTRA – CHARACTERISTICS |
DAC chip: AK4191 + AK4499EX |
Good Evening Srboljub!
Thanks for your recent reviews, particularly the SMSL SU-9 Pro and Ultra reviews. Curious to know your thoughts on my situation. I am using the SMSL SU-8 V2, but was considering upgrading to the SMSL M-400. However, with the introduction of the 9 Pro and Ultra, am I better served looking at one of them. as an upgrade?
Thanks for your time, and I look forward to your next review.
I purchased the su-9 ultra based on your review. You were spot on about the sound profile of this dac. I am hearing details and textures that I never heard before. Thank you for doing these helpful reviews.