#Dragonfly cobalt power output manual#

This is not to be confused with the 9038pro as that chip is 8 channel or the ES9038K2M which includes a 2 Volt amp on the same silicone to minimize footprint for applications like tablets or phones. For sake of reference, this is the same chip used in the Burson Swing and the Khadas Tone Board. The DAC used in the Cobalt is the ESS ES9038Q2M, a 2 channel mobile version of the 9038. The big draw for the cobalt is the improved DAC although power supply filtering improvements do contribute to improving the output from the amplifier section as well.

A provided cable allows for connection to usb-C but is not an OTG cable so did not allow for direct connection to my Moto Z3. At one end is the USB-A port, while at the other a single 3.5mm TRS connector is fitted. The Cobalt is slightly narrower than either of its predecessors, but otherwise the same size and roughly the same weight. It is about the size of a pack of Wrigley’s Spearmint with a large dragonfly that changes colors to indicate bit-rate of the file being played. Those who have had a chance to play with any model Dragonfly, will recognize the Cobalt immediately. It is not what one would call upscale packaging or a large kit, but the case and cable are of good quality and give the impression they should last well, and the DAC itself (while tiny) appears well constructed.

#Dragonfly cobalt power output manual#

Inside the box is a plastic tray with the manual on top and the case, dac, and USB-A to USB-C adapter. All the pertinent information is still visible in the photos below. The box the Cobalt came in had a large Sticker over most of the front but my understanding from others I have seen is the only thing covered by the sticker is a large dragonfly graphic. Todd the Vinyl Junkie carries a ton of cool stuff, so if you find yourself out shopping for things audio, have a look at his site. I’d like to thank Todd for providing me with the opportunity to listen to gear I might not have been able to otherwise. I have no financial interest in Audioquest or TTVJ and received no other incentives to compose this review. I received the Cobalt as part of the TTVJ tour and kept it for a week to listen and then forwarded it on to the next tour participant.