AudioQuest DragonFly Red USB DAC
High-Resolution Sound. Remarkable Simplicity.
The AudioQuest DragonFly Red is a compact USB digital-to-analog converter, preamplifier, and headphone amplifier designed to enhance music playback from computers, smartphones, and tablets. Featuring a 32-bit ESS ES9016 DAC and a powerful 2.1-volt output, DragonFly Red delivers detailed, dynamic sound through headphones, powered speakers, or a complete home audio system. Its 64-bit bit-perfect digital volume control and asynchronous USB data transfer help preserve musical detail and timing accuracy, while native playback support up to 24-bit/96kHz and MQA rendering make it a versatile solution for everyday listening and high-resolution music streaming.
Key Features
- 32-Bit ESS ES9016 DAC:
Utilizes a high-performance ESS Sabre DAC with a minimum-phase fast roll-off filter to deliver detailed, dynamic, and naturally engaging sound from digital music sources.
- Integrated Headphone Amplifier:
Incorporates an ESS Sabre 9601 headphone amplifier, providing a 2.1-volt output designed to drive a wide range of headphones, including many higher-impedance and less-sensitive models.
- 64-Bit Bit-Perfect Digital Volume Control:
Employs a sophisticated digital volume control integrated into the DAC chip. System volume adjustments control the DragonFly Red's output while maintaining high-resolution digital volume processing.
- High-Resolution Audio Playback:
Supports native digital audio playback up to 24-bit/96kHz, accommodating standard CD-quality music and compatible high-resolution audio files.
- MQA Rendering:
Supports MQA rendering for compatible MQA audio streams and files, with the indicator LED displaying purple during MQA playback.
- Asynchronous USB Technology:
Uses AudioQuest's StreamLength asynchronous USB code to manage audio data timing independently of the host device's clocking, helping reduce jitter and maintain reliable digital audio transfer.
- USB Plug-and-Play Operation:
Connects directly to compatible USB-A ports without requiring a dedicated audio driver, simplifying installation on supported Windows and macOS computers.
- Versatile Audio Connectivity:
The USB-A plug receives digital audio, while the 3.5 mm stereo analog output connects directly to headphones or, using a suitable cable, to powered speakers, preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, and AV receivers.
- Computer and Mobile Device Compatibility:
Works with compatible Windows and Apple computers, as well as supported iOS and Android devices. Mobile devices may require a suitable USB or Lightning adapter, purchased separately.
- LED Audio Status Indicator:
The multicolor LED indicates operating status and playback sample rate, allowing users to identify the incoming digital audio format at a glance.
- Compact Portable Design:
Its lightweight USB stick-style construction makes it easy to carry and use with a laptop, desktop computer, or compatible mobile device without requiring an external power supply.
Feature Highlights
- 32-bit ESS ES9016 DAC with minimum-phase fast roll-off filter.
- ESS Sabre 9601 headphone amplifier with 2.1 V output.
- 64-bit bit-perfect digital volume control.
- Native high-resolution audio playback up to 24-bit/96kHz.
- MQA rendering capability.
- StreamLength asynchronous USB technology for accurate digital audio timing.
- USB-A input and 3.5 mm stereo analog output.
- Compatible with supported Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.
- Compact, portable, USB-powered design.
Technical Specifications
- Product Type:
USB Digital-to-Analog Converter, preamplifier, and headphone amplifier.
- DAC Chip:
32-bit ESS ES9016 with minimum-phase fast roll-off filter.
- Headphone Amplifier:
ESS Sabre 9601.
- Native Audio Resolution:
Up to 24-bit/96kHz.
- Supported Sample Rates:
44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, and 96kHz.
- Output Voltage:
2.1 V.
- Volume Control:
64-position, 64-bit bit-perfect digital volume control.
- Digital Input:
USB Type-A male connector.
- Analog Output:
3.5 mm stereo analog output.
- Digital Audio Transfer:
StreamLength asynchronous USB technology.
- MQA Support:
MQA rendering.
- Microcontroller:
Microchip PIC32MX.
- Desktop Compatibility:
Windows 7 and later, Apple macOS 10.6.8 and later, and Linux (manufacturer technical support is not provided for Linux).
- Mobile Compatibility:
Compatible with supported Apple iOS and Android devices. Appropriate adapters may be required.
- Power Supply:
USB bus-powered; no separate power supply required.
- Dimensions (H × W × L):
12 × 19 × 62 mm.
- Weight:
Approximately 22 g.
- LED Indicator:
Red: Standby; Green: 44.1kHz; Blue: 48kHz; Amber: 88.2kHz; Magenta: 96kHz; Purple: MQA playback.
Additional Information