AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt (Cobalt) is rated
out of
5 by
55.
AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt (Cobalt)
USB DAC/Headphone Amp
£299
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”This tiny USB DAC remains hard to beat.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ 2022 award-winner.Make the most of your DAC. View our hottest deals on interconnects.
USB DAC for the best sound on the move
With HiRes music files and streaming services sounding better than ever, it pays to get a DAC and headphone amp that does justice to them. Rather than using your smartphone or laptop’s headphone output, the DragonFly Cobalt plugs into the USB output, bypassing the built-in (and usually average quality) sound processing and headphone amp. Specifically designed for the purpose, a quality USB DAC gives a stunning upgrade in sound and makes the most of your music files and headphones.
An award-winner made better
The AudioQuest DragonFlies have been winning awards and leading the field for many years now. With a list of technical improvements, the DragonFly Cobalt is now better than ever. Thanks to the included DragonTail USB adaptor, it’s also more versatile – straight out of the box.
Advanced new DAC
Key to the Cobalt’s stunning sound is an advanced ESS ES9038Q2M DAC (Digital to Analogue Convertor). Highly regarded within the hi-fi world, this DAC uses precise filtering to deliver a smooth and natural sound. Simply put, you’ll hear subtle details in the music that your regular headphone output misses out on or glosses over.
Enhanced processor
At the heart of this tiny DAC is a powerful processor that’s 33% faster than before. Faster processing means more accuracy and less distortion. It also draws less current, helping to preserve your smartphone or laptop’s battery life.
Resists noise for reduced distortion
Revisions to the power-supply filter help the Cobalt resist interference from wi-fi, Bluetooth and mobile phone signal noise. Improved filtering reduces background noise, meaning you hear every tiny detail in the music.
Powers a wider range of headphones
Just like the award-winning DragonFly Red, the Cobalt benefits from a powerful 2.1 volt output. If you use larger headphones, with more powerful magnets, such as the Grado range or larger Beyers/Sennheisers/AKGs, then this USB DAC model is ideal. The higher output gives effortless dynamics, a powerful bass and ability to make the music 'come to life'.
Upgrade the sound from your Android smartphone
With a DragonTail (USB A – C adaptor) supplied, you can now take advantage of using the DragonFly with your Android smartphone. Simply plug the DragonTail between the phone's USB and the DragonFly DAC and you're good to go - audiophile quality sound from your smartphone!
If you want the best from your music on the move, you’ll love the AudioQuest DragonTail Cobalt.
Connectivity
Headphone Output
Yes - 3.5mm
USB Input
1 x Type A for PC/MAC
General
Manufacturer's Warranty
2 years
Features
DAC
ESS ES9038Q2M
Dimensions
Dimensions WxHxD (mm)
58 x 19 x 12
Accessories
Included Cables
DragonTail USB C - USB A Convertor
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Baldybaz from
Audioquest dragonfly cobalt.
I purchased the dragonfly cobalt a month ago. An easy plug and play product wired from tablet to amplifier with great results.i have patchy WiFi and struggle with tech. A perfect solution & sounds better than Bluetooth from 6000a & qobuz. Really helpful & knowledgeable staff.
Date published: 2023-05-28
Rated 5 out of
5
by
M29E2 from
Vastly improved sound from phone, tablet and PC
I upgraded from a Cambridge Audio DacMagic XS, which had done good service but new headphones showed up some limitations. The Audioquest Dragonfly Cobalt has revealed so much more in what I listen to. The instruments are separate and the soundfield more 3D. A recommended upgrade if using mobile devices or a standard PC soundcard.
Date published: 2023-04-12
Rated 3 out of
5
by
CunningRunner from
Unsure
In writing this, I am conscious that my experience and perspective is not as positive as the vast majority of other reviews about this product on this site. Perhaps it is just me and or other components in my audio chain. Anyway, I can only share things as I have found them, focusing on operation and audio quality. The audio chain in which the DAC sits is iPad Mini 5, Apple Camera Adapter 3, Bose QC wired headphones utilising Ultrafast broadband and playing Apple Music and Amazon Music Unlimited (both Hi Res sources). Operation is confusing, so I am not really sure what sampling rate I am playing. With Apple Music, the LED correctly is green at 44.1, moving to light blue at 96. However, with Amazon the LED incorrectly is light blue at 44.1 (perhaps the Richer Sounds team could explain this anomaly). Listening-wise, I have found many tracks that are vibrant via the headphone socket feeling flat and lacking in punch through the DAC (this seems to accord with the What Hifi review of the DAC which identified a slight loss of fluidity). Also, I have found that the demands on the battery to be higher than expected. Anyway, it is still early days, so I can only hope that my experience improves. I noticed in large uplift in performance when I connected my tower-style PC to a DAC MagicPlus on my desktop, so fingers crossed I get to feel the same way in my mobile environment in due course.
Date published: 2023-04-11
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Kevin 2112 from
I am impressed.
I bought the dragonfly cobalt a few weeks ago, I mostly listen to tidal, and what a difference, it makes.
I connected it to my ruark speaker's via laptop, and I am well impressed.
Date published: 2023-02-20
Rated 5 out of
5
by
KimC from
Dragonfly Cobalt
The effect of this DAC on sound quality has exceeded my expectations.
Date published: 2023-02-19
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Marusens from
Excellent product thank you!
Am very happy excellent product recommended every people who love muzic thank you!
Date published: 2023-02-08
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Sdelep from
Great little thing
I bought this 2 weeks ago and 1 month after buying a pair of Meze Classic. The headphones were a big improvement on my Sony (for 100£ more) but having them boosted by the dragonfly cobalt made such a big change from the black one. I can hear instruments really separately and even some things I never heard before. One of the perks is the dragon tail which allows me to use the device on my phone and on the go (tbh I use the black when I am out). Great advice from people at RS Romford, not encouraging me to spend for the sake of it. That is also why I go there when I need something. If you consider it, go for it!
Date published: 2023-02-07
Rated 5 out of
5
by
ANDYLANDY L from
Excellent sound and simple device
Bought this a few weeks ago and am delighted with how I can now listen to Tidal Master Quality tracks via my iPhone 13. Advice and help in store ( Kingston ) was great and much appreciated !
Date published: 2023-01-18
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