The new MacBook Pro was officially released recently. However, many online reviews indicate a lack of significant upgrades. In contrast, the Apple 24-inch iMac with the M3 chip, which was updated at the same time, is a better choice, given that it hasn’t received updates for a long time. Users looking for an Apple all-in-one computer are more willing to upgrade. Even though the new machine only upgrades the M3 chip, it remains mostly the same in other aspects, and even the color options remain unchanged. However, the new pad does have some unadvertised feature upgrades. Its 3.5mm audio jack now supports high-definition music output, making it compatible with high-impedance headphones.
This isn’t Apple’s first time equipping its Mac with a 3.5mm audio jack that supports high-impedance headphones. The M2 chip MacBook Pro introduced the feature in 2021. In 2022, updates extended to MacBook Air, Mac Studio, 2023 Mac mini, and Mac Pro. All featuring an integrated DAC for high-definition lossless audio output. Tests have shown that Apple’s 3.5mm audio jack can drive some high-impedance headphones.
Of course, many audiophiles with more high-end audio preferences have some reservations. They claim that Apple’s DAC output specifications are relatively low, especially considering that Apple Music offers a maximum of 24-bit, 192kHz lossless audio. To fully utilize this specification, they would need to connect a more powerful external DAC. Perhaps Apple considered that this interface is primarily for entertainment purposes for regular consumers, and more professional users would opt for specialized devices.
Unlike Apple’s previous 27-inch iMac, the current Apple M3 chip iMac offers only a 24-inch screen (actually 23.5 inches diagonally). For those with slightly more professional needs, it might seem a bit small. Therefore, it is more geared towards home use or office work, where having high-definition audio output is indeed sufficient. Despite its price starting at 10,999 yuan (about $1,499) and coming with only 8GB of memory, this Apple all-in-one computer targets a specific user base.
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