---
product_id: 260047011
title: "AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital-to-Analog Converter, Cobalt"
brand: "audioquest"
price: "R8294"
currency: ZAR
in_stock: true
url: https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/260047011-audioquest-dragonfly-cobalt-usb-digital-to-analog-converter-cobalt
store_origin: ZA
region: South Africa
---

# ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip 24-bit/96kHz native resolution USB Type A wired connectivity AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital-to-Analog Converter, Cobalt

**Brand:** audioquest
**Price:** R8294
**Availability:** ✅ In Stock

## Summary

> 🎶 Elevate your audio game—because your ears deserve the best.

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital-to-Analog Converter, Cobalt by audioquest
- **How much does it cost?** R8294 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.co.za](https://www.desertcart.co.za/products/260047011-audioquest-dragonfly-cobalt-usb-digital-to-analog-converter-cobalt)

## Best For

- audioquest enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted audioquest brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Compact Powerhouse Design:** Sleek cobalt finish in a pocket-sized form factor that fits effortlessly into your workflow.
- • **Next-Level DAC Technology:** Powered by the ESS ES9038Q2M chip delivering natural, immersive sound with minimal distortion.
- • **Mobile-Ready Audio Upgrade:** Compatible with iOS and Android devices via simple USB adaptors—premium sound on the go.
- • **Studio-Grade Sound Clarity:** Experience pristine audio with 24-bit/96kHz native resolution for every track.
- • **Universal Music Compatibility:** Seamlessly plays all formats from MP3 to MQA and Hi-Res, so you never miss a beat.

## Overview

The Dragonfly Cobalt USB DAC is a compact, high-performance digital-to-analog converter featuring a 24-bit/96kHz native resolution and the advanced ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip. It supports all major music formats including MQA and Hi-Res, and offers seamless compatibility with iOS and Android devices via USB adaptors. Designed for professionals and audiophiles alike, its sleek cobalt design combines portability with studio-quality sound enhancement.

## Description

AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital-to-Analog Converter, Cobalt

## Features

- Native Resolution up to 24-bit / 96kHz
- DAC Chip ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip with minimum-phase slow roll-off filter for more natural sound
- Plays All Music Files: MP3 to MQA and Hi-Res
- Compatible with iOS Mobile Devices (requires Apple Lightning-to-USB adaptor) and Android Mobile Devices (requires USB adaptor)
- Dimensions: 57mm (l) x 19mm (w) x 12mm (h).Connectivity technology: Wired.Connector type: USB Type A

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| Manufacturer | AudioQuest |
| Part number | DRAGONFLYCOB |
| Item Weight | 119 g |
| Product Dimensions | 1.4 x 1.4 x 6 cm; 119.07 g |
| Item model number | DRAGONFLYCOB |
| Size | 2.2x.75x.5 |
| Color | Cobalt |
| Style | Cobalt |
| Material | default_no_selection_value |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Plug Profile | Usb |
| Special Features | Volume-Control |
| Specific uses | USB DAC + Preamp + Headphone Amp |
| Included components | DragonTail |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** AudioQuest
- **Mounting type:** Usb
- **Number of pins:** 4
- **Interface type:** USB
- **Number of channels:** 1

## Images

![AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital-to-Analog Converter, Cobalt - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61egruTjOGL.jpg)

## Questions & Answers

**Q: 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?**
A: 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.

**Q: What's the difference between red and black?**
A: 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.

**Q: Can you still use inline headphone controls when using the dac with an iPhone?**
A: 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 ..

**Q: 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**
A: 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.

## Frequently Bought Together

- AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt USB Digital-to-Analog Converter
- AudioQuest DragonTail USB-A > USB-C High-Performance USB-A (Female) to USB-C (Male) Extender
- Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter

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*Product available on Desertcart South Africa*
*Store origin: ZA*
*Last updated: 2026-02-24*