Is there any good USB dongle to power 300ohm headphones for under $30

[crx]

I don't really "need" it, just maybe for once a month use (audio review work). Normally I just plug into the interface but sometimes it'd be nice to just go listen to it in bed on the phone.

Just have to have enough power and linear response. Doesn't have to have the most pristine DAC. I understand the "...but if you pay a little bit extra you'll get..." mentality, but to me it's just going to be another cord in the drawer of adapters and cords, so 30 is stretching it already.

 

[shuppatsu]

'JCALLY JM20 Headphone Dongle Review'

Nov 24, 2024

This is a review and detailed measurements of the JCALLY JM20 USB-C headphone adapter (DAC and Amp). It is on kind loan from a member and is on sale for US $24.

Not much to say about the construction so let's get into measurements. Speaking of that, I finally have a fix for this class of device that allows me to perform full set of measurements like a desktop DAC.

JCALLY JM20 Measurements
Let's start with max volume driving 600 ohm load:

The CS43131 implementation here delivers excellent, desktop-class performance:

Noise performance is...

• amirm
• Replies: 386
• Forum: Combination Audio DAC and Headphone Amplifiers

• 

13.6mW into 300ohm is the same as an L30 II in medium gain. That’s more than enough for my 6XX without EQ.

 

[AnalogSteph]

13.6mW into 300ohm is the same as an L30 in medium gain.

Or you could say 2.0 Vrms. That does in fact tend to be plenty for the vast majority of folks when using the usual 250-300 ohm Beyerheisers. In fact, I could get by with half that.

 

[HissingFree]

You get even more power with JM20 Max or Fiio KA11, I think around 2.5 Vrms or around 22 mW into 300 ohms.

 

[crx]

Oh man, I freaking hate buying from aliexpress. Most of my purchases ended up in disputes, they keep sending random junk not what you order...

Their website also shows the PRO model. Is it a lesser one than a MAX?

Is there a particular reputable sellers there? Not the ones from Kowloon, which seems like the majority over there?

 

[staticV3]

Their website also shows the PRO model. Is it a lesser one than a MAX?

PRO is a JM20 + hardware EQ via an App (stored on-device)

MAX is a JM20 + Opamp for ~15% more playback volume at 300Ω

 

[crx]

Thanks for the suggestions. I ordered the Fiio since it's available on Amazon. Would prefer the JM20, but from aliexpress I'm sure I'll probably get a toddler spring dress and 3 light bulbs instead and when I dispute I'll get a compensation in form of a coupon for any bathroom hardware set I want.