CrinEar Protocol Max Portable DAC-Amplifier
CrinEar Protocol Max Portable DAC-Amplifier
4.5 / 5.0
(50) 50 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)
Incredible
It's nice looking, compact, and does it's job, works great with Daybreak in the Eco mode, and does equally well when I plug HD 600 in and switch to boost mode.
Also, it's waterproof, I accidentally flooded it coffee and I thought I killed it, but no, it's perfectly fine.
The absolutely only thing I can point out is that the USB-C connectors on the cable could be a tiny little bit thicker, my phone's port is slightly worn and loose, and there's no way for me to just put them together in the pocket and walk because it keeps on disconnecting, it's gotta be laying on the desk stationary for stable connection, and I think if the cable fit was more tight it would fix the issue as I don't have any problems charging my phone.
It works well plus it pretty sturdy. I just wish there was an app so that I don't have to go on the website to adjust the eq wherever I use an different pair of iems or headphones with it.
Smooth vibes for me listening to John Digweed.
I have zero verbiage for the technicalities but I do like it.
I personally don't like using dongles for my Phone, and this DAC is quite on the larger size, so I use it for my PC instead. So glad it comes with a detachable USB C connection, so I can use a longer wire to connect it to my PC. The only grippe I have is the cheap feeling buttons, and would have liked to see double functions on the Up and Down buttons. All in all very sleek, clean audio, no hissing, love the PEQ.