---
title: "DAC issues"
description: "What to do when your external DAC isn't detected, doesn't show up as an output, or its volume doesn't work."
url: https://help.volumio.com/en/articles/203-dac-issues
collection: "Troubleshooting"
updated: 2026-11-13
language: en
---

# DAC issues

What to do when your external DAC isn't detected, doesn't show up as an output, or its volume doesn't work.

The output settings are in your device's `Settings` → `Playback options`. In the app, open your device and go to `Settings`.

## The USB DAC isn't detected

1.  Turn on the DAC and check that its input is set to USB.
    
2.  Unplug the USB cable from the device and plug it in again.
    
3.  Go to `Settings` → `Playback options` and check whether the DAC shows up in `Output device`.
    
4.  If it doesn't, try another USB port on the device and another USB cable.
    
5.  Restart the device with the DAC already on.
    

> **Tip:** If the DAC goes into standby on its own, the device may lose it: turn on the DAC first, then the device.

## The device doesn't switch between two DACs

When more than one DAC is connected, the device plays only on the one selected in `Output device`.

1.  Go to `Settings` → `Playback options`.
    
2.  In `Output device`, choose the DAC you want to use, then press `Save`.
    

## Hardware isn't in Mixer type

`Hardware` shows up in `Mixer type` only when the selected output can change its own volume. Many DACs can't, or don't let the device change it.

1.  Go to `Settings` → `Playback options` → `Volume options`.
    
2.  Pick `Software` to change the volume from the device, or `None` to use your DAC's or amplifier's volume.
    
3.  Press `Save`.
    

## Still not working

[Report a bug](https://help.volumio.com/articles/33-report-a-bug) from the app with the DAC connected and on, and tell us its brand and model and how it's connected (USB, S/PDIF, I2S).

## Related

- [Report a bug](https://help.volumio.com/en/articles/33-report-a-bug.md)
- [Connection issues](https://help.volumio.com/en/articles/197-connection-issues.md)
- [Playback issues](https://help.volumio.com/en/articles/198-playback-issues.md)
- [Music library issues](https://help.volumio.com/en/articles/199-music-library-issues.md)
- [Streaming service issues](https://help.volumio.com/en/articles/200-streaming-service-issues.md)