AudioQuest DragonFly Black USB DAC

Full Description

2016 Best USB DAC Under £100

"The original DragonFly was a groundbreaking product, which rightly won accolades four years ago. The DragonFly Black continues this commitment to better sound quality on a budget, but in an even more impressive package. Like the caterpillar transforming into a butterfly, Audioquest’s DragonFly line has undergone a similarly remarkable metamorphosis – the outwards appearances may be similar, but this is easily the best DragonFly yet."

DragonFly Black

"Audioquests are capable of imbuing an ordinary phone with performance that keeps them honest. This means that they have to be considered scintillating value. If you are an earphone user in particular, the Black has to be seen as the most cost-effective means of boosting a smartphone there is."

The AudioQuest DragonFly Black USB DAC, often lauded for its exceptional performance, amplifies audio experiences across diverse setups. Its 32-bit ESS Sabre 9010 DAC chip lies at the heart of its prowess, ensuring a nuanced and detailed sonic output. This compact converter extends its compatibility to various devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets, making it an ideal companion for those who value portability without compromising audio quality. Notably, its plug-and-play functionality eliminates the need for additional drivers, simplifying the user experience.

Reviewers from What Hi-Fi? commend the DragonFly Black for its ability to breathe life into music, offering a heightened sense of clarity and dynamics. Despite its diminutive size, this DAC manages to deliver an expansive soundstage, presenting music with depth and precision. Its support for resolutions up to 24-bit/96kHz ensures high-fidelity playback, providing a noticeable improvement in audio quality, particularly for those accustomed to standard onboard sound systems.

Moreover, the DragonFly Black's adaptability extends beyond its compatibility and compact design. It efficiently drives a broad spectrum of headphones, accommodating both sensitive in-ears and power-demanding over-ear models with ease. This flexibility, combined with its capacity to notably enhance audio quality across various devices, cements its status as a top choice for audiophiles seeking a portable yet high-performing DAC solution. Its affordability relative to its performance has made it an accessible upgrade for music enthusiasts aiming to elevate their listening experiences without incurring substantial costs.

Features

• USB stick-sized digital to analogue converter
• Plays all music files: MP3 to high-res
• Compatible with Apple and Windows PCs, as well as iOS and Android mobile devices (requires Apple camera adapter or made for Android/OTG adapter)
• Drives headphones directly
• Fixed output feeds preamp or AV receiver
• Asynchronous transfer ensures digital timing integrity
• Medium output (1.2 volts) drives a wide range of headphones
• 32-bit ESS 9010 DAC with minimum-phase filter
• Analogue volume control

Specifications

General