DragonFly Copper: AudioQuest's Most Powerful Portable DAC Yet
The AudioQuest DragonFly Copper is the latest addition to the DragonFly family of portable digital-to-analog converters (DACs). Priced at £229 / $250, it's designed to be a compact and powerful solution for upgrading laptop audio. Measuring just 12 x 19 x 57mm and weighing in at 25g, this tiny DAC is perfect for musicians and music enthusiasts on the go.
The DragonFly Copper boasts improved performance over its predecessors, thanks to a new 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC/headphone amp and better materials. This results in twice the output power of previous models, with reduced power consumption by around 25 per cent. According to AudioQuest, this also leads to lower noise and distortion.
The device's build quality is exceptional, with a copper-plated casing designed for improved RF (radio frequency) noise dissipation. It comes with a 3.5mm output for wired headphones, a USB-A connector, and a USB-C adapter called the DragonTail for added flexibility. The only minor complaint is that the new finish shows up fingerprints easily.
When it comes to file support, the DragonFly Copper can handle popular formats like MP3s, WAVs, and FLACs, but it tops out at 24-bit/96kHz PCM native resolution. This means that 24-bit/192kHz files will be downsampled, although this is still versatile enough for most users' needs.
Testing the DragonFly Copper revealed impressive results, with a significant boost in sound quality compared to plugging headphones directly into a laptop's 3.5mm port. The device excelled at reproducing dynamic range, detail, and texture, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to upgrade their desktop music experience.