Overview

The SMSL VMV D2r is the flagship desktop DAC under the premium VMV brand, priced at 999 USD. It distinguishes itself by adopting ROHM’s BD34301EKV DAC from the MUS-IC series. Connectivity is comprehensive: USB, optical, coaxial, I2S, AES, and Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC; formats include PCM up to 768 kHz, DSD512, and full MQA/MQA-CD decoding[1][2].

Scientific Validity

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Independent measurements place the D2r’s balanced-out SINAD at ~116–117 dB (1 kHz), clearly exceeding transparency thresholds[2]. Manufacturer specs cite THD+N ≈ -117 dB under best conditions, and third-party tests confirm noise/dynamic-range performance at transparent levels[1][2]. Several cheaper competitors (e.g., Topping E70 Velvet) reach ≥120 dB SINAD, so while the D2r is transparent across multiple metrics, it is not class-leading at this price[5][6].

Technology Level

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The D2r’s parts and features—BD34301EKV, XU-316 USB, CK-03 clock, linear PSU, LDAC Bluetooth, MQA/MQA-CD, I2S/AES—are robust on paper[1]. Execution quality is solid, yet measured performance trails the very best delta-sigma implementations available at far lower prices. Engineering is competent rather than cutting-edge.

Cost-Performance

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Comparator (equivalence note): SMSL DO300 offers balanced XLR, USB/optical/coaxial/I2S/AES, Bluetooth LDAC, and MQA/MQA-CD, with independent reviews showing top-tier measurement class[3][4].
Computation: 549 USD ÷ 999 USD = 0.549… → 0.5 (rounded).
If you don’t need I2S/AES or MQA, the Topping E70 Velvet at 349 USD with LDAC and ≥120 dB SINAD is an even cheaper, high-measurement option[5][6].

Reliability & Support

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Warranty/support are standard industry level. The linear PSU and straightforward analog stages suggest reliable operation; firmware updates and global distribution are available. No exceptional coverage is offered beyond typical norms.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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A measurement-centric approach with broad I/O and modern features is rational. But given that equal-or-better measured performance and functions are available for significantly less, resource allocation appears suboptimal. Rationality is therefore middling.

Advice

If you must have the full set—I2S/AES, MQA/MQA-CD, LDAC Bluetooth—the D2r is a coherent package. Otherwise, the SMSL DO300 delivers the same functions and measurement class for far less[3][4]. If I2S/AES and MQA are non-requirements, the Topping E70 Velvet (349 USD) provides transparent, ≥120 dB SINAD performance at a fraction of the D2r’s price[5][6].

References

[1] SMSL, “VMV D2R,” https://www.smsl-audio.com/portal/product/detail/id/745.html (accessed 2025-08-28). Key specs: BD34301EKV, XU-316, CK-03, MQA/MQA-CD, BT 5.1/LDAC, I2S/AES.
[2] Audio Science Review, “VMV D2R Stereo DAC Review,” https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/vmv-d2r-stereo-dac-review.50119/ (accessed 2025-08-28). AP measurements, ~116–117 dB SINAD.
[3] SMSL, “DO300,” https://www.smsl-audio.com/portal/product/detail/id/815.html (accessed 2025-08-28). Specs: ES9039MSPRO, I2S/AES, MQA/MQA-CD, BT 5.1/LDAC.
[4] Audio Science Review, “SMSL DO300 DAC Review,” https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/smsl-do300-dac-review.43780/ (accessed 2025-08-28). Independent measurements; price noted at 549 USD.
[5] TOPPING, “E70 VELVET,” https://www.toppingaudio.com/product-item/e70-velvet (accessed 2025-08-28). Product page (LDAC).
[6] L7Audiolab, “Measurements of Topping E70 VELVET DAC,” https://www.l7audiolab.com/f/topping-e70-v/ (accessed 2025-08-28). Measurement indicating ≥120 dB-class SINAD.

(2025.8.28)