Expert Pick #01

Schiit Magni Unity / Modi 5 Stack.

Schiit's Magni Unity amp paired with the Modi 5 DAC delivers transparent, powerful single-ended amplification that drives everything from IEMs to planar magnetics.

Schiit Magni Unity / Modi 5 Stack

The Verdict.

9.6/ 10

Gavler Meta-Score

The Magni Unity / Modi 5 stack is the value champion of the headphone amplifier world — Schiit's current single-ended reference, a direct lineage successor to the Magnius/Modius. Enough power for any headphone, transparent sound that competes with equipment costing three times as much, and a sub-$300 total price that means there's effectively no excuse for laptop audio anymore.

The Gavler Verdict

Precision Engineering

Discrete Single-Ended Amplifier

The Magni Unity uses a discrete topology that delivers serious power and a vanishingly low noise floor — comfortable with both IEMs and planar magnetics.

Modi 5 DAC

The Modi 5 delivers reference-grade conversion with USB, optical, and coaxial inputs up to 24-bit/192kHz.

American Manufacturing

Machined aluminum chassis built in Texas with reliable relay-based switching and Schiit's standard warranty.

Technical Specifications

Amp OutputSingle-ended (6.35mm + RCA preamp)
DAC InputsUSB, optical, coaxial
Sample RatesUp to 24-bit/192kHz
FootprintStackable desktop (paperback-book size)
Price~$129 each (~$258 stack)

The Scoreboard

Expert Consensus95%
Community Rating96%

Audiophile community scores are exceptional — Schiit's current desktop stack inherits the Magnius/Modius reputation as the best value in headphone amplification. Experts praise the measurements and dead-quiet noise floor.

Cast Your Vote

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Best Price Availability.

Prices checked April 2026

Price History

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$129

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Global Critique

The Magni is priced at $119 and $189 (with DAC) and delivers exceptional performance for the price. Its neutral sound signature ensures the focus remains squarely on the music.

AV Gadgets (Schiit Magni Unity Review)

The Schiit Magni Unity headphone amp paired with the HiFiMAN Arya Stealth make a surprisingly great-sounding system, especially considering the under $1K entry price.

PMA Magazine (Schiit Magni Unity + HiFiMAN Arya Stealth Review)

Schiit's design and direct-to-consumer model continue to deliver desktop reference performance at a fraction of the historical price for the category.

Schiit Audio (Magni Unity press materials)