Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (24)
$1,099.00
Guitar Center
$1,099.00
Amazon
5.0 (3)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (6)
$1,099.00 New
$699.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (32)
$1,099.00
B&H
5.0 (1)
$1,099.00
Thomann
4.9 (30)
$1,169.00 $1,159.00 $10.00 · All time low
Vintage King
5.0 (5)
$1,099.00

Average Price: $1,061

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Dangerous Music Source". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

In the realm of studio recording gear, the Dangerous Music Source stands as a beacon for audio professionals seeking precision and portability. This compact yet powerful monitor controller seamlessly bridges the gap between your headphones and speakers, offering a comprehensive solution for both studio and on-the-go use. With mastering-grade D/A conversion, the Source ensures that every nuance of your mix is captured with pristine clarity. Whether you're in the studio or hitting the road, its versatile input options—including USB, AES/SPDIF, and two analog inputs—provide unrivaled flexibility.

The Source allows you to switch effortlessly between multiple input sources, or even combine them for a customized monitoring experience. Its dual headphone outputs and two speaker outputs can be engaged simultaneously, making it a versatile tool for any recording or mixing scenario. Compact enough to fit under a 13" laptop, and with optional rackmount capability, the Source is designed to adapt to your workflow, wherever it may take you.

Key Features:

  • Mastering-grade D/A conversion with up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution
  • Four input sources: USB, AES/SPDIF, 1/8" mini stereo, and XLR/TRS combo
  • Dual headphone outputs and two speaker outputs, switchable and combinable
  • Portable design fits under a 13" laptop or can be rack-mounted (optional kit)
  • Separate source selections for headphones and monitors
  • AES/SPDIF pass-through and additional TRS outputs for external gear
  • Powered by a 12V 2A power supply with a compact form factor

Product specs

Type Monitor Controller
Input Channels 4
Output Channels 8
Analog Inputs 2 x XLR-1/4" combo, 1 x 1/8" (stereo)
Analog Outputs 2 x XLR (speaker 1), 2 x 1/4" (speaker 2), 2 x 1/4" (line out)
Digital Inputs 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (AES, S/PDIF)
Digital Outputs 1 x XLR (AES)
Headphones 2 x 1/4"
USB 1 x Type B
Computer Connectivity USB 2.0
Form Factor Desktop (Optional Rackmount Kit Available)
Power Supply 12V DC power supply (included)
Height 1.75"
Width 8"
Depth 12.75"

FAQs

What types of inputs does the Dangerous Music Source support?

The Dangerous Music Source supports both analog and digital inputs, including 2 x XLR-1/4" combo, 1 x 1/8" stereo for analog, and 1 x XLR-1/4" combo for AES/S/PDIF digital signals.

Can the Dangerous Music Source be connected to a computer?

Yes, the Dangerous Music Source can be connected to a computer via USB 2.0, allowing for seamless integration with your digital audio workstation.

How many headphones can be connected to the Dangerous Music Source simultaneously?

The Dangerous Music Source features two 1/4" headphone outputs, allowing you to connect and monitor audio with two sets of headphones at the same time.

Is the Dangerous Music Source suitable for desktop use?

Yes, the Dangerous Music Source is designed as a desktop monitor controller, but it also offers an optional rackmount kit for more permanent studio installations.

What are the output options available on the Dangerous Music Source?

The Dangerous Music Source provides multiple output options, including 2 x XLR for speaker 1, 2 x 1/4" for speaker 2, and 2 x 1/4" line outs, allowing for flexible routing to various audio devices.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Dangerous Music Source Monitoring System Overview - Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Dangerous Music Source Monitoring System Overview - Sweetwater by Sweetwater

Dangerous Music Source Monitoring System Overview - Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Dangerous Source Review - Alto Music by Alto Music

Dangerous Source Review - Alto Music

Alto Music

Alto Music

Video thumbnail for Dangerous SOURCE Monitor Controller Overview: Listen Boldly, Sacrifice Nothing by Dangerous Music

Dangerous SOURCE Monitor Controller Overview: Listen Boldly, Sacrifice Nothing

Dangerous Music

Dangerous Music

Video thumbnail for ANATOMY OF A DAC -  VOL # 2 DANGEROUS MUSIC SOURCE by OCD HI-Fi Guy

ANATOMY OF A DAC - VOL # 2 DANGEROUS MUSIC SOURCE

OCD HI-Fi Guy

OCD HI-Fi Guy

Video thumbnail for Dangerous Music Source - NAMM 2012 by Sound On Sound magazine

Dangerous Music Source - NAMM 2012

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional build and sound quality

  • Rack mount kit easy to install

  • Enhances music with clarity and detail

  • Analog volume control for superior sound

  • Clean, unobtrusive switching between sources

  • Solid-feeling controls

  • Provides a spatial and lively listening experience

  • Competitive DAC quality under $1000

  • Crisp, clear transients for accurate mixing

CONS

  • Individual input/output level adjustment not available

  • Rack mount and external power supply sold separately

  • Lacks a main power switch

  • Second analog input with mini-jack seems unprofessional

  • Reported reliability issue, though resolved under warranty

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dangerous Music Source.

Features and functionality

  • Dangerous Music Source's jumper modification allows changing from the -6 dB speaker out factory setting to unity gain, providing louder output.

    Source
  • The Dangerous Music Source also functions as a DAC, offering superior sound quality compared to mid-level interface stereo outputs.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the Dangerous Music Source for its clean and transparent audio when using AES out from the Lucid 88192.

    Source
  • Some users wish the Dangerous Music Source had additional features like a mono button and talkback, similar to the DBox.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Removing the jumpers in the Dangerous Music Source for unity gain is simple and detailed in a YouTube tutorial.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend using XLR female to XLR male cables to connect the Dangerous Music Source to JBL Professional 305P MkII monitors.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users who aren't mixing or mastering still find the Dangerous Music Source beneficial for enhancing audio quality when paired with JBL 305P MkII monitors.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Dangerous Music Source

soundonsound.com

The Dangerous Music Source impresses with its compact design, high-quality audio performance, and versatile input/output options, making it ideal for musicians and producers on the go. Its independent headphone and speaker outputs, powerful headphone amp, and independent D-A converters for AES and USB inputs are standout features. However, it lacks certain traditional monitor controller features like mono, phase, and dim controls, and the USB interface relies on standard OS drivers. Despite these omissions, the Source's flexibility, superb audio quality, and affordability make it a strong choice for those seeking a portable monitoring solution.

positive

Dangerous Music: Source monitor controller | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Dangerous Music Source monitor controller impresses with its portability, high fidelity, and flexible input options, making it a great choice for both mobile and studio setups. Its robust build and intuitive controls cater to musicians on the go, while the dual DACs and diverse connectivity options enhance its appeal. However, the lack of a built-in talkback mic and mono button might disappoint some users, necessitating workarounds. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Source stands out for its vibrant sound quality and value for money, earning it high praise as a reliable and affordable monitoring solution.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
C

Best DAC I've owned

For under $1000 I doubt there are any other DAC's out there that can compete. One word: depth, depth, depth! I can hear every instrument when I am mixing. All transients are crisp and clear. Makes mixing easier and more pleasurable. Does not lie to you. No boost in mids or lows. Perfect for bedroom producers that want to hear what their mixes really sound like... or mixing/mastering professionals that want a reliable interpretation of what they are working on.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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