iBasso

iBasso has been expanding its lineup of DAPs and portable DAC/Amps with standout models like the DX320MAX, DX260, PB5, D16, and DC Elite. They've also made significant strides in the IEM scene with popular, budget-friendly releases such as the IT04, AM05, and 3T-154. Check out our previous reviews of iBasso products here: iBasso 3T-154 and iBasso DX260

Now, iBasso is turning heads with the DC07PRO DAC. Priced at $199 USD, this portable DAC boasts a compact design without sacrificing performance. Featuring a top-tier DAC chip, high-resolution audio support, and versatile connectivity options, the DC07PRO delivers exceptional sound quality in a portable package. With support for high-resolution formats up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD512, it’s designed to enhance your audio experience wherever you go. Let’s explore what makes the DC07PRO a notable addition to iBasso’s impressive lineup.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

DAC Chipset: Quad Cirrus Logic CS43131

Output: 3.5mm Single-Ended / 4.4mm Balanced

4.4mm - Output Power : 510mW+510mW @16Ω, THD+N < 0.1% / 430mW+430mW @32Ω, THD+N< 0.1%

3.5mm - Output Power : 210mW+210mW @16Ω, THD+N <0.1% / 118mW+118mW @32Ω, THD+N <0.1%

PCM: Up to 32bit/768kHz

DSD: Native DSD up to 512x

Size: 2.32" x 0.93" x .49"

Weight: 23g

Advanced FPGA System

The iBasso DC07PRO stands out with its cutting-edge FPGA system controller, developed in-house by iBasso. This sophisticated technology is at the heart of the dongle, seamlessly integrating advanced audio algorithms and core functions. The FPGA system enhances signal regeneration and clock synchronization, delivering ultra-low jitter clocks for both the DAC and USB receiver. By minimizing the clock jitter caused by the USB bus, this innovation significantly elevates the DC07PRO's overall performance and sound quality, setting a new standard for portable DACs.

Flagship Quad DAC Array

At the core of the iBasso DC07PRO is a formidable quad array of Cirrus Logic’s flagship CS43131 DAC chips, seamlessly integrated with iBasso's proprietary FPGA technology and expert circuit design. This powerhouse setup achieves an impressive Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD+N) of -120.2dB and supports high-resolution formats including DSD512 and PCM 32bit/768kHz. The CS43131x4 DAC array not only elevates audio performance to new heights but also ensures a listening experience that is truly unparalleled.

Exceptional Power Efficiency

The iBasso DC07PRO is engineered for efficiency and power. It employs a synchronous DC-DC converter with a remarkable power conversion efficiency of up to 94%, reducing power consumption to just 80mA—40% less than its predecessor, the DC04PRO. Despite this impressive energy efficiency, the DC07PRO packs a robust output of 430mW+430mW at 32Ω. The DAC’s power supply is complemented by an ultra-low noise LDO dedicated to analog circuits, ensuring a pristine power supply with a Power Supply Rejection Ratio (PSRR) of up to 100dB. This combination of efficiency and performance guarantees an exceptional listening experience.

DESIGN & BUILD QUALITY

The iBasso DC07PRO is the latest dongle designed with audiophiles in mind. Its compact design features a CNC-machined aluminum shell and tempered glass on both the front and back, exuding a premium feel. One end houses 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced ports, while the other end has a female USB Type-C connection. The OLED display on the front offers easy control over the device, enhancing its user-friendliness.

While the DC07PRO’s high-quality materials and sleek design are impressive, it shares some drawbacks with the DX260, including sharp corners that can be uncomfortable to hold. Although visually modern and sleek, rounded corners would enhance comfort. Additionally, the DC07PRO does not include a carrying case, which is a missed opportunity for added convenience.

One such issue is the tendency for fingerprints to accumulate on the glass surfaces, detracting from its otherwise sleek appearance. While the glass adds a touch of elegance, it also becomes a magnet for smudges and fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain its pristine look.

Another downside is the apparent quality control issue, as evidenced by the visible glue on the back panel. I don't know if this is a widespread problem across other devices. We hope iBasso understands this issue and pays more attention to quality control.

PACKAGING & ACCESSORIES

• USB-C to USB-C Cable
• USB-C to Lightning Cable
• USB-C to USB-A Converter
• User Manual
• Warranty Card

Ensuring comprehensive connectivity right out of the box, the iBasso DC07PRO package includes a USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C to Lightning cable, and USB-C to full-size USB Type-A adapter, providing versatility for various devices. Additionally, the package includes a user manual and a warranty card, reflecting iBasso's commitment to clear communication and robust customer support.

SOUND

The DC07PRO offers a remarkably neutral and flat tonal profile, excelling in detail retrieval and separation. Its dynamic range is exceptional, providing a very black background and sufficient power for both IEMs and a wide range of headphones. The upgrade to a Quad-DAC, combined with FPGA technology processing, significantly enhances the perceived resolution and note texture. Additionally, the DC07PRO boasts an impressively open and wide soundstage, making it a standout performer in its price range.

BASS

The bass response of the DC07PRO is well-expanded and fast, delivering engaging low end without compromising its neutral sound signature. The bass exhibits excellent slam and a tighter sound, with deep and full extension. The weight and texture of the bass are outstanding, avoiding the pitfalls of one-note bass. The mid-bass remains controlled and unboxed, contributing to a spacious and airy presentation. For a dongle DAC, the DC07PRO impresses with its ample punch and extended, deep bass, setting a high standard.

MID

The mids of the DC07PRO are truly impressive, offering a balanced and well-presented sound. This dongle excels in delivering a natural and organic midrange, devoid of dryness. The standout feature is its midrange clarity, rendering vocals with incredible accuracy and true texture. The midrange is both natural and balanced, incorporating analytical details that enhance the overall listening experience. We're genuinely impressed by iBasso's achievement with the DC07PRO—well done!

HIGH

The treble on the DC07PRO is both energetic and airy, free from any harshness or edginess. It delivers an extended texture with impressive clarity and detail retrieval. The lower treble region is particularly noteworthy for its natural sound, excellent control, and outstanding resolution, transparency, and extension. This expansive and airy treble adds significant height to the soundstage, enhancing the perceived headroom. In summary, the treble is natural, airy, and sparkling, making the DC07PRO a standout in its class.

SOUNDSTAGE & IMAGING

The soundstage is the most impressive aspect of the DC07PRO. Its width is expansive, but it's the depth that truly stands out, creating a holographic staging with excellent imaging. Locating instruments within the stage is effortless, with plenty of air between them, ensuring clear separation within the stereo image. The imaging offers a 3D placement of instruments and vocals, enhancing the overall listening experience with a characteristic airiness.

Pairing the DC07PRO with the Dunu SA6 MK2 reveals a deep sub-bass with a tight, fast mid-bass punch. The sub-bass and mid-bass are balanced, leaning towards a neutral quantity. The mids are detailed, layered, and naturally revealing without being overly analytical. The treble is crisp and relatively natural, complementing the other frequencies well. The holographic soundstage and imaging push the sound more outside of the head, adding to the immersive experience.

The iBasso 3T-154 is another standout pairing, showcasing the best qualities of the DC07PRO. The sound is clean, detailed, and natural, with a tight and fast bass that's precise and articulate without being overly elevated. The mids are presented forward, offering exceptional clarity and detail with a natural tonality. The treble has an airy sparkle that adds to the overall brightness without harshness.

The soundstage is notably expansive, providing a wide left-right spread and nearly holographic imaging. This creates a highly immersive listening experience. The overall tuning leans towards a neutral sound with a slightly more forward presentation of the mids, making it a versatile and engaging option for various music genres.

DC07PRO VS SHANLING UA5

The UA5 isn't a neutral dongle, it boasts a smooth, balanced signature with subtle warmth, particularly around the upper midrange and treble. It offers good note weight and solid bass while maintaining transparency across the spectrum. The bass response is robust and powerful, with an impressive slam. This dongle's bass boost creates a warm and relaxed sound, contrasting with the more energetic and airy DC07PRO, which excels in spacious soundstage, detailed retrieval, and separation.

While the UA5 delivers a warm and smooth signature, the DC07PRO outperforms it in treble, offering more air, sparkle, better transients, and a more extended feel, also the bass quality is better. The DC07PRO also excels in soundstage width and depth, creating a holographic soundscape. In summary, both devices are excellent but cater to different preferences. The UA5 provides a balanced and relaxed listening experience, while the DC07PRO impresses with its engaging, spacious, and detailed sound. If you're looking for the latest device to elevate your listening experience, the DC07PRO is the way to go.

DC07PRO VS DX260

Updates coming soon...

CONCLUSION

The iBasso DC07PRO impresses with its sleek design, combining a CNC-machined aluminum shell and tempered glass for a premium feel. While the sharp edges may be a bit uncomfortable and the quality control could be improved, the included accessories enhance its versatility. Sound-wise, it features a neutral sound signature and delivers exceptional performance with a remarkable balance of detail, depth, and clarity. The DC07PRO has an excellent bass quality that is both deep and engaging, the mids are natural and detailed, and the treble is airy and well-controlled. The expansive soundstage and precise imaging make it a standout choice. We highly recommend this dongle DAC for its impressive listening experience, setting a new standard in the under $200 price range.