Description
The DragonFly Black from AudioQuest is a flash drive-sized Digital Audio Converter (DAC), preamplifier, and headphone amplifier that connects to a USB port. It features a 32-bit ESS Sabre conversion chip that bypasses the device’s sound card to deliver higher quality sound from your Mac, Windows, iOS, or Android device (use with mobile devices requires optional adapters). Compared to earlier models, the Black version has improved circuitry between the DAC chip and analog output, as well as a fortified power supply. Its 1/8″ (3.5mm) stereo output can connect a set of headphones or allow patching into a larger audio system.
The DragonFly Black can accept audio files ranging from MP3s and CD-standard 16-bit / 44.1 kHz L-PCMs to higher resolution 24-bit / 96 kHz formats. Using USB protocol, DragonFly commands the timing of the audio data transfer, dramatically reducing errors. DragonFly Black employs a unique clock system called a Hybrid-PLL. While not discrete, the Hybrid-PLL performs equal to, or better than, many discrete clock systems. A smart LED indicator on the DragonFly shows the resolution and status of the incoming signal. Additionally, DragonFly’s analog circuits are direct-coupled from the ESS converter chip’s output, avoiding the need for any extraneous components in the signal path.
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