The ddHiFi TC44A review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t receive monetary or any other kind of compensation and I don’t use affiliate links.
The price of the ddHiFi TC44A is $81 and you can order it from here.
ddHiFi TC44A
Although ddHiFi is not a particularly large company, they have gained significant recognition within the personal audio community for their production of exceptional audio adapters. These adapters, such as the ddHiFi TC35B and the newly introduced ddHiFi TC44A, are highly sought after due to their rarity and superior quality. The ddHiFi TC44A, for instance, is a compact USB DAC dongle that can be connected to a type-C port and delivers an enhanced audio experience through its 4.4mm jack output.
The CS43131 DAC/amp chip, well-known for its performance, is utilized in the ddHiFi TC44A. This chip supports native DSD256 and can decode PCM up to 384kHz/32bit. The ddHiFi TC44A is plug and play with Android and Windows OS and provides a power output of 30mW/32Ω. While the 4.4mm output is not truly balanced, it serves as a convenient built-in adapter for users with earphones featuring 4.4mm plugs, eliminating the need for additional adapters. Unlike conventional 4.4mm terminated devices that tend to be large, the ddHiFi TC44A incorporates a brand new process structure, resulting in a compact appearance for the 4.4mm socket.
The USB-C plug is also detached from the motherboard and linked using high purity OCC wire, which is soldered with lead-free silver-containing soldering tin. Regrettably, due to the limited space in the compact chassis, it was not possible to include a sampling rate indicator LED.
A version with a lighting plug is also available.
Build quality and appearance
The ddHiFi TC44A boasts a sleek and stylish design, crafted from CNC aluminum alloy and adorned with a striking black and blue finish. Its metallic texture perfectly complements the aesthetics of modern smartphones.
With its minimalistic design, the ddHiFi TC44A exudes a sense of luxury while maintaining a sturdy and long-lasting build.
Measuring at a compact size of 19.5x21x12mm and weighing only 5.5g, this USB DAC dongle is the epitome of portability. Additionally, it features a 4.4mm plug, making it the most lightweight and compact option available.
Power output and noise
The ddHiFi TC44A’s power output is in line with what you would expect from a single CS43131 chip, making it well-suited for driving a wide range of earphones with regular to high sensitivity. Among the earphones I have predominantly used, the Penon Vortex and the FiiO FH15 are notable examples.
The ddHiFi TC44A boasts a minimal noise floor and exhibits resistance against electromagnetic interference, at least in conjunction with the phone I utilized. While it does generate a slight warmth during operation, it remains power-efficient and won’t excessively deplete your phone’s battery life.
Listening impressions
The CS43131, a popular DAC chip commonly found in many entry level USB DAC dongles, contributes to the overall sound signature of the ddHiFi TC44A. Despite its small size, this DAC offers a musical and engaging experience with impressive technical capabilities, leaving nothing to be desired when compared to its competitors. Its frequency response is balanced and linear, resulting in a crystal clear and open sound with remarkable transparency and detail retrieval. The music is presented with a convincingly natural timbre. It seems likely that ddHiFi has opted for the default, fast roll-off filter, but it would be beneficial if there was a compatible application that allowed users to choose from the five embedded filters of the CS43131, including a NOS option.
Regardless of whether it is NOS or not, the ddHiFi TC44A is a DAC that offers an enhanced low end and a bass that is powerful, quick, and dynamic, while maintaining excellent control and definition. The overall sound is more robust and substantial compared to other DACs based on ESS technology, not just in the low end but across the entire frequency spectrum. The mid range is delightful, lively, and transparent, allowing vocals and solo instruments to be clearly articulated. The DAC also delivers a wide range of harmonics and a natural sound, resulting in a highly realistic and musically engaging presentation.
The high frequencies are stretched out and give a sense of resolution with abundant energy, while still maintaining a smooth and controlled sound without sounding overly artificial or digital. The ddHiFi TC44A possesses a relaxed and effortless quality in its presentation, providing a pleasant listening experience without compromising too much on technicalities and the retrieval of details.
The soundstage is spacious and breezy, with accurate positioning for its category. It may not reach the vastness and three-dimensionality of specially balanced DACs equipped with dual CS43141 chips, such as the Moondrop Dawn. However, it is worth noting that it delivered a rather satisfying performance with Schumann’s piano concerto.
In the end
The ddHiFi TC44A is a remarkably small and lightweight device that delivers exceptional sound quality considering its size and category. It comes highly recommended for those looking to elevate their listening experience while on the move. The only concern you may have is ensuring that you don’t misplace it in your pocket.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2023.
+ Balanced and natural sound + Good transparency + Noise free + Efficient + Plug and play + Well made + Ultra compact and lightweight
- Not that powerful - No app connectivity - Without indicator LED
Leave a comment