The best music smartphones of 2021 with DAC and more: top rating

In this review, we consider smartphones with good sound in headphones, but we warn you right away: everything here is strictly individual, if one person likes the sound, this does not mean that another will like it. Why are we writing this? And to ensure that you listen to the sound on your smartphone before purchasing it, and not after, in order to avoid disappointment. This rating is based entirely on user and expert reviews. Whether you agree with him or not is up to you. Don't forget to read the comments to the article, they contain a lot of interesting things.

PS There are a lot of interesting things in the comments under the article.

LG G7 ThinQ 64GB

The sound in the LG G7 ThinQ is provided by a Saber ES9218PC DAC (digital-to-analog converter) from ESS Technology, which is not the first time it has been used in LG smartphones. There is a surround sound effect DTS:X 3D Surround Sound for 7.1-channel sound.

To increase the sound, a resonance effect is used, that is, vibrations of the device’s body will be transmitted to the place where it lies, for example, a wooden table. In this case, the sound from the speaker is not even surprising - it is amazing! But, of course, you shouldn’t expect such an effect in your pocket.

There is a built-in radio.

Screen diagonal: 6.1 inches

Screen resolution: 3120×1440

Weight: 163 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845

Memory capacity: 64 GB

RAM capacity: 4 GB

Battery capacity: 3000 mAh

Rear camera: dual 16/16 MP

Front camera: 8 MP

Memory card support: yes

Rating of smartphones for listening to music

As was said earlier, each high-profile smartphone from our rating has an Android operating system of varying degrees of freshness. The best music smartphone should have a relatively low price, good musical potential - powerful, loud sound.

LeEcoLe Max2

The relatively young company LeEco has invented the CDLA music format for its devices, which allows you to listen to music without loss of quality, but this is only available with headphones that have a USB Type-C connector.

With regular headphones connected using an adapter (in LeEcon a 3.5 mm jack), the output is high-quality sound with decent volume in reserve.

The mono speaker also shows its best side - it sounds loud and clear, with hints of bass.

In addition to the above, the flagship received a 5.7″ screen, a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, decent RAM and internal memory of 6 and 64 GB, a good battery and cameras: the main one is 21 MP, the front one is 8 MP.

Highscreen Boost 3 SE Pro

The Highscreen Boost 3 music smartphone is a prime example of how manufacturers are putting special emphasis on the sound of music in headphones. Of course, the sound from the speakers is not that bad, but it is inferior to LeEco in low frequencies and volume.

The sound in the headphones is mature and assertive, covering the entire frequency range.

In previous versions of the smartphone, it was possible to listen to Hi-Res files only using a special application that required root rights. Now any player can send Hi-Res compositions to the DAC, revealing all the musical capabilities of the smartphone.

Speaking about the possibilities, we cannot help but highlight:

Screen: 5″, 1920×1080.
Processor: 64-bit eight-core Media Tek MT6753.
RAM: 2/3 GB.
Built-in memory: 16/32 GB.
Battery: 3100+6900 mAh.
Cameras: main - 13 MP, front - 5 MP 8.

LG G7 ThinQ

LG flagships have always had good sound, and this device is no exception. The sound filling of the QUAD DAC has eight DAC modules, four per channel. The smartphone also has various built-in options for adjusting the quality of sounds and applied effects.

In ordinary headphones, the sound is clear, rich, rich and dynamic. Pairing the device with more advanced equipment gives simply ideal sound that can surpass the sound of Hi-Fi players.

The screen of the smartphone, by modern standards, is truly gigantic - 6.1 inches with a resolution of 3120x1440 (aspect ratio 19.5:9).

Processor: eight-core Snapdragon 845. RAM: 4/6 GB, built-in - 64/128 GB. Battery: 3000 mAh with support for wireless and fast charging. The main camera is dual, with 16 MP and 16 MP modules, the front one is 8 MP.

ZTE Axon 7 Mini

Among other devices from the manufacturer, Axon 7 mini features excellent sound, achieved through high-quality stereo speakers. At maximum volume, the speakers do not burst, all high and mid frequencies are worked out.

Unfortunately, there is no bass. In addition, the speakers on the front panel are capable of atmospheric Dolby sound, like in cinemas.

Axon 7 mini received an AsahiKasei AK4962 DAC, a fancy little thing that is not present in every expensive player. Thanks to this, the smartphone is able to pump up any Hi-Fi headphones.

The remaining characteristics correspond to typical representatives of smartphones in this segment.

ASUS Zenfone 5 ZE620KL

Finding a smartphone with an adequate price that offers two stereo speakers is a real success for audiophiles. Both speakers deliver powerful, rich sound, while the NXP amplifier suppresses distortion and protects the speakers from damage.

ZenFone 5 is compatible with Hi-Res Audio and also supports DTS Headphone X technology - virtual spatial audio when using headphones.

The screen of ASUS Zenfone 5 is really impressive - 6.2″. The rest of the characteristics are more or less standard. The main camera (12 MP + 8 MP) stands out clearly, thanks to which you can take impressive pictures.

LG V20 H990DS

The main feature of this smartphone, highlighted by the company in numerous advertisements, is the sound quality. When you connect Hi-Fi headphones, the sound is fully revealed, the sound becomes higher quality and richer, the music becomes detailed and deep.

Another feature of the flagship is Hi-Fi quality sound recording. This is not a popular feature for many people, but sometimes it is very useful.

Main characteristics of the device:

5.7-inch screen.
Advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 MSM8996 processor.
RAM – 4 GB, built-in – 64 GB.
Battery capacity - 3200 mAh.
Cameras: main – 16 MP, front – 5 MP.

Alcatel Idol 4s

AlcatelIdol 4s received a powerful audio system with high-quality surround sound. Two stereo speakers are located so that the sound remains excellent, regardless of which side the smartphone is lying on.

The advantages of sound can be listed for a very long time: the sound both in speakers and in headphones is bright, rich, very loud, with a full spectrum of frequencies. In addition, when watching a video, the surround sound effect is activated.

This device offers TOP specifications for a low price: a 5.7″ screen worthy of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 652, 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of built-in memory, a good battery and impressive image quality.

Samsung Galaxy S9

The new product from Samsung is a real revolution in terms of sound among other devices from the company. Now both speakers, complementing each other, can create a full stereo effect with DolbyAtmos. By the way, DolbyAtmos is even better visible when using a headset.

In general, compared to its competitors, Samsung offers the highest quality sound, second only to specialized “monsters” created specifically for music lovers. In addition, for the money this device costs, we get:

8-inch screen with picture resolution 2960×1440.
Exynos 9810 processor.
Classic 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory.
3000 mAh battery.
Excellent cameras: main 12 megapixel, front - 8 megapixel.

HTC U Ultra

U-Sonic technology was the reason why HTC U Ultra abandoned the usual headphone jack. Therefore, lovers of good music will have to compromise. And there is a reason for this: with the new technology, the sound has become deeper and more voluminous.

In general, HTC is one of the leaders in the smartphone market in terms of sound quality. Few can compete with such a giant, especially considering the price of their devices and incredible capabilities.

In addition to good sound, the smartphone received a 5.7″ screen with a resolution of 2560×1440, a QualcommSnapdragon 821 processor, 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory, decent cameras of 12 MP (main) and 16 MP (front). Battery - 3000 mAh.

ONKYO Granbeat DP-CMX1

The audio capabilities of this model are so great that the manufacturers separated the sound part of the device from the rest of the smartphone. One of the most progressive and modern audio chips, DAC SABER ES9018C2M, was placed on a separate board.

As a result, we get a smartphone with an independent DAC, operational amplifier and DC-DC converter. The output is very high quality sound that supports any frequency at maximum volume. The phone is truly unique - it has no analogues in sound, at least for today.

In addition to musical capabilities, ONKYO Granbeat DP-CMX1 has very good basic characteristics:

Screen 5″ with a resolution of 1920×1080.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 MSM8956 processor.
3 GB RAM, 128 GB internal.
3000 mAh battery.
Cameras: main – 16 MP, front – 8 MP.

ZTE Axon 10 Pro

We mostly know budget ZTE smartphones, but the company also has flagship models. For example, ZTE Axon 10 Pro with a top-end Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor and 6 GB of RAM.

Of course, we are more interested in the musical component. ZTE Axon 10 Pro has stereo speakers that are good in both sound quality and volume levels. As for the dedicated audio chip, the company has not forgotten about it either - it uses WCD9430 with support for Hi-Fi audio and DTS:X Ultra settings.

The disadvantage is still the same, relevant for new smartphones - there is no 3.5 mm headphone output.

Screen diagonal: 6.47 inches

Screen resolution: 2340×1080

Weight: 178 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 855

Memory capacity: 128 GB

RAM capacity: 6 GB

Battery capacity: 4000 mAh

Rear camera: triple 48/20/8 MP

Front camera: 20 MP

Memory card support: yes

#10 – Xiaomi Redmi 7

Price: 8,300 rubles

Among cheap smartphones you rarely find a solution with high-quality sound, but this popular model is one of them. Of course, a Chinese gadget cannot compete with flagships, but in the entry-level segment it gives a head start to many competitors. The sound is not so rattling at high volumes, and the volume is felt. In general, this is one of those solutions where you can easily watch a movie without headphones.

As for the other advantages, first of all it is autonomy. The 4000 mAh battery can easily withstand a couple of days of use. The processor is a fast Snapdragon 632, which is more than enough to run even demanding projects, although not at top graphics settings. The disadvantages of the solution include only the plastic body and dimensions that prevent operation with one hand. Despite this, Xiaomi Redmi 7 is a high-quality budget smartphone with good sound and it clearly deserves its place in the top.

Xiaomi Redmi 7

vivo X50 Pro 8/256GB

An excellent device from vivo with a very cool main camera, stylish appearance and a powerful platform based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G 5G chip and 8 GB of RAM.

If we talk about the musical component, the smartphone received a DAC from Asahi Kasei Microdevices - AK4377. However, there is an important nuance - there is no 3.5 mm jack, so you will have to connect via an adapter (USB Type-C). There is a built-in headphone amplifier.

But there are no stereo speakers here.

Screen diagonal: 6.56 inches

Screen resolution: 2376×1080

Weight: 181 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G 5G

Memory capacity: 256 GB

RAM capacity: 8 GB

Battery capacity: 4315 mAh

Rear camera: four modules 48/13/8/8 MP

Front camera: 32 MP

Memory card support: no

Razer Phone 2

In fact, the Razer Phone 2 is a gaming smartphone and its emphasis is on the gaming component. However, it received stereo speakers, each of which has a separate amplifier, and also a 24-bit DAC with support for the well-known Dolby Atmos technology. The manufacturer also claims a very high maximum volume. According to data from open sources, we are talking about 100 dB and even a little higher.

This is a flagship smartphone, it has a lot of unusual features. For example, a display created using IGZO technology with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, as well as a very unusual appearance.

Very difficult to find on sale. In addition, a smartphone costs a lot of money.

Screen diagonal: 5.72 inches

Screen resolution: 2560×1440

Weight: 220 g

Number of SIM cards: 1

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845

Memory capacity: 64 GB

RAM capacity: 8 GB

Battery capacity: 4000 mAh

Rear camera: dual 12/12 MP

Front camera: 8 MP

Memory card support: yes

Xiaomi Poco X3

Price: from 17,000 rubles.
Pros:

fast work with applications;
clear interface;
screen refresh rate 120 Hz;
capacious battery.

Minuses:

large device size;
glass scratches easily.

A smartphone with a quad camera that can easily be classified as a gaming smartphone. For relatively little money, the user gets truly powerful hardware that can handle the most complex programs and modern games.

With the help of cameras, it is convenient to take high-quality pictures in any lighting, as well as record video in 4K format.

AGM X3 8/128GB

AGM X3 is an amazing smartphone: a rugged device with a shock-resistant case, IP68 and MIL-STD-810G protection, support for fast and wireless charging, a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor and an acceptable weight.

But we are more interested in the musical component, which in this case is extremely interesting. Thus, two speakers located at the bottom of the smartphone were developed jointly with JBL, and the sound from them is subjectively good.

For audio processing, the Texas Instruments SmartPA TAS2557 chip is used, which has proven itself well. But there is a nuance - there is no 3.5 mm jack, so the manufacturer added an adapter with USB Type-C for headphones.

Screen diagonal: 5.99 inches

Screen resolution: 2160×1080

Weight: 216 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845

Memory capacity: 128 GB

RAM capacity: 8 GB

Battery capacity: 4100 mAh

Rear camera: dual 12/24 MP

Front camera: 20 MP

Memory card support: yes

Smartphones with good sound from speakers

It is not always possible to carry a Bluetooth speaker with you, but you still want to enjoy high-quality sound. To do this, manufacturers offer the best music smartphones with advanced speakers, usually operating in stereo mode.

OPPO A52 is a worthy representative of the middle class

A phone with an interesting set of technical characteristics, running on the mid-level Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 platform. The capabilities of the eight-core processor and integrated video card are enough to run fashionable 3D games. A decent supply of RAM ensures fast loading and access to popular applications.

On the back panel of OPPO A52 there is a quad camera combining 12+8+8+2 megapixel sensors. The increased area of each pixel allows you to shoot even in poor lighting conditions, obtaining images with a minimum of noise and artifacts.

The smartphone offers high-quality, loud (80 dB) sound in stereo format. The development of acoustics for OPPO A52 was carried out in partnership with the famous Swedish company Dirac. Sound is transmitted to wired headphones via a channel that supports the Hi-Res Audio format. A wide range of sound settings are available in the settings.

Advantages:

productivity platform;
high-quality acoustics;
new generation RAM;
picture quality;
contactless payment;
NFC;
support for fast charging at 18 W;
LTPS screen;
The selfie camera is located on the screen.

Flaws:

easily soiled plastic body.

OnePlus 8 – a set of innovations

A new generation phone in the flagship series, powered by the top-end Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset. The powerful platform is supported by an AMOLED screen with QHD+ resolution and a refresh rate of 120 Hz.

OnePlus 8 has advanced communication capabilities, including fifth generation networks, Wi-fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1. The smartphone is designed for wireless audio transmission, providing support for AptX, LDAC, AAC, aptHD. The model is equipped with powerful speakers capable of creating massive sound.

Advantages:

super-capacity 4510 mAh battery;
current Android;
fast operation of RAM, ROM;
current version of Android;
fast charging with a power of 30 W.

Flaws:

price.

HONOR 30 Pro+ - a flagship for active music lovers

A top model with a non-trivial design, with improved sound transmission capabilities. The sound of the stereo speakers is powerful, rich, and relatively clean. The headphones use Histen's own settings system.

A 6.57-inch OLED screen with FHD resolution is responsible for the image. The high performance of the HONOR 30 Pro+ is ensured by the Kirin 990 platform, which can handle maximum graphics settings in any game.

Advantages:

dual front camera;
infrared port;
camera with four lenses.

Flaws:

no MicroSD slot;
no support for Dolby Atmos, aptX codecs;
unaesthetic cut in the screen where the camera is located.

Samsung Galaxy S20+ – a balanced flagship

A smartphone with a strict design, which is typical of expensive flagships. The screen with WQHD+ resolution is developed using Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology, which sets new standards in the production of liquid crystal panels. The matrix with a pixel density of 525 ppi supports HDR10+, scanning at 120 Hz.

The main unit of the smartphone has 4 cameras: a 12 MP main camera, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle camera, a 64 MP telephoto module and a 0.3 MP TOF sensor. The photographs correspond to the flagship status, with minimal complaints about the night mode.

Externally, the sound is distributed in stereo mode, which uses the main and conversational speakers. The sound in the headphones is also good, despite the lack of a minijack input. The included headset sounds good and connects to the Type-C port. Available settings include: Dolby Atmos with 4 profiles, gaming Dolby Atmos, equalizer and UHQ upscaler.

Advantages:

Includes 25 W adapter, USB Type-C adapter, AKG headphones with USB Type-C connector;
5G connection support;
displaying notifications on the screen using Always On technology;
flagship processor Exynos 990;
ultrasonic fingerprint scanner.

Flaws:

slippery body;
support for 120 Hz scanning is available only in Full HD resolution;
only one physical SIM card.

Meizu 15 Lite 4/32GB

We can say that this is a budget solution from Meizu, although in reality the smartphone is good, including its characteristics. For example, it uses a high-quality 5.46-inch display, a fairly powerful platform based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 626 processor and 4 GB of RAM, supports face unlocking, etc.

By sound. Meizu almost always relies on sound and the 15 Lite is no exception. The headphones use a Cirrus Logic CS47L33 audio chip, and the speakers use a Cirrus Logic CS35L35 amplifier. Of course, the sound is not like the same flagship Meizu, but among the competitors for the same money, the 15 Lite is unlikely to find a competitor.

Screen diagonal: 5.46 inches

Screen resolution: 1920×1080

Weight: 145 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 626

Memory capacity: 32 GB

RAM capacity: 4 GB

Battery capacity: 3000 mAh

Rear camera: 12 MP

Front camera: 20 MP

Memory card support: yes

LG V40 ThinQ 6/128GB

Another smartphone from LG.

Straight to the musical part. The so-called Boombox speaker is used, an analogue of what we see in the G7 model - it is designed to resonate on the surface when the smartphone is lying down and produce more low frequencies.

It uses a 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad digital-to-analog converter, first developed in collaboration with Meridian. Some tests indicate that even without additional settings, of which there are plenty, the device sounds very great in headphones.

The set includes headphones, but not from the B&O brand. However, in tests the sound quality is rated as very good or even better.

Screen diagonal: 6.4 inches

Screen resolution: 3120×1440

Weight: 169 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845

Memory capacity: 128 GB

RAM capacity: 6 GB

Battery capacity: 3300 mAh

Rear camera: triple 12/16/12 MP

Front camera: dual 8/5 MP

Memory card support: yes

Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ 12/256GB

The Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ is included in our review with a big stretch - there is no dedicated DAC here, for example, but users are still satisfied with the sound from headphones, although most likely wireless ones - the 3.5 mm headphone jack has sunk into oblivion.

However, in this particular case, the device is interesting to us because of the sound not from the headphones, but from the speakers - several publications have already noted that the Galaxy Note 10+ sounds better than any of the smartphones on the market, and can replace a portable speaker!

The most interesting thing is that the Galaxy Note 10+ received stereo speakers, but at the same time the top speaker on the body is almost impossible to notice.

HTC U12 Plus 128GB

The new HTC U12 Plus hardly claims to be the most musical smartphone; moreover, it doesn’t even have a 3.5 mm headphone jack, but the manufacturer included a proprietary headset that automatically “adjusts” to the user. Judging by the reviews, it works, and works well.

Also, the U12 Plus is distinguished not only by its very loud speakers, but also by the fact that the sound is clear and very rich. They even say that a smartphone can easily replace a portable speaker.

Screen diagonal: 6 inches

Screen resolution: 2880×1440

Weight: 188 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845

Memory capacity: 128 GB

RAM capacity: 6 GB

Battery capacity: 3500 mAh

Rear camera: dual 12/16 MP

Front camera: dual 8/8 MP

Memory card support: yes

LG V30+

An alternative flagship from LG, and also not the latest generation. But the smartphone has become considerably cheaper, and we are also very interested in the music department.

The ESS Saber ES9218P digital-to-analog converter is used here. When connecting headphones, you can select the mode: either Qualcomm or Hi-Fi Quad DAC. And it seems like nothing new, if not for one thing - the kit includes a headset from the famous company Bang&Olufsen. Users say that the smartphone sounds great, but the headset is not so good. On the other hand, there is nothing surprising - you should at least be happy that the headset is included in the kit at all, especially from such a renowned company.

The speaker sounds good, but don't expect anything extraordinary.

Screen diagonal: 6 inches

Screen resolution: 2880×1440

Weight: 158 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 835

Memory capacity: 128 GB

RAM capacity: 4 GB

Battery capacity: 3300 mAh

Rear camera: dual 16/13 MP

Front camera: 5 MP

Memory card support: yes

Meizu 16th 6/64GB

The flagship from Meizu, which received a fingerprint scanner built into the display. This is not a new thing, but such a solution is still rare.

About sound. The following is stated: Qualcomm Aqstic DAC (WCD9341), SmarPA Cirrus Logic CS35L41 amplifier and aptX/LDAC codecs. Of course, there is a 3.5mm headphone jack. It has its own Meizu Square Sound sound improvement system with manual settings. The device sounds very decent.

Two speakers are used - front and bottom, which create stereo sound.

Screen diagonal: 6 inches

Screen resolution: 2160×1080

Weight: 152 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845

Memory capacity: 64 GB

RAM capacity: 6 GB

Battery capacity: 3010 mAh

Rear camera: dual 12/20 MP

Front camera: 20 MP

Memory card support: no

Audio smartphones with stereo speakers

Xiaomi Mi Max 3

This large phone has an aluminum body. Its 6.9″ screen provides a resolution of 2160x1080. Screen matrix – IPS.

The main camera has two sensors - one 12 megapixel and one 5 megapixel. Front – 8 MP.

A separate plus is the 5500 mAh battery. High-definition video can be viewed for up to 17 hours at full brightness.

The Snapdragon 636, equipped with 4GB of RAM and Adreno 509, can handle most games, even demanding ones.

This smartphone will appeal to those who respect music. Firstly, the traditional 3.5 mm jack remains, and therefore the headphones, if anything, do not have to be changed. Stereo speakers also stand out, which will help not only when talking, but also when listening to loud music. The device can even, to some extent, be a speaker. But this does not mean that phones with good speakers can do this all the time. It's better to take care of your device and buy a wireless portable speaker.

Excellent build quality
Huge 6.9-inch, 18:9, FullHD+ display, amazingly accurate color
Great battery life, although it could potentially be better
Fast charging support
Dual SIM LTE support
Excellent sound quality and fairly loud stereo speaker setup
Flexible and feature-rich MIUI 9.1, based on the current Android Oreo kernel
Good all-round camera performance with plenty of shooting modes
Fast and accurate fingerprint scanner, IR blaster, FM radio

There is no official mention of Gorilla Glass
EIS does not work in 4K resolution with Mi Camera app
Camera settings are limited (only ISO and white balance)
AI automatically puts edges on portrait photos

Honor 8X Max

This smartphone is starting to catch up with tablets in size. He is something between both. The diagonal of its IPS screen is 7.1″. The design has almost no frames, and the front camera fits in a small notch. The resolution of the huge screen is 2244×1080. Many users noted that, despite such dimensions, they get used to it very quickly.

Meizu Pro 7 Plus 64GB

Maybe not the latest smartphone from Meizu, but still relevant. And it can surprise you with the presence of a second display on the back of the body: it can be used not only to display notifications, but also to take selfies with the main camera.

It uses a 32-bit Cirrus Logic CS43130 DAC with a built-in headphone amplifier. The sound is said to be at a very high level and can outshine most competitors. Despite the lack of stereo speakers, the sound from the speaker is very good.

Screen diagonal: 5.7 inches

Screen resolution: 2560×1440

Weight: 170 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: MediaTek Helio X30

Memory capacity: 64 GB

RAM capacity: 6 GB

Battery capacity: 3500 mAh

Rear camera: dual 12/12 MP

Front camera: 16 MP

Memory card support: no

iPhone 8 64Gb

Now - about the speakers and good sound.

Yes, yes, we were not mistaken - the iPhone 8, like the iPhone 7, received two speakers. This means that you can now enjoy stereo sound. It is indicated that the volume level has increased by 25% (compared to the iPhone 7), while the sound itself has become even clearer and more pleasant to the ear.

However, we wouldn’t call the smartphone completely new; it’s more like a restyling, even if a lot has changed.

New features include support for wireless charging and the True Tone function.

Screen diagonal: 4.7 inches

Screen resolution: 1334×750

Weight: 148 g

Number of SIM cards: 1

Processor: Apple A11 Bionic

Memory capacity: 64 GB

RAM capacity: 2 GB

Battery capacity: 1,821 mAh

Camera: 12 MP

Memory card support: no

Support for 4G networks: yes

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 128GB

Samsung Galaxy Note 9 will not surprise you with the presence of some cool DAC and is unlikely to suit audiophiles, but even for a music lover it sounds more than decent. Note that the kit comes with an AKG headset, which, according to reviews, plays very, very well.

Galaxy Note 9 can be used instead of a speaker - two speakers with Dolby Atmos support provide powerful and spacious stereo sound.

As for the rest of the characteristics, we will answer without false modesty that this is one of the best smartphones on the planet.

Screen diagonal: 6.4 inches

Screen resolution: 2960×1440

Weight: 201 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Exynos 9810

Memory capacity: 128 GB

RAM capacity: 6 GB

Battery capacity: 4000 mAh

Rear camera: dual 12/12 MP

Front camera: 8 MP

Memory card support: yes

Meizu 15 4/64GB

Another new Meizu, which received a Cirrus Logic CS35L35 DAC. Accordingly, the sound in the headphones is good, although it is far from the flagship Meizu 16th. The Hexagon 680 audio chip is also announced.

Meizu 15 has two stereo speakers - one at the bottom and the other at the top. Users have no complaints about sound quality.

Screen diagonal: 5.46 inches

Screen resolution: 1920×1080

Weight: 152 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 660

Memory capacity: 64 GB

RAM capacity: 4 GB

Battery capacity: 3000 mAh

Rear camera: dual 12/20 MP

Front camera: 20 MP

Memory card support: no

Other smartphones

There are other smartphones that come with dedicated digital-to-analog converters. For example, HTC U Ultra has a dedicated DAC, which is blocked when third-party headphones are connected due to USonic technology, which analyzes sound using headphones with built-in microphones. This technology has carried over to the new flagship HTC U12+, but I don't know if it has a dedicated DAC.

The previous flagship of the Korean brand LG - the G6 model - also received a high-quality Saber amplifier (or even the DAM itself), which is distinguished by high quality sound reproduction in headphones and speakers. When you connect headphones with an impedance of 64 Ohms, the sound becomes cool.

You can go on for a long time. Unfortunately, it is not always known which DAC and amplifier are used in new phones, since manufacturers often do not indicate this at all. For example, everyone expected to see the new Meizu 16th with a dedicated audio chip, but the Chinese company did not provide any information on this part. According to messages on the w3bsit3-dns.com forums, it became clear that there is no DAC here other than the one built into the Qualcomm chip.

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LG G6 32GB

LG's flagship, albeit not new. It uses a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, 4 GB of RAM, a 5.7-inch widescreen display, a wide-angle camera, etc. But the price has dropped very seriously.

The manufacturer has added a 32-bit dual-channel Saber ESS ES9218 DAC, which provides good sound quality in headphones.

The external speaker does not stand out in any way, although the sound is loud and clear.

Screen diagonal: 5.7 inches

Screen resolution: 2880×1440

Weight: 163 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 821

Memory capacity: 32 GB

RAM capacity: 4 GB

Battery capacity: 3300 mAh

Rear camera: dual 13/13 MP

Front camera: 5 MP

Memory card support: yes

Oppo A52

What's good about this smartphone besides stereo speakers?

The advantage of the device is the screen with Full HD resolution - for that kind of money they often try to sell us models with HD. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 hardware platform is no longer new, but it is quite relevant, and it is also worth mentioning in the advantages. As well as a 5000 mAh battery with 18-watt fast charging. And yes, the A52 also has an NFC chip for contactless payments.

What you have to come to terms with

The quad rear camera is not enough stars from the sky, but a) the configuration is still adequate for the price and b) at least there is a “width” (missing from the same Tecno Pouvoir 4). In general, we have more quibbles with the cameras than real accusations. However, we must admit that some competitors have better cameras (see below).

Meizu Pro 6 32Gb

Device from Meizu. The Pro 6 received high-quality sound: a two-channel Cirrus Logic CS43L36 DAC was installed, and an NXP Smart PA Gen 3 power amplifier is responsible for the sound from the speaker. Although, according to some reviews, the previous Pro 5 model sounded a little better. In any case, most reviews are extremely positive.

Otherwise, it’s a powerful smartphone with a 5.2-inch screen. The installed processor is MediaTek Helio X25 (MT6797T), 4 GB of RAM, 32 GB of internal memory, a fingerprint scanner, a decent 21 MP camera, a metal body, etc.

And now the most interesting thing - Meizu Pro 6 was released in 2021, but when these lines were written, it could still be found on sale new! However, it cannot be ruled out that we are talking about refurbished devices disguised as new ones. Be careful.

Screen diagonal: 5.2 inches

Screen resolution: 1920×1080

Weight: 160 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: MediaTek Helio X25 (MT6797T)

Memory capacity: 32 GB

RAM capacity: 4 GB

Battery capacity: 2560 mAh

Rear camera: 21.16 MP

Front camera: 5 MP

Memory card support: no

How does the operating system affect sound quality?

The Apple corporation continuously announces improvements in the sound quality of its phones. This happens with every new product released. The next iPhone is definitely positioned as the smartphone with the best sound. However, in practice this is not the case.

Apple devices, even the most advanced ones, show significant distortion of the sound image - this occurs due to the operating system . When working with data, at least double conversion is used to obtain an analog signal curve. The resulting data losses are superimposed by distortions generated by the terminal paths of the amplification system. As a result, not a single iPhone is capable of entering the top music smartphones of 2021.

The picture is a little different in devices running the Android operating system. The software environment is completely open. Developers of new phone models are open to any possibilities for managing hardware audio components. As a result, the rating of music smartphones 2021 consists entirely of Android models.

These are devices with high-level DACs, with separate power amplifiers and hardware adjustments. In addition, some manufacturers offer their own technologies to improve sound quality. For example, HTC uses a feedback circuit. The model with music chips focuses on the sound picture in headphones, receiving data from the microphones built into them. By independently changing the equalizer and amplification system settings, the smartphone selects the best sound parameters.

Lenovo Vibe X3

A smartphone that cannot be found on sale, but can be looked for on message boards. This is what music lovers love very much. For what?

Probably for the following: ESS ES9018K2M DAC, Wolfson WM8281 audio chip and TI OPA1612 amplifier. The Vibe X3 is said to sound amazing - and we're willing to believe it.

The stereo speakers support Dolby Atmos technology and, according to assurances, can replace a wireless speaker.

Screen diagonal: 5.5 inches

Screen resolution: 1920×1080

Weight: 175 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 808

Memory capacity: 32 GB

RAM capacity: 3 GB

Battery capacity: 3500 mAh

Rear camera: 21 MP

Front camera: 8 MP

Memory card support: yes

Highscreen Boost 3

You can also look on the message board for Highscreen Boost 3, which is not in production at the time of writing. Actually, the main feature of this smartphone lies elsewhere: it comes with an additional removable 6000 mAh battery, which can be installed instead of the default 3000 mAh one.

The ESS9018K2M DAC and ADA4897-2 amplifier are responsible for the sound. Judging by the reviews, this is one of the coolest-sounding smartphones on the market, and experts agree.

Screen diagonal: 5 inches

Screen resolution: 1920×1080

Weight: 140 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: MediaTek MT6753

Memory capacity: 16 GB

RAM capacity: 2 GB

Battery capacity: 3000/6000 mAh

Rear camera: 13 MP

Front camera: 5 MP

Memory card support: yes

OPPO Reno 3 Pro

Price: from 47,900 rubles.
Pros:

comfortable to hold in hand;
large and bright screen;
stereo sound;
stable connection.

Cons: Not a very high quality microphone.

A classic smartphone running Android 10, offering all the necessary options for comfortable everyday use. The 6.5-inch diagonal AMOLED color screen is suitable for playing any content. The shades are very natural and rich.

A set of speakers is installed inside, providing full stereo sound. Some may not have enough depth of sound, but this is due to the size of the device.

ZTE Nubia Z11

Another “old man” is a fairly powerful flagship from ZTE with 6 GB of RAM and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor. The Nubia Z11 sound system produces Hi-Fi+ quality sound, which is achieved by the AKM AK4376 + Smart PA audio chip, as well as the Dolby Atmos Surround Sound system. Reviews are generally positive. A quick glance at the message boards suggests that the device is not that difficult to find on the secondary market (you can forget about the primary one).

Note that there is only one speaker, so you will have to do without stereo sound.

Screen diagonal: 5.5 inches

Screen resolution: 1920×1080

Weight: 162 g

Number of SIM cards: 2

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 820

Memory capacity: 64 GB

RAM capacity: 4 GB

Battery capacity: 3000 mAh

Rear camera: 16 MP

Front camera: 8 MP

Memory card support: yes

Which music smartphone to choose in 2021

One of the most popular, and therefore best-selling and high-quality models is the Vivo X7 Plus. Yes, there are other models, there are also more unusual, powerful, etc., but the X7 Plus is the proven and high-quality option that many choose. Why - you ask? Let's take things in order then. The first is a stylish design that looks very modern and luxurious, and in any color, but we were especially attracted to the gold color. But let's focus on the sound amplifier: the AK4376 DAC is installed here. The developers tried to make the most balanced smartphone that would suit absolutely all factors, from battery life to volume and speaker quality. All this will cost about 35,000 rubles, which is very inexpensive by modern standards.

But let's look at another alternative option that is great for any user, and that would be the ZTE Nubia Z11. A good and quite solid smartphone that is perfect for any user, but it is music connoisseurs who will be able to see the real advantages of the gadget over others. The main feature of the gadget is the Asahi Kasei AK4376 DAC, as well as the modern Dolby Atmos equalizer, which is used in some gaming headphones. But it's not just powerful and clear sound that makes the Nubia Z11 sell out so quickly. We must not forget that for ZTE, design has always been the highlight of the gadget, so the luxurious metal body along with dark tones will fit perfectly into any style.