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The AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt USB DAC and Headphone Amplifier is a powerful yet portable solution for achieving true high-fidelity audio from your digital devices. Built with the flagship ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip, the DragonFly Cobalt decodes music with stunning clarity and resolution — revealing the subtle textures and tonal depth often lost in standard audio playback. Whether you're streaming MQA tracks, listening to FLAC files, or simply upgrading your everyday setup, it brings a noticeable improvement to your listening experience.

Perfect for audiophiles, commuters, or professionals working on the go, the Cobalt features a high-output headphone amp that drives a wide range of headphones with authority. Its ultra-low-jitter clock ensures timing precision for smooth, natural playback, while its robust aluminum housing protects it wherever your music takes you. No drivers or setup hassle — just plug it into your USB port and enjoy elevated audio instantly. The DragonFly Cobalt pairs beautifully with high-quality headphones and lossless streaming services for a true mobile hi-fi system.

Key Features

  • ESS ES9038Q2M DAC Chip: Crafted with a flagship DAC chip renowned for its high-resolution audio capabilities, the Dragonfly Cobalt ensures precise digital-to-analog conversion, revealing subtle details and textures in your music.
  • Headphone Amplifier: Integrated with a high-output headphone amplifier, the Dragonfly Cobalt drives a wide range of headphones with authority, ensuring optimal performance and clarity across various impedance levels.
  • MQA Decoding: Supports MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) decoding, allowing you to enjoy authenticated studio-quality music streams and downloads, bringing you closer to the artist's original intent.
  • Low-Jitter Clock: Utilizes a low-jitter clock and high-performance power supply, minimizing timing errors and preserving the timing integrity of your music for a natural and lifelike listening experience.
  • Portable and Versatile: Compact and portable design with a robust metal housing makes the Dragonfly Cobalt ideal for home listening or on-the-go enjoyment, enhancing your music wherever you are.
  • Plug-and-Play Convenience: Simple plug-and-play operation with no additional drivers required on most devices, ensuring easy setup and seamless integration with your existing audio setup.
  • Enhanced Audio Fidelity: Experience music as the artist intended with enhanced detail, resolution, and transparency. The Dragonfly Cobalt elevates your audio experience with its ability to reveal the nuances and emotions in every track.
  • Backed by Audioquest Quality: Supported by Audioquest's commitment to quality and reliability, the Dragonfly Cobalt comes with a warranty, providing peace of mind and long-term performance assurance.

Why Buy

  • Superior Audio Performance: The Dragonfly Cobalt features a high-performance ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip and a high-output headphone amplifier, delivering clear, dynamic, and immersive sound with low distortion.
  • Enhanced Compatibility: Works seamlessly with smartphones, tablets, and computers, providing high-resolution audio playback up to 24-bit/96kHz and MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) decoding for studio-quality sound.

Product Specifications

Audioquest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital to Analog Converter and Headphone Amp Specifications
Brand Audioquest
Model Dragonfly Cobalt
Type USB DAC and Headphone Amplifier
Bluetooth No
Input Options USB Type-A (via USB adapter for phones or tablets)
Output Options 3.5mm Headphone Jack
Power Output Up to 200mW (at 32Ω)
Battery Life Does not have a battery (powered through USB)
Charging Time Not applicable (USB-powered)
DAC Chip ESS Sabre 9601
Supported Audio Formats MP3, AAC, FLAC, ALAC, DSD
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) 120dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) 0.0015%
Dimensions 58mm x 19mm x 12mm
Weight 20g
Compatible Headphones 32Ω to 100Ω (ideal for low to medium impedance headphones)
Operating Systems Supported Windows, macOS, Android, iOS (with USB OTG adapter)
Noise Cancellation No
Customizable EQ No
Warranty 1 Year

Customer Reviews

Based on 13 reviews
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M
Mark Amador

I bought a really nice tribird IEM (Moondrop Variations) and plugged them into my home amp and was blown away by their sound quality. However, I bought them for my laptop so I can isolate myself when working in noisy environments. When using them on the laptop's headphone jack they were really underwhelming. The sound was decent, but the laptop just couldn't power them properly. This was especially painful since I knew how good they could sound.So, after reading reviews (and way too much marketing hype) I dug myself in even deeper and added the Dragonfly Cobalt to my set up. I half expected that I would be returning it as I couldn't imagine that it would be able to provide more power from the same source, my laptop.But I was really pleasantly surprised. Not only was it able to provide a greater volume of clean sound, but deeper clarity and excellent bass. To be realistic, the Dragonfly can't power the Moondrops as well as my home amp, but damn, it comes close and that is really all I need for a mobile set up.BTW, I also tried the set up on my Android phone via USB-C and it rocked there too. Even when taking a call, it sounds good, and the phone automatically uses the speakerphone mic while listening via the IEMs (at least on my Pixel phone). So, if you are on the fence, my experience convinced me it is worth it. Highly recommended.

A
Amazon Customer

I own Dragonfly black for 3 years and have been satisfied with its capabilities. Since cobalt was on discount and I had a option to return after two months bought, that was my intention to use and returnBut honestly this has been toughest decision and I decided to keep it in my arsenal.It just lets you discover another realm of music, soundstage, instrument separation, mids and vocals not to mention bass is phenomenalI use it with powered speakers, headphones and improve the sound of my car audio.Highly Recommend it

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matt

First time I heard it, it was an immediate upgrade to my listening experience. I had no clue I was missing out on so much detail even from casual youtube videos & music streaming.

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My Audio infection

To take full advantage of this DAC /pre amp , the user should have a decent set of reputable wired earbuds /headphones , I think I owned 5 different types of cheap ear buds before I wised up .. Portability , recent price drop and low draw battery on my iPad were my main reasons to purchase the Cobalt DAC , Sound quality is pretty good pushing Sein HD 650's from my iMac using Audirvana /Fabfilter EQ or Shure 425 and 535's earbud models on my iPad/Apple music ,Sound level could be a little higher when I use my tablet with Cobalt but I understand the potential liabilities involvedThe AQ Cobalt is very good sounding PORTABLE DAC , IMO, a 30 hour burn is a must before judging this DAC.

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marc-andre

Très bon son avec mon iPad et mon casque d’écoute focal celestee

Audioquest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital to Analog Converter and Headphone Amp FAQs

Does the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt improve sound quality compared to standard headphone outputs?

Yes, the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt enhances sound quality by providing a cleaner and more detailed audio signal, resulting in a more accurate and enjoyable listening experience.

Is the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt compatible with various devices?

Yes, the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt is compatible with a wide range of devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, offering versatility for different audio setups.

Is the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt portable and easy to use?

Yes, the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt is compact and user-friendly, making it convenient for on-the-go use and easy integration into various audio systems.


Does the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt support high-resolution audio formats?

Yes, the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt supports high-resolution audio formats, allowing users to enjoy superior sound quality from compatible sources.