iBasso
iBasso DC04PRO Portable USB DAC/Amplifier
Best portable DAC for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity mobile sound.
Experience superior mobile audio with the iBasso DC04 PRO, a portable USB DAC/AMP designed for discerning listeners. It features dual CS43131 DAC chips and dual RT6863 amplifier chips, delivering powerful and exceptionally clear sound. Supporting high-resolution audio up to 32-Bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256, it ensures every detail is reproduced with fidelity. The DC04 PRO offers versatile connectivity with both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs. Its premium aluminum alloy and tempered glass unibody construction provides durability and a sophisticated look, making it the perfect audio companion for on-the-go listening.
$119.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 807
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-91%
Below average
DAC Chipset
43131
/ Dual Cirrus Logic CS
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-resolution sound and robust power for portable headphones
- Commuters needing battery efficiency and tactile, independent volume control
- Travelers prioritizing a durable, sleek, and pocket-friendly audio upgrade
Who should skip it
- Users relying on standard 3.5mm cables without additional adapters
- Listeners sensitive to device warmth during extended high-power sessions
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level or value-focused alternatives
Performance breakdown
Balanced Power Output
Drives demanding headphones with ease thanks to the robust dual-amp architecture.
Signal Clarity
Dual CS43131 chips deliver an exceptionally clean and noise-free audio floor.
Build Integrity
Aluminum and tempered glass construction feels premium and built for travel.
Decoding Versatility
Handles high-resolution PCM and DSD files with impressive digital precision.
Portability Factor
Ultra-lightweight design fits seamlessly into any mobile audio setup.
Control Precision
Physical volume buttons offer tactile, reliable adjustments on the go.
Key Specs
DAC Chipset
Dual Cirrus Logic CS43131
Amplifier Chipset
Dual RT6863
Output Power (3.5mm)
130mW @ 32Ω
Output Power (4.4mm Balanced)
280mW @ 32Ω
Frequency Response
20Hz-40kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (3.5mm)
123dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (4.4mm Balanced)
126dB
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (3.5mm)
0.00025%
Features
- Dual flagship DAC chips for superior audio
- Powerful dual independent amplifier chips
- High-resolution audio decoding support
- Versatile 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs
- Elegant and durable aluminum alloy build
- FPGA + KDS femtosecond oscillator for precision
- Precise physical volume controls
- Supports iBasso Mobile App for customization
What customers say
The iBasso DC04PRO earns high praise primarily for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Users consistently report clean, detailed audio with excellent dynamic range, noting a significant upgrade over standard phone outputs. The dual DAC architecture delivers powerful yet refined performance, easily managing demanding headphones while maintaining a very low noise floor, even with sensitive gear. The premium metal chassis inspires confidence in its durability. Added utility comes from physical volume controls and versatile dual headphone outputs. While the unit can run warm during extended use, this is generally accepted as a small trade-off for the superior technical performance and outstanding value it provides for serious portable listening.
Know before you buy
The 3.5mm output is a standard single-ended connection, while the 4.4mm output is a balanced connection. The 4.4mm balanced output provides significantly more power at 280mW compared to the 130mW of the 3.5mm port, making it better suited for driving demanding headphones.
The DC04 PRO is generally plug-and-play for most modern smartphones and computers. However, for advanced customization or specific high-resolution playback settings, you may want to use the iBasso Mobile App or download the dedicated USB DAC driver for Windows.
As a portable DAC/AMP, the DC04 PRO draws its power directly from your connected device via USB. While it is designed for efficiency, using the balanced output or driving high-impedance headphones will consume more power than standard playback.
The DC04 PRO features precise physical volume buttons on the side of the unit. This allows you to adjust your listening levels independently of your source device's software volume control.
Yes, it supports high-resolution audio decoding up to 32-Bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256. It is fully capable of handling the high-fidelity streams provided by services like Tidal and Qobuz.
With its dual amplifier chips and balanced output, the DC04 PRO is versatile enough to handle everything from sensitive in-ear monitors to most over-ear headphones. Its low output impedance ensures a clean, noise-free signal even with highly sensitive gear.
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