Monolith by Monoprice USB DAC
Product # 29512
UPC # 889028070192
$79.99
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Can I use this headphone DAC amp with my iPhone ?
A shopper
on Nov 4, 2022
BEST ANSWER: Yes you can. Will need a USB to Lightning adaptor. Buy the APPLE adaptor as many third party (ie cheaper) ones will not maintain a consistent connection. With the Apple Lightning to USB adaptor this DAC works perfectly, and the sound is AMAZING!
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- BOB F on Nov 10, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 31, 2022
BEST ANSWER: Yes you can. Will need a USB to Lightning adaptor. Buy the APPLE adaptor as many third party (ie cheaper) ones will not maintain a consistent connection. With the Apple Lightning to USB adaptor this DAC works perfectly, and the sound is AMAZING!
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- BOB F on Nov 10, 2022
- Purchased on Aug 31, 2022
Yes you can but you need to also buy an adapter which the DAC amp connects to via usb and then the adapter plugs into the iPhone. You cannot plug the DAC amp directly into the iPhone.
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- Mark S on Nov 4, 2022
- Purchased on Nov 27, 2020
You absolutely can with a Lightning to USB Female adapter, which I believe Apple sells as the Lightning to USB Camera Adapter, which will also give you passthrough charging.
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- Christopher P on Nov 4, 2022
- Purchased on May 15, 2022
Not directly. It is made to plug into a computer's usb port. However, there might be adapters available which would allow it to be plugged into a smartphone
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- Gordon S on Nov 4, 2022
- Purchased on Jan 10, 2022
I do but with an adapter to connect to the Iphone. It works well and improves the music quality.
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- Steve P on Nov 8, 2022
- Purchased on Feb 27, 2022
I have an android phone, but a USB female to lightning adapter should work with your iPhone.
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- Bill R on Nov 5, 2022
- Purchased on Feb 15, 2022
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Would this be an upgrade to the Dragonfly Black 1.2?
A shopper
on Mar 3, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, it is a definitive upgrade to the Dragonfly Black (either the 1.2 or 1.5 version). I had purchased the 1.5 with the jitterbug plugin about a year ago but decided to try the Monolith USB DAC. Mainly because the Monolith uses the ESS 9018 chip and the 1.5 uses the ESS 9010 chip. I have found the noise floor to be lower and instrument/vocal placement and detail on the soundstage is noticeably improved. It also has no problem driving any of the 3 sets of phones that I use with it. ( Monolith 1060 / Sennheiser HD 598 / Sony MDR-SA3000).
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- Paul K on Mar 4, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 26, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes, it is a definitive upgrade to the Dragonfly Black (either the 1.2 or 1.5 version). I had purchased the 1.5 with the jitterbug plugin about a year ago but decided to try the Monolith USB DAC. Mainly because the Monolith uses the ESS 9018 chip and the 1.5 uses the ESS 9010 chip. I have found the noise floor to be lower and instrument/vocal placement and detail on the soundstage is noticeably improved. It also has no problem driving any of the 3 sets of phones that I use with it. ( Monolith 1060 / Sennheiser HD 598 / Sony MDR-SA3000).
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- Paul K on Mar 4, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 26, 2018
This DAC has the same chip as the dragonfly red which according to audioquest is an upgrade in quality over the black. Though I have not compared them side to side I would say yes based on the chip. I’m very happy with mine.
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- Justin H on Mar 3, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 30, 2018
While not necessarily an upgrade, the Monolith uses a newer version of the Sabre DAC chip.
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- Jeffrey K on Mar 3, 2019
- Purchased on Sep 13, 2018
Guts wise, it is. Since then, I've bought an N3 and a X53gen and haven't looked back...
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- Donald C on Mar 4, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
Absolutely. It may even be better than the red due to the newer Sabre chip.
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- Markus M on Mar 3, 2019
- Purchased on Jun 11, 2018
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Does this dac work with a Amazon Fire HD 8?
A shopper
on Mar 11, 2021
It does work with my Amazon HD 10. You will need cable to convert from USB-A to USB-C for the latest Amazon tablet.
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- Leonid D on Dec 15, 2021
Have not tried but good ideal nornal firestick does nor have usb but you can get a mini usb to multi usb hub may workk
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- John B on Mar 11, 2021
- Purchased on Apr 22, 2020
No, it's not meant to work with tablets unless they have a USB port and it would draw too much power.
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- William D on Mar 11, 2021
- Purchased on May 1, 2020
No I do not think this would be possible because there is nowhere to plug the usb into on the Fire.
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- Reid F on Mar 11, 2021
- Purchased on May 1, 2020
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How do I dac from my iPhone 12?
A shopper
on May 20, 2021
BEST ANSWER: You need a lightning camera adapter. Many available, some even MFI certified. I recommend getting one that also has a lightning input so you can charge the phone at the same time otherwise it can drain your battery. Plenty available on Amazon and possibly Monoprice, as well as Target and WallMart. Apple makes one too of course but others tend to be cheaper.
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- Eddie on May 20, 2021
- Purchased on Dec 18, 2020
BEST ANSWER: You need a lightning camera adapter. Many available, some even MFI certified. I recommend getting one that also has a lightning input so you can charge the phone at the same time otherwise it can drain your battery. Plenty available on Amazon and possibly Monoprice, as well as Target and WallMart. Apple makes one too of course but others tend to be cheaper.
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- Eddie on May 20, 2021
- Purchased on Dec 18, 2020
You need a lightning connector to USB Female - this is known as an OTG or On The Go connector.. You can then plug the Monolith Dac directly in to that.
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- A R M on May 20, 2021
- Purchased on Jun 26, 2020
Use the Apple Lightning Camera Adapter
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- Peter R on May 24, 2021
- Purchased on Jul 6, 2020
lightning to usb female adapter
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- Durren S on May 20, 2021
- Purchased on Oct 13, 2020
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Will this work with an iPhone X?
John D
on Mar 27, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes, it works with iOS 11.3.1 on an iPhone X using either the USB 2 or USB 3 USB camera connection kit adapter. The USB 3 is preferred as it also allows connecting a Lighting cable to charge the phone and power the device. This DAC will work without a charger plugged in, whereas the prior Monoprice USB DAC will only work with a charger (it enumerates as needing 200 mA, this one only 100 mA). I have also verified it works with an iPad Air, and an iPhone 6s.
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- Arthur G on May 28, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 1, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes, it works with iOS 11.3.1 on an iPhone X using either the USB 2 or USB 3 USB camera connection kit adapter. The USB 3 is preferred as it also allows connecting a Lighting cable to charge the phone and power the device. This DAC will work without a charger plugged in, whereas the prior Monoprice USB DAC will only work with a charger (it enumerates as needing 200 mA, this one only 100 mA). I have also verified it works with an iPad Air, and an iPhone 6s.
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- Arthur G on May 28, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 1, 2018
It will work, but you will need the Apple CCK (Camera Connection Kit) which costs ~$35.
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- Timothy T on Apr 11, 2018
Nope! Even with a camera adapter this dac does NOT work with iphone. AVOID.
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- Inaccurate
- Robert S on Mar 27, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 21, 2019
This is USB. Out of the box, the answer would be no.
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- Inaccurate
- Stephen L on Mar 28, 2018
According to the specs on the USB DAC here though, it says:
Windows®, Mac® OS X®, iOS®, Android™
Looks like you could get it to work with iOS if you get the Lightning to USB (or is it USB to Lightning) adapters that are available.
This does not come with that cable.
Sorry for the first answer.
Windows®, Mac® OS X®, iOS®, Android™
Looks like you could get it to work with iOS if you get the Lightning to USB (or is it USB to Lightning) adapters that are available.
This does not come with that cable.
Sorry for the first answer.
Most people use the lightning to camera kit. New dragonfly’s work because their usb power requirement is low, where previous versions would not. I didn’t see usb power info
Based on the information I've read on the specs, there is almost no reason why this wouldn't work the same way folks have gotten the Dragonfly to work. It's extremely lower power consumption and Monoprice lists iOS as supported. Will eat into your iPhone's battery time but so does the Dragonfly.
I don't have the ability to test on iOS but the specs don't give me any concern over saying you can use this with iOS. Hopefully someone from Monoprice gives the definitive answer on what exactly is needed for iOS support.
I don't have the ability to test on iOS but the specs don't give me any concern over saying you can use this with iOS. Hopefully someone from Monoprice gives the definitive answer on what exactly is needed for iOS support.
Using the CCK (Lighting to usb 3 adapter) it should. depends on power draw and the type of file being produced.
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Continuation, if the chrome OS works just like Mac or Windows, were you can adjust the audio input and output sound card settings, then this will work
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- Joseph M on Oct 12, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 17, 2018
I do not know the answer definitively, since I do not have a chrome book. However, this should be able to work.
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- Joseph M on Oct 12, 2018
- Purchased on Jun 17, 2018
Yes, that's exactly why I got it. Keep an eye on the volume though.
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- Donald C on Oct 11, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
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Can this be used as a line out in the same way as the AQ Dragonfly by simply maxing out the source (i.e. computer) volume?
New User U
on Apr 28, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes , i have done many diffrent things with this Monolith and it worked out pefect !! Connected to my laptop , you can plug in the headphone into the Monolith and adjust the volume with the laptop volume adjustement but there is a volume + and - button on the DAC so you can do wathever you want . Made a connection with my (cheap ) cellphone and then to my stereo , sounds fantastic !!! Connected a bluetooth transmitter to the DAC for my wireless headphones and in ears . No problem , you can't find another DAC this quality for this price !!! My neibourg has a Dragonfly Cobalt and ther is no diffrence with the Monolith , exept the price of the Dragonfly is about 300 dollar.
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- philip v on Apr 30, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 19, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes , i have done many diffrent things with this Monolith and it worked out pefect !! Connected to my laptop , you can plug in the headphone into the Monolith and adjust the volume with the laptop volume adjustement but there is a volume + and - button on the DAC so you can do wathever you want . Made a connection with my (cheap ) cellphone and then to my stereo , sounds fantastic !!! Connected a bluetooth transmitter to the DAC for my wireless headphones and in ears . No problem , you can't find another DAC this quality for this price !!! My neibourg has a Dragonfly Cobalt and ther is no diffrence with the Monolith , exept the price of the Dragonfly is about 300 dollar.
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- philip v on Apr 30, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 19, 2020
Yes, I have used my Monoprice USB DAC on a laptop computer with the output going to an analog input on an older stereo receiver. I have also used the DAC with my Android cellphone plugged into my car stereo input (requires adaptors.)
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- Keith W on Apr 28, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 27, 2020
Yes, you may have to turn up the volume on the usb dac a few clicks as well
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- New User U on Apr 28, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 15, 2020
Exactly the same as the Dragonfly.
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- Stuart R on Apr 28, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 4, 2020
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what's the output impedance of this thing?
A shopper
on Feb 27, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I mis-converted from the average voltage.
the true number is 54 mV rms @ 16 ohms, sorry for the error.
the true number is 54 mV rms @ 16 ohms, sorry for the error.
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- New User U on Apr 16, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I mis-converted from the average voltage.
the true number is 54 mV rms @ 16 ohms, sorry for the error.
the true number is 54 mV rms @ 16 ohms, sorry for the error.
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- New User U on Apr 16, 2018
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will this work with linux?
A shopper
on Apr 11, 2018
It's working for me on Ubuntu 18.04.1 LTS -straight out of the box, not manual drivers needed.
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- Joshua W on Dec 15, 2018
I'm using it with Ubuntu 20, and it worked out of the box. I encountered a problem (maybe just mine alone) that the driver hard blocked the Wifi on my computer; I merely went to the BIOS screen and Enabled Wifi and that fixed the problem.
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- James C W on May 9, 2020
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will this work on a chrome book??
joel w p
on Jan 6, 2019
BEST ANSWER: I believe so since my Google Nexus 7 has Android 6.0.1 which is pretty ancient and it support USB OTG so Chrome book should have no problem to work with the DAC. There is a free app you can download to test your device -- USB OTG Checker. If it says your device supports USB OTG, you are good to use the DAC.
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- Steve C on Jan 6, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I believe so since my Google Nexus 7 has Android 6.0.1 which is pretty ancient and it support USB OTG so Chrome book should have no problem to work with the DAC. There is a free app you can download to test your device -- USB OTG Checker. If it says your device supports USB OTG, you are good to use the DAC.
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- Steve C on Jan 6, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2018
That is EXACTLY how I used it (on pay spotify) until I bought a DAP. Be very careful with the volume on this DAC
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- Donald C on Jan 7, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
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Hi I need install My Monoprice Monolith USB DAC , but don't have Drver for Microsoft Windows 8? , please Help Thanks
Viconf E
on Apr 7, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Need the ASIO driver for the SA9227 USB controller. You can get it on the hifime website.
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- Nadia C on Apr 7, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Need the ASIO driver for the SA9227 USB controller. You can get it on the hifime website.
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- Nadia C on Apr 7, 2019
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2018
Sorry can’t help you, I connected my USB DAC to my iPhone X and used it to my truck audio.
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- Rudy O on Apr 7, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 28, 2018
plug and play for my Chromebook, windows free for YEARS, sorry bro
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- Donald C on Apr 7, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
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Can this be used between my Samsung S9 and Marantz as for streaming?
Richard B
on Feb 28, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Would it be USB C from phone to USB A into the DAC and then 3.5 male out from the DAC to my Marantz?
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- Richard B on Feb 29, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Would it be USB C from phone to USB A into the DAC and then 3.5 male out from the DAC to my Marantz?
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- Richard B on Feb 29, 2020
Yes, but you'll need a USB C male to USB A female adapter to connect to your phone.
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- Bill F on Feb 28, 2020
- Purchased on Jan 7, 2020
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i just bought this and like the sound much better with my chromebook.
how can i use this with my iphone? my iphone has a headphone jack and lightning input, but no usb A.
i have a couple of monoprice headphones, one just has a headphone connection but the other has bluetooth.
how can i use this with my iphone? my iphone has a headphone jack and lightning input, but no usb A.
i have a couple of monoprice headphones, one just has a headphone connection but the other has bluetooth.
luis c
on Mar 26, 2020
BEST ANSWER: You would need a lightning to USB adapter.
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- New User U Staff on Apr 7, 2020
BEST ANSWER: You would need a lightning to USB adapter.
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- New User U Staff on Apr 7, 2020
You would need a lightning OTG adapter. I believe Apple makes them.
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- Mark W on Mar 27, 2020
- Purchased on Mar 11, 2020
You need to get a lightning to usb a adapter.
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- Michael O on Mar 27, 2020
- Purchased on Mar 10, 2020
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When using this device as a line out for an external amplifier, do you turn the volume on the device all of the way up?
Daniel C
on Feb 12, 2021
BEST ANSWER: When using it with a set of Klipsch powered speakers, I heard a considerable amount of distortion when I turned it up too high. YMMV, but you may need to use the controls on the side of the unit to avoid distortion.
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- CJ C on Feb 12, 2021
- Purchased on Apr 9, 2020
BEST ANSWER: When using it with a set of Klipsch powered speakers, I heard a considerable amount of distortion when I turned it up too high. YMMV, but you may need to use the controls on the side of the unit to avoid distortion.
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- CJ C on Feb 12, 2021
- Purchased on Apr 9, 2020
Yes , to my amp i put it on max . With my headphones i adjust the volume with the controls on the Monolith and my laptop .
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- philip v on Feb 13, 2021
- Purchased on Feb 19, 2020
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Is it true universal plug and play, or must you have drivers? I ask, because it says it works with Android, and I don't recall ever seeing an add-on device trigger or require any driver download on any Android device.
AARON O
on May 21, 2021
BEST ANSWER: i'm using this under win10, Samsung S10+ phone and Lenovo chromebook, none of these require to download
and install downloaded driver.
and install downloaded driver.
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- Inaccurate
- SHAOCHEN W on May 21, 2021
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2021
BEST ANSWER: i'm using this under win10, Samsung S10+ phone and Lenovo chromebook, none of these require to download
and install downloaded driver.
and install downloaded driver.
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- Inaccurate
- SHAOCHEN W on May 21, 2021
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2021
I used it on several devices and required no setup or drivers.
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- ARTHUR H on May 21, 2021
- Purchased on Apr 21, 2021
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Can this drive 300 ohm headphones?
A shopper
on Jul 28, 2021
Yes they can! I am driving a pair of Sennheiser 6XX with no trouble at all.
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- Glenn H on Jul 29, 2021
- Purchased on Jan 20, 2021
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How can I connect to my android devices?
Steve F
on Jan 19, 2018
BEST ANSWER: You need to get an adapter from your phone (USB C, USB Micro, whatever it is) to USB A Female.
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- Justin B on Mar 22, 2018
BEST ANSWER: You need to get an adapter from your phone (USB C, USB Micro, whatever it is) to USB A Female.
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- Justin B on Mar 22, 2018
Check out the Dragon Tail by AudioQuest, that's how I'll use the DAC at the gym with my new IEMs
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- Donald C on Apr 15, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
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How does this compare to the Dragonfly Red usb dac?
A C
on Feb 19, 2018
BEST ANSWER: This also assumes you buy into MQA being something you actually need. If you do losless FLAC Hi Resolution audio, MQA is unnecessary. If you want to stream Tidal in hi-res, well you likely want MQA.
The other difference is this uses the ES9018K2M. The Red uses the older (but pretty close spec wise) ES9010 on the higher end model. The specs for the ES9018k2M are "better" but not sure anyone can hear the difference. So if you own a Red, may not be worth upgrading.
The Sabre DAC, ES9018K2M, in this ( is hands down the nicest sounding, smoothest resolving DAC I've had the opportunity to use. They use the dual Sabre in the Onkyo DP-1XA and it's fantastic. Unless Monoprice screwed something up (highly unlikely)
The other difference is this uses the ES9018K2M. The Red uses the older (but pretty close spec wise) ES9010 on the higher end model. The specs for the ES9018k2M are "better" but not sure anyone can hear the difference. So if you own a Red, may not be worth upgrading.
The Sabre DAC, ES9018K2M, in this ( is hands down the nicest sounding, smoothest resolving DAC I've had the opportunity to use. They use the dual Sabre in the Onkyo DP-1XA and it's fantastic. Unless Monoprice screwed something up (highly unlikely)
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen L on Mar 28, 2018
BEST ANSWER: This also assumes you buy into MQA being something you actually need. If you do losless FLAC Hi Resolution audio, MQA is unnecessary. If you want to stream Tidal in hi-res, well you likely want MQA.
The other difference is this uses the ES9018K2M. The Red uses the older (but pretty close spec wise) ES9010 on the higher end model. The specs for the ES9018k2M are "better" but not sure anyone can hear the difference. So if you own a Red, may not be worth upgrading.
The Sabre DAC, ES9018K2M, in this ( is hands down the nicest sounding, smoothest resolving DAC I've had the opportunity to use. They use the dual Sabre in the Onkyo DP-1XA and it's fantastic. Unless Monoprice screwed something up (highly unlikely)
The other difference is this uses the ES9018K2M. The Red uses the older (but pretty close spec wise) ES9010 on the higher end model. The specs for the ES9018k2M are "better" but not sure anyone can hear the difference. So if you own a Red, may not be worth upgrading.
The Sabre DAC, ES9018K2M, in this ( is hands down the nicest sounding, smoothest resolving DAC I've had the opportunity to use. They use the dual Sabre in the Onkyo DP-1XA and it's fantastic. Unless Monoprice screwed something up (highly unlikely)
- Reply
- Inaccurate
- Stephen L on Mar 28, 2018
From what I can tell, it does not have MQA decoding capabilities, so the dragonfly red is superior.
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- Inaccurate
- Justin B on Mar 17, 2018
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What is the power consumption like when paired with a smartphone?
A shopper
on Mar 27, 2018
BEST ANSWER: This is difficult to answer because there are many factors to consider.
First, if you are using Hi Res lossless FLAC that use Level 6 "compression" for a 16/44.1 KHz file (CD rip basically), battery life will be impacted but not as badly as it would be with a 24/192 KHz using "compression" level 6.
Second, if you are using compression level 8, battery life will definitely be worse by probably 10% or more.
Third, if you are using streaming services you'll be eating battery there anyway (which you would do regardless, obviously) but they should sound "better" than what you have in your phone.
Fourth, remember that because of how this will connect, you can't just plug in a power pack/portable battery pack anymore.
And if you own an LG V30 or V30+ buying this as a DAC would be kind of a waste as the DAC in this is only marginally better than what the V30/30+ uses already. That is the only smartphone I'm aware of that uses a more advanced (aka not the Snapdragon or equivalent) DAC.
First, if you are using Hi Res lossless FLAC that use Level 6 "compression" for a 16/44.1 KHz file (CD rip basically), battery life will be impacted but not as badly as it would be with a 24/192 KHz using "compression" level 6.
Second, if you are using compression level 8, battery life will definitely be worse by probably 10% or more.
Third, if you are using streaming services you'll be eating battery there anyway (which you would do regardless, obviously) but they should sound "better" than what you have in your phone.
Fourth, remember that because of how this will connect, you can't just plug in a power pack/portable battery pack anymore.
And if you own an LG V30 or V30+ buying this as a DAC would be kind of a waste as the DAC in this is only marginally better than what the V30/30+ uses already. That is the only smartphone I'm aware of that uses a more advanced (aka not the Snapdragon or equivalent) DAC.
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- Inaccurate
- Stephen L on Mar 28, 2018
The MP29512 enumerates as requiring 100 mA. That means it consumes 100 mA or less from USB. While different sample rates may make a difference, and definitely output power/volume and headphone impedance will make a difference as well. Overall it should be less the 100 mA.
As for the previous comment about high resolution and compression levels - some of that is meaningless.
The FLAC "compression level" as well as FLAC or any other codec is processed in the phone, not the DAC. The DAC receives PCM (or DSD) samples, not compressed audio. Sample rate may make a difference - but - at least on the iPhone I don't believe the phone supports anything other than 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. Can anyone else confirm support for anything else? Unlike on the Mac where sample rates may be controlled, there is no such capability in the iPhone, and as stated above I believe it only supports 44.1 or 48 kHz.
As for the previous comment about high resolution and compression levels - some of that is meaningless.
The FLAC "compression level" as well as FLAC or any other codec is processed in the phone, not the DAC. The DAC receives PCM (or DSD) samples, not compressed audio. Sample rate may make a difference - but - at least on the iPhone I don't believe the phone supports anything other than 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. Can anyone else confirm support for anything else? Unlike on the Mac where sample rates may be controlled, there is no such capability in the iPhone, and as stated above I believe it only supports 44.1 or 48 kHz.
BEST ANSWER: This is difficult to answer because there are many factors to consider.
First, if you are using Hi Res lossless FLAC that use Level 6 "compression" for a 16/44.1 KHz file (CD rip basically), battery life will be impacted but not as badly as it would be with a 24/192 KHz using "compression" level 6.
Second, if you are using compression level 8, battery life will definitely be worse by probably 10% or more.
Third, if you are using streaming services you'll be eating battery there anyway (which you would do regardless, obviously) but they should sound "better" than what you have in your phone.
Fourth, remember that because of how this will connect, you can't just plug in a power pack/portable battery pack anymore.
And if you own an LG V30 or V30+ buying this as a DAC would be kind of a waste as the DAC in this is only marginally better than what the V30/30+ uses already. That is the only smartphone I'm aware of that uses a more advanced (aka not the Snapdragon or equivalent) DAC.
First, if you are using Hi Res lossless FLAC that use Level 6 "compression" for a 16/44.1 KHz file (CD rip basically), battery life will be impacted but not as badly as it would be with a 24/192 KHz using "compression" level 6.
Second, if you are using compression level 8, battery life will definitely be worse by probably 10% or more.
Third, if you are using streaming services you'll be eating battery there anyway (which you would do regardless, obviously) but they should sound "better" than what you have in your phone.
Fourth, remember that because of how this will connect, you can't just plug in a power pack/portable battery pack anymore.
And if you own an LG V30 or V30+ buying this as a DAC would be kind of a waste as the DAC in this is only marginally better than what the V30/30+ uses already. That is the only smartphone I'm aware of that uses a more advanced (aka not the Snapdragon or equivalent) DAC.
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- Stephen L on Mar 28, 2018
The MP29512 enumerates as requiring 100 mA. That means it consumes 100 mA or less from USB. While different sample rates may make a difference, and definitely output power/volume and headphone impedance will make a difference as well. Overall it should be less the 100 mA.
As for the previous comment about high resolution and compression levels - some of that is meaningless.
The FLAC "compression level" as well as FLAC or any other codec is processed in the phone, not the DAC. The DAC receives PCM (or DSD) samples, not compressed audio. Sample rate may make a difference - but - at least on the iPhone I don't believe the phone supports anything other than 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. Can anyone else confirm support for anything else? Unlike on the Mac where sample rates may be controlled, there is no such capability in the iPhone, and as stated above I believe it only supports 44.1 or 48 kHz.
As for the previous comment about high resolution and compression levels - some of that is meaningless.
The FLAC "compression level" as well as FLAC or any other codec is processed in the phone, not the DAC. The DAC receives PCM (or DSD) samples, not compressed audio. Sample rate may make a difference - but - at least on the iPhone I don't believe the phone supports anything other than 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. Can anyone else confirm support for anything else? Unlike on the Mac where sample rates may be controlled, there is no such capability in the iPhone, and as stated above I believe it only supports 44.1 or 48 kHz.
It drains my cell (Pixel 2 XL) in about 1.5 hours.
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- Steve C on Aug 19, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 23, 2018
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With the dragonfly red DAC, my iPhone X experiences sound cutting in and out. Is this DAC compatible with the iPhone X?
A shopper
on Mar 27, 2018
I’ve been using this a while with the iPhone X. No issues.
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- Arnold C on May 2, 2019
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Does this USB DAC require drivers for higher than 24/96 and DSD with Windows 10?
Joseph E
on Mar 28, 2018
BEST ANSWER: No driver installation is required. It is plug-and-play and when you open the Sound Control Panel in Windows 10, in the Advanced tab, you can set the sound setting at up to 32/384 WITHOUT DRIVER INSTALLATION.
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- New User U on Feb 14, 2021
- Purchased on Apr 30, 2020
BEST ANSWER: No driver installation is required. It is plug-and-play and when you open the Sound Control Panel in Windows 10, in the Advanced tab, you can set the sound setting at up to 32/384 WITHOUT DRIVER INSTALLATION.
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- New User U on Feb 14, 2021
- Purchased on Apr 30, 2020
It should require driver installation. The 24/96 is the highest USB audio support currently enjoyed at the OS level for Windows 10.
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- Stephen L on Mar 28, 2018
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Does this work with iOS?
A shopper
on Apr 8, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes, it should. Apple supports external DACs/Amps.
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- Timothy T on Apr 11, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes, it should. Apple supports external DACs/Amps.
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- Timothy T on Apr 11, 2018
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may one also adjust the volume from the computer or must one use the volume buttons on the dac to adjust volume?
William O
on Apr 11, 2018
The volume control in Windows is iffy, and only works with PCM sound. Windows cannot control DSD playback volume.
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- Nadia C on Sep 17, 2018
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2018
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Will this keep its volume setting if unplugged?
Brian J
on Apr 27, 2018
BEST ANSWER: That is hard to say. It was surprisingly loud when I first plugged my headphones in.. Every review I've seen says to turn down source first and then balance the two, maximizing source first. I wouldn't expect set volumes on something that's hot-swappable between my chromebook and my android. I'm still waiting for a replacement of the defective one that I was sent. More as it develops...
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- Donald C on Apr 27, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
Monolith by Monoprice USB DAC
"turn down source first and then balance the two" I would only apply to analog stages, or am I missing your meaning?
You're right, just scared myself a couple times, then went with the Fiio Q 1 MK2
In Windows 10, at least, downloading and installing the Savitech SA9227 driver will keep your volume setting.
BEST ANSWER: That is hard to say. It was surprisingly loud when I first plugged my headphones in.. Every review I've seen says to turn down source first and then balance the two, maximizing source first. I wouldn't expect set volumes on something that's hot-swappable between my chromebook and my android. I'm still waiting for a replacement of the defective one that I was sent. More as it develops...
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- Donald C on Apr 27, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
Monolith by Monoprice USB DAC
"turn down source first and then balance the two" I would only apply to analog stages, or am I missing your meaning?
You're right, just scared myself a couple times, then went with the Fiio Q 1 MK2
In Windows 10, at least, downloading and installing the Savitech SA9227 driver will keep your volume setting.
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Will I benefit from plugging in some powered desktop speakers? (Bose companion 20)
A shopper
on Sep 3, 2018
BEST ANSWER: The DAC circuitry alone guarantees deeper detail and improved spatial recognition,
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- Tom D on Sep 5, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 5, 2018
BEST ANSWER: The DAC circuitry alone guarantees deeper detail and improved spatial recognition,
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- Tom D on Sep 5, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 5, 2018
not sure, I bought it for headphones....
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- Donald C on Sep 3, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
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Will it works with Google Nexus 7 tablet (OTG capable) at Android 6.0.1 level?
Steve C
on Sep 11, 2018
BEST ANSWER: If your device supports USB audio 2.0, it will play hi-res PCM files up to 24-bit/96-khz just fine.
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- Nadia C on Sep 17, 2018
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2018
BEST ANSWER: If your device supports USB audio 2.0, it will play hi-res PCM files up to 24-bit/96-khz just fine.
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- Nadia C on Sep 17, 2018
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2018
Based on my experience with my phones, one running Android 10 and the other 8.1, I'd say no. I don't think the Monolith is Android compatible.
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- Carl E on May 14, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 28, 2020
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Could you plug a Bluetooth transmitter into it and listen through wireless Bluetooth headphones?
Marc H
on Sep 25, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I suppose you could, but I don't know why you would want to do that. Bluetooth would obliterate any extra detail the DAC would resolve.
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- New User U Staff on Sep 25, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I suppose you could, but I don't know why you would want to do that. Bluetooth would obliterate any extra detail the DAC would resolve.
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- New User U Staff on Sep 25, 2018
There wouldn't be any point in doing this because you'd be connecting the BT transmitter to the analogue end which would redigitize the signal and then redecode it at the BT receiving end. You'd basically lose the benefit of the USB dac.
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- A C on Dec 19, 2018
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Can be use with a Samsung 7edged or need OTC cable?
A shopper
on Nov 21, 2018
BEST ANSWER: It uses the USB 2.0 audio standard, so it will work with your phone's USB port. You will need a type A adapter. I don't know if your phone supports native DSD playback over USB, but PCM playback will work.
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- Nadia C on Nov 21, 2018
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2018
BEST ANSWER: It uses the USB 2.0 audio standard, so it will work with your phone's USB port. You will need a type A adapter. I don't know if your phone supports native DSD playback over USB, but PCM playback will work.
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- Nadia C on Nov 21, 2018
- Purchased on Jul 18, 2018
You need an otc cable and a right angle 3.5mm for your laptop to keep it tidy: this includes no accessories.
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- Donald C on Nov 22, 2018
- Purchased on Apr 13, 2018
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Are there any plans to develop Linux support? I am an Ubuntu user, and this is my only hangup with this product.
Richard A
on Nov 24, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Thank you for your question.
We would not have any plans to add Linux support for this item.
We would not have any plans to add Linux support for this item.
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- Tyler C Staff on Aug 8, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Thank you for your question.
We would not have any plans to add Linux support for this item.
We would not have any plans to add Linux support for this item.
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- Tyler C Staff on Aug 8, 2019
Seems to work just fine on Ubuntu 20.04 (x86_64). Just plug and play.
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- David L on Apr 2, 2021
- Purchased on Mar 29, 2021
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does this have enough power to drive seen HD600?
douglas m
on Mar 17, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This is a DAC / Amp combo. Yes it can power demanding headphones.
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- Derrick R on Jun 1, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 28, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This is a DAC / Amp combo. Yes it can power demanding headphones.
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- Derrick R on Jun 1, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 28, 2020
This is a DAC, not a amp/dac combo. I wouldn't expect the 3.5mm dac output to drive any better then the regular 3.5mm output on the computer. I use a 3.5mm to RCA adapter to connect Geshelli Labs Archel2.5 Pro Amp to drive my headphones.
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- John M on Mar 17, 2020
- Purchased on Feb 21, 2020
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4.4 / 5.0
69 Reviews
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41
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Rated 2 out of 5
Decent sound, unreliable volume
Sound is decent but volume control is quirky and doesn?t work well with my Mac. I have the DAC set to mid-volume but when it?s connected to my Mac I have to hit the volume key on keyboard 3-4 times to increase or decrease volume. When volume does change it makes a dramatic jump from soft to loud or loud to soft. I?m constantly fiddling with the volume control on the DAC, my Mac, and on the software that?s playing the music. Thought this would be an upgrade from my first generation Dragonfly Black but that?s questionable.
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Rated 5 out of 5
Great calue
Works as advertised. Love it!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Great Sound
Makes my iPhone and iPad sound infinitely better!
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Rated 4 out of 5
Great portable DAC
I mainly use this while traveling so I don't have to bring my desktop DAC/AMP with me. I use this with the Lightning to USB Camera adapter so I can listen to lossless music through Apple Music on the go.
Good stuff!
Good stuff!
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Rated 4 out of 5
Great value
Very good ! Amazing for the price !
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Rated 5 out of 5
Bought this to boost my signal to drive higher impedance headphones from my phone. Made a bigger difference than I was expecting sonically. Increased clarity and definition. I?m hooked!
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Rated 5 out of 5
Good Investment
Conveniently, quickly, and relatively inexpensively improved sound quality from my laptop playing music.
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Rated 5 out of 5
GREAT Product!
This a GREAT product to drastically improve your headphone listening experience with lossless audio files
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Rated 5 out of 5
Excellent for Apple Music Hi-Res Lossless!
Bought this to get to the 24bit/192khz of Apple Music Hi-Res Lossless with my desktop speakers (Edifier). This provided an _instant_ difference over whatever the built-in DAC was in my monitor (what I was using previously). Much clearer, deeper, and "spacious".
Notes on setup:
1. Make sure in Apple Music you have Hi-Res Lossless selected in Preferences->Playback.
2. On Macs you need to open the "Audio MIDI Setup" app and set the output rate of this device. This also gives you a convenient way to A/B the output of this device... just switch between 16bit/32khz and 24bit/192khz while playing a Hi-Res Lossless track on Apple Music. I set mine permanently at 24bit/192khz (to match what Apple Music outputs).
Enjoy
Notes on setup:
1. Make sure in Apple Music you have Hi-Res Lossless selected in Preferences->Playback.
2. On Macs you need to open the "Audio MIDI Setup" app and set the output rate of this device. This also gives you a convenient way to A/B the output of this device... just switch between 16bit/32khz and 24bit/192khz while playing a Hi-Res Lossless track on Apple Music. I set mine permanently at 24bit/192khz (to match what Apple Music outputs).
Enjoy
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Rated 4 out of 5
Portable DAC / Headphone Amp
This is a handy headphone amp and DAC that is easily portable to USB 2.0 port on PCs. I have used this on MacBook Air and Pro with no issues. The volume button on the side is a little funky for me. That and the USB 2.0 only makes it lose a star.
The sound quality is pretty good so far. I can't / won't judge the audiophile specs. I mean at least it is not scratchy or easily interrupted by movement.
The sound quality is pretty good so far. I can't / won't judge the audiophile specs. I mean at least it is not scratchy or easily interrupted by movement.
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