The cheapest way to get the DragonFly quality
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AudioQuest’s DragonFly Black (referred to on the back of the device as v1.5) is a more portable version of its predecessors – not in terms of its dimensions, which are exactly the same as the previous ones, but in compatibility.
AudioQuest claims the DAC’s Microchip microcontroller draws 77 per cent less current than in previous versions, which makes a more appealing case to use it with Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. The older model was particularly power hungry and would therefore drain your battery much quicker.
You will need to purchase a separate adapter for portable devices, though, which could explain the DragonFly’s more humble price tag. You’ll need an on-the-go cable with a micro USB connector for Android devices (AudioQuest does its own version called DragonTail), while Apple’s camera adapter (£25) should allow the DragonFly to play ball with iPhones.
It’s worth remembering, though, that not all Android devices allow audio out of their USB connection, so it’s definitely worth checking compatibility beforehand.
As accessories go, AudioQuest also sells a normal USB extender cable (also, confusingly called DragonTail) in case the DAC physically blocks any neighbouring USB ports on your laptop.
There is also an improved 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC chip too, and a desktop application through which the DragonFly can receive software updates.
The rest of the 1.2 version’s genetic make-up is retained: the headphone amp and analogue volume control, and the LEDs that light up in different colours according to file size playback – green for 44.1kHz files, blue for 48kHz, amber for 88.2kHz and magenta for 96kHz.
Sadly that’s where it ends, as playback is limited to 96kHz, although it can play higher file sizes (these are first downsampled by your computer), and there is no DSD support.
Dynamic impetus
As we stick both new and old DragonFly DACs into our MacBook Air, plug in our AKG Y50s and load up our hi-res music library, it’s clear their sonic differences are pronounced.
Though clearly cut from the same cloth – the v1.2’s strict balance, rhythmic intelligence and joie de vivre reveals itself in its successor –
