iBasso DC04 Pro Premium CS43131 Portable USB DAC/AMP

iBasso has recently launched an updated version of its classic DC04 Portable USB DAC/AMP, called the DC04 Pro. The original DC04 received positive feedback from users globally in 2021, but some people pointed out the lack of a 4.4mm headphone output as a drawback. The new DC04 Pro addresses this issue by featuring both a 4.4mm balanced and a 3.5mm single-ended headphone output. In addition, the device comes with dual RT6863 high-performance amplification chips, a low-noise LDO power supply, improved power consumption, cleaner audio signal decoding, and high-power output. Overall, the iBasso DC04 Pro is specifically designed to enhance your portable audio listening experience straight from your smartphone or tablet. DC04 is introduced for 119$, which is a competitive price point for USB DAC/AMPs now with many models around the price. But iBasso has always garnered a lot of interest with its “DC” series.

The DC04 device is equipped with a high-end Dual DAC Chipset that comprises two CS43131 DAC chips, which are highly reliable and trusted by Cirrus Logics. These chips enable the device to support high-resolution audio signal decoding, delivering crisp sound quality. The DC04 Pro supports all popular audio formats and can decode 32-Bit/384kHz PCM and native DSD256 signals. The Dual DAC Chipset incorporates Master HiFi™ technology, which provides exceptional sound decoding performance with minimal distortion and high SNR and DNR performance. To ensure an accurate clock reference for the DAC, iBasso has integrated a KDS femtosecond crystal oscillator and an in-house developed FPGA architecture, reducing phase noise and producing a cleaner and more precise sound signal decoding output.

The iBasso DC04 features a high-power amplification circuit that comprises dual RT6863 amp chips. It boasts a 4-way fully balanced amplification circuit that produces a robust output of up to 280mW@32Ω of load. The device operates at a 10V voltage swing and can deliver an output current of up to 100mA. Additionally, the DC04 Pro comes with dual headphone output options – a 3.5mm single-ended and a 4.4mm balanced headphone output. The device’s premium finish is complemented by a lightweight all-aluminum CNC machined chassis and tempered glass panels. The DC04 Pro supports different devices such as Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops, and PCs and features a detachable cable design. This makes the DC04 Pro a perfect solution for people who wish to carry their Hi-Res musical experience in their pocket. The device launched for just $119, making it an interesting Portable USB DAC/AMP option.