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Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Small size
- Apple MFI compliant, working better with Apple products
- Supports high resolution PCM768 and DSD512
- Very silent, showing no distortion with a black background when tested with low impedance IEMs
- Very high build quality
Product Considerations
- Only offers a 3.5mm headphone or earphone output
- Limited power output for demanding full-size headphones
- No physical controls or volume step tuning
- Automatic gain control can be problematic with some headphones, causing volume to be too high or too low
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the M12, the M12i supports higher resolutions PCM768 and DSD512
- Compared to the M15i, the M12i is more compact with a single-ended output, whereas the M15i offers manual gain control, a balanced headphone output, and more drive from the balanced output
Takeaway: The M12i is a small device that can facilitate music listening on wired headphones. Its sound and build quality are commendable, making it a suitable option for users needing a device that integrates well with Apple products.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
M12i
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- DAC Chip: ESS ES9281AC flagship USB DAC
- PCM: 44.1 kHz – 768 kHz (16 / 24 / 32 bit)
- DSD: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512
- 16 Ω: 19 mW
- 32 Ω: 21 mW
- 300 Ω: ≈12.26 mW
- 600 Ω+: Switches to 2 Vrms line-out
- Frequency Response: ±0.1 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz); ±2 dB up to ≈80 kHz
- THD+N: 0.0003 %
- Operating Systems: Android 5.0+, iOS, Windows 10 (v1803+), macOS, Linux
- Case Material: CNC-machined anodized black aluminum alloy
- Dimensions: ≈20.2 × 9.5 × 56.9 mm (or ≈57 × 20 × 9 mm variant)
- Weight: Not specified
Description
The Questyle M12i is a portable DAC/headphone amplifier using the ESS ES9281AC flagship USB DAC chip. It supports high-resolution audio up to PCM 768 kHz and DSD512. It has smart impedance matching which automatically switches gain depending on the headphone impedance, and when connected as a mobile DAC to high-level systems it switches to line-out. It is built in anodized black aluminum with a compact form factor. Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and other typical host devices.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Questyle's core technology is Current Mode Amplification, which aims to minimize distortion and provides a more accurate representation of the original recording.
- They prioritize a "no-frills" approach, focusing on robust build quality, functional design, and clean, detailed sound reproduction over purely aesthetic elements, often described as "professional" or "industrial."
- Questyle's products, especially DAC/amps, are known for their versatility in inputs and outputs to accommodate a wide range of headphones, IEMs, and audio systems.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Questyle NHB12
- Positioning: A wired, MFi certified entry-level model designed for lossless audio on Apple devices.
- Description: It offers robust integration with Apple's ecosystem by supporting the Apple Lossless Audio Codec and ensuring compatibility with iOS. Compared to its USB-C counterpart, this model emphasizes ease-of-use and energy efficiency, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize simple functionality and reliable sound quality in compact environments.
Questyle NHB15
- Positioning: A modern, USB-C based model positioned as a premium upgrade for digital audio connectivity.
- Description: It features a USB-C interface that enhances compatibility with various modern digital devices, meeting the needs of users looking for advanced connectivity and studio-grade performance. In comparison to the wired MFi certified version, this model targets buyers who value greater technical versatility and robust functionality for managing high-resolution audio files.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
796
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
7
Founding Year
2012
Our take on the brand
Questyle is a hifi audio brand known for their Current Mode Amplification technology that processes gain and feedback in the current domain before converting to voltage. This approach aims to reduce distortion, and achieves linear bandwidth well beyond 500 kHz, surpassing typical voltage-mode amplifiers. The brand also developed a proprietary 5GHz lossless wireless hifi system with a dedicated FCC frequency that can transmit up to DSD256 wirelessly, setting it apart from conventional Bluetooth solutions and designed for room-scale audiophile playback.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
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Used
Questyle
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Chord Electronics
Mojo 2
650
650
/
65
Reviews
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
xDSD Gryphon
599
599
/
30
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Questyle
M15i
249
/
Released
2024
M15i Mobile Headphone Amplifier with DAC
Questyle is a hifi audio brand known for their Current Mode Amplification technology that processes gain and feedback in the current domain before converting to voltage. This approach aims to reduce distortion, and achieves linear bandwidth well beyond 500 kHz, surpassing typical voltage-mode amplifiers. The brand also developed a proprietary 5GHz lossless wireless hifi system with a dedicated FCC frequency that can transmit up to DSD256 wirelessly, setting it apart from conventional Bluetooth solutions and designed for room-scale audiophile playback.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sounds great from the moment it's plugged in with a very good, balanced sound
- Design and build quality seem to be of higher quality than other dongles
- Uses proprietary current mode amplifier technology for its headphone amplifier
- Doesn't have complicated settings or a screen, it's just a simple device that sounds great
- Resolution is outstanding when compared to other portable DAC/Amps
Product Considerations
- One drawback is that it only has wired connections, no Bluetooth connectivity
- Sub and mid bass were not as deep sounding, but instead sounded like a more controlled bass
- Apple lightning users will need to buy a supplementary cable despite MFi capabilities
- The sound could extend more into the sub bass
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The M15i is a step-up from the Questyle M12 sound signature
- The M15i was the most dynamic and transparent of the bunch, but didn't lose anything in terms of warmness and body, while the iFi Go Bar was a good in-betweener
- The M15i was the most dynamic and transparent of the bunch, but didn't lose anything in terms of warmness and body, while the Violectric Chronos is probably the most full of the bunch, but had the smallest soundstage
- The M15i is a completely different sound signature compared to the Cayin RU6 and RU7, with its more extended treble air and more incisive sound
- The M15i sound signature probably mostly resembles a very small version of the Chord Qutest
Takeaway: The M15i is a simple to use portable DAC/Amp with a balanced sound that makes music sound great and is easy to carry around. It has unique styling and efficient power management.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Questyle is a hifi audio brand known for their Current Mode Amplification technology that processes gain and feedback in the current domain before converting to voltage. This approach aims to reduce distortion, and achieves linear bandwidth well beyond 500 kHz, surpassing typical voltage-mode amplifiers. The brand also developed a proprietary 5GHz lossless wireless hifi system with a dedicated FCC frequency that can transmit up to DSD256 wirelessly, setting it apart from conventional Bluetooth solutions and designed for room-scale audiophile playback.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
G5
299
/
Released
2022
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
BTR7
199
/
Released
2022
The BTR7 is designed with an innovative 3-level HiFi audio architecture, including the high-performance DAC+low pass filter+THX amplifiers, which can capture every last detail and dynamics in your music. And with support for MQA, your music will definitely come across clearly and boldly.
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fantastic build quality, aggressive contemporary design
- Includes a solid, workable leatherette case
- Delivers fun, V-shaped tuning with thumping bass, direct midrange, and bold treble
- Delivers fun, detail, dynamics, precision and a bold sound character
- Versatile, functioning as a Bluetooth receiver, a dongle DAC, and a desktop DAC amp combo
Product Considerations
- Buttons rattle a bit
- Larger than past models like the BTR5
- Mediocre battery duration
- Sharp edges
- FiiO only recommends headphones of up to 150Ω
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Questyle M15, the M15 has a more balanced sound and even more textures and resolution
- Compared to the iFi Audio Go Blu, the BTR7 wins in sound staging depth
Takeaway: The BTR7 is a competent Bluetooth DAC/AMP that will handle IEMs and headphones alike and also works as a capable USB dongle. With a dedicated smartphone app for EQ and solid sound quality, it is an excellent value.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
NX7
152
/
Released
2021
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Respectable power for a portable amplifier
- Features Nested Feedback Composite Amplifier (NFCA) module as a portable package
- Rugged construction and good battery life
- Delivers detail and texture with a transparent, uncoloured sound
- Three gain modes and is compatible with everything from sensitive IEMs to full-size headphones
- Performs well with hard-to-drive cans and with IEMs that tend to produce hiss
- Build quality is quite good with an all-aluminum chassis
- An SNR of 135dB makes it one of the cleanest portable amps on the market
Product Considerations
- Can be too clean and dry, so synergy is important
- A bit big for a pocket
- Charging the 4000mAh battery takes up to 4 hours
Takeaway: The Topping NX7 is a very good amplifier that works wonderfully with a clean, unaltering nature. It's versatile with lots of clean power and can be used in a desktop setup as well as for portable listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
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