CrinEar Protocol Max Portable DAC-Amplifier
CrinEar Protocol Max Portable DAC-Amplifier
4.51 / 5.0
(55) 55 total reviews
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The Protocol Max marks CrinEar’s bold entry into the source gear market, bringing our philosophy of acoustic precision to digital-to-analog conversion and amplification. With up to 600 mW of clean power on tap from its balanced output, the Protocol Max effortlessly drives everything from sensitive in-ear monitors to demanding full-size headphones, all without breaking a sweat.
Beyond raw strength, the Protocol Max features persistent, PC browser-based parametric EQ via the Hangout.Audio Graph Tool, letting you fine-tune your sound signature and store your custom profiles directly onto the device. No companion app, no extra steps—just plug into your PC, set your curve, and enjoy.
With its blend of muscle, precision, and user-focused flexibility, the Protocol Max balances clean, reference-grade performance with real-world practicality, making it the ultimate pocket-sized DAC-amp for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Core Features
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Dual Cirrus Logic DAC chips (CS43198): Provides transparent, high-resolution digital conversion.
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Dual SG Micro SGM8262-2 Operational Amplifiers: Provides up to 600mW of clean, robust amplification with minimal distortion.
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Adjustable and Persistent Parametric EQ: Upload and store custom EQ profiles directly from your PC browser.
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Dual Power Modes: Optimize for either efficiency (Eco) or maximum output (Boost).
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Sleek Aluminium Housing: Durable yet stylish construction for everyday portability
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Broad Output Support: Balanced 4.4mm and single-ended 3.5mm outputs with low output impedance for maximum compatibility.
What You Get
- CrinEar Protocol Max
- USB C-to-C cable
- USB C-to-A adapter
Specs
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DAC Chip: Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
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Amp Chip: Dual SG Micro SGM8262-2
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Maximum Power Output (BAL):
- @ 8Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 442 mW (Boost)
- @ 16Ω: 62.5 mW (Eco), 600 mW (Boost)
- @ 32Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 500 mW (Boost)
- @ 300Ω: 3.5 mW (Eco), 54 mW (Boost)
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Maximum Power Output (SE):
- @ 8Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 500 mW (Boost)
- @ 16Ω: 15.63 mW (Eco), 250 mW (Boost)
- @ 32Ω: 7.8 mW (Eco), 125 mW (Boost)
- @ 300Ω: 0.8 mW (Eco), 13.5 mW (Boost)
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SNR @1kHz 0dBFS: 132 dB (BAL), 127 dB (SE)
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THD+N @1kHz 0dBFS: -118 dB (BAL), -116 dB (SE)
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Crosstalk @1kHz -6dBFS: -116 dB (BAL), -65 dB (SE)
- Output Impedance: <0.6Ω (BAL), <0.3Ω (SE)
Based
Theres a lot of callouts that most reviews miss so I'll start with those cause I use portable dacs outside:
This dac gets slightly warm in use, if it's in a light jacket pocket for a bit it can get hot
The usb port is not the greatest as the usb cable is slightly exposed leaving it susceptible to disconnecting while walking around which is annoying.
I got this cause I was interested in trying it, I also own a queststyle m15i. I wasnt a big believer in dacs making a difference to audio for a long time til this.
The Protocol max darkens the sound of your music a bit causing it to sound not as resolving. Overall its not bad and a good stopping point for dacs,the boost mode is overkill for iems and can drive headphones.
But knowing what I know now I prefer a sound thats cleaner and more analytical. If you want a little character from your dac get it, if you just want make my music sound a bit better and get out of the way approach look elsewhere.
The DAC Amp is amazing for the size and price. It is able to drive my Planars with no issues and noise floor is very low. No hissing when connected to iems too.
Only wished it had a bypass for charging and using at the same time. Other than that, for the price, this is perfect!!
Good build and sound quiality
Nothing too much or too little