This review compares five distinct USB-C audio dongles: the Qudelix T71, Cayin RU7, Audirect Atom One, Luxury & Precision W4, and iFi Go bar Ultra. Each device offers a unique blend of features, sound signatures, and price points, catering to diverse user needs and preferences. From budget-friendly options boasting impressive functionality to high-end models prioritizing exceptional audio quality, this comprehensive comparison explores the strengths and weaknesses of each dongle, helping listeners determine which best suits their listening habits and technical requirements.We delve into the intricacies of each device, examining their build quality, user interface, sound characteristics, and unique features. We analyze the pros and cons of surround sound capabilities, one-bit DAC technology, replaceable batteries, magnetic mounting, and various amplification and filtering options. This review aims to provide a clear and informative overview, allowing readers to make an informed decision when choosing a USB-C audio dongle for their mobile audio setup.
Pros And Cons
- Good sound quality
- Magnetic
- Replaceable 18650 battery
- Long battery life (6 hours)
- Includes a nicely built right-angle cable
- Battery may not last as long as expected.
- Comes in a wooden box
- High-quality build (stainless steel)
- Good sound quality
- XBass and XSpace features
- Multiple digital filters
- Heavy
- Difficult to see LED indicator
- One button to control all functions
- Volume knob hard to turn
- XBass and XSpace features did not always improve sound
- Correct size
- Nice knob
- Good build quality
- Harsh sound
- Worst cable
- Absurdly long strain relief and short cable
- Sound quality found to be a little harsh
- Lightweight
- Good sound quality
- Excellent sound quality
- Sharp edges
- Volume knob skips
- Volume numbers don't correspond to actual volume
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The Qudelix T71: A 7.1 Surround Sound Beast
The Qudelix T71 is the cheapest and arguably the most perplexing dongle in this review. It boasts a massive size and claims 7.1 surround sound capabilities, but its functionality is surprisingly complex. The manual is crucial for understanding the numerous unlabeled buttons and ports.
Its features include four unlabeled buttons, two USBC ports (one's purpose remains a mystery), and various other ports (2.5mm, 3.5mm, 4.4mm) whose functions aren't immediately obvious. A dedicated video delves into the intricacies of this unit's functionality, due to its confusing interface and extensive features.
The charging process is also unique; it has a hybrid mode to conserve phone battery life. It displays detailed battery information including milliamps, charge status, temperature, and charging speed. The interface changes drastically between pages, with the buttons performing different functions depending on the selected page.
The Cayin RU7: A One-Bit DAC with a Unique Approach
The Cayin RU7, the second least expensive, uses a one-bit resistive ladder DAC and features a three-step resistor array for volume control. The volume adjustment produces audible clicks due to the resistor switching mechanism. This unique method affects sound quality and has some noticeable impacts on the overall listening experience.
This unit is a more conventionally sized dongle, albeit slightly heavy. It includes a quality knob and boasts impressive build quality. However, the included cable is a significant drawback, with an excessively long strain relief and an unusually short cable length, leading to awkward handling.
Sound quality is described as “a little harsh,” with some tracks exhibiting excessive detail. The reviewer suggests that the DAC might be slightly trebly, or that the amplifier might be contributing to this harshness. Despite this, the reviewer acknowledges its impressive features.
The Audirect Atom One: Magnetic Mount and Replaceable Battery
The Audirect Atom One, offered in gray, silver, or pink, is notable for its magnetic mounting capabilities and replaceable 18650 battery. The magnetic mount functions as a MagSafe alternative, while the replaceable battery eliminates e-waste concerns. The rubberized material prevents scratching.
This unit functions primarily as a power amp for 3.5mm inputs, offering low, medium, and high gain settings but lacking digital volume control. For USB input, it provides a digital volume control and filter adjustments. The reviewer highlights its exceptionally long battery life compared to other dongles.
Despite the long battery life and magnetic mounting, the user interface for the Audirect Atom One is somewhat basic, with limited controls. The reviewer notes the sound quality is excellent, though, providing a smooth and warm listening experience.
The Luxury & Precision W4: Flagship DAC Performance in a Dongle
The Luxury & Precision W4 dongle, priced at $450, offers a flagship-level DAC experience in a compact form factor. The reviewer compares its sound to a high-end DAP, highlighting its clarity and detail. The volume knob is criticized for its somewhat sharp edges and non-linear volume steps.
This unit features a digital volume control and allows for various EQ settings. The user interface, while functional, lacks some intuitiveness. A notable feature is its two customizable EQs, allowing extensive sound shaping for the connected headphones.
The reviewer emphasizes that the W4's high price reflects the inclusion of top-tier components. Despite some minor interface quirks, it delivers exceptional sound quality, surpassing many other portable solutions.
The iFi Go bar Ultra: Compact Design with Versatile Features
The iFi Go bar Ultra comes in a stylish wooden box, adding to its premium feel. It's a well-built unit with stainless steel casing. The reviewer highlights its compact design and the presence of multiple indicator lights and output options.
Notable features include k2hd coding, four digital filters, and symmetrical twin mono amplification. XBass and XSpace modes are included to enhance bass and soundstage, although their effectiveness is deemed somewhat subtle.
The reviewer finds the sound quality to be decent but not exceptional, comparable to other entry-level iFi products. The volume control, while well-built, is somewhat difficult to adjust precisely due to its stepped nature. The nearly invisible LED indicator light is also a major criticism.
Overall Conclusions and Recommendations
This review covered five distinct dongles, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The Qudelix T71 impressed with its surround sound capabilities, but its complex interface may prove challenging. The Cayin RU7's one-bit DAC provides a unique sound signature, although some users may find it harsh.
The Audirect Atom One stood out for its replaceable battery and magnetic mounting, making it convenient and eco-friendly. The Luxury & Precision W4 delivered exceptional sound quality befitting its high price, while the iFi Go bar Ultra offered a balanced performance but with minor interface issues.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Those seeking surround sound should consider the Qudelix T71, while users prioritizing battery life and magnetic mounting may prefer the Audirect Atom One. For those seeking premium sound quality, the Luxury & Precision W4 or the iFi Go bar Ultra (depending on your preferences) would be highly recommended. The DC Elite shines in pure sound quality and build quality, but loses in portability. The Cayin RU7 provides a unique sonic experience, but may not be for everyone.