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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🎶 Unlock your music’s true potential with Dragonfly Cobalt!

STUDIO QUALITY SOUND - Experience pristine 24-bit/96kHz audio clarity that elevates every track.
AMPLIFY YOUR LISTENING - Built-in headphone amp delivers rich, dynamic sound for all headphone types.
VOLUME CONTROL PRECISION - Fine-tune your audio output with smooth, responsive volume adjustment.
EFFORTLESS USB PLUG PLAY - Seamlessly connect to your laptop or desktop—no drivers needed.
COMPACT STYLISH COBALT DESIGN - Sleek, portable form factor that fits your on-the-go lifestyle.

The AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt is a premium USB DAC and headphone amplifier delivering high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz audio. Its plug-and-play USB interface ensures easy compatibility without drivers, while the built-in headphone amplifier provides powerful, clear sound. Encased in a sleek cobalt blue design, it offers precise volume control for an optimized listening experience.

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