Disclaimer:

I’m always grateful to Hidizs, who has contributed the most to my hobby. Thank you very much to Zoie for kindly sending me this Hidizs S9 Pro!

Though I’m still not as skilled as the most knowledgeable person you can find online, I’m starting to acquire an intriguing amount of Dac.

The review, as always, will be completely unbiased and uninfluenced.

I would like to remind you that I am just a person who enjoys trying out new items and listening to a lot of music; I am not an expert.

My opinions are obviously subjective.

Hidizs S9 Pro Tech Specs:

• Hi-Res Audio Certified
• ESS9038Q2M DAC
• PCM: Up to 32bit768kHz
• Native DSD Supports Up to 512
• Single-ended 3.5mm + Balanced 2.5mm
• One-Piece High-Density CNC Aluminum Body
• Sampling Rate Indicator Light
• Powerful Drive Ability. 200mW BAL / 100mW SE
• Compatible with Windows/Android/Mac OS/iOS/iPad OS System
• Support Apple lossless audio
• DIscounted at 59USD (great deal)

Hidizs S9 Pro Packaging:

The Hidizs S9 Pro comes in a black and sturdy well made carton package, quite simple and standard.

Once opened inside, we find the dac embedded, below we find the accessories:

• Type C to type C cable (a little bit short)
• Sort of hard case + clip
• Type C to USB
• Manual + warranty

Hidizs S9 Pro Build quality/First impressions:

The Hidizs S9 Pro is built with the same quality as the Hidizs XO, but because of its design, it seems stronger and so of higher quality.  As you can see from the pictures, there is an aluminum frame with two glass (maybe plastic) faces, and an LED beneath the mark indicates which sample of music is now playing. Sadly, the balanced output on this device is just 2.5mm. The 4.4mm is far more widely used, cozy, and sturdy.

Hidizs S9 Pro Power:

The Hidizs S9 Pro is not a power monster but it is still perfect for most IEMs on the market. It slightly exceeds the Hidizs XO having 100mw on SE and 200mW on balanced.

I tested it with Bqeyz Topaz and I have to say that it has no kind of power problem, with 3 heels of volume out of 16 the sound pressure is already excellent. On balanced output instead I tried the Letshourer S12 Pro and also had great performance.

Its power is fine for almost all headphones and iems , however compared to other dacs in my possession it definitely has more juice.

The 3.5SE port is already similar to the power of the balanced port of the Hidizs XO.

It would have been nice to have more volume steps for very sensitive headphones but actually the volume steps are so well made.

Obviously in balanced mode the power is ridiculous!

Hidizs S9 Pro Sound Signature:

Let’s analyze the sound of it! A great ESS9038Q2M chip that was previously tested on the F.Audio KS01 is present on board. This has a natural, balanced, and analytical nature, just like other ESSs I own. Unlike the dacs with Cirrus, which sound more warmer there is no emphasis.

The details are really clear, almost exactly as in the Hidizs XO and LessFox DA1 with AK.

Totally no hiss sound in both ports also in high gain mode surprised me.

For the price at which it is now also offered in various bundles this Dac is really excellent. At 59USD should be seriously considered above all those who are indecisive about their first DAC to buy and love to keep the sound as neutral as possible.

Fast Comparison:

vs Hidizs XO 

From my point of view we are very close as a result in sound terms but the S9 Pro removes all the superfluous that is found on the Hidizs XO as leds and buttons (these latter would have made it convenient to keep them). If we consider that S9PRO costs 20USD less you already know which one I would recommend..  

vs F. Audio KS01

Here the battle is really tough! The F.Audio KS01 is a monster of features and power considering the price. It’s given as 280mw but I honestly think it’s about like the S9 Pro, maybe slightly more powerful. In terms of sound maybe slightly brighter. I recommend you to read my review about it, as this dac is very special.

vs LessFox Da1

This is currently my favorite! Even if it has only the 3.5mm output its AK4493 satisfies me with any headphones. They’re about as similar as power in fact I don’t feel any big differences. The DA1 seems to give a very slight boost to the soundstage and image but it could be just an impression of me. They’re both great Dac.

vs Creative SFXi (old version)

The Creative DAC is certainly a powerful beast and for what it costs it offers exactly everything you need with much higher support (firmware updates + Apps). Its sound is definitely different from the classic AK4377 but you feel that Creative’s experience has added something enjoyable to the sound. Independent volume is a plus! The SFXi however is very light and robust! Ideal for portability!

Who do I recommend this DAC to?

If you are an audiophile or audio enthusiast on a budget this could be a great option for your pockets. 

The Hidizs S9 Pro was already considered great when its price was full, so now that it is discounted at 50% it is definitely a best buy! It is good both with headsets of hot and cold shade.

The only defect that I personally think to mention is the lack of buttons and the choice to put a balanced output of 2.5mm. We can also mention the extent of an app, but it is not strictly necessary. There are also problems with much more expensive DACs. If you need more power, however, you will have to look at some dual CS43131 like the EPZ TP20 or the Moondrop Dawn Pro.

8.5/10

Pros:

• Build Quality
• Balanced output
• Hard case with clip
• Natural – Balanced sound 
• Removable cable + Type c to USB
• Led is showing the sample
• Good power
• Aluminium frame shell

Cons:

• 2.5mm balanced output 
• No gain switch
• No volume buttons
• No app
• Battery drain

Where to buy:

Hidizs S9 PRO Balanced & Single-Ended Mini HiFi DAC & AMP