CrinEar Protocol Max Portable DAC-Amplifier
CrinEar Protocol Max Portable DAC-Amplifier
4.49 / 5.0
(61) 61 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)
Great specs, sounds amazing
Powerful DAC+Amp !!!.. it can drive most of my IEMS and Heaphones..
I listen to music on my iPhone/laptop through IEMs with JCally dongles, so the Protocol Max is overkill for my use case (max impedance of my IEMs is 32 Ohms). I bought it primarily to support Crinacle's business and to have another well-looking device. That I have got, and I am happy. If you can afford it without pain, I recommend
Bought it in december to be my computer desk dac/amp. In June, left channel started to drop or lower intermittently. I did test several headphones and source devices to isolate the problem to the Protocol. I was able to record a video of the problem and contacted support. I have now learned that to do warranty claim for Crinacle product under the 1 year warranty, you need to pay for the shipping to send back your faulty product to get a replacement. I am disatisfied by the product and I don't think a person wanting to buy a long lasting and thrusworthy product should buy this. I understand this is a small company, but you should take care of your customers. Will not buy Crinacle product again.
My favorite part of the protocol max has to be the sound signature. It has a neutral sound signature so it pairs well with most iems. Staging and sound separation stood out to me the most. It also has great build quality with an all metal body. Power is sufficient to drive any iem or headphones. Overall for $120SGD, it is definitely worth your money.
Oh and the people working at Hangout audio were really friendly as well so plus points for that!