I agree it is a truly amazing sounding dongle dac. On the level or above mid-range DAPs. Worth noting that there is no App for iPhone users. Also, I have had issues with noise from my iPhone being audible. Not sure if this is a shielding issue. Not had the issue with previous dongle. A bit of a pain, but the Elite sounds so fantastic, I am putting up with it.
I was considering this one but went with an Onix XI1. It will only be available in a few weeks but if it was not already on your radar, it might warrant a look. I saw a reviewer flat out say that he preferred it to the DC Elite.
I also have a Galaxy S24 Ultra and am currently using a THX Onyx to power a Focal Utopia and He1000 Stealth. Do you think it would be worthwhile to get the DC Elite? I'm afraid I wont hear much of an improvement. Also, it looks like the ibasso app was updated a few days ago on the google play store in case that brought it up to par with the pc version. I liked and subscribed because you seem like a pro. Thanks for the review!
Well, I have no experience with the Onyx. I just looked it up in fact. So I couldn't tell you if you would hear a difference for sure. I definitely hear a difference with the DC Elite compared to other dongles I've used. Full sound and it tames the treble slightly. I would think you would notice that with the HE1000, for instance. Its a jump to make in price though. So, if you have a chance to demo it or return to who ever you pick it up from...then that may be worth it. I appreciate the sub too. As for me being a Pro - nice of you to say so. I certainly don't view myself as that! :)
@Skeeb23 If it's a noticeable improvement, the price isn't a concern. You get a variety of opinions on how much certain things matter in this hobby, and a lot of people in this space have no integrity whatsoever. I'm sure you notice this in the community because it's a frequent topic. I immediately got the sense you were more knowledgeable and distinguished for what it's worth. If it's a big step up, and that seems to be the consensus from other critics, then I'll go for it. Could you elaborate more on how this dongle drives more demanding headphones despite it's stated specifications? Ibasso doesn't seem to highlight this feature in their marketing material, and more power is what I was initially chasing when looking for another dongle.
Tough for me to answer you as I've not listened to very many high-end portables. From what I have listened to, I would say the Mass Kobo 475 (heard at CanJam) or the Enleum HPA 23RM. The latter is more traditional in design. Both had excellent sound quality.
Have you tried the Woo Audio Tube Mini? If so, how would they compare? The Tube Mini is 1 W @ 8 Ohms, so it's not ideal for IEMs or overly-sensitive headphones.
Yes, I've done a video on my channel on the Tube Mini. I also bought it recently. I wouldn't really call it a comparison as much as I would a contrast. Tube Mini is really specialized for headphones, especially taking advantage of higher impedance devices. It gives that tube flavor while still delivering a detailed presentation of music. Where as the DC Elite is a full sounding dongle that can be used for pretty much all IEM's and most headphones.
im using the ibasso dc03pro, which costs about one sixth the cost of the dcelite. the ibasso dco3pro only has a 3.5mm plug, but coupled with my samsung phone/ipad pro listening on thieaudio prestige ltd iem’s, sounds excellent and is very portable. i wonder how much better the dcelite would really be? the extra cost is partly explained by having an expensive volume control, a bass booster, bigger casing, the 4.4mm plug and extra chips. assuming the balanced output itself makes almost no difference to sound quality and i dont need it, is there any real reason to buy it in terms of its sound quality?
@@nostalgicjamadar8076 I do think Mojo2 edges this one out for a few factors. It's over a sound is more balanced and also very full. A bit better staging. The Mojo2 also has more versatility. With EQ, DAC capability, dual outputs and cross feed. The DC Elite will entice for those wanting things a bit more simple (no learning curve with the different buttons on the Mojo2) and it can be used as a DDC. DC elite is also pocket friendly, where as the Mojo2 is not Both are great options imo.
@@Skeeb23 I find that the DC-Elite has a better soundstage than the Mojo 2 and also Like the cleaner layering. So IMO, I prefer the DC-Elite and if you give the Elite its own power, with a Y cable for a small external battery, then it really takes off and is worth mentioning.
From my ears, DC elite if you want analytical and listen more to modern music genres. Mojo 2 is still analytical, but its primary purpose is to enjoy the music in all genres.
Nice review and love the channel…only problem With dc elite is the 450-500 price tag … you’re getting up there in price… I love and own the RU7 …. But you get up in that 500 dollar range the Ifi gryphon although much bigger is just so good for my tastes …. Able to drive all my zmfs to sound great and all iems…just has every option imaginable … I also hate using apps to control Options on dongles I’m more of a Plug n play person and give me a screen too! I don’t like the lack of screen with dc elite
I get all of that. The sound quality coming from the DC Elite won ne over though. It won't be for everyone and that's the nature of the hobby we all love.
For listening, sure. Not for use with a mic though. If you just want a PC sound card though, I'd probably look to find something a bit more made for that use case. What use case are you looking for as a pc sound card?
@@1as130 you're misunderstanding the drive ability in general. The Noire will be easier to drive over all over the E3. Pretty close, but E3 will be slightly more demanding. You'll be fine.
