The world of dongle-DACs is exploding!
The ALO audio Pilot USB-C DAC ($129) comes hard-wired with a USB-C connector on one side and a 3.5mm Jack (with Mic Support) on the other. The diminutive Pilot draws its power from the attached device and houses an ESS Sabre DAC (9281CPRO) offering MQA support as well as handling PCM resolutions up to 24bit/384kHz and DSD to DSD128.
A USB-C to Lightning Adapter is included so you can direct connect to iOS devices. The Pilot is clearly steering towards headphone users but you can adapt the Pilot for desktop use with the addition of a 3.5mm to dual RCA adapter.
Specifications
ESS Sabre DAC (9281CPRO with MQA support)
SNR: 120db
THD+N @ 0.0006%
< 2 ohm output impedance
PCM sampling frequency up to 384kHz
DSD sampling frequency up to 5.6MHz
MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) Support
Features
Aluminum Enclosure
USB-C Termination
3.5mm Jack with Mic Support
USB-C to Lightning Adapter Included
LED indicator:
Blue = idle or SD audio <= 48kHz Red = HD audio > 48kHz
Magenta = MQA content
Compatible Operating Systems
Android / iOS
Windows 10 / Mac
Company Website: Alo audio
