HIFIMAN Serenade Review: One Box to Replace Your DAC, Amp, and Streamer

HIFIMAN's all-in-one R2R DAC, discrete Class A amp, and hi-res network streamer in one 3kg box - lush, musical, and powerful enough to drive almost anything.

Verdict: Reference - 9.3/10. Price: $999.

What's good

Proprietary Himalaya Pro R2R DAC for a natural, non-clinical sound

Discrete Class A amp based on HIFIMAN's $3000 Prelude

Built-in hi-res network streamer (up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD512)

Massive, ultra-clean power supply (50W toroidal + 30,000µF)

4W into 32Ω balanced - drives 99% of headphones with headroom

Every input and output you'd need: USB, optical, coax, Ethernet, Bluetooth, RCA

Beautifully built ~3kg block of CNC-machined aluminum

Dead-silent noise floor (THD 0.0015%, SNR 110dB)

Worth knowing

Voiced warm and lush on purpose - not for fans of a bright, clinical sound

Class A circuitry runs warm by design

If you already own a similar-tier amp, the pricier Prelude is the smarter buy

Read the full HIFIMAN Serenade review on The Audio Stuff