AudioQuest
AudioQuest Dragonfly USB Headphone Amplifier
Best portable upgrade for mobile listeners seeking high-fidelity sound quality.
Unlock the full potential of your digital music collection with the AudioQuest DragonFly Black v1.5 USB DAC and headphone amplifier. This compact device features an ESS 32-bit Sabre chip and a 1.2-volt output, ensuring bit-perfect playback for stunning sound quality from any laptop, tablet, or smartphone. It supports high-resolution audio formats, including MQA, providing a substantial upgrade over standard computer audio. Designed for convenience, the DragonFly Black offers seamless plug-and-play functionality and wide compatibility, making it perfect for audiophiles on the go who want an immersive high-fidelity experience anywhere.
$149.37
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
255
/ 733
#255 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-89%
Below average
DAC Chip
9010
/ ESS ES with minimum-phase filter
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking superior clarity from standard digital devices
- Commuters needing high-fidelity audio in a pocket-sized package
- Music lovers using high-impedance headphones on the go
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level pricing
- Minimalists frustrated by extra dongles and adapters
- Mobile users concerned about smartphone battery longevity
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
The ESS Sabre chip delivers a significant sonic upgrade over standard outputs.
Portability
Ultra-compact form factor fits easily into any pocket or travel bag.
Ease of Use
Seamless plug-and-play functionality makes high-fidelity audio accessible to everyone.
Device Compatibility
Works effortlessly across PCs, tablets, and mobile devices with minimal setup.
Driving Power
The 1.2-volt output handles most efficient headphones with impressive clarity.
Format Support
Native MQA decoding ensures you get the most from high-resolution files.
Key Specs
DAC Chip
ESS ES9010 with minimum-phase filter
Max Bit Depth
32-bit
Output Voltage
1.2 volts
Dimensions
62mm (l) x 19mm (w) x 12mm (h)
Connectivity
USB input
Output Types
Headphone and Fixed line-out
Power Supply
USB Bus Powered
Compatibility
Windows 7+, Apple 10.6.8+, iOS 5+, Android 5.0+
Features
- USB stick-sized DAC and amplifier
- Plays all music files from MP3 to high-res
- Drives headphones directly with 1.2V output
- Supports MQA decoding natively
- Fixed output feeds preamp or AV receiver
- Ensures digital timing integrity via asynchronous transfer
- Compatible with PCs, iOS, and Android devices
- Features 32-bit ESS 9010 DAC chip
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly view the AudioQuest Dragonfly as a benchmark portable DAC Amp, primarily praising its immediate and substantial upgrade to audio fidelity. It consistently delivers improved clarity, enhanced detail, and a wider soundstage compared to standard computer converters. Its exceptional portability, featuring a convenient USB stick form factor, makes it ideal for travel and desktop use, offering a true plug and play audiophile experience. While some note the price is premium, the core appeal remains its ability to deliver high quality, high resolution audio in a remarkably small and reliable package. This device is considered an essential investment for elevating digital music listening without added bulk.
Know before you buy
Yes, it is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. Note that you will likely need a camera adapter for iPhones or an OTG (On-The-Go) USB adapter for Android phones to connect the device.
Absolutely. You can set the DragonFly to a fixed output mode, which allows you to connect it directly to an AV receiver or a powered speaker system as a high-quality DAC.
No, it is a true plug-and-play device. It uses asynchronous transfer to manage digital timing, so it works immediately upon connection to your computer or mobile device without the need for manual driver installations.
The 1.2-volt output is designed to comfortably drive most standard headphones and sensitive in-ear monitors. If you are using high-impedance, power-hungry audiophile headphones, you might find it lacks the headroom required for optimal performance.
Yes, it supports native MQA decoding. This allows you to enjoy high-resolution streaming from services like Tidal that utilize MQA technology for a more accurate representation of the original studio recording.
The DragonFly is entirely USB bus-powered, meaning it draws its power directly from the device it is plugged into. While it is efficient, you may notice a slight increase in battery consumption on your phone or laptop during extended listening sessions.
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