iBasso DC03PRO Review: Is This the Best Portable DAC/AMP Under $100?

[@marialuissavillaester9403]

Does it work with headphones mic ?

[@RX-rd4sc]

Dc03 pro vs moondrop dawn pro Which is better in sound quality?

[@willa435]

does it have a battery off.settings whole.connected to phone

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you for reaching out and expressing your interest in the iBasso DC03PRO. To address your question, the iBasso DC03PRO is a USB Type-C digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to enhance audio quality when connected to compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers. The iBasso DC03PRO does not have a built-in battery. It draws power directly from the connected device through the USB Type-C port. Therefore, you won't need to worry about charging or battery life when using the DC03PRO.

[@willa435]

@@YuriBrus i mean it gets the battery lofe of the mobile...?

[@YuriBrus]

@@willa435 Yes, that is correct. The DC03PRO is powered by the phone's battery.

[@NebulaKernel]

Would you recommend this for the MoonDrop Blessing 2 Dusk?

[@KimKimmy-o4f]

Plsss help me sir, what gain control should i use? High Gain or Low Gain? Is high gain gonna damage my headphone? Thank you :)

[@YuriBrus]

Hey @KimKimmy-o4f! There's no hard and fast rule, but typically, low gain is used for IEMs (in-ear monitors) or low-impedance headphones, while high gain is better for higher impedance headphones. High gain won’t necessarily damage your headphones, but if you're using sensitive IEMs or low-impedance headphones, it could make things too loud too quickly. Just be careful with the volume and adjust based on what sounds best to you. 😊

[@saswatachakraborty5840]

The type-c connector on my DC03Pro seems lose. It wobbles when I connect a type-C cable. Is it normal?

[@YuriBrus]

I don't think that's normal. The best thing to do is make a short video that shows the wobble and mail it to iBasso. They have a very good customer service.

[@usmanmansoor1998]

Dear Yuri, im out to buy the ibasso dc03pro, but i have a few questions. Hopefully you will help. Im using Samsung A71 smartphone, is dc03pro compatible with it? In this video which smartphone are you using? Next is about usb-c connector, i have read on many forums that its flimsy, loose and moves slightly, is this a problem resulting in connection lost with smartphone? Please clear me on this. Appreciate!

[@YuriBrus]

Hello Usmanmansoor1998, Thank you for your questions. I've tested the DC03PRO with both a Samsung S10+ and S22U, and it worked flawlessly with them. The phone featured in the video is a Samsung S20FE. Unfortunately, I don't have access to a Samsung A71 for testing, but it should function similarly to other Samsung smartphones. It's worth noting that all USB-C ports allow for slight movement. This is due to the USB-C mechanical structure designed to buffer external forces. Similarly, the USB-C port on smartphones also allows for a slight degree of movement.

[@usmanmansoor1998]

Dear @YuriBrus , Thank you very much. You are the only one who has answered in vivid detail. I'm grateful.

[@YuriBrus]

@usmanmansoor1998 anytime 😊

[@usmanmansoor1998]

@@YuriBrus love from 🇵🇰 bro. Godspeed!

[@greatpcfan]

Hello, can I use the full potential of Dt 770 80 ohm with this? Or would you recommend Shanling UA2 over this for them?

[@YuriBrus]

Probably, however I do not own a Shanling UA2 so I can't vouch for that one. I do have an iBasso DC04PRO, which I really love and I am sure is powerful enough.

[@cyberhunter5514]

is it produce warmer / cooler sound?

[@YuriBrus]

With most headphones, you'll experience a warmer sound with this DAC.

[@cyberhunter5514]

@@YuriBrus in this price it is the best warmer dac still now?

[@karantrehan7710]

@Yuri Any idea how will it perform with Tin HIFI T3 Plus? And does it work with samsung phones?

[@dudenomad]

Great review, I'm waiting for mine to arrive. How do you think will this pair with the Blon BL03?

[@KarthikGRisKGR]

I have a Tripowin TC01, will you suggest the DC03 with it.

[@YuriBrus]

I personally do not own a Tripowin TC01, but price wise, they appear to be a great match.

[@KarthikGRisKGR]

@@YuriBrus have you tried the FIIO - BTR5 2021 (like the Bluetooth option) , how does it compare with DC03.

[@YuriBrus]

@KarthikGRisKGR I don't currently own one, but I have listened to the BTR5, and I think it sounds very good. Personally, I'm not a big fan of Bluetooth, but if you are, the BTR5 is a solid pick.

[@KarthikGRisKGR]

@@YuriBrus would you say it is better than DC03 PRO (when physically connected) (Love the Bluetooth option for desktop/laptop) I want to get the best sounding one 😁 irrespective of the Bluetooth feature.

[@YuriBrus]

@KarthikGRisKGR I believe it's slightly better than the DC03PRO. It's also more expensive and more comparable to the DC04PRO, which I like best out of these 3 options.

[@fatihkan2601]

I have no quality suspicion but would it drain phone's battery too much?

[@JDOverclock]

Great review! I've got the DC05 and it is amazing, going for the DC06 soon, to make use that balanced output!

[@YuriBrus]

Thanks 😊. Yeah, iBasso makes good stuff 👌.

[@kristianmagan4019]

Is it ok aswell to use on powered bookshelf speaker?

[@YuriBrus]

Sure, although I would not recommend it solely for that purpose. For occasional usage, it should work fine.

[@eduardomorales3092]

Is it possible to add a desktop amplifier to the ibasso in order to power up a 250 ohm headphones?

[@incredibledeepak]

How does it compare to fiio ka03?

[@YuriBrus]

I don't have a Fiio K3, so I cannot provide a direct comparison between the two. However, based on research, I can provide some insights on how the iBasso DC03PRO stacks up against the Fiio K3. The Fiio K3 is more expensive than the iBasso DC03PRO, and it has both a balanced and unbalanced output. This means that it can be used with a wider range of headphones, including those that require a balanced connection. The K3 also has a higher power output, which can potentially drive more demanding headphones with ease. On the other hand, the iBasso DC03PRO is a more affordable option that still offers good sound quality and a compact design. It has a single-ended output, which means it may not be suitable for headphones that require a balanced connection. However, it's a good option for those who primarily use single-ended headphones and want a portable and affordable DAC/amp. It's worth noting that the iBasso DC04PRO would be a better comparison to the Fiio K3, as they are both similarly priced and offer similar features. The DC04PRO also has both balanced and unbalanced outputs, and it's a good option for those who want a more versatile DAC/amp.

[@incredibledeepak]

@@YuriBrus thank you

[@YuriBrus]

@@incredibledeepak Anytime 😊

[@aroundtheflatearth2388]

Fiio BTR3K vs ibasso dc03 pro? can you help me im new to this hobby

[@Historyisnotwas]

Very good review- I'm thinking of getting this to power and enhance my planar IEM's. Would it be good for that?

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you very much. This really is an excellent little DAC. If you are currently using your phone's jack output, then my guess is that this will definitely be a considerable improvement.

[@lordlopes7777]

Tbh if this can power the Dioko or the P1 then any planar is easy

[@evan5697]

Is this good for natural-warm sounding iem (truthear hexa)?

[@YuriBrus]

Hello Evan and thank you for your question. Unfortunately, I do not have a Truthear HEXA at my disposal. The warmest sounding IEMs that I have are the QKZ x HBB Khan, and those work excellent with this DAC.

[@evan5697]

@@YuriBrus thanks for the answer sir

[@medbelheni9488]

Thanks for the great review, just want to ask, other than output power, is the 4.4 bal any better for sound quality?

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you for watching my review and leaving a comment. In my experience, when I use the balanced output of the iBasso DC04PRO, I do notice a slight improvement in soundstage and detail retrieval. While the single-ended output is also great, I find that the balanced output provides a more accurate and dynamic sound. However, this can also depend on the headphones or IEMs that you are using, as some may be more sensitive to the differences between single-ended and balanced outputs. Overall, I believe that both the balanced and single-ended outputs on the DC04PRO offer excellent sound quality, and it's great to have the option to choose which one to use based on personal preference and equipment compatibility. Thank you again for your comment!

[@medbelheni9488]

@@YuriBrus thank you for your attention yuri, the reason i asked is that i was considering the DC03Pro which is half the price of the 04Pro and not much of a difference other than the 4.4 Bal, so yeah, i think i'm going with the 03Pro

[@YuriBrus]

@Med Belheni If you don't necessarily need the 4.4 output, then the DC03PRO will do fine. It's my go to DAC on most of my trips, and I still like it a lot.

[@medbelheni9488]

@@YuriBrus thanks for the informations, really appreciate it 👍

[@YuriBrus]

@@medbelheni9488 anytime 😊

[@gee3883]

Just landed one of these and it amazing can't seem to find the App for IOS so not sure it's available which will be really annoying.

[@nilimachakraborty]

Can this drive Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro?

[@YuriBrus]

It is possible for the iBasso DC03Pro to drive the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro, but I would not recommend it. In my experience, the DT990 Pro sounds significantly better when paired with a desktop headphone amp or a high-quality digital audio player. These options will provide the necessary power and amplification to bring out the full potential of the headphones and deliver optimal sound quality.

[@cravatenoire3269]

Pls suggest a sub US$30/40 Bluetooth5.0/up portable DAC with Possibly ONLY A 3.5mm SE (non-balanced) port with USB-C option to connect directly when required. TYVM

[@YuriBrus]

If it was for me, I'd skip the Bluetooth option and probably go for the HiBy FC3. You can often find those under $40.- But if you really need Bluetooth and USB-C, then maybe something from Earfun.

[@cravatenoire3269]

@@YuriBrus EARFUN DACs never showed up. appreciate it anyways. Do mention if you got something in mind as refernce even its a bit above $40 1) Smarphone's battery drain is my big concern 2) No 3.5mm jack avialable 3) USB C is almost always in use

[@YuriBrus]

Yeah, I was sure that EARFUN had something cheap and good on offer, but I can’t seem to find anything either. So, if I get that right, you need Bluetooth, because your USB-C port is already in use by the charger? How about the “Asseso AP1”, that seems to get good ratings, although I have no experience with that brand at all.

[@cravatenoire3269]

@@YuriBrus Hopefully you coudl review it.

[@YuriBrus]

@cravatenoire3269 I have a review coming up from the Fosi Audio N3 Bluetooth Dac. Not sure how much that will be though

[@wakawaka9998]

Is it compatible with infinix smartphones?

[@YuriBrus]

iBasso claims that this DAC is compatible with ''most'' android smartphones. Unfortunately, that is no guarantee that it will work with ''Infinix'' as well. So far, I haven't found any info on that, but if I do find something in any of the forums, I will get back to you.

[@saviour7431]

Can this drive an HD600?

[@YuriBrus]

It's possible, but it would not be my recommended combo.

[@saviour7431]

@@YuriBrus I only have this or Fiio KA3 to choose from. Which do you think is better?

[@YuriBrus]

@@saviour7431 if it's for the HD600, then the K3, think you can used balanced with that.

[@saviour7431]

@@YuriBrus yes I can use balanced on that. Thanks for the help

[@ishmone21]

Unfortunately, it doesn’t work with Samsung phones😢

[@anniebassist1]

How to use iPhone 12 Pro with this dac ?

[@YuriBrus]

I expected that it would be just plug and play, as with Android. Did you encounter any issues?

[@anniebassist1]

@@YuriBrus I have an iPhone 12 Pro Max . I know it works fine with android but not sure if it works with iOS

[@YuriBrus]

I can't personally verify it since I don't have an iPhone 12 pro at hand, but I reckon it works, since iBasso specifically mentions that they offer the appropriate adapter on their product page: ibasso.com/product/dc03pro/

[@mokisan]

Thanks for the great review, I already have a Bluetooth dac which I love called the btr5 and also it can be used by usb c cable. But I wanted a dedicated dongle dac, this seems to be it. You should maybe review more chifi iems too, they are great. Cheers!

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you very much for your positive feedback, I appreciate it. Yeah, you're right, a lot of the chifi products are very good indeed. Have a great day and best regards, Yuri

[@akibo5591]

I also had Btr5 before buying the Dc03pro and i love the Dc03 pro the most.

[@mokisan]

@@akibo5591 why so you like the dc03 pro? Anything in particular?

[@YuriBrus]

@@akibo5591 The DC03Pro is amazing value👍

[@hiraya2155]

@@akibo5591 is there a big difference on sound quality between the btr5 and dc03 pro? tnx

[@dolansantaiaja1111]

Wow... Amazing... You're voice so clear for me, that don't use English wkwkwkw

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you very much ☺️

[@rajlovinglife]

Nicely explained... To drive heavy amp headphones portable or Bluetooth dac /amp are preferred.. So the question do we really need a portable dac amp or a DAP player for that matter...

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you very much. Yes, it's true that easy-to-drive headphones can still produce decent sound quality when connected directly to a phone. However, using an external DAC will often enhance the sound quality and bring out the full potential of the headphones. Still, it's just a luxury that can improve the listening experience, but definitely not always a requirement. Have a great day!

[@rajlovinglife]

@@YuriBrus thanks... 👍

[@YuriBrus]

@@rajlovinglife Anytime👍👍

[@SileDevil]

most reviewers say this is a bright and euphoric dac you say it is warm..hmm🤔

[@pip4free80]

Isn't right and euphoric a warm feeling 😕

[@SileDevil]

@@pip4free80 sorry i meant bright

[@YuriBrus]

Hello and thank you for your feedback. I would not call it an overly bright sounding DAC, it's lively and engaging, but not bright. It's even warm sounding compared to the sound coming out of my phone via a USB-C adapter.

[@SileDevil]

@@YuriBrus hey thanks for the explaination. Do you think it will be a good pairing with a neutral bright/analytical sounfing headphone like the HD560S ? i am looking to make it smoother sounding, many people reccomend the VE Avani they say it is warmer sounding.

[@YuriBrus]

Unfortunately, I do not have an HD560S at hand, but I'll ask around if I can borrow one. I do have an HD660S and an HD25, and they both sound great with this DAC.

[@S_M_0009]

👍👍👍

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you for very much!

[@Emi-rd1lk]

My question is that - what the heck Mads Mikkelsen doing on KZbin reviewing portable amplifiers?

[@YuriBrus]

🤣😂😆

[@AryanC130]

This channel is completely sponsored by ibasso and absolutely isn't unbiased. The dc03pro is not that good at all compared to dc05/6. I have tried all three of them

[@YuriBrus]

Thank you for your comment, Ayan. I appreciate your feedback. However, I want to clarify that this channel is not sponsored by iBasso, and I always strive to provide an honest and unbiased review of the products I test. Regarding the DC03PRO, my personal experience and testing have shown it to be an excellent DAC, but I agree that there are other models that may have additional features or improvements. Nonetheless, I stand by my review of the DC03PRO and believe it is a great option for those looking for a high-quality, affordable portable DAC.

[@thesihab6420]

Does it work with iPhone 13?

[@YuriBrus]

While I don't personally own an iPhone 13, I can provide some information regarding compatibility with the iBasso DC03. The iBasso DC03 is designed to work with iOS devices, including iPhones. It utilizes a USB-C connection, which means you will require an Apple Lightning to USB-C adapter or a USB-C to Lightning cable in order to connect the DC03PRO to the iPhone 13. Once connected, the DC03PRO functions as a USB DAC, enhancing the audio quality of your iPhone 13 by bypassing its internal DAC and utilizing the superior DAC of the DC03. However, it's important to note that the optional control app might not be available on iOS.

[@thesihab6420]

@@YuriBrus thanks a lot sir, for this information

[@YuriBrus]

@@thesihab6420 Thank you very much for your visit to my channel 😀