Questyle M15i Portable DAC/Amplifier
Best portable DAC for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound on the go.
Elevate your mobile audio with the Questyle M15i, a portable DAC/Amplifier designed for discerning listeners. It bypasses your device's internal audio, leveraging the flagship ESS ES9281AC DAC and Questyle's proprietary SiP Current Mode Amplification for exceptionally pure sound. Experience high-resolution audio up to DSD512 with ultra-low distortion and an incredibly quiet background. The M15i intelligently adapts to headphones ranging from 8Ω to 600Ω, ensuring optimal performance. Its elegant design, featuring a Kunlun glass window, makes high-fidelity sound accessible wherever you go.
$249.00
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Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 807
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-82%
Below average
DAC Chip
9281
/ ESS ESAC
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking pristine, distortion-free sound quality
- Listeners using power-hungry, high-end balanced headphones
- Commuters needing a premium, plug-and-play mobile audio solution
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level portable audio
- Mobile users prioritizing long smartphone battery life
- Purists who prefer physical hardware volume adjustment
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Current Mode Amplification delivers an exceptionally clean and transparent sound profile.
Drive Capability
Intelligent impedance matching handles everything from sensitive IEMs to demanding headphones.
Build Quality
CNC aluminum and Kunlun glass create a premium, durable aesthetic.
Portability
Compact form factor fits effortlessly into any mobile audio setup.
Device Compatibility
Apple MFi certification ensures seamless, plug-and-play integration with iOS devices.
Noise Floor
Ultra-low distortion provides a pitch-black background for critical listening sessions.
Key Specs
DAC Chip
ESS ES9281AC
Max PCM Support
768 kHz (32 bits)
Max DSD Support
DSD512
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N)
0.0003%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)
< -130dB
Impedance Matching Range
8Ω to 600Ω
Dimensions
56.9 x 20.2 x 9.5 mm
Material
CNC anodized black aluminum alloy
Features
- Flagship ESS DAC for high-resolution audio
- Questyle's Current Mode Amplification
- Ultra-low distortion and noise floor
- Intelligent gain for 8Ω-600Ω headphones
- Elegant Kunlun glass window design
- Driver-free plug-and-play
- Apple MFi Certified for iOS devices
- Automatic 2 Vrms Line Out mode
What customers say
The Questyle M15i is highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality and driving power. Users consistently praise the pristine, detailed audio reproduction, noting its remarkably neutral and transparent signature. A key strength is its formidable ability to effortlessly power demanding headphones through both 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs. The build quality feels premium, matching its high-end status. While priced higher, serious listeners feel the performance justifies the investment, delivering desktop grade fidelity in a portable unit. It is celebrated as a top tier choice for those prioritizing sonic excellence and versatile power for their portable audio setup.
Know before you buy
Yes, the M15i is Apple MFi certified, meaning it is fully compatible with iOS devices. It works seamlessly with iPhones using a Lightning or USB-C connection without requiring additional drivers.
The M15i is designed to handle a wide range of headphones from 8Ω to 600Ω. It features intelligent gain adjustment that automatically detects your headphone's impedance to provide the optimal power output.
No, the device is completely plug-and-play. Simply connect it to your smartphone, tablet, or computer via USB, and it will be recognized automatically by your operating system.
Current Mode Amplification is a proprietary technology that allows the M15i to achieve ultra-low distortion and a very quiet noise floor. This results in a cleaner, more transparent sound compared to standard voltage-mode amplifiers.
Yes, the M15i features an automatic 2 Vrms Line Out mode. When it detects a high-impedance load, it switches to line-out mode, allowing you to connect it to an external amplifier or active speakers.
The M15i supports high-resolution audio formats, including PCM up to 768 kHz/32-bit and DSD up to DSD512. This ensures you can play virtually any high-fidelity file format currently available.
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$249