What is a DAC (Digital to Analog Conversion)?

Digital-to-analog conversion, commonly abbreviated as DAC, is the process of converting digital audio data back into an analog signal that can be heard through speakers or headphones.

In digital audio systems, sound is stored as numerical data made up of samples. A digital-to-analog converter reads this digital information and reconstructs it into a continuous electrical waveform that represents the original sound.

DACs are essential components in many audio devices, including audio interfaces, digital mixers, smartphones, computers, headphones, and media players. Without digital-to-analog conversion, digital audio files could not be played back as audible sound through speakers or headphones.