Product Strengths

• Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
• Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
• Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
• Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
• XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
• Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
• ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality

Product Considerations

• Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
• Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
• Battery life estimation can be unreliable
• No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
• Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
• Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
• Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
• Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
• Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer

Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.

Product Strengths

• Versatile as both a headphone amplifier and preamplifier
• Features bass, mid, and treble tone controls for customized sound
• Offers a loudness button to enhance bass and treble at low volumes
• Has a built-in battery for transportable use
• Powerful output to drive various headphones

Product Considerations

• Not ideal for highly sensitive IEMs due to potential hissing at higher volumes
• Size and weight may limit practical portability
• No DAC, relies on external DAC
• Tone controls reduce power output
• The potentiometer is a little bit on the cheaper side, there is a slight bit of channel imbalance when at very low volume

Takeaway: The Fosi Audio SK01 is a versatile and powerful headphone amplifier with tone controls, making it easy to customize audio and drive various headphones, and its battery and preamp functionality are perfect for those seeking a transportable and flexible audio solution

Product Strengths

• Phenomenal sound quality.
• Very usable and enjoyable interaction due to a physical volume knob.
• Plenty of power for almost everything and can drive just about anything.
• Versatile; it can be used as a desktop all-in-one, a Bluetooth portable DAC/amp, a portable amplifier, and even a DAC for speakers.

Product Considerations

• Susceptible to EMI noises, which can be a deal breaker; static noises, pops, and crackle sounds can occur when a phone is placed directly on top of it.
• Not a completely balanced architecture; the 3.5mm & 4.4mm headphone outputs sound the same.
• Charging port may not indicate charging on anything higher than an 18W charging block, and some chargers may not work.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs FIIO BTR-7: Sounds more refined and has more detail and resolution.
• Vs SMSL C200: The C200 sounds significantly warmer with a fuller, juicier bass line and a little bit more airy, while the G5 is more focused on clean and clear edges, tidy, well-focused—and clean.
• Vs SMSL M500 MK2: The M500 MK2 sounds overall better with dynamics at the same level as the G5 and fuller, warmer tonality—and a bigger, more spacious soundstage.
• Vs Moondrop Moonriver 2: The treble is more refined, better details up top, and a sharp edge without being overboard like the Moonriver 2 can.

Takeaway: The G5 is a well-built and versatile portable DAC/amp with a neutral, clean, and dynamic sound. It is great for those looking for an all-in-one solution that can drive almost any headphone or IEM.

Product Strengths

• Excellent sound quality with great technical capabilities
• Powerful output, sufficient to drive many full-sized headphones adequately
• Sturdy, solid metal build, described as being built like a tank
• Offers both balanced (4.4mm) and unbalanced (3.5mm) headphone outputs
• Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac

Product Considerations

• Heavier than similar dongle DAC/amps
• Sharp edges can be uncomfortable and may scratch other devices
• Design is considered industrial and not particularly stylish
• Cable's quality is perceived as low
• Volume control affects the source volume instead of having independent control

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs. FIIO FC3: Has a warmer, more engaging sound, while the FC3 is more neutral and analytical with better detail and resolution
• Vs. Shanling UA3: Wins in macrodynamics making the music more fun, while the UA3 sounds more refined with a slightly more spacious stage

Takeaway: The DS1 is a compact and robust dongle DAC that delivers impressive sound quality and sufficient power for most IEMs and many headphones. It is worth checking out for anyone wanting a solid-sounding and well-built DAC/amp for on the go.

Product Strengths

• Impressive power, especially from the 4.4mm balanced output (510mW at 32 ohms) for a budget-friendly device, capable of driving many headphones—including some planars
• Priced affordably, making it a good value for the performance it offers
• Simple, robust design with an aluminum alloy housing that feels light yet durable
• Delivers a detailed and clean sound
• Compatible with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows devices

Product Considerations

• The 3.5mm output has significantly less power than the 4.4mm balanced output
• Some reviewers found the sound presentation to be slightly thin or clinical, lacking some weight or fullness in the bass and lower mids
• Lacks advanced features like gain settings, EQ, or filters, physical volume buttons only control volume levels
• Some reviewers prefer other DACs under $100 for their more natural sound
• The volume control is not independent for some reviewers and controls the source volume

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs iBasso DC04 Pro—the DS2 has a more forward presentation, bringing vocals closer to the listener, while the DC04 Pro is more upfront and intimate with instrument presentation
• The DS2 offers improvements in dynamics and sound aspects compared to the Fosi Audio DS1

Takeaway: The Fosi Audio DS2 is a budget-friendly and powerful portable DAC/Amp that delivers clear and detailed sound, especially through its balanced output. It's a good option for those looking for an affordable upgrade to their audio experience on the go.