Contents
Over the years, Schiit Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) have proven to be some of the best models for budget audio setups. Nowadays, among the Schiit DACs, two models attract a lot of attention from the community and appear in many reviews: Modi 2 Uber and Multibit. Both models resemble each other in quite a few regards but differences exist between them as well. Unsurprisingly, there is no unanimous opinion about the one that comes out on top in Modi 2 Uber vs. Multibit.
Down below is all the information that you should know about Modi 2 Uber and Multibit including specifications, performance, etc. Read to the end to understand what to expect from the Schiit DACs and get the right model for the right job.
Summary
Modi 2 Uber ($149) | Multibit ($249) | |
Dimensions | 5.0 x 3.5 x 1.2 inches | 5.0 x 3.5 x 1.2 inches |
Weight | 1.0 pound | 1.0 pound |
Frequency Response | 20Hz – 20kHz (+/- 0,1dB) | 20Hz – 20kHz (+/-0.25dB) |
Maximum Output | 1,5V RMS | 2.0V RMS |
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | <0,002% at max output | <0.006% at max output |
InterModulation Distortion (IMD) | <0,003%, CCIR | <0.007%, CCIR |
Signal-to-Noise ratio (S/N) | >104 dB | >104 dB |
Crosstalk | -80 dB | -80 dB |
Inputs | USB, Toslink SPDIF and Coaxial SPDIF | USB, Toslink SPDIF and Coaxial SPDIF |
Output | RCA (single-ended) | RCA (single-ended) |
Analog Summing, Active Filtering | Based on AD8616 with precision thin-film resistors and film capacitors | Based on AD8512 with precision thin-film resistors, DC-coupled with DC servo |
Comparison
Compatibility
In layman’s terms, Modi 2 Uber and Multibit can adapt to a wide range of audio setups with relative ease. Featuring USB, Toslink SPDIF and Coaxial SPDIF for inputs as well as RCA (single-ended) for output, the Schiit DACs have fantastic compatibility. Actually, in a pinch, it’s possible to substitute Modi 2 Uber for Multibit and vice versa. Of course, you need to take aspects of your system into account beforehand so the sound remains satisfactory after the substitution.
Sound
While Modi 2 Uber and Multibit have the same frequency response (20Hz – 20kHz ), they have different maximum output (1,5V RMS vs. 2.0V RMS). Therefore, once it comes to Modi 2 Uber vs. Multibit, the latter is favored by people who own high-spec systems. However, Modi 2 Uber holds an edge over Multibit regarding THD ( <0,002% at max output vs. <0.006% at max output) and IMD (<0,003%, CCIR vs. <0.007%, CCIR). That means Modi 2 Uber should suit you well if you have a casual audio setup and like to keep distortion to the minimum.
Ease Of Installation
Modi 2 Uber is similar to Multibit in terms of compactness so finding a fitting spot for them will be a walk in the park. Aside from that, the Schiit DACs weigh almost nothing so you can get them into position in a blink of an eye. Nonetheless, it’s strongly recommended that you stick to flat surfaces to avoid incidents. Last but not least, it’s worth pointing out that while both models won’t get too hot in use, you should keep them in well-ventilated space.
Price
For your information, price is the key difference between Modi 2 Uber and Multibit: there is a $100 gap between their price tags. Since both models share many similarities, it’s only natural that Modi 2 Uber is popular among budget-minded users. On the other hand, many people lean toward Multibit as they appreciate its quality as a whole. In the end, it won’t hurt to give your wallet some thought while gathering components for your audio setup.
Conclusion
Short on money and only need a no-nonsense DAC that works? In that case, you won’t regret picking up Modi 2 Uber as it packs everything you expect from today’s DACs. That being said, if you manage to throw in another $100, don’t hesitate to grab Multibit. If you own Multibit, you should be able to save some money during setup upgrades.
FAQs
Do I need a DAC?
To put it plainly, if you want to make use of high-end audio equipment, optimize the sound quality and so on, you need to have a DAC. While a number of systems have integrated DACs, the performance of those DACs fall behind that of standalone DACs. That is the reason why gamers, streamers, content creators, … elect to get standalone DACs as they assemble their audio setups. By taking advantage of dedicated DACs, people can effectively and efficiently boost the sound quality in times of need.
How come high-end DACs cost so much?
Regardless of the lines of products, high-end models always come at steep prices. That is especially true once it comes to DACs as the market for them is not exactly huge. Manufacturers must set the price per unit high to make profit from the few units they sell. Others factors that influence the price of high-end DACs include technologies, materials, enhancements, inputs/outputs, …
Hi music fan! I am Jeff. Hope that you enjoy some stuff I shared here in my personal blog.
About myself, Currently I am in charging as Artist Manager/Music Supervisor at 72 Music Management. I did managed album to Grammy Award in 2017 with 7 Nominations from 2014-2020 and had the opportunities to work with : A.J. Croce, Blind Boys of Alabama, Bobby Rush, Dom Flemons, Dustbowl Revival, Sarah Grace
Governor of the Memphis Chapter of The Recording Academy is one of a award that I am lucky to achieved.