Micca OriGen G2 High Resolution USB DAC and Preamplifier - 24-Bit/192kHz PCM

Perfect for what I needed. Using on my gaming PC via optical with a ugreen 5v adapter for my M40x's and Monoprice Retros. Brought my game audio to a much more immersive level. Can't say it provides a huge boost in sound quality, does sound really clean though even at really high volume. A cheap and easy sound quality boost is to buy a USB to AUX dongle for your laptop to bypass your headphone jack, sounds way better and can tap into windows spatial sound. While I don't have speakers on it yet, i'm glad I can expand in the future. Tried it on my laptop via USB and it worked immediately on windows 10. Looks great on a desk, highly recommended. UGREEN AC to DC Adapter 5V 2A Power Supply Adapter with 1.35mm x 3.5mm Connector Plug Wall Charger for Led Strip, String Lights, Wireless Router, LCD, Hub, Switches, CCTV Cameras, Android TV Box

As a matter of background information, I've been evaluating various DAC's over the past several months and currently have 6 in my possession for comment and review - those being the iFi ZenDAC, the Soundavo HP-DAC1, the Schiit Modi 3, the SABAJ D3, the FX Audio X6, and the Micca OriGen 2. I constantly switch back and forth between them all, using two superb passive (built-like-a-tank) GOHIFIAUDIO S1 RCA audio switchers. This switcher model can handle up to 4 different audio units and there is virtually no signal loss or alteration. You can find it here on Amazon at (just copy and paste the link below into your browser): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B085W1PPHL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 My initial evaluation was accomplished using active speakers only (I'm typically not a headphone user, although I've recently began using some headphones). The active speakers used were the Edifier S3000 Pro's, the Edifier R2000 DB's, the Edifier R1850 DB's, the Edifier S350DB (a 2.1 system), and the JBL 1 Series 104's. USB cables used were upgraded Audioquest Pearl models and the RCA cables used were either versions from World's Best Cables, or from Blue Jeans Cables (their LC-1's). In addition, just recently I added into the mix the absolutely superb (makes a world of different in USB sound quality) iFi Purifier 3.0 USB line conditioner and reclocker. Alright - now on to the Micca Origen2. In a nutshell, it is a very competent performer. The music it produces is transparent and balanced with no one particular area standing out of the crowd, and it creates a large, more laid back sound-stage that spreads out the instruments from far left to far right. Some would call the OriGen 2 boring at times, but that most certainly is not the case - please read on. I tend to listen to only classical, big band, jazz, Latin jazz, and other large orchestral pieces and I specifically listen to how DAC's produce the different instrumentation. With that in mind, for me - the OriGen 2 does not initially call attention to itself and it does not move the music up-front and in your face as some DAC's do. Using classical music as an example, or any orchestral ensembles, what you will experience is that sound staging is pushed back a bit and at the same time widened from left to right. Now some DAC's excite you at first by throwing the music right in your face - that is, they move the sound-stage forward on a single plane. Some of these other DAC's may have a sense of immediacy, but their sense of depth may suffer in the process. Now do keep in mind that I listen to music by my desktop PC because I spend a good 6-8 hours daily working, communicating, and photo processing with Photoshop (in addition to being an audiophile, I am also a photographer). And I'm a critical listener. As I mentioned above, the music is balanced and there isn't any one area that screams for attention to itself (again, like with some DAC's). This balanced sound translates well towards long term listening. Now using the term "balanced," should not be meant to infer that it is bland - far from it. If you want "immediacy," just turn up the volume up bit. When you do that, the Gen 2 keeps the balance and the sense of depth from front to rear, yet also imparts that "immediacy" or involvement that so many are looking for. When there's bass, the Gen 2 does a superb job giving you the wallop you need. Mids and highs are handled with delicacy, not trying to over-shawdow anything. With good source material, some high frequencies like strined instruments for example, have an almost silky sheen to them (not grating). One thing I like about this DAC that is missing in a few other DAC's is that if you want to connect a headphone, you are given two headphone jacks - one for the larger sized version, and a separate one for the 3.5 MM version. In addition, if you want to listen to the headphones only, just flip the front switch to headphone and your speakers will NOT play (just the headphones). Likewise, when you want to go back to the speakers only, just flip the switch back to the speakers symbol and wallaaaaaaa...now you're listening to your speakers without the headphones being used (in case you still have them plugged in). So this exceptionally small sized DAC (which shocks you the first time you open it up) is anything but small in the audio department - that's for sure. But as is always the case, YMMV - everybody uses their gear differently. I don't play rock or higher high-pitched screechy type of music. Large orchestral works are some of the best indicators of musical qualities in audio gear - I learned that a long time ago. In addition, I make it a point to upgrade all of my cables - to include USB cables, RCA or 3.5 MM connector wire, and in some cases the power supplies. Little improvements such as these can often make a world of difference, allowing the true audio performance levels to shine with various gear. So for the ridiculously inexpensive price it's placed at, this G2 is a solid performer and it tends to grow on you as time goes on, and it most certainly does not look like other DAC units. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE: On 7-6-2020 I edited and adjusted the initial review. As time went on, I came to really appreciate this Micca MiriGen G2 DAC unit. So for those of you revisiting this review, yes, it has changed. My changes now involved more positive comments about audio performance, sound-staging, and more. And I also changed my initial star rating from 4 to 5.

To anyone reading this, I've never been more confident in a product in my life. This thing makes a world of difference. If you care about sound quality, you owe it to yourself to grab one. It's simply the best audio product I've ever owned. Solidly built, and easy to understand. It's like a little audio brick in the palm of your hand.

I've been wanting the Micca OriGen for many years . First saw it on Z's reviews. Than Fossi Audio did an update of sorts and put out there version (SK02).I have it as well.Both perform very well,have near identical features,both will power Fostex T60rp and Beyerdynamic DT800 edition 600 ohm with no signs of distortion. Fossi SK02 offers 4.4 balanced and 3.5 single ended where OriGen gen 3 offers 6.5 and 3.5 single ended.As I mentioned above,,,they have plenty of output power.I prefer the analog volume control on the OriGen over the digital one on the Fossi,,,it's a feel kinda of thing.The OriGen is noticeably more compact,both are fine but I do prefer the OriGen.The OriGen uses small mechanical selector switches witch are more old-school and I do like that over the Fossi push button type.Sound quality is equal,both are smooth with plenty of detail.To pick 1 over the other will be a particular taste thing.Fossi SK02 is more modern but I still prefer the slightly more old-school Micca OriGen gen 3.Cost wise both are around $100.00 so they won't break the bank.

I like the form-factor and size. This DAC sounds superb, comparing favourably to my Audiolab Q-Dac. It's the perfect audio solution for laptops! It has a simple yet effective LED display to tell you what speed and bit-rate is. The unit is dead quiet, and though good headphones the sound-stage is large and has depth. This DAC/preamp is a steal for the price!