The Hidizs SD2 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 retail price is $39.99 but there is a special price promotion of $31.99 (Limited to 200 units) only if you purchase from the Hidizs official shop. There is an extra 5% discount available with the code ICHOS5. Additionally you can buy it from Amazon UK and Amazon ES
Hidizs SD2 Review
The Hidizs SD2 is a compact USB DAC dongle that connects directly to a USB type-C port on a host device, providing audio output through a 3.5mm headphone jack. In addition to supporting in-line control, the Hidizs SD2 is equipped with a high-definition microphone. When connected, the SD2 can convert microphone audio streams to 24-bit, 48 kHz for crystal-clear voice transmission.
The Hidizs SD2 comes with the latest ES9270 DAC chip from ESS, boasting a patented 32-bit HyperStreamII QUAD DACTM architecture. This chip allows for PCM up to 384kHz/DSD128 decoding and includes a built-in headphone amplifier that can deliver up to 70mW+70mW@32Ω. Compatible with Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, and HarmonyOS, the SD2 ensures zero delay, making it ideal for watching movies and gaming. Additionally, the SD2 bypasses the integrated audio processing found in mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.
Appearance
The SD2 showcases a distinctive mecha style appearance, thanks to its aluminum alloy chassis that has been meticulously crafted using a unique etching technique. With its sharp lines and geometric shapes, it bears a striking resemblance to a Tetris brick piece. The chassis boasts two faceplates made from aluminum alloy, while the outer perimeter is constructed from resin material.
In terms of functionality, the SD2 offers a convenient angled 3.5mm audio jack, tilted at a 45-degree angle for enhanced ergonomics when connecting your earphones. Moreover, the USB type-C plug is designed to be long enough to effortlessly fit into the host device without requiring the removal of any protective cases.
Measuring at a compact size of 34.5×20×10mm and weighing a mere 6g, this USB DAC dongle is incredibly portable and user-friendly, without adding unnecessary bulk to your phone. Additionally, the SD2 is equipped with a small LED indicator that changes color to indicate the sample rate. It turns red for PCM 44.1-48kHz and blue for PCM 88.2-384kHz & DSD128.
Accessories
The bundle comes with a USB type-C to USB-A adapter. Moreover, the Hidizs official online store version offers a free iPhone Lightning to Type-C cable with OTG capability to cater to iOS devices, a feature not available in the standard dealer edition.
Power output and efficiency
The Hidizs SD2 boasts a power output of 70mW/32Ω, surpassing other compact USB DAC dongles with a single DAC chip. In comparison, the FiiO KA1 offers 45mW/32Ω and the ddHiFi TC35PRO provides 65mW/32Ω. Efficiency is also a strong suit of the SD2, with power consumption measured at 0.02A/0.12W at idle and 0.07A/0.37W at full power. This device remains cool during operation and maintains a silent performance without any audible noise. It’s worth noting that the SD2 lacks hardware volume control, offering 15 steps of volume adjustment through your connected phone. During testing with the Penon Vortex, Hidizs MP145, and Hidizs MS1, the SD2 delivered impressive loudness and dynamic range across all three devices.
Listening impressions
The Hidizs SD2 boasts impressive audio quality despite its compact size. The sound is clear, transparent, and faithful to the original recording. The frequency response remains flat, ensuring a linear sound output without any noticeable deviations.
The bass exhibits impressive speed, tightness, and control, showcasing good definition and layering. When paired with efficient and easy-to-drive earphones, the SD2 delivers dynamic and impactful sound. While the texture may not be overly visceral or weighty, it certainly isn’t lean or dry either. The mid-range clarity and presence are highly commendable, creating an open and spacious soundstage with excellent articulation. The timbre is remarkably natural and realistic, boasting a wide range of harmonics without any harsh edges or unwanted artifacts. The ES9270 DAC chip from ESS appears to be meticulously designed, producing sound that is free from artificiality and digital glare. Although the SD2 may not possess the same warmth or organic quality as the iFi Go link, it is far from sterile or lifeless. Instead, it offers a fast, energetic, and luminous sound signature, slightly leaning towards the treble region without becoming aggressive, bright, or harsh.
The detail retrieval is exceptional for the category, and the overall resolution remains highly competitive, even when compared to pricier USB DAC dongles. The SD2 presents an expansive and open soundstage, with remarkable stereo imaging and precise positioning. It effortlessly complements various types of earphones, elevating their sound to a grand and immersive level.
Against the competition
I will not delve into intricate comparisons, as it becomes quite ambiguous over time. The market is saturated with USB DAC dongles that offer similar sound quality with slight tuning differences. Some may have a warmer, more organic sound, while others are sharper and brighter, and some are flat and well-balanced. The Hidizs SD2 generally falls into the latter category, despite its slightly energetic nature. Additionally, there are variations in power output, size, weight, and additional features such as app support. The Hidizs SD2 stands out for its superior power compared to other DACs, as well as its lightweight and compact design. However, it lacks hardware volume control and app connectivity.
In the end
Priced at $39.99, the Hidizs SD2 stands out as a top contender in the entry level USB DAC dongle market. Its compact size, lightweight design, and superior sound quality make it a worthwhile investment, offering a blend of musicality and technical prowess that is hard to beat in its price range.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2024.
+ Clarity and transparency + Resolution and refinement + Dynamic range and impact + Not that digital sounding + Immersive soundstage + Power output Vs size + Low power consumption + Embedded microphone + Build quality + Lightweight, compact and ergonomic + Good value - Appearance not for everyone - You must order from Hidizs website to get a free Lighting cable - No hardware volume control
Leave a comment