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.
You'd have to have something that utilizes DSD for it to work. If you use Roon, for instance, on the server and up sample to DSD, it should work. Or have your own DSD files. Also if you use it as a DDC.
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.
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?
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.
I do need more works, if you can provide me some opportunities, it will be nice, I'm a freelance logo designer and been trying to look for more works, need to get myself a new laptop as soon as possible, MDR-Z1R afterwards if possible! :-)
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?
@@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.
I think ibasso dc elite is an awesome dac amp but for me my mojo 2 is still the king.. Mojo 2 is more robust, has 4 inputs, has lossless EQ, also the predecessor mojo is tried & tested, also the brand name Chord is much more reputable brand & MADE IN UNITED KINGDOM.. also ibasso dc elite is not compatible with iphone because it doesn't have ios app support.. I only use iphone as my main apple music player..
@@NetvoTV It does not have the uac app for apple device.. & also u need windows pc to update the dc alite to the latest frimware.. but I can use the dc elite to all my apple device but the only problem is the software support.. only android & windows are supported with uac & firmware upgrade.. mojo 2 is more universal & the sound quality is just equal because mojo 2 have dsp EQ to match the sound of the dc elite.. also the mojo have more input options & volume is louder than dc elite.. the nice thing on dc elite is no battery no charging needed & it is much more compact & lightweight, soundstage is a little bit wider the details on high freq are a little bit clearer & detailed but the mojo punch more in mids & bass.. drums on mojo2 is livelier & more engaging but the dc elite also is punchy & lively but not like the mojo2 offers.. so the verdict isboth have different flavor & have pros & cons.. for me they are both my favorite dac amp & they are my endgame dac amps.. dc elite for on the go then mojo2 for desktop & sometimes also on the go..
@@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.
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.
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 use it with an iPhone 13. No problems at all. Sounds great.
Awesome review, hopefully you will get an ifi Go Bar Kensei in for review.
Nice review Ryan! As always 😃
Si tuvieras que eligir entre Cayin ru7 y Ibasso dc elite cual seria?
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'll add it to my radar. I'm always on the lurk for other things to try.
I just bought this but how do I turn on the DSD (blue)? It just cycles from White to Green.
You'd have to have something that utilizes DSD for it to work. If you use Roon, for instance, on the server and up sample to DSD, it should work. Or have your own DSD files. Also if you use it as a DDC.
Did you hear the ifi go kensei? If so then can you give a comparison?
Fantastic review Ryan! Please can you do a review on the iBasso PB5 Osprey because it sounds amazing with ZMF Headphones 🎧 🙏
The PB5 looks very intriguing. I've got a full list of things to do, but I'll add it to a possibility for the future.
Hi which one would recommend between dc-elite and dc07 pro if dc-elite is 100 then how much will you score dc07?
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.
how would u compare it to the "mojo 2"..? i would love to know before i drop 500 bones on a dongle... please & thank-u...
Great review Ryan!
As someone who has reviewed quite a few dongle DAC, I wonder how it compares to my favourite dongle DAC. 🙂
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?
l cırrious about that as an have a inasso dc04 pro
Hi, does this unit is better than Chord Mojo2 or Ifi audio GoBar Kensei ?
What is better between those 3 models ?
I went from Mojo 2 to DC Elite and the Elite wins on all levels IMO.
Nice review, more comparisons would be nice tho ;)
What do you think is the best high-end portable amp if money is not an issue? Can you please give me some options.
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.
@@Skeeb23 right, thanks for your help.
If money isn't an issue, can I design a logo or an artwork for you to help me afford a Sony MDR-Z1R? :-)
@@NetvoTV 😆😆
I do need more works, if you can provide me some opportunities, it will be nice, I'm a freelance logo designer and been trying to look for more works, need to get myself a new laptop as soon as possible, MDR-Z1R afterwards if possible! :-)
Can it be used as pc sound card?
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?
@@Skeeb23 just to output pc sound to headphones
I just bought it but have not got it in yet, took it over the mojo because of the 4.4,
Comparison with mojo 2 ?
@@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.
I think ibasso dc elite is an awesome dac amp but for me my mojo 2 is still the king.. Mojo 2 is more robust, has 4 inputs, has lossless EQ, also the predecessor mojo is tried & tested, also the brand name Chord is much more reputable brand & MADE IN UNITED KINGDOM.. also ibasso dc elite is not compatible with iphone because it doesn't have ios app support.. I only use iphone as my main apple music player..
Where you find the info it doesn't compatible with iPhone, I didn't see that,
@@NetvoTV It does not have the uac app for apple device.. & also u need windows pc to update the dc alite to the latest frimware.. but I can use the dc elite to all my apple device but the only problem is the software support.. only android & windows are supported with uac & firmware upgrade.. mojo 2 is more universal & the sound quality is just equal because mojo 2 have dsp EQ to match the sound of the dc elite.. also the mojo have more input options & volume is louder than dc elite.. the nice thing on dc elite is no battery no charging needed & it is much more compact & lightweight, soundstage is a little bit wider the details on high freq are a little bit clearer & detailed but the mojo punch more in mids & bass.. drums on mojo2 is livelier & more engaging but the dc elite also is punchy & lively but not like the mojo2 offers.. so the verdict isboth have different flavor & have pros & cons.. for me they are both my favorite dac amp & they are my endgame dac amps.. dc elite for on the go then mojo2 for desktop & sometimes also on the go..
does this power aeon 2 noire well?
It can power the E3 fine, so yes, it would.
@@Skeeb23 the noires are 13ohm vs e3 27ohm so it’s a big difference in current demand
@@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.
@@Skeeb23 aite then, checking this baby out
@@1as130 let me know your thoughts after you get it!
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.
Naa... My old skol Q5S TC way better long time ago noobs.. Ha4.. Welcome2.. Peace!
What is your obsession with commenting noobs on all the videos? Disagreements are welcomed in this hobby, but your way of doing it is not.
Wtf are you even talking about dude
Post your Q5S review so we can check it out! 🙂
I think hes on some medicaments and when he skips doses, he immediately goes on YT commenting on most audio reviews.
Sorry, Q5S TC has Extincted ops discontinued Meanings even IF u r a millionaire U can't buy it..ha4 welcome all noobs .Peace2!