Muse 300 is the world's first desktop DAC/headphone amplifier with an OS

A device that has managed to raise quite a few eyebrows at the latest CanJam Singapore, the upcoming Muse 300 is a desktop DAC/headphone amp that claims to be the first one with a dedicated operating system. Currently in the pre-launch stage of a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, this product emulates the vacuum tube-amplified audio experience solely through hardware tuning. In addition to the hardware specs that we will mention later, this piece of hardware also sports a 5-inch IPS display with 480 X 854 pixels that should be large enough for the user to interact with Muse OS and enjoy the three visual themes expected to be available at launch (most likely there will be more added in the future).

Without further ado, these are the highlights that audiophiles should pay attention to:

• Main Controller: 32-bit Microcontroller Unit (MCU)
• DAC: ES9039 Ultra
• I/V Conversion: ES9603X2
• Low-Pass Filter (LPF): OPA1612 × 2
• Amplifier: TP6120A × 2
• Sampling: NE5532A
• Input Interfaces: USB / Coaxial / Optical / Bluetooth
• Output Interfaces:
• Line Out: RCA + XLR × 2
• Headphone Out: 6.35mm + 4.4mm
• USB Controller: SA9137L
• Bluetooth: QCC3095
• Coaxial Interface: AK4118

The interesting part is that the display can also be used as a secondary screen for the computer connected to the Muse 300. These being said, we should get ready for the Kickstarter campaign to launch, and as soon as that happens, we will get back with the good news. Until then, audiophiles looking for a desktop DAC/headphone amplifier who can't wait might find the FiiO K11 as a smart choice. 

These days, the FiiO K11 goes for $142.99 on Amazon. It supports USB/coaxial/optical inputs, up to 2 Vrms on the RCA line-out, and a total output of up to 1400 mW under a 32 Ω balanced load alongside up to 250 mW at a 300 Ω balanced load when headphones are involved.