AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt
USB DAC
Tec specs:
DragonFly Cobalt · AudioQuest
Initial impressions.
There are many positive reviews of this third and top of the line incarnation of the DragonFly Cobalt USB DAC.
I used the DAC with all apple products including MacBook Pro, iPad and iPhone, listening to standard red book, and hi-res FLAC files. Headphones PSB over ear M4Us (which also get great reviews - and I can attest to their sound quality).
In short, I wasn’t expecting to hear a night and day difference when using the DAC, however I was expecting a change, subtle or otherwise. I tested and listed for a number of hours over a two-day period and have to report
no discernible difference listening to tracks with/without the DragonFly in place. A change in logo lights indicated the unit was working and recognising file variations.
Testing was completed at the same volume levels, which is important as some DACs including the Cobalt lift the noise level. This is sometimes confused with a DAC creating an improved sound experience.
In fact, when using the DAC and watching Netflix it sounded worse.
I contacted Audioquest - They said that the unit was working correctly, and listening was a very subjective experience.
I’ve had familiarity with quite a number of DACs and have always noticed variations, sometimes subtle, sometimes quite significant (Chord products).
I would strongly recommend that you try before you buy with this product, using your own equipment when testing. This may avoid disappointment given the high accolades its received and associated cost. On the other hand, it could be more suitable to your kit? If not, save the money and spend it on a better pair of headphones or if it’s a desk top solution, a better DAC.
Cheers