UPDATE NOV 2017: We have made a tweak to the latest batch to improve compatibility with Android. This removes the "skipping" issues previosuly reported with some phone.
UPDATE NOV 2016: Android 6.X and 7X introduced a bug when this DAC is used with some phones (Nexus, Samsung). It works if you put it in Airplane mode. The problem doesn't occur on computers (Macbooks etc).
Also available with USB Type-C plug, see here.
Background
Our original Android DAC was the first commercially available dedicated Android DAC when it was put on the market in 2013. We are now happy to introduce a new Android model, made with the superior ESS Sabre ES9018K2M chip and 9601 headphone amp. It supports up to 96kHz/24bit, and responds to the phones up/down volume keys. It draws up to 60mA power which is a little more than the older Android DAC, but still very low and much lower than many other DAC that requires 200-300mA.
It also has an Improved microUSB plug that gets a good grip and doesn’t slip out of the phone easily.
Compatibility
Works with Android 5.X and 6.X (and future updates), and some 4.X devices. Just plug it and all sound will come from the DAC, no settings on special program required. See update above.
Sound
The high-end 9018 DAC chip combined with the Sabre headphone driver give a very detailed sound with a great soundstage. The noise is very low and can be used with also the most sensitive headphones. It is tested to work and sound great with Audio Technica ath-m50 (38 ohm, 99dB), Sennheiser hd650 (300 ohm, 103 dB), IEM: JH Audio JH-13 (28 ohm, 116dB).
Features
Performance
Case
This DAC 9018 is also the first DAC to use our new case. We have made a simple case at minimal added cost compared to our existing generic case.