The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 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 TC44Pro E2 is $99.99 and you can buy it from here.
About ddHiFi
ddHiFi was founded in 2017 by an experienced audio engineer with a background in OPPO and FiiO. The brand is renowned for producing top-notch, compact USB DACs, cables, audio adapters, and accessories. Their innovative products stand out for their use of premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship.
ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 Review
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 represents the most recent inclusion in the brand’s wide range of compact USB DAC adapters. This iteration serves as an upgraded version of the ddHiFi TC44Pro, which happens to be among my preferred choices when it comes to small-sized USB DAC dongles.
The TC44Pro E2 is a USB DAC dongle with a fixed cable, available in both type-C and Lighting variants. Unlike the TC44Pro, which is a direct plug adapter, this model features high-quality cable with pure silver shielded conductors for enhanced resolution and detailed performance.
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 retains the dual CS43131 decoding chips, albeit with a modified tuning and the addition of two extra ES9603Q operational amplifiers to boost power output. The power output is capped at 80% of the op-amp maximum rating to minimize distortion and provide a pleasant listening session. It is capable of decoding audio up to 384kHz/32bit PCM and native DSD256, which is good though not class leading.
The audio jack features a Pentaconn 4.4mm connector from NDICS, seamlessly integrated with a circuit board crafted through a dual-layer stacking technique, meticulously put together with lead-free solder enriched with 3% silver.
Physical and appearance
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 features a design with a centrally positioned interface that, when seen from a vertical perspective, takes on the shape of an eye. The audio socket is enhanced with a metal ring, adding both aesthetic appeal and protection. Crafted from finely polished aluminum alloy, the chassis exudes a sense of premium quality and luxury.
The cable features a blend of fabric sheathing on the inside and sturdy plastic on the outside, with a metallic strain relief attached to the chassis end. It is slightly larger and bulkier than average, yet it is expertly crafted and durable. The premium aluminum USB type-C plug offers superb grip and a stylish appearance.
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 is one of the most premium, beautiful looking and well made USB DAC dongles on the market.
A tiny indicator LED at the front will light blue for PCM and green for DSD decoding. A nice addition is the inclusion of cowhide leather rope that is attached through a hole at the chassis and helps to accommodate the cable and make it shorter. The package also includes an extra, 30cm long, leather rope.
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 is not as compact and lightweight as its predecessor but still measuring 60x20x10mm and weighting 9gr, it is a pocket friendly and lightweight USB DAC dongle.
Power output and efficiency
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 has a power output of 250mWpc/32Ω, providing ample power to drive a wide range of earphones and even some more sensitive headphones. Additionally, the device is silent and effectively shielded from electromagnetic interference (EMI). Throughout my review, I primarily used the FiiO FX15 and iBasso 3T-154 earphones.
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 consumes 0.05A/0.28W when idle and around 0.10A/0.51W when playing music with a 32Ω load of 100dB sensitivity. In contrast, the FiiO KA17 uses 0.20A/1.01W in similar circumstances. It gets perfectly clear that this USB DAC is highly efficient and won’t deplete your phone’s battery quickly.
Listening impressions
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 is a remarkable DAC that offers a neutral and well-balanced sound. It excels in both technical performance and transparency, while also delivering a musical and captivating sound signature. Compared to its previous model, the TC44Pro E2 has undergone significant improvements, resulting in increased power, enhanced spaciousness, and improved resolution and refinement. One of its most notable features is the grandness of its soundstage, which leaves a lasting impression and effectively communicates the ambience and atmosphere of the music.
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 offers an extended, fast, tight, and controlled bass that is remarkably dynamic and impactful for its portable size. It delivers a more visceral and weighty experience compared to the TC44Pro, with enhanced definition and layering. The low-end performance of the ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 is truly impressive.
The mid-range of the ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 is characterized by its well-balanced and natural sound quality. It offers a wide range of harmonics and precise articulation, resulting in voices and instruments that sound vibrant and lifelike, complemented by a satisfying body weight and exceptional resolution for its class. Not only does the TC44Pro E2 avoid sounding dry or clinical, but it also possesses the ability to captivate listeners with its musicality. It is an ideal match for a wide variety of earphones and music styles.
The TC44Pro E2 has exceptional clarity and an extended treble that is both lively and vibrant, while still maintaining a pleasing balance without any hint of being overly sharp or harsh. Once again, it surpasses its predecessor in terms of resolution, transparency and fidelity. Additionally, it captures a more natural timbre with less artificiality, resulting in a more realistic and authentic sound experience.
Comparisons
I will refrain from making comparisons to other USB DAC dongles in the same price range, as there are numerous options available. However, it is important to highlight that the ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 provides exceptional sound quality without any notable drawbacks. While other competing devices may offer additional features and connectivity, the TC44Pro E2 stands out with its premium appearance and excellent craftsmanship.
In the end
The ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 is a luxurious and extremely well made USB DAC dongle that packs plenty of power for the size and stellar audio performance without anything negative of note. You can still find similar devices with more features and/or more compact size but only a few of them are so beautiful looking as the ddHiFi TC44Pro E2. The combination of luxurious and premium materials with outstanding sound quality sets the ddHiFi TC44Pro E2 apart as an excellent choice in a highly competitive market.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2024.
+ Stellar sound and technicalities
+ Natural timbre
+ Good resolution and transparency
+ Spacious and immersive soundstage
+ Plenty of power for the size
+ More efficient than the competition
+ Silent background
+ Exceptionally well made
+ Premium appearance and materials
+ High quality cable and plug
- Lacks extra features
- No volume control
- Fixed and bulky USB cable
- Only 4.4mm headphone output
- Not that compact
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