#donglemadness

Another amazing Dongle from iBasso!. Full review and comparisons with many dongles.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:23 Build & Configuration
02:31 IMPORTANT! - iBasso UAC Update & Features
03:21 How to use Digital Filters
05:02 Turbo Mode
05:25 Sound Analysis (MAIN)
05:35 Equipment Used to Test DC04Pro
06:54 DC04Pro Sound Signature & Characteristics
09:29 Driving Power
10:08 Synergy Factor
10:40 Volume Management
11:39 Power Efficiency
12:26 DC04Pro Total Score
12:58 Comparisons (MAIN)
14:37 Compared with iBasso DC03Pro
17:27 Compared with xDuoo Link2 BAL
18:01 Compared with Tempotec Sonata E44
18:44 Compared with JCally AP10
19:07 Compared with Moondrop Moonriver2
19:36 Compared with Truthear SHIO & Tanchjim Space
20:20 Compared with the Top dogs
21:00 Wrapping Up
21:04 Microphone Support?
Shot On:
- Canon EOS R6 Mark2
- Canon EF 50mm F1.2 L USM (Primary)
- Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L USM (Secondary)
* Post processed using PowerDirector 365
iBasso UAC App Download:
www.ibasso.com/uploadfiles/do...
Get iBasso from:
ibasso.com/product/dc04pro/
My Tidal Playlist:
tidal.com/browse/playlist/ba3...

[@-Ambos-]

You are doing great work! You are what the KZbin hifi-world needed.

[@donglemadness]

Thanks M. I am honored

[@SkeletonizedTV]

Just wanted to say thanks for the reccomendation on the DC03 Pro! Absolutely loving it so far!

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure 🙏

[@adriendenoye]

I wondered if the DC04 pro is much better? I've just bought the DC03 Pro too

[@SkeletonizedTV]

@@adriendenoye Its more expensive and larger in size, the performance im getting out of the DC03 is great, don't regret my purchase at all so far. :)

[@halwest939]

Thanks a lot for this very comprehensive review ! 👌 I am delighted with this dongle : powerful and strictly neutral (which is very important to me). The UAC app is also quite handy and effective. Tested only in SE 3.5 mm, with Beyerdynamic DT 990 32 ohm. This dongle is pretty affordable compared to others, good job Ibasso !

[@donglemadness]

You are welcome!

[@BarRYK333]

Thanks for the reviews!

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure!

[@ilanspiro1645]

Great review as always Andy... thanks:) Already have the dco3 pro and like it a lot....will give a chance to its big brother for sure.

[@donglemadness]

Hope you enjoy it! and Thanks!

[@ilanspiro1645]

@@donglemadness I'm sure i will ;)

[@tedthomas9809]

I just got this the other day, and I am already in love. This is an amazing piece of gear. It is both a simple device and a multi layered playback device. Very clean and dynamic. Does not add it's own spin, but replays the source as it was recorded. The volume steps are very much appreciated, as some are way too notchy--- volume steps up in large jumps on some. This is a very good dongle.

[@donglemadness]

It is indeed. Have a blast there with your DC04Pro!

[@jdubdoubleu]

What 🎧 do you pair them with?

[@Magnum5160]

Purchased the dc04 pro based on this review. Excellent recommendation, clear improvement over my previous dac amps. Thank you.

[@donglemadness]

Great to hear!

[@norbertoillan2255]

May I know which were those previous dacamps?

[@Magnum5160]

@@norbertoillan2255 audioquest dragonfly 1.5, micca origen g2

[@cadmiumpureland]

I was planning to get the Qudelix 5k but after watching this video and previous one, I think will get the DC04 pro. Being able to fine tuned the volume level is a top priority for me, and also the neutral & organic sound it can produce . Thank u for the review.😊

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure :D

[@doylehargrave233]

Lol I canceled my Qudelix order 15 minutes ago and ordered this one…

[@DJHaworth]

you sold it! Thanks for the great comparisons Andy

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure

[@Dosaan]

Purchased the dc04 pro based on this review , i love you man , you are a life saver , good reviewer

[@donglemadness]

That's awesome. And Thanks!

[@traktorpro10]

Bought this on Prime Day based on your rec, $ well spent, thanks.

[@donglemadness]

Enjoy!

[@marcelpfeiffer6587]

Great review, I've been using IBasso dc05 for the last 18 months. Now I switched to Tanchjim Space and I'm quite happy with sound, power output and build quality.

[@StevenL717]

The space has a big problem for me that the volume level is reset every single time when it’s reconnected to the same device. Is it only me?

[@marcelpfeiffer6587]

@@StevenL717 that is not unusual for a dongle.

[@StevenL717]

@@marcelpfeiffer6587 I have multiple dongles including shio, fc4, dc4pro and I had fiio fa3 as well before but only space got this problem

[@doylehargrave233]

Mine came in today. This paired with my FH7 and Tidal is incredible!!!

[@donglemadness]

Enjoy!

[@ravind-digi-3658]

Andy says it doesn't play MQA. Is there a way to make it work with Tidal masters? I was considering buying it but if it can't do MQA then it's a deal breaker coz I want to get the most out of my Tidal subscription.

[@thephong8284]

Many companys from will follow iBasso's path which is making excellent budget DACs

[@ANOLE_VX]

Thanks to this man, before I was considering getting the Moonriver 2 for more power and headroom for future headphones. Now I think I can save my money by just getting the DC04 PRO ♥️

[@donglemadness]

My pleasure 🙏

[@avonmoremilk1958]

Moonriver 2 is better than ibasso dc04 pro though but ye more expensive.

[@snookerth3823]

I love your review. ❤

[@donglemadness]

Thank you so much!🙏

[@albertoprime]

Hi Andy, thanks to your review I bought the ibasso dc04 pro and I am enjoying it. 🎧

[@donglemadness]

Enjoy it

[@audiofilo-]

amigo se calienta el dc04pro ?

[@EGxSenSei]

Nice one Andy 👍🏻

[@donglemadness]

Thank You!

[@bugxyaltman2]

Great DAC using it mainly on my pc with dt 900 pro X and focal elegia. I could have spent more and got the FiiO k5 Pro but the dc04 pro does the headphones I have justice ❤will just probably save up on the fiio k7 instead and use the dc04 pro on the upcoming iphone 15 since it has type C now

[@wilsonescudero3298]

Muy buena reseña con todas sus comparaciones.

[@wilsonescudero3298]

HOla vi tu revision del shanling UA4, estoy en duda cual me recomiendas entre este y el Ibasso DC04 Pro

[@michaelpastoral3957]

Congratulations bro nice review

[@donglemadness]

Thank You!. My pleasure

[@michaelpastoral3957]

Nice camera too totl level quality video

[@kulwindervirdee2454]

I’ve come to you whilst searching for a dongle to pair with my new MP145. I have a MOJO2 but haven’t got it working without the right cable which I have ordered and waiting for. Nevertheless, I still wanted a smaller dac and I have to say I really enjoy your approach. Sound language is a funny thing and talking about stuff being granular, having decay, sibilants etc is something only we audiophiles would wish to judge. Having said that, I am not a hardened audiophile and wanted someone to give me the options and you have done that so well with so many. I wish I could afford the HIBY or the Ru6/7 but I’ve gone with the dc04pro for now. Thanks for your good work

[@donglemadness]

No worries man, DC04Pro as you would see in my latest video for 2023 finals, still holding strong as the best price to performance winner overall, so you are not cutting yourself short there, it is indeed an amazing dongle for what it does

[@kulwindervirdee2454]

Yes I watched your 2023 finals video and found it very interesting and useful. Wish you a very happy 2024@@donglemadness

[@kulwindervirdee2454]

I forgot to ask whether I need to consider balanced leads for the mp145? What are the benefits and which makes to consider. Thank you

[@donglemadness]

@@kulwindervirdee2454 You mean using 4.4mm Plug option for MP145. If your DAC has 4.4mm BAL and 3.5mm SE like this DC04Pro, then of course you want to use the 4.4mm side, the 3.5mm port of most DAC with both 4.4 and 3.5 usually have the 3.5 side running on 50% of power - this is tuned by design. Being a planar, MP145 scales really well with more power. The 3,5 side is more for highly overly sensitive IEMs

[@estinoazell1016]

fuhhh RU6 lvl of SQ! I would to have to a minitour of FC6 and DC04pro...just to decide which one to get... Im already loving DC03pro but 04pro had me curious...Great in-depth review as always~!

[@donglemadness]

No worries. We can arrange that

[@dhiaoshaish]

you are the most accurate audio reviewer, I have been reading and watching reviews for 10 years, and your reviews are spot on. I'm sad I haven't learned about you till this week.

[@donglemadness]

Thank you kindly. You have a great day ahead there

[@dhiaoshaish]

shouldn't that mean even single ended the 04 pro should have more power at hand with that half amp compared to the 03 pro?

[@donglemadness]

@@dhiaoshaish Not really. Intentionally tuned to churn 2VRMS so it is on equal terms to DC03Pro, power wise

[@lokrj]

I was kinda turned off by the huge price leap from DC03Pro, but seeing it competes with those dongles, sheesh 🥶

[@jjcornelio7741]

Mines taking so long to ship. Can't wait!

[@jalee1910]

Received my DC04 pro yesterday n for juz using it for one day, i already notice a improvement on the soundstage, details and also as u mentioned is indeed neutral. Comparing this with my UA3. N also i notice ur voice in this video sometimes is loud sometimes is soft.

[@donglemadness]

That's awesome. Enjoy your DC04Pro!

[@jalee1910]

@@donglemadness thx for the good reviews, really a great product n also the imaging is superb n i think after run in for a longer period the improvement will be bigger

[@kevindominguez6697]

sick shirt dude

[@donglemadness]

🔱

[@FLawLesSTaStE]

How do you activate the Turbo part or the filter parts if one is gonna mainly use this with HD600 and PC? Good review thanks (:

[@JustAnotherRetard]

same question

[@donglemadness]

The Turbo mode is always activated by default with Filter set to No.1

[@FLawLesSTaStE]

@@donglemadness No way to set it to NOS or 4 without phone app?

[@donglemadness]

I am afraid no, NOS will need iBasso UAC App to activate it

[@nmatheis]

Cool series on dongle DACs! I have several and it's interesting to see someone else's point of view on them. #burzum #dunkleheit

[@paolozafra5499]

Great review as always Andy, I am looking forward to your review of the new Xduoo Link2 Bal Max which has significant improvements from the original Link2 Bal and it outputs a whopping 200mw in single ended! And the price is still the same :) Dongles are just getting better and better everyday. ^_^

[@donglemadness]

That is true, dongle tech is getting more and more advanced with the small real estate that they are limited to. The last 1 year alone have seen significant push for advancement as the competition gets fiercer

[@jjcornelio7741]

200 mw on SE is insane! How much power is its balanced?

[@paolozafra5499]

@@jjcornelio7741 270mw same as the previous version. However, I think they also improved a lot of the other internals.

[@NEMEJEBAT777]

hi! a realy great video

[@donglemadness]

Thank You, :D

[@camotech1314]

Wow it has the same chip set up as the new FiiO KA13, hope you review that one soon too!! 😮😮😮

[@donglemadness]

I hope so too!

[@jorvten360]

I can confirm your findings here, got the Ibasso 4 pro due to your pro3 review. And I must say it’s the best dac dongle in your list here. The DAC has studio quality playback capabilities, I can master and mix any record on the go using this dac. It’s astonishing how analog musical depth it is providing without sounding harsh or digital. The transient response above 5k is smooth which allow you to listen extremely loud with no artifacts or any distortion.

[@donglemadness]

Absolutely!

[@jipex911]

Do you also have a dc03pro?

[@jorvten360]

@@jipex911 i bought straight the dc04 pro as it was available here in Germany. And I’m In need of a 4.4 pentagon balanced, which the dc 4 0ro is offering now,

[@roviccastillo9087]

Hello may I know which headphones/iems you use paired with the DC04 Pro in terms of mixing and mastering?

[@jorvten360]

@@roviccastillo9087 sure, i mostly using the Kato and the Raptgo hook x, the qkc hbb only for lowend punch. I’m using all of them with 3 different tips, azla, spring tips, cp100. All in ballance, only. I’m very sensitive on the high frequencys so these gave me a good start. The s12, 7z timeless are not in use for mobile mixing and mastering tasks. They are pretty harsh and aggressive in the upper mid and highs never use them. I hope it helps :)

[@antisociety8]

I own the dc03pro because of your recomendations, my next purchase is dc04pro because of your review too. 😂

[@antisociety8]

I like the colored, energetic and vivid sound, althought, i want tô try this.

[@donglemadness]

DC04Pro is the version which is uncolored and more neutral. As noted DC03Pro would appear more vibrant and engaging on the fun factor, DC04Pro on the other hand focus on transparency and accuracy, and wider stage too

[@sorooshusa]

Best T-shirt ever. Burzum. True Norwegian black metal!

[@donglemadness]

Hail!

[@phetmoz]

Waiting for you to review the new Link2Bal Max. It has improved measurements and much increased power for its 3.5mm output. (200mW!)

[@donglemadness]

Thanks, I am looking forward for that one too

[@sorcerermax5111]

Just got my DC04 Pro and surprisingly it came with a lightning cable too though it was not mentioned on the product page at the time of purchase Did A/B on few tracks with my DC03 Pro, both are top notch but slight differences are there. Listened to both on single ended only with Final E3000 on Filter 4 using Hiby music exclusive mode. Both seem to have more or less same power on single ended at same volume. DC04 Pro seems to very slightly sound cleaner/clearer. DC03 Pro as Andy said is slightly more energetic, has very slightly more bass and upper mids and soundstage width seems to be slightly wider on DC03 Pro but DC04 Pro seems to be slightly more cohesive sounding. Again these are slight and negligible differences and both are top notch. I just gave my perspective comparatively between both. If you have one over the other, you are not missing much in either one. Both these IBASSO dongles are far better sounding than Hidizs S9 Pro in my personal opinion. If you are going to use single ended only, then save money and get DC03 Pro, no need for DC04 Pro. I am yet to test balanced on DC04 Pro Final E3000 is a warm/dark sounding IEM that never gets into harsh territory so Balanced armature IEMs may show a bigger difference between these two dongles, not sure but just saying. I have KZ AS12 and it was already good sounding with DC03 Pro so should be good with DC04 Pro too. My dongle shopping is over and satisfied, thanks to Andy and his reviews

[@donglemadness]

Thanks for the feedbacks! You have in your hands some of the very best dongles money can buy. Enjoy!

[@baivabjena1438]

Does the dc03 pro support microphone?

[@sorcerermax5111]

@@baivabjena1438 No, most of the dongles don't support except the basic ones like Abigail, Avani etc. Hiby FC4 may support inline controls to change tracks, pause on its single ended connector though I am not 100% sure

[@baivabjena1438]

@@sorcerermax5111 thought so, I need to take calls on a regular basis, still can't leave abigail because of that reason.

[@Thor-tl7oo]

nice info

[@m_yy_m]

Awesome! I'm really interested in the Fosi DS1 review. :) Is that coming out soon? Is the DC04 pro more analogue sounding than the DS1? Thanks

[@donglemadness]

It will be out soon. No, analogue sounding dongles are jn fact a rarity now, DS1 is not one of them

[@m_yy_m]

@@donglemadness 👍

[@Zen.bassoon]

Really nice review Andy! Does this one have UAC1 and UAC2?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks! Good question! I will need to ask iBasso about this

[@Zen.bassoon]

@@donglemadness I actually saw on their website said there are 2 options output modes but I am not sure what that is. Also on your video when you opened the UAC application I don’t see the mode changer. That’s why I am curious. Thank you for your help and please update with us. 😊

[@lamiemolette]

@@Zen.bassoon It's the Eco mode. When Eco mode is OFF, the OPAMPs (additional power amplification stage) are turned on to increase the maximum output current, at the expense of increased power consumption and heat. When Eco mode is ON, it's the opposite: the OPAMPs are turned off, the headphones are then only powered by the CS43131's built-in (smaller) amplifiers, which reduces power consumption and heat at the cost of reduced maximum output current. The additional current provided by the OPAMPs might help get a richer and fuller sound out of the headphones, especially for low-impedance / power-hungry headphones. The Turbo mode is something else: it slightly increases the output _voltage_ (not current) when in high gain, and has no effect with other gain levels. Basically there are 4 gain levels in the following order: low, medium, high with Turbo OFF, high with Turbo ON. This setting shouldn't influence the power consumption nearly as much as the Eco mode. Its goal is to get the absolute maximum voltage (volume) out of the dongle, especially useful with high impedance headphones (300 ohms and up) which can sometimes struggle to get loud enough because they need way more voltage.

[@Maheshutube]

I am running HD660s2 with DCO3 Pro (off M1 mac laptop mainly, and occasionally on android phone as well). I quite love the soundsignature - the fullness and richness of it. and the power is fine once I realised my error and turned on high gain and turbo. But I haven't heard the DC04 pro or Cayin RU7 to see if I am missing anything on the soundscape!

[@donglemadness]

What DC04Pro and RU7 offer would be a bit more of transparency and less coloration, neutral. DC03Pro on the other hand is positively vibrant and energetic, colored. And yes DC04Pro and RU7 offer wider sense of headstage too. Enjoy!

[@Maheshutube]

Ah! Now you tempting me again! Perhaps it's time to try ibasso's Dc04pro (as I don't quite get why RU7 is 2.5 times the price of dco4 if it's similar to dco4). May be I should stick to DC03 and buy another IEM like Kiwi Ears Melody (the planar one at the cost of DC04) or use 50more dollars (than dc04 price) and get Gizaudio's Chopin. BTW, Andy, Did you try the Kiwi Ears QUintet? I read that's got most wow (exxagerated) 3d soundstage in mid-tier IEMs so far. Since you like Tanchjim Zero and its wide soundstage, thought I shall let you know...

[@karantrehan7710]

Excellent Review Andy. This is how you do reviews. So detailed and yet so within reach, unlike other reviews filled with "Audhiophile Jargon" but offering way less insight.

[@donglemadness]

Thanks Karan. I am honored

[@karantrehan7710]

@@donglemadness HI Andy, Just a quick question, i am going to use it primarily with Tin Hifi T3 Plus or Similar IEMs, but mostly with Tin T3 Plus only. Do you think it makes sense to get DC04 Pro instead of DC03 Pro. FYI, i don't have any problem spending extra money on DC04 Pro but will it really be worth it. Also i prefer the more compact design of DC03 Pro. By the way, i listen mostly to Classic Rock, Classic Heavy Metal (Judas Priest, Iron Maiden stuff), Modern Pop, Bollywood (India) music.

[@donglemadness]

@@karantrehan7710 The defacto difference between DC03Pro and DC04Pro is ultimately the tuning. As I mentioned in my DC04Pro video, DC03Pro is a bit colored and DC04Pro is practically neutral unflavored. Both however shared the same DNA of excellent dynamics handling. If you want vibrant and engaging source, DC03Pro does it better, DC04Pro on the other hand will present as it is=

[@karantrehan7710]

@@donglemadness I think I should go with DC03 pro. Because I guess though it's colored but only ever so slightly, in fact somewhere you only mentioned that even DC05 is more colored than DC03 Pro. Also I think a very slight coloring and exaggeration might add a bit of fun to listening. Furthermore, compact form factor of DC03 Pro is a winner for me.

[@donglemadness]

@@karantrehan7710 That's right

[@reaperFOXY13]

Nice review Andy!! I want to ask which dongle do you prefer the most for the bravery ae? Thanks

[@donglemadness]

Bravery AE actually pairs the best with DC04Pro (filter No.5) and Questyle M15

[@reaperFOXY13]

@@donglemadness Thankyou for your quick response! Does the difference in terms of the performance between those 2 are worth the price difference also?

[@Sforzabull]

This is a great review, I've been considering the DC04 Pro. What is your most used dongle under $300?

[@donglemadness]

My most used dongle js the HIBY FC6, which is also the reigning champion of #donglemadness for the last 1 year

[@giallosenzafine9831]

Fantastic review! I got the Sennheiser HD 650 myself. How do you connect these headphones to the 4.4 m exit of the Ibasso Dc04Pro? What cable do you use?

[@donglemadness]

In my case, I cut off the stock cable and solder a new 4.4mm plug. In most cases this is not something you do casually so it is better to look for balanced cable for HD650 in AliExpress or something like that

[@texasbassranger]

Professionally done man. The review and comparisons were detailed and easy to follow with your graphics. I currently have the Razer THX Onyx and am, for the most part; happy with it. However, I have recently invested in a balanced output cable for my headphones and the improvement of the sound is astounding through my IFI Zen DAC II. I didn't even realize that DAC amp dongles were offering a balanced output until I watched your video. While I am more than satisfied with my ThX Onyx, I'm going to pick up the iBasso based on your recommendation. l really prefer to listen via a balanced output, Do you get a commission on items sold in the links you provide? I'll be happy to buy from there if you do. Also, does the app for this dongle actually load your music files to be played from iit? Or will the dongle work when using something like the PulseMusic app?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks. The 4.4mm BAL is fast becoming the norm now with portable DACs even the ultra compact ones. But many of them are just SE Ground with split termination to accommodate for needs top people who only have 4.4mm terminated cables. The bigger dongles however, most of them uses true BAL discrete channel split. If you ask me, I personally don't care if they are BAL or SE, I only care for the end results - and you would notice that my top 2 dongles out of over 140 I have owned and tested, they are full time Single Ended. Being SE does not stop them from being the best out of the best, how they are tuned and implemented matters more, as such CEntrance DACPort HD and HIBY FC6 will be hard to beat when it comes to sheer sound performance. Even my old Ovidius B1 is a hardcore SE, with tons of power at 430mW per channel, practically outclassing many other BAL dongles. Having said that, I would highly recommend DC04Pro or Cayin RU7 or L&P W4 if you insist on going the 4.4mm route. The dongles, they are fundamentally external sound card, and does not do any sort of library storage. So you will still need a source to feed the data to the DAC just like full sized DACs. Hope I am making some sense here. Cheers

[@texasbassranger]

@@donglemadness That made perfect sense, and I am relieved to know that I can use my native source app instead of being tied to the dongle app, Pulse Music app on Android just works great and none of the features are throwaway additions, They all help improve overall listening and file management. Thanks again man. I'm a big fan of your work,

[@donglemadness]

@@texasbassranger If you have local FLAC files, then I would recommend you try the free HIBY Music app on Android. The key to unlock these dongles on Android is in USB Exclusive mode, of which the Android SRC limitations will be totally bypassed and you get 100% power and no resampling by Android audio engine. But Pulse Music may have something similar, if it can offer USB exclusive access or known as Bitperfect on UAPP. Cheers.

[@texasbassranger]

@@donglemadness copy that, I'lll go check, and thanks for the recommendation of Cayin RU7 or L&P W4, Unfortunately those are way above my income at the present but it's good to know what my upgrade options are,

[@donglemadness]

@@texasbassranger DC04Pro should be merciful on the price :D

[@StevenL717]

There are so many competitions in the market now! Are you going to review the new fiio fc5? Also Moondrop is going to release moon river 3, crazy! 😂

[@donglemadness]

True indeed, the competition gets crazier by the day and things gets improved more and more. You mean FiiO KA5? yes I would love to review one, so does MR3

[@skustaclee8899]

Andy, I've just bought Ibasso DC03 Pro because of your review and based on your dongle madness ranking and wow it offers really good technical capabilities and good, rich presentation of note weight and overall tonal balance, which I must say i like it more than my previous Moondrop Dawn (which is too flat, sterile for me). Now I'm curious is it a big leap from DC03 Pro to DC04 Pro in terms of its technicalities?

[@donglemadness]

The tuning for DC04Pro is aligned to DAWN Pro, which means they are flatter neutral and uncolored. If you like DC03Pro tuning, then the similar path would be iBasso DC06Pro or FiiO KA17

[@spencerq7745]

Hi Andy, Have been watching many of you excellent videos on dongle madness. I am a layman as far as the technical speak is concerned but I know the sound I am looking for. I listen to a lot of EDM, would this Ibasso DC 04 be good for that type of music or the Ibasso DC03?

[@donglemadness]

Hey thanks. For EDM or electronic in general, DC03Pro would suit your needs better. Electronic music does not need analog accuracy but will shine better with vibrant dynamics that DC03Pro offer. Like I totally enjoying it with KRAFTWERK, The Prodigy, Fatboy Slim, Depeche Mode, Massive Attack or even Hans Zimmer

[@handywidjaja181]

Hi Andy, I really appreciate your perfect review. Please advise, I should choose Ibasso Dc03 pro or DC 04 pro, my music usually listens to audiophile, jazz and sometimes sports music when I need pressure on a strong bass. I'm using headphone bose qc 35ii, thank you very much🙏

[@donglemadness]

If you want transparent uncolored output, DC04Pro is the one to choose from. If you want a bit of vibrant and exciting dynamics, DC03Pro does it better. A matter of preferences

[@handywidjaja181]

@@donglemadness well noted , success always . 🙏

[@malithwithana3401]

Great review as usual ♥️♥️ What are the scores have you given to the colorfly cda ? How does cd1 compares with dc04 pro and shio?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks! CDA-M1 scored 83 points overall. Compared to DC04Pro sound wise, M1 is flatter sounding with more focus on Hi-Fi element, just lacking that tiny bit of organic touch to the timbre and tonality. SHIO as noted in the comparison is similar to DC04Pro, just that DC04Pro has upper hand with resolution and imaging and overall more refined

[@malithwithana3401]

Thank you so much!! Will always support your channel and content ♥️

[@malithwithana3401]

@@donglemadness I only use iems (preferably thieaudio prestige) otg with my phone (vivox90proplus). For me sound quality is what matters the most. I do have the DC05, which I don't like at all. Even cheaper dongle were better performing to my ears. I was gonna try the cda, but then seeing your dc04pro review I'm having second thoughts. Comparing dc04 vs cda - which have the better staging, separation, details. I want an immersive experience rather than analytical music though ☺️ I wish I could have the scores you have given to the cda, so that I can directly compare rather than disturbing you like this. Really sorry 🙏

[@donglemadness]

@@malithwithana3401 Just make it like this, M1 is a great dongle but it is a 4.5 Star rated and DC04Pro is a solid 5 Stars, that alone should give you the indication that DC04Pro is ultimately the better one with technicalities as well, including soundstage etc.

[@malithwithana3401]

@@donglemadness thank you

[@michaelpastoral3957]

Told you earlier it's fantastic dongle

[@donglemadness]

It is indeed :D

[@ChristosTsitselis]

Hello Andy! Thank you so much for all your reviews!So helpful! I need a "mobile" dac to power my HD 660 S2 mostly around my house while not working at my desk were my K7 BT is. I will be using iPhone & iPad. I eliminated from my choices the M15 due to RFI sensitivity I read about in reviews. I am leaning towards KA5 and I came across Basso DC04pro from your reviews and now I am even more puzzled. What is your recommendation

[@donglemadness]

Thanks Christos. For anything demanding and you will be running 4.4mm setup on the dongles, I am more inclined to pick DC04Pro over KA5, and that's why I rated DC04Pro 5 Stars while KA5 4.5 Stars, I feel that DC04Pro is a better sounding dongle overall

[@ChristosTsitselis]

@@donglemadness Yes I forgot to mention that I will be using 4.4 balanced setup!!!!!! So my only concern now is the APP control as I am an iPhone user. KA5 has a built in screen so no problem vs I am not sure the iBasso app works on iPhone!!! If you have any info on that please let me know. Thank you so much & if you ever want to visit Athens let me know! :)

[@arthurkillen396]

This dongle sounds especially good with DSD files. I use Neutron on Android or Audirvanna on PC to upsample everything to DSD 128. It improves the soundstage and dynamics even more. Blacker background as well.

[@donglemadness]

That's amazing

[@texasbassranger]

This is good to know and important to me personally, I have invested a lot in upgrading my music collection to DSD when possible and I'm looking forward to getting this iBasso.

[@texasbassranger]

I usually use Pulse Music on my phone but it was recommended to me to install Neutron player. Not the most user friendly app,, but I'll figure it out. I was told Neutron playback with the DC04 is superior, since I have a library of DSD files. They don't make starting and finding your playlist easy.

[@donglemadness]

@@texasbassranger Have you tried the free HIBY Music app? That's the ultimate player if you want to Max/Min for the best possible performance with USB Exclusive mode and lots of options to play with. Plus it offers some really good library management

[@texasbassranger]

@@donglemadness I looked at it a couple of days ago but it wouldn 't recognize my music library, telling me access denied. I gotta figure that out.

[@pritambanerjee7172]

Hi Andy, I found your channel best suited for my queries! I have Audio Technica M40x. Which DAC should I buy? DC04 pro, FC6, RU7, Hip DAC 3?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks. Unfortunately I have no personal experience with M40x so it will be hard for me to know how it sounds like. But if budget is not an issue to you, then go all the way to FC6

[@TC-bz8sm]

Thanks Sir Andy Another great review ! So this amazing dongle costs less than half of Cayin RU6 and Hiby FC6, but with the same sound signature and airy soundstage , would you choose FC04 pro ( regardless of price) ?

[@donglemadness]

I have so many dongles to choose from, all of them amazing in their own rights. To answer your question, I use FC6 most of the time now because it clicks the best with my taste and preferences, of which previously I normally use DACport HD

[@chrischandran4439]

Thanks for the review. Upon your recommendation I purchased it & am very happy. Can you please tell me what the output & eco mode are for on ibasso uac app? Thanks in advance

[@donglemadness]

I have no specific details for the Eco mode other than iBasso mentioned that it will be running without the Amp stage turned on

[@chrischandran4439]

Thanks

[@hugopineda10]

I have seen some that have dual dac cs43131, but I don't know which brand implements it better. I like more the musical tone without neglecting the details, as well as the part of the sound scene.

[@donglemadness]

That's DC04Pro you talking about

[@isansharma]

Thanks for the review, I purchased Sennheiser HD660s and using it with Earman Eagle and it drive it with comfortable volume at 25/100, I mostly listen Hindi Songs which is mostly Vocal focused, Should I go for DC 04 pro, ifi go bar or questyle M15 does they make any difference to the sound .

[@donglemadness]

Thanks!. I haven't tested Earmen Eagle myself. I just had Earmen Sparrow MK2. So it would be difficult for me to ascertain what sort of synergy it offers to HD660s (which I also don't have). I prefer not to say something based on speculation. But I do know, for HD650 and HD600, DC04Pro would be my choice over GO Bar and M15. Cheers.

[@victormedrano2316]

Hi there, for metal, driving the Hidizs MP145 (Whales) DC03 pro or DC04 Pro? Great review by the way

[@donglemadness]

Thanks Victor. For MP145 which I use regularly, I tend to prefer DC04Pro more because MP145 being a magnetic planar, it can always appreciate more power which DC04Pro offer (double of DC03Pro). But I must also state that MP145 also sounds amazing with DC03Pro, it is colored in a very pleasant way with the energy being vibrant yet mature, but you do lose a bit of soundstage width and neutrality which DC04Pro offer

[@victormedrano2316]

@@donglemadness Great! Thanks for the quick response Andy, tuff choice, so I guess both will be better! Saludos desde México!

[@theanhtruong3797]

I really likeyour review. Would you compare Dc04pro vs lootoo paw s2 ? Does dc04pro have line-out option ?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks! DC04Pro does not have dedicated LO options, but it works perfectly with vol of 70/100 to serve as LO especially from the 3.5mm SE. Unfortunately I will not have a comparison with S2 vs DC04Pro as my S2 is no longer with me. I can only say that S2 remains the smoothest sounding dongle among all of them that I ever tested

[@theanhtruong3797]

@@donglemadnessi ordered a iibasso dc04pro after i watched your clip. Thanks for your reply.

[@medbelheni9488]

Thanks for the great review, between this and DC03 PRO, HIBY FC4 and link 2 Bal max what's best option considering the price to quality ratio?!

[@donglemadness]

Thank you!. At the bargain price offered for DC03Pro, it is definitely the most desirable for price to performance ratio. It is cheaper than FC4 and Link2 BAL Max, yet it is a solid 5 Star dongle

[@medbelheni9488]

@@donglemadness thank you for your attention and i'm taking your advice, any chance your reviewing the FIIO KA5?

[@donglemadness]

@@medbelheni9488 I hope soon, KA5 too :D

[@nathz2020]

I use filter number 4 for sennheiser ie200 because this iem is neutral and bright hardly fatigued

[@user-of5io2yq2e]

Hello sir, thank you this is by far the most help channel to learn about dongles. Please I have a question, How does the balanced vs the unbalanced outputs perform in general with IEMs? Your answer will help me a lot

[@dhiaoshaish]

following this

[@donglemadness]

Thanks. When talking about DACs that has both 3.5mm SE and BAL jacks, it is always that the 3.5mm SE section will be tuned to work with half the actual DAC/Amp power, giving you the impressions that 4.4mm BAL is more powerful and hence will fare better with IEMs that can benefit from more power scaling. But most of the time for highly efficient IEMs that have low impedance and very high sensitivity, it will already work great on the 3.5mm SE, perhaps better because some IEMs can get shouty when subjected to more power. Hope this helps

[@dhiaoshaish]

@donglemadness for me for example I enjoy the dc04 pro exclusively at low gain, I noticed higher gains make the soundstage so slightly smaller, and at low gain I end up pushing the volume to 84 to bring it to a high but comfortable level. Will the balanced mode keep the soundstage big at low gain but give me more headroom for the volume, basically will the low gain be more powerful balanced than unbalanced while keeping the sound characteristics?

[@dhiaoshaish]

i bought a balanced cable to try with my 16 ohm iem (ie 300) out of curiosity. I noticed the sound coming from the 4.4 output was more precise, l soundstage was bigger, and details far in the background were easier to pick (great positives), however, it introduced sibilance at higher volumes which is a bummer, dunno if its the quality of the cable (after market cable) or if the 4.4 output power is an overkill for these iems (comfortable listening is at 55/100 on low gain)

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

pa10 is more portable sounding, suit daps but for gr11 specifically its slightly unpreferable

[@roviccastillo9087]

Great detailed review Andy! I would just like to ask what would be a better deal, the iBasso DC04 Pro or the Cayin RU6? I'll be mostly using these DACs for mixing/mastering at the same time as a device to listen to music analytically and also for fun I don't really have a portable DAC yet and I'm torn between these two I appreciate your video and your help in helping me look for dongle DACs

[@donglemadness]

Thanks. For your purpose and usage, I would recommend DC04Pro of course!

[@roviccastillo9087]

@@donglemadness Thank you so much, looking forward for more reviews from you in the future Cheers!

[@mariocaesar]

Thank you for your excellent reviews. Have you paired the iBasso DC04 Pro with AFUL P5?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks Mario. Unfortunately my P5 was already given away as part of the giveaways for #donglemadness KZbin Channel Lucky Draw launch celebration so I didn't try it with DC04Pro, but knowing P5 very well, I am sure the synergy will be amazing between those two

[@mariocaesar]

Going to purchase DC04Pro. Going to use DC04 to connect Samsung phone to new IEM, Carver pre-amp (main sound system), Beyerdynamic 770 Pro 32 ohm & JBL active speakers. Not sure about P5. I listen to 90% classic rock. Greatly appreciate your advice. Thanks.

[@donglemadness]

@@mariocaesar What a coincidence, I listen mainly to 80-90s Rock/Metal music and I can tell you P5 really rock with that genres

[@mariocaesar]

@@donglemadness is it ok to connect DC04 to aforementioned equipment. Thanks.

[@donglemadness]

@@mariocaesar Yes

[@KxgrGuitar]

Thank you for a great review, was enough to convince me to get one. Arrived today and was working fine at first, but now it keeps disconnecting after a few seconds of playing any music, I'm running it from a pixel 7 pro and aren't sure what might be causing this.

[@donglemadness]

Hi Zac. The best way to troubleshoot this is to connect to a PC and see if the same issue persists. Sometimes, an Android phone may exhibit some restraint with USB power and on a powerful dongle like DC04pro, it may struggle to keep up if the USB power feed is unstable. A PC will always be more stable with the current. If you are having the same issue still, then it is best to contact the seller for warranty issue. It is not unknown that any type of item can have issues. You should also try to use different USB C cable to see if you can isolate the problem further. Good luck!

[@premlatasingh1027]

Hi Andy!! Which amongst Fiio ka5, Ibasso dc04 pro and earmen sparrow has the best single ended output?? Please do recommend if you have another dongle in mind.

[@donglemadness]

If you are looking for the best 3.5mm implementation, then it is definitely CEntrance DAC[port HD, HIBY FC6, Ovidius B1, Apogee Groove and Questyle M12. But between DC04Pro and KA5, I would say they are pretty much similar. Earmen Sparrow also offer good 3.5mm (but I don't like Sparrow's typical ESS Sabre tuning)

[@momonone]

Hi Andy, is the shinmin li encounter review coming soon?

[@donglemadness]

I hope so! I am looking to get one

[@ZeusPropofol]

@AndyAudioVault Compared 7hz Shio, the bass on the DC04 pro is less pronounced. I kinda like the bass on Shio. Does the Shio has boosted bass or DC04 Pro has it lowered? I am on filter 1.

[@donglemadness]

That could be the case with SHIO being slightly boosted

[@luminousa5090]

hello andy, thanks for the video review, do you have any recommendations for a replacement for the default cable dc04 pro c to c in the $ 30 price range?

[@luminousa5090]

I read in several forums that many say replacing the default ibasso cable will give better sound, is that true?

[@donglemadness]

Yes it is true. Cleaner signal does that. Try iBasso CB18

[@mhamank6841]

Hi Andy, do you think it's worth it to get Ibasso DC04 pro if Spotify is my main source? I always want to buy a dongle but I don't know if it's worth it because I don't have access to other streaming service that have higher quality audio in my country.

[@donglemadness]

DC04Pro will still be better sounding than most others even if you use it for Spotify, that's something that I am sure of

[@jyip1442]

Hey Andy, Which dongle synergize best with the Dunu Talos between Truthear Shio, Tanchjim Space, DC03 Pro and DC04 Pro?

[@donglemadness]

DC04Pro

[@pickyaudiophile9898]

The issue I have with almost all dongle DACs is the unability to write settings from their respective Android apps into EEPROM from dongles. So devices will read these settings on bootup wherever plugged into. I use dongles with Windows operated notebooks and tablets most of the time while commuting. And sadly, everything (like gain, filters, and more) is set to factory default each time - and with no ability to make changes. So there's just that narrow choice left with devices like xDuoo Link2 Bal which at least offer a physical gain switch. Or the very few programmable dongles by E1DA or Qudelix which actually do write settings into EEPROM. I wish there was more choice.

[@donglemadness]

I totally understand your point and it is my wish too that going forward dongle tech will allow more options to users

[@rafikus5]

Hello @@donglemadness, iBasso added DC04Pro Driver in their website's Download section in July, does that work like the Android App, but on Windows (although it is just a driver, so maybe it does not work like the app)? I am wondering about buying this dongle, since my Qudelix-5k started crackling regardless of output and headphones/IEMs used, so it would be nice to know if I can use it properly on PC. Thank you for this review!

[@systembooms69]

Your opinion regarding ONLY sounstage and imaging for DCO4 pro vs DC03 pro? Thanks for reviewing 👍

[@donglemadness]

DC04Pro outright wider and more airy than DC03Pro. However I must admit DC03Pro offers slightly sharper edged imaging

[@joelo5164]

Andy do you recommend any anti sweat headphones? Any idea on the Soundcore q series?

[@donglemadness]

Unfortunately I have no idea to recommend on this one. I don't do music while doing gym....I don't do gym at all...

[@jamesk5323]

Hi Andy, if I'm looking for something lush sounding rather than Delta Sigma clean, what would U suggest? Would DC04pro or Cayin RU6 do it?

[@donglemadness]

Then you will need one of these, DACport HD, FC6 or RU6, and even the iFi GO Link - all lush in their own ways

[@sorcerermax5111]

Thanks for the review Andy. The only problem with these dongles is, we can't play/pause or change tracks when both the phone and the dongle are in the pant pocket. We need to take out the phone everytime to change tracks which is annoying. Is there no way to get around this limitation?

[@donglemadness]

That's an advanced feature which I hope to see integrated soon. But for now, the best would be Play and Pause button on some dongles

[@EIsMCQuadrat]

Make Playlist where you don't need to skip any track 😅

[@sorcerermax5111]

@@EIsMCQuadrat And when you want to pause/play? or want to listen to the previous track again? can you make a playlist for that? please make one and show it to all of us, we will also learn 🤣😂😂

[@sorcerermax5111]

I just ordered it. I have DC03 Pro too but I am using it as my desktop Dac with an external amp so DC04 Pro is for on the go usage. Andy, does it get warm or hot in balanced mode just like Hidizs S9 Pro? Also, which sounds better in single ended? DC03 Pro or DC04 Pro?

[@donglemadness]

S9Pro is markedly hotter. Most dongles will still get warm after prolonged usage and DC04Pro is no different. SE on DC04Pro sounds just like the 4.4mm port but more suitable for efficient IEMs. Again the difference between DC03Pro and DC04Pro is the way they present sound, one being more analogue and the other being a bit more modern and vibrant. Only you can decide which one you like more

[@jipex911]

​@AndyAudioVault i also have dc3pro already. Could u tell which one has more bass dc3pro or dc4pro?

[@donglemadness]

@@jipex911 DC03Pro would appear a bit denser with bass due to it being frequency boosted and DC04Pro being neutral and transparent will not add coloration to Bass (or any other frequencies for that matter). Take it like this, DC03Pro is like natively EQ-ed boosted source and DC04Pro is without any EQ

[@itellsri]

Hello Andy ….Just got my dc04 pro today and have been testing a/b comparison with my older Hidiz DH80s. All my testing was on unbalanced 3.5 mm ports on both and with medium gain using my apple iPad. Though the dc04 pro sounds awesome, it’s a bit neutral, thin and clinical. The DH80s which is at the same price range runs off a battery and sounds a bit richer and warmer with boost to lower frequencies. Dh80s is also more musical and fun to listen to and its kind of holographic sounding . Dc04 pro is more polite and cleaner for lack of a better word . Just wanted to share my findings with you. It would be nice if you could also review DH80s one of these days. you are the zen master of dongles😀

[@donglemadness]

Thanks for sharing. If I can get my hands on DH80s, of course I would love to.

[@itellsri]

Andy …I see that unlike dc04 pro which uses cirrus logic , dc06 uses dual Sabre chips and it’s the same price . I don’t see dc06 in your site. Is it better than dc04 pro. But looks like dc06 has no volume control but from the pictures looks like it’s well built.

[@itellsri]

How are you Andy . Another quick question . You have reviewed Fiio Q11 , but have not rated it as it’s not a dongle. Also the xduoo link2 bal max which is almost the same design to dc04 pro with 2 identical cirrus logic chip don’t see it rated in the site . Is dc04 pro sonically superior to those other 2 products ?

[@donglemadness]

@@itellsri I am good, thanks. Between Q11 and DC04Pro, pretty much on equal terms, but I do feel that DC04Pro is more resolving. I don't have Link2 BAL Max so I don't know what to say about it

[@itellsri]

@@donglemadness thanks !

[@kitpandikit]

Hi I just got the DC04Pro and I will try to use the app. What filter do you recommend for Moondrop Variations? Also, will the settings be retained if I use the dongle on my PC?

[@donglemadness]

Start with NOS first then after a while try No.4, then decide which one suits your taste better, because what's good to your hearing is what matters the most. Enjoy!

[@kitpandikit]

@@donglemadness thank you very much!!

[@kmnaniak]

just for pure pleasure of listening which one do you like better DC04Pro or FC6 ?

[@donglemadness]

FC6 and DACport HD remain the ultimate ones I prefer more over everything else for the most analogue sound they offer. It is a matter of personal taste because analogue sound unlikely be appealing for some who prefers modern Hi-Fi tuning

[@NH3LifeIsTooShort]

Hello, can You do a short manual for iBasso UAC app with explanation of filters, gain and turbo-mode?

[@donglemadness]

Thanks for the suggestion. Once I clear my backlogs, I would love to do this too

[@NH3LifeIsTooShort]

Mr Andy, thank You in advance. Have a good day!

[@MrZEBRO85]

Hello Andy, Is the sound from the 3.5 input in ibasso weaker than in 4.4, like in Tanchjim Space? Is the second amplifier much more economical when it comes to battery?

[@donglemadness]

As with all other dual port DACs which has 4.4mm BAL and 3.5mm SE, the 3.5mm will always be tuned with half the power available. So as noted, 4.4mm BAL runs 4 VRMS at over 200 mW and 3.5mm SE runs 2 VRMS at over 100 mW. This alone would signify that 3.5mm being weaker on specs and actual usage. However, for anything less demanding up to 32 Ohm and with sensitivity over 100 dB, switching between 3.5mm and 4.4mm will mostly mean the loudness is different, but the quality of the output is equal. The 4.4mm BAL will then be more evident as the better one the moment you switch to highly scalable partners that could shine better with more power, like most magnetic planar IEMs or headphones, or full sized headphones above 32 Ohm. Even something like Tanchjim ZERO and KZ ZVX will scale really well and in this case it is better to use the more powerful 4,4mm BAL. But for hybrids which are typically very efficient at under 32 Ohm, something like SeeAudio Bravery AE at 18 Ohm, I can't hear any difference in quality beside the level of loudness which need to be adjusted. And yes, running on lower power will stretch battery life

[@MrZEBRO85]

Thank you so much for such a complete answer!

[@user-dy1kp8ox4m]

Hi, Andy. I have a Beyerdynamic DT 900 pro x in my hands and I want to purchase a dongle for it. Will dc 04 pro be a good choice? I really like the natural tone you mentioned in the video, but I am afraid using 3.5mm jack will lose the advantages. Because the headphone only has a 3.5mm jack. Since dc 04 pro is more powerful, I am also afraid it will be too loud for the headphone(it has an impedance of 48ohms). Or should I choose dc 03 pro instead? Is there any other dongle you would recommend with my headphone?

[@donglemadness]

For DT990 I would still recommend DC04Pro even if you are limited to 3.5mm SE port, since you are running on 48 Ohm version you should be good. Otherwise, if budget is not a concern I will 100% recommend HIBY FC6 over everything else especially since you run 3.5mm SE. You can also consider Colorfly CDA-M1P which I reviewed recently, that thing will synergize well with DT990

[@ronleeee]

will you be reviewing the moondrop dawn pro?

[@donglemadness]

Should be out next week. Thanks

[@shuuji2001]

hi andy! do you think dc04pro with xiaomi phone (series are like yours) are enough as a source? or DAP like hiby r6gen3 are better? cause i heard when DAP playing using class A it deliver better audio overall.

[@donglemadness]

It is more than enough. I have had desktop setups of Topping D10s + A50s (Class A) stack, iFi ZEN DACV2 + ZEN Can stack (Class A), xDuoo MT-602 (Class A Tubes Hybrid, Cayin N6ii E02 (Class A/B) and Cayin N3Pro (Hybrid Tubes)....yet I still use my phone + dongles 90% of the time, I don't feel that Iam missing anything especially when using IEMs. I will admit the desktop stack perhaps offer some marginal improvements with headroom when driving demanding headphones like HE400SE or HD650, but really it is more like just under 5% of loss in headroom which for the most part does not bother me at all

[@shuuji2001]

@@donglemadness okay thank you Andy, i will stay with phone and DAC.

[@Fufux0rs]

i just came here to see that Burzum shirt :D

[@donglemadness]

[@loykunEX]

Thanks for the review. How's the soundstage between this and Link2 bal? Also, can I demo it tomorrow?🙈

[@donglemadness]

Between Link2 BAL and DC04Pro, soundstage wise quite comparable. Both offering wide spacious sound

[@ml14r9]

Hey man. I enjoy a lot my go link with sr5 by sound rhyme, but midrange resolution not super strong, rn i can return it and buy dc04pro just for 25$ more. Is dc04pro just more resolving and dynamic go link?

[@donglemadness]

Yes. Both DC03Pro and DC04Pro will give you more resolution and imaging throughout the entire dynamic range

[@nikokomac3185]

hello Andy...for you which have better more organic sound and better power ibasso dc04pro or questyle M15...? Which is better for you in all regards?

[@donglemadness]

DC04Pro has more outright power and more analog/organic sounding. You can check my other review of Cayin RU7 comparisons section to see how DC04Pro and M15 compares

[@DePerfectionist96]

hello andy I'm really considering to buy this dac for mp145 or should i wait for the release of dc06? In addition is the 4.4 cable considered better than the 3.5?To know which one should i order for my iem's from now on, thank you in advance

[@donglemadness]

DC06 Pro is still an unknown thing as of for now so I can't say anything about it, but DC04Pro is a well proven and tested amazing dongle which is also verified by many. So take all this into consideration.Another thing, we live now in a time where everything is so competitive and improved that I can't pick out any dongles in particular that came this year as bad. Also on the subject of 4.4 or 3.5, size of the plugs do not determine quality. All of my top 3 dongles like DACPort HD, FC6 and Ovidius B1 are 3.5mm SE, yet they remained the best of the best of over 145 dongles I have tested so far, so just reflect on that too, implementation and tuning matters more

[@destroguillotine457]

Hi Andy , between the shio and the dc03 pro which one has the better detail clarity and resolution and soundstage , also in the nos mode does the dc03 sounds more neutral than colorful

[@donglemadness]

Details, clarify and resolution is better with DC03Pro, SHIO however has wider soundstage. Even in NOS Mode DC03Pro is still a bit colored but it is even better balanced now depending on what you are driving

[@destroguillotine457]

@@donglemadness i am asking for a lot but can you please test both of them with the letshuoer s12 and find which produce better results, thank you very much

[@donglemadness]

@@destroguillotine457 Better results, from my taste and preferences between the dongles you mentioned, no question I like DC03Pro more for S12

[@mons7erz]

H Andyi, I interested with this Ibasso CB18 cable, does CB18 makes the sound more better? like giving more refine, bigger/depth soundstage, or else? thank you and looking forward for your reply

[@donglemadness]

That portion of cable alone will not give you that much of improvements. As with many audio tweaks, the reality is that you do upgrades to gain marginal gains as per the rule of diminishing returns. CB18 does offer cleaner and less prone to micro distortion that would otherwise be more prone on normal cables. If anything, USB cable would be the last in the chain of upgrades in my book

[@mons7erz]

​@@donglemadnessthank you Andy

[@letsmobiles3396]

Hey Andy which dongle synergize best with the tangzu zetian wu heyday ibasso dc03 pro or dc04 pro

[@donglemadness]

DC04Pro

[@willyars.briszky]

Hi Andy, what do you think abou xenns mangrid top? have you hear it yet?

[@donglemadness]

I wish I had, heard good things about Xenns

[@FrontScheib3]

Hello Andy, I ordered ibasso dc03pro with cb18 usb-c cable. How is this combo compared against dc04pro with stock usb-c cable? Im using only SE 3.5mm with my 7hz timeless. Im asking because some people said on head-fi the dc04pro sounds better, maybe because of the opamps?

[@FrontScheib3]

Is It maybe worth it to cancel the Order and Order an dc04pro with an balanced 4.4mm cable for my 7hz timeless instead?

[@donglemadness]

If you watch my review on DC04Pro, I already mentioned between DC03Pro and DC04Pro is the tuning. One tuned differently from the other, which is the one that separates them. If you like modern energetic sound with a bit of coloration, DC03Pro has it in spades. DC04Pro is truthfully neutral and uncolored, and does offer a bit more off power, but driving IEMs both are equally amazing in their own right. I keep both DC03Pro and DC04Pro still because I love switching between them for different sound presentation for different moods

[@MobuFPS]

Hey again Andy! Do know if this is powerful enough to power the HD490 pros?

[@donglemadness]

More than powerful especially if you run from the 4.4 BAL side. I have tested it with even more demanding headphones than HD490e

[@MobuFPS]

@@donglemadness thank you so much! Think I'll have to get a different cable since it comes with 3.5 in the box

[@nikokomac3185]

hello Andy , can you tell of this comparsion which models have more warmer and bassy sound with less highs and no sibilance and little back midrange...which models have this signature more?

[@donglemadness]

you want warmer sound then look for iFi GO Link or Hidizs XO or S9 (the non Pro version)

[@dnd6379]

Got dc04pro comparing it to my ifi zen signature stack and it does compete with it, very clean but not clinical sounding. Also the 5 filters do seem to stick with the device even if you plug it into a pc or an apple device as when I plug back into the android the same filter profile is rememebered. I tried contacting ibasso support on this issue but haven't gotten an answer back, would be nice if someone out there could get in touch with ibasso to get a definitive response on this.

[@arthurkillen396]

Interesting. I'd think it remembers those filters by design, so you don't have to set them every time you plug it in. I guess it depends on each person's expectations.

[@dnd6379]

@@arthurkillen396 it does remember yes