The Questyle M18i is a versatile portable DAC/amp designed for both mobile and desktop use. This review delves into its performance, features, and usability, comparing it to other popular options in the market. We'll examine its dual functionality – seamlessly connecting to smartphones via Bluetooth and integrating with computers via USB-C – and assess its ease of use, analyzing the intuitive switch for selecting different modes. We'll also explore its audio capabilities, including supported codecs, power output, and sound quality across various impedance levels.This in-depth analysis will cover the M18i's build quality, battery life (a key area of focus), and the inclusion (or lack thereof) of accessories. We'll compare its performance against competitors like the Apple USB-C dongle, Qudelix-5K, and XDuoo XP-2, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in sound quality, features, and ergonomics. Finally, we'll evaluate its microphone performance for calls and gaming, concluding with an overall assessment of whether the Questyle M18i justifies its price and position in the competitive portable audio market.
Pros And Cons
- Convenience for mobile and desktop use (Bluetooth/USB DAC)
- Supports various codecs (AAC, SBC, APTX, LDAC)
- Two outputs (3.5mm TRS and 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced)
- High power output in balanced mode (28mW @ 300 ohms)
- Good sound quality with detailed and smooth treble
- Excellent noise floor (no audible hiss)
- Instant Bluetooth pairing and stable wireless performance
- Short battery life (2-3 hours)
- Only comes with one short USB-C to C cable and a USB-A to C adapter (no pouch or carrying case)
- Power draw from phone in USB DAC mode
- 3.5mm and 2.5mm balanced outputs
- Built-in clip
- Excellent build quality
- Extensive customization options via app (parametric EQ, left/right EQ separately)
- Supports UAC1 for PlayStation
- TRRS support for microphone input
- Good sound quality
- Poor ergonomics
- Requires adapters for balanced connections, increasing bulk
- Traditional 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs
- Dual USB (one for power, one for DAC)
- Bluetooth and microphone support
- High power output
- Channel imbalance at high gain and high volume due to potentiometer
- Treble can sound grainy and sharp with certain IEMs
- Occasional dropouts
- Punches above its weight for the price
- Excellent treble delivery
- Zero features
- Limited compatibility
- Underpowered, especially in Europe
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Convenience and Versatility
The Questyle M18i boasts impressive versatility. It functions as a Bluetooth DAC/amp for mobile use, seamlessly connecting to smartphones and other portable devices. Additionally, its USB-C input allows for easy integration with desktops and laptops, expanding its usability beyond mobile scenarios. This dual functionality makes it a convenient choice for users needing a portable solution for both on-the-go and desktop setups.
The M18i's design prioritizes ease of use. A simple switch allows for quick selection between Bluetooth, PC, and mobile modes. The single USB-C port handles both data and power, simplifying the connection process. While powered by the device you connect it to (phone, computer), using an external power source is also possible. This flexibility is a major asset.
However, relying on the connected device’s power for USB DAC mode will drain battery life. This might influence whether the M18i is the right choice for someone who prioritizes maximum battery life during portable usage.
Codec Support and Connectivity
The Questyle M18i supports a wide array of audio codecs, ensuring compatibility with various devices. These codecs include AAC, SBC, aptX, and LDAC, providing high-quality wireless audio across different platforms. This ensures a superior listening experience regardless of your chosen device. The comprehensive support ensures compatibility with most modern devices.
Beyond Bluetooth, the device offers wired connectivity via its USB-C input. In PC mode, this connection handles both data and power. For mobile use, it utilizes the same USB-C port but draws no power from the device, extending your phone or tablet's battery life. The flexibility of these options is a significant advantage.
Output Power and Performance
The Questyle M18i delivers a respectable power output. Questyle specifies 28mW at 300 ohms in balanced mode using a 4.4mm Pentaconn connector. However, output power varies with impedance, providing more power at lower impedances like those commonly found in in-ear monitors (IEMs) and headphones. This makes it suitable for a range of audio devices.
Measurements using a custom-built headphone dummy load and a reference DAC (RM24 Pro) reveal varying power outputs across different impedance levels (16, 32, 150, and 300 ohms), both in balanced and single-ended modes. The results indicate sufficient power for most IEMs and headphones, though high-impedance headphones might require a more powerful amp. High-power headphones may need a more substantial amplifier to achieve optimal volume.
Battery Life and Build Quality
While the Questyle M18i’s build quality is excellent, battery life is a notable limitation. The advertised several hours of battery life translates to only 2-3 hours of actual use in testing. This is shorter than many competing devices and a key consideration for potential buyers. This shorter battery life is a significant drawback compared to competitors.
The M18i's chassis is well-built with two audio outputs: a standard 3.5mm TRS jack and a 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced output. However, the device lacks accessories such as a carrying case or pouch, which is a bit disappointing given its price point. These omissions may affect the overall user experience during portable use.
Comparisons with Other DAC/Amps
The Questyle M18i's performance is compared against several other DAC/amps, including the Apple USB-C dongle, the Qudelix-5K, and the XDuoo XP-2. The Apple dongle offers good sound but lacks features and power. The Qudelix-5K boasts many features but suffers from less-than-ideal ergonomics. The XDuoo XP-2 provides impressive power but potentially suffers from channel imbalance at high volumes.
Sound quality comparisons highlight the M18i's smoother treble compared to the XDuoo XP-2, making it more enjoyable with sensitive IEMs. The Qudelix-5K also performed well, though the M18i's overall ease of use sets it apart from the Qudelix-5K. The M18i delivers a better balance of sound quality, usability and features.
Microphone Performance and Gaming Use
The Questyle M18i includes an Infineon microphone which provides surprisingly good call quality, even with background noise. Noise reduction capabilities adapt over time, improving clarity in noisy environments. While lacking a clip, this feature makes it suitable for calls even in noisy environments.
The M18i also performs well in gaming applications, working effectively with PCs. It does, however, bypass Windows volume controls, requiring direct volume adjustments on the device itself. Despite this, the microphone features are suitable for both casual and professional use.
Conclusion: Is the Questyle M18i Worth It?
The Questyle M18i is a well-built, versatile DAC/amp that offers excellent sound quality and ease of use. Its strengths lie in its balanced sound profile, ease of use and the quality of its microphone. The balanced and smooth sound profile makes this a highly portable solution.
However, the short battery life and potential power limitations for high-impedance headphones are significant drawbacks. The lack of included accessories is also disappointing. Whether it’s worth the price depends on individual priorities and budget.
Overall, the Questyle M18i stands out as a strong competitor among portable DAC/amps. While not perfect in every respect, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses for many users, making it a viable option for those seeking a high-quality, easy-to-use, and portable audio solution.