AudioQuest Unveils The Dragonfly Copper

AudioQuest Dragonfly Copper is the newest version of their longtime DAC/amp dongle series. AQ was one of the first audiophile companies to take a stab at the dongle market, which has been subsequently flooded with options from most major players in the space.

The Dragonfly models have represented a solid cross section of HiFi know-how laid over a budget-friendly, compact form factor. The more entry-level, high-end taste of fidelity has proven to be a valuable option for portable, desktops and even some mobile phone scenarios.

The lifetime stats on the Dragonfly line are pretty good. It has been around for 14 years, more than 300k models sold. The latest offers up the most recent updates – from the press release:

“Like all AudioQuest products, the award-winning DragonFly has benefited from gradual refinements made possible by better parts, better materials, and AudioQuest’s own insatiable desire for better sound.

DragonFly Copper maintains everything that made its predecessors such a success:
Beautiful sound from all audio files: MP3 to Hi-Res
Compatible with Apple® and Windows® PCs, iOS and Android devices
Drives Headphones; Feeds Preamps, Amps, and Powered Speakers
Phone, tablet, or computer controls the output level
Meets all USB Audio Class (UAC) standards; requires no additional drivers
Compared to previous DragonFlys, Copper offers:
New 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC/Headphone Amp delivers 2x greater output power
New Microchip Technology Microprocessor reduces current draw by 25% and significantly improves supply-chain efficiency
High-Conductivity Copper-Plated Case for improved RF-noise drainage
Reduced power consumption. Greater power output. Lower noise and distortion. No parts shortages.

Drawing 25% less current and delivering two times as much output power as any previous DragonFly, Copper is the most powerful and efficient DAC AudioQuest has ever produced.

And its new copper case, informed and inspired by the RF-draining barrels of AudioQuest’s Mythical Creatures interconnects, isn’t merely meant to be gorgeous, but, like every other aspect of the DAC’s design, has been implemented for improved performance — specifically, enhanced RF noise-dissipation.

We believe DragonFly Copper faithfully carries forward the esteemed legacy of the DragonFly family, and we hope it introduces many more listeners to the immersive, emotionally compelling musical experience that hundreds of thousands of DragonFly owners have already enjoyed.”

So overall there is less power draw, the latest tech, more amplification for headphones and a shiny new copper shell.

If you want to hear more from AudioQuest’s Bill Low, check out this pretty interesting interview with him from pt.AUDIO’s The Occasional Podcast from last month. It covers off on some really keyed-in subjects, from listening, to design and really thinking about why we hear the way we do.

More info: AudioQuest Dragonfly Copper