This tiny device sounds spectacular, and its ability to turn any computer, Mac or PC, into an audiophile-worthy source can't be understated.

Exquisite sound quality; Volume control is handy; Great fit and finish; Unnoticeably light and compact

More expensive than competing products; Lack of strain relief on USB cable is cause for concern

The Good Sturdy construction Driverless on OS X Simple operation Stunning sound quality The Bad Micro USB plug for charging Short USB cable length Not for mobile Every computer with a microphone or headphone port has one -- a digital to analog converter (DAC).

Sturdy construction; Driverless on OS X; Simple operation; Stunning sound quality

Micro USB plug for charging; Short USB cable length; Not for mobile

Cambridge Audio, a company with a reputation in the high-end audio market, has brought that established home audio expertise into a new category: the portable DAC. It's no bigger than a box of matches, but the DacMagic XS is not light on quality or features.

Simple Setup; Plays Nice With High-Resolution Audio; Noticeable Difference in Quality; How it Sounds; Portable Size/Build Quality

Loose USB Adapter

Though not ideal for more demanding headphones with challenging music, this is a highly affordable way to improve computer audio.

Inexpensive; Compact; 192-kHz capable

Potential dynamic limits; Runs warm

Listening to music on your computer is brilliant – instant, easy access to all your digital files and a world of streaming services, internet radio and video sites. The cheap headphone output of a typical laptop or computer is simply not good enough to get the best from your headphones.

Makes a world of difference when listening to music sourced from a computer; Simple to set up and use; Small and easy to bring along when on the road

Costs almost $200; Takes up one USB port

Whenever I try to explain what a digital audio converter (DAC) does and why it's a cool thing to have, I almost always get that "deer in headlights" look. Then – if they're still listening – I tell them the cost of this cool DAC. That's when the look changes to "are you nuts

Substantial upgrade in audio quality; Powerful headphone amp; Well made; Small; Simple to use – no setup; Portable

Expensive; External speaker improvement not as dramatic as headphones; Short cord for desktop computers; Volume buttons overide Mac's native volume

Cambridge Audio is a well-known brand in the world of HiFi. Today, we take a look at the newest addition to their extensive line-up of DACs and amplifiers. The new DacMagic XS is a matchbox-sized DAC/amp with plenty of power for normal headphones.

Everything that takes a digital signal and outputs it to something you can hear has a DAC. DAC, or Digital to Analogue Converter is what takes the ones and zeros of your digital music and turns it into something your speakers or headphones can reproduce.

Cambridge Audio is a British company specializing in audio gear. Founded in 1968, they produce amplifiers, wireless speaker systems, hi-fi home theater equipment, and audio accessories. The is one of those.

The Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS headphone amplifier is the cheapest external USB digital-to-analogue convertor (DAC) we've ever reviewed. Indeed, it's small enough to slip into your pocket, which makes it a perfect companion to your laptop.