i know these DACs are mainly for high end headphones , but anyone know if it will make a better (or slightly better) audio on $10 -$30 earphones?

The answer is that it might make a big difference, but you won't know until you try. I have a $3000 headphone amp coupled to a $15000 DAC. I normally use them with headphones in a price range from $1000 to $4000, for which both components, independently make a huge difference. Now for the surprise: I have a pair a cheap, no-name headphones -- the only name on them is "digital." That speaks volumes. On those cheap headphones, the headphone amp makes a totally unexpected, MONUMENTAL difference. My point is that you never say "never." That said, I recommend that if you're considering investing $300 in this device, you should consider investing in better headphones. Look at the less expensive models from Grado, for example.

What's the difference between red and black?

In performance, both models incorporate the 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC chip, the 9010 in Black and the higher-performance 9016 in Red. While the Black uses the same headphone amp and analog volume control found in previous version, the new Red includes the latest ESS headphone amp and a bit-perfect digital volume control that resides on the 9016 DAC chip itself. In power the Black puts out 1.2 volts: enough power to drive all preamplifier input circuits and a wide range of efficient headphones. The red with its higher 2.1-volt output will be compatible with a wider range of headphones, including power-hungry, low-efficiency model.

Can you still use inline headphone controls when using the dac with an iPhone?

No you cannot nor can you use the mic in the headphones for making or recieving calls ...luckily you do get notification ...and you can just pull the lightning connector to answer the call ..using iphone in normal manner ..i had this exact Q after recieving my unit ..

I have powered speakers that I plug into my laptop 3mm headphone jack. Can I use this product to get more volume & better audio quality

That's what I use the Dragonfly (Black) for. I expected a subtle improvement, but found it to be night and day! The cheapo DAC and output stage circuitry that's built into the laptop was really limiting the sound quality.

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🎶 Elevate every beat—your pocket-sized audiophile upgrade awaits!

BATTERY FRIENDLY DESIGN - Optimized low power draw means you get extended listening without draining your device’s battery.
AUDIOPHILE GRADE CLARITY - Unlock pristine 24-bit/96kHz resolution and full MQA support—hear your music the way artists intended.
SMART LED SIGNAL INDICATOR - Stay informed with real-time sample rate and signal status for a truly connected listening experience.
SEAMLESS MOBILE COMPATIBILITY - Plug & play with smartphones via included DragonTail adapter—premium sound anytime, anywhere.
TURBOCHARGED AUDIO PROCESSING - Experience 33% faster sound decoding with the latest USB microcontroller for ultra-clear, distortion-free playback.

The AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt is a compact USB DAC and headphone amplifier that delivers high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz audio with full MQA support. Featuring a 33% faster USB microcontroller and low power consumption, it enhances sound clarity and reduces distortion while preserving your device’s battery life. Compatible with computers and smartphones via the included DragonTail adapter, it’s the ultimate portable upgrade for premium, on-the-go listening.

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Brand	AudioQuest
Interface Type	USB
Number of Channels	1
UPC	092592098398
Manufacturer	AudioQuest
Global Trade Identification Number	00092592098398
Country of Origin	USA
Item model number	DRAGONFLYCOB
Product Dimensions	1.4 x 1.4 x 6 cm; 119.07 g
ASIN	B07T3HSD9Z

Audioquest Dragonfly Cobalt Usb Digital to Analog Converter, Preamplifier, Headphone Amplifier

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