iPhone / iPad connection to USB without CCK

[SiW]

Found a way to avoid the CCK or Lightning USB dongle.

Get a Fiio LT-LT3 lightning to USB C lead and it just works.

It also works with lightning extension cables, so plug extension into iDevice and plug the Fiio lead into that and then connect to your DAC etc. The extension leads are handed so it doesn’t work flip the Fiio lead around.

If your USB input is USB B (square plug) on your DAC or combo unit get a USB C to B adaptor and the Fiio lead still works

If you need to charge your iDevice at the same time use wireless charging.

Find this set up less bulky and cheaper.

Amazon UK items for ease attached but get the Fiio lead from other online sellers or AliExpress as they are cheaper.

 

[linuxfan]

Yes, there are alternatives to the official (and expensive) Apple CCK cables, which are actually Apple-certified, via Apple's "Made for iPhone" program. Without this certification, third-party manufacturers would not be able to source the chip which CCK-compatible cables contain. Here's another example of an Apple-certified cable -
https://www.amazon.com/Lightning-Adapter-Charging-Support-Keyboard/dp/B08R7F4YCT

 

[SiW]

I’ve never liked how bulky these adaptors are either for portable use (good luck!) or even at a desk.

So the Fiio is a great option as it’s just a cable.

If only someone did a stand with this built it and a usb A socket on the back.

 

[linuxfan]

I’ve never liked how bulky these adaptors are ...
So the Fiio is a great option as it’s just a cable.

The bulk, in this case, is for a reason; it accommodates an external power supply, which the cable versions do not. But third-party small cables are certainly available. Here are two examples -
https://www.amazon.com/Lightning-Cable-iPhone-Apple-Certified/dp/B09JZJ5B8W/
https://www.amazon.com/Lightning-Electronic-Instrument-Recording-Microphone/dp/B08ZMQDZN1/

As to the whole concept of physically connecting a cable between iPhone and DAC ... heck, it's 2023. Connecting via AirPlay to a streamer such as the WiiM Mini is the elegant solution.