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  • CrinEar Protocol Max - New

CrinEar Protocol Max

Portable DAC-Amplifier Dongle

  • Dual Cirrus Logic DAC chips (CS43198)
  • Up to 600mW output power
  • Dual SG Micro SGM8262-2 Operational Amplifiers
  • Adjustable and Persistent Parametric EQ
  • Dual Power Modes
  • Sleek Aluminium Housing
  • Balanced 4.4mm and single-ended 3.5mm outputs
Regular price $128.00
Sale price $128.00 Regular price
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CrinEar Protocol Max

CrinEar Protocol Max

The Protocol Max marks CrinEar’s bold entry into the source gear market, bringing our philosophy of acoustic precision to digital-to-analog conversion and amplification. With up to 600 mW of clean power on tap from its balanced output, the Protocol Max effortlessly drives everything from sensitive in-ear monitors to demanding full-size headphones, all without breaking a sweat.

Beyond raw strength, the Protocol Max features persistent, PC browser-based parametric EQ via the Hangout.Audio Graph Tool, letting you fine-tune your sound signature and store your custom profiles directly onto the device. No companion app, no extra steps—just plug into your PC, set your curve, and enjoy.

With its blend of muscle, precision, and user-focused flexibility, the Protocol Max balances clean, reference-grade performance with real-world practicality, making it the ultimate pocket-sized DAC-amp for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Technical specifications

DAC Chip
Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
Amp Chip
Dual SG Micro SGM8262-2
Maximum Power Output (BAL)
@ 8Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 442 mW (Boost)
@ 16Ω: 62.5 mW (Eco), 600 mW (Boost)
@ 32Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 500 mW (Boost)
@ 300Ω: 3.5 mW (Eco), 54 mW (Boost)
Maximum Power Output (SE)
@ 8Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 500 mW (Boost)
@ 16Ω: 15.63 mW (Eco), 250 mW (Boost)
@ 32Ω: 7.8 mW (Eco), 125 mW (Boost)
@ 300Ω: 0.8 mW (Eco), 13.5 mW (Boost)
SNR @1kHz 0dBFS
132 dB (BAL), 127 dB (SE)
Crosstalk @1kHz -6dBFS
-118 dB (BAL), -116 dB (SE)
THD+N @1kHz 0dBFS
-116 dB (BAL), -65 dB (SE)
Output Impedance
<0.6Ω (BAL), <0.3Ω (SE)

Shipping and Returns

RETURNS

Elise Audio has a standard 14-day return / exchange policy for electronic products (DAC/DAP):

  • Must be returned in like-new factory condition 
  • Must include all original packaging and accessories
Please note that the return shipping cost is to be paid by the customer.

Read our full Returns, Warranty & Terms of service by clicking here

SHIPPING

We offer a range of delivery options to suit your purchasing needs. The options are presented to you at the checkout, in an easy to understand way.

Most orders for In-Stock items are shipped within 1 to 3 business days (Monday to Friday, except bank holidays), subject to stock availability and security checks. Please ensure you provide a valid phone number for us to contact you should verification of your identity be required.

For More information about our Shipping Policy please click here

Warranty

Products purchased from Elise Audio are supplied with a manufacturer warranty that is specified on the product page on our website. Most products come with a 1Y manufacturer warranty (or 3 months for B-grade, open box, refurbished, ex-demo and second hand items). The manufacturer's warranties are limited to physical defects in the materials, parts and workmanship used in making the product. Abnormal conditions, deliberate abuse and damage due to accidents, operator's error, or unauthorized service attempts are excluded from any warranty claims. Faulty goods returned under the manufacturers warranty are to be returned to Elise Audio at the cost of the customer. Elise Audio will cover the cost of shipping the repaired or replacement product back to the customer.

The Protocol Max marks CrinEar’s bold entry into the source gear market, bringing our philosophy of acoustic precision to digital-to-analog conversion and amplification. With up to 600 mW of clean power on tap from its balanced output, the Protocol Max effortlessly drives everything from sensitive in-ear monitors to demanding full-size headphones, all without breaking a sweat.

Beyond raw strength, the Protocol Max features persistent, PC browser-based parametric EQ via the Hangout.Audio Graph Tool, letting you fine-tune your sound signature and store your custom profiles directly onto the device. No companion app, no extra steps—just plug into your PC, set your curve, and enjoy.

With its blend of muscle, precision, and user-focused flexibility, the Protocol Max balances clean, reference-grade performance with real-world practicality, making it the ultimate pocket-sized DAC-amp for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

DAC Chip
Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
Amp Chip
Dual SG Micro SGM8262-2
Maximum Power Output (BAL)
@ 8Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 442 mW (Boost)
@ 16Ω: 62.5 mW (Eco), 600 mW (Boost)
@ 32Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 500 mW (Boost)
@ 300Ω: 3.5 mW (Eco), 54 mW (Boost)
Maximum Power Output (SE)
@ 8Ω: 31.3 mW (Eco), 500 mW (Boost)
@ 16Ω: 15.63 mW (Eco), 250 mW (Boost)
@ 32Ω: 7.8 mW (Eco), 125 mW (Boost)
@ 300Ω: 0.8 mW (Eco), 13.5 mW (Boost)
SNR @1kHz 0dBFS
132 dB (BAL), 127 dB (SE)
Crosstalk @1kHz -6dBFS
-118 dB (BAL), -116 dB (SE)
THD+N @1kHz 0dBFS
-116 dB (BAL), -65 dB (SE)
Output Impedance
<0.6Ω (BAL), <0.3Ω (SE)
RETURNS

Elise Audio has a standard 14-day return / exchange policy for electronic products (DAC/DAP):

  • Must be returned in like-new factory condition 
  • Must include all original packaging and accessories
Please note that the return shipping cost is to be paid by the customer.

Read our full Returns, Warranty & Terms of service by clicking here

SHIPPING

We offer a range of delivery options to suit your purchasing needs. The options are presented to you at the checkout, in an easy to understand way.

Most orders for In-Stock items are shipped within 1 to 3 business days (Monday to Friday, except bank holidays), subject to stock availability and security checks. Please ensure you provide a valid phone number for us to contact you should verification of your identity be required.

For More information about our Shipping Policy please click here

Products purchased from Elise Audio are supplied with a manufacturer warranty that is specified on the product page on our website. Most products come with a 1Y manufacturer warranty (or 3 months for B-grade, open box, refurbished, ex-demo and second hand items). The manufacturer's warranties are limited to physical defects in the materials, parts and workmanship used in making the product. Abnormal conditions, deliberate abuse and damage due to accidents, operator's error, or unauthorized service attempts are excluded from any warranty claims. Faulty goods returned under the manufacturers warranty are to be returned to Elise Audio at the cost of the customer. Elise Audio will cover the cost of shipping the repaired or replacement product back to the customer.

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

Based on 4 reviews
75%
(3)
0%
(0)
25%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
D
David Griffin
Hard midrange; prefer Fiio BTR17.

Detailed, but has a hard midrange which, for me, detracts from the listening experience. Prefer the Fiio BTR17 which gets the frequency balance right IMO.

R
R C
Significant upgrade from Moondrop Dawn Pro 2.

The amp stage is noticeable. Even in eco mode it presents a bigger more 3d stage, better bass definition and cleaner background than the Moondrop Dawn Pro 2. Better transparency, focus and natural liquidity.

A
Ashley
Punches well above it's weight class

Powerful enough to drive my Hifiman Sundaras (30 Ohm) for a really high quality listening experience whilst around the house through my phone.
Sounds incredibly clean and I love the details coming through that a cheap dongle or motherboard audio just can't get.

A
Andrew Page
Excellent little DAC

Excellent little DAC, prompt delivery to the UK

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