The DragonFly Cobalt: A Thumb-Sized Marvel for Audiophiles
Amplify Your Wired Headphones on-the-go with this Tiny Portable Amp
AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt A Review
In the era of wireless technology and Bluetooth headphones, it may seem odd to consider using a portable headphone amp. After all, why be tied down with wires when wireless is the way of the future? However, there are limitations to Bluetooth headphones, such as limited sound quality and power due to built-in batteries and electronics. This is where a portable headphone amp like the DragonFly Cobalt from AudioQuest comes in.
🎧 Tiny Yet Powerful 🚀
The DragonFly Cobalt, although small enough to fit on your thumb, packs a punch when it comes to audio performance. It connects to any phone or computer via USB and features an amp and a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) that claim to elevate the listening experience. But how does it actually perform, and is it worth the investment?
Specs and Features
Before we delve into the sound quality, let’s take a look at the Cobalt’s specifications:
- DAC Chip: ESS ES9038Q2M
- Max sampling rate/frequency: 24-bit/96kHz
- Amp chip: ESS Sabre 9601
- Power: “2.1 volts”
The Cobalt’s design resembles that of a USB thumb drive, with a short dongle included for connecting to USB-C devices. For Apple products, a separate adapter is required. A small pleather case is also included, adding a nice touch to the package.
Inside the Cobalt, you’ll find an ESS Sabre 9601 headphone amp and an ESS ES9038Q2M DAC. The maximum sampling rate of 24-bit/96kHz may be lower than some USB DACs on the market, but it’s more than sufficient for most music. As for the claimed power rating of “2.1 volts,” it’s a bit unclear and potentially misleading. Most amplifiers are rated in watts, which are calculated by multiplying volts and amps. While the Cobalt’s power output may not be as impressive as the number suggests, it still provides plenty of power for driving headphones effectively.
🎶 Sound Performance: A Closer Listen 👂
To put the DragonFly Cobalt to the test, I paired it with some high-end headphones and in-ear monitors: the Audeze LCD-3, Sendy Audio Apollo, and Meze Audio Rai Penta. These headphones range from high-end to portable, allowing us to see how the Cobalt performs across the spectrum.
Comparing the Cobalt to my computer’s headphone jack, I immediately noticed a fuller sound with improved bass and clearer percussion using the LCD-3s. The volume levels and overall audio quality were significantly better with the Cobalt. Switching to the Sendy Apollos and comparing the Cobalt to my phone’s headphone jack via a USB-C dongle, I observed fuller bass and a more open soundstage with the Cobalt. The difference in volume levels was striking, with the Cobalt easily surpassing the phone’s maximum volume capacity.
As for the Meze Audio Rai Pentas, which are not particularly difficult to drive, the differences were less apparent. However, there might have been a slight improvement in realism and timbre, especially with high-resolution tracks. Overall, the Cobalt delivered a noticeable enhancement in sound quality across various headphones.
🤔 Is It Worth It? 💰
Now, let’s address the two burning questions: Does the DragonFly Cobalt improve the sound, and is it worth the price tag?
Firstly, without a doubt, the Cobalt offers a significant improvement in sound quality over a baseline setup. Whether you have headphones that require an amp or would simply benefit from one, the Cobalt will undoubtedly enhance your audio experience.
As for its price, it may seem a bit steep compared to other amp/DAC dongles on the market. However, if you have headphones that demand a quality amp or if your current sources limit the performance of your headphones, the investment will likely be justified. Keep in mind that the Cobalt is not intended to transform inexpensive headphones into top-tier performers. Instead, it amplifies and enhances the sound quality of headphones that already possess excellent audio capabilities.
If you’re in the market for a portable headphone amp and your headphones can benefit from an extra boost, the DragonFly Cobalt is definitely a remarkable option. Its impressive performance, compact size, and portability make it an excellent choice for audiophiles on the go.
🔮 The Future of Amp/DAC Technology
With the evolution of audio technology, we can expect even more innovative and powerful amp/DAC solutions in the future. As the demand for high-quality audio continues to rise, manufacturers will likely refine their designs to cater to specific needs. We may see advancements in power output, support for higher sampling rates, and improved compatibility with various devices. As technology progresses, the possibilities for audio enhancement are endless!
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Did you find this article helpful? Have you ever used a portable headphone amp before? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! 🎧✨
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