- Ultra-affordable USB-C to headphone adapter with DAC
- 32-bit/384kHz Hi-Res Audio support in a tiny body
- About $26 – but we're waiting on a global release
Getting the best sound from your smartphone can be challenging: while the best wired headphones provide superior audio quality, most phones lack a headphone jack. Fortunately, there's a solution: the dongle.
The newly launched Qlink-C from Questyle promises to enhance your audio experience without a hefty price tag. Although it hasn't yet appeared on the brand's Amazon US page, it has debuted in Japan for approximately $26, with hopes for availability in the US soon.
While dongles are typically used for headphones, they can also connect to any device with a standard aux input.
At this price point, you won't achieve an elite audiophile experience or enough power for the most demanding headphones, but switching from compressed Bluetooth to uncompressed wired audio will yield a noticeable improvement on decent headphones—especially with the Hi-Res Audio-capable DAC at its core.
Questyle Qlink-C: What Does This Dongle Do?
Questyle is known for catering to various audio enthusiasts, offering products ranging from budget-friendly options like the QCC Dongle Pro for wireless headphones to premium devices like the Sigma Pro amp and DAC.
The Qlink-C may be budget-friendly, but it doesn't compromise on specifications. Its CX31993 DAC supports Hi-Res Audio up to 32-bit/384kHz and boasts a signal-to-noise ratio of 100dB. Compact and lightweight, measuring just 12cm (4.7 inches) and weighing only 4.5g (0.17 oz), it is designed for durability with a braided cable that can withstand 15,000 bending cycles.
Questyle faces the challenge of distinguishing itself in a crowded market of portable DACs, where affordable alternatives from brands like UGREEN and Moondrop offer similar specifications at competitive prices.