Best Portable DAC/Amps in 2025

Great sound doesn’t have to stay at home. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or just want hi-fi audio from your phone or laptop, today’s DAC/Amps give you powerful, portable listening at every price point—from budget-friendly dongles to premium portable rigs.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best portable DAC/Amp options available in 2025, ranging from under $10 to over $2,000. Whether you want Bluetooth convenience, wired precision, or full-on audiophile customization, there’s a DAC/Amp here for you.

Budget DAC/Amps (Under $100)

Strauss & Wagner Siena – $9.95

An ultra-budget option aimed at improving basic smartphone sound for casual listening. The Siena is a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with a built-in DAC, primarily for Android users. It offers slightly better clarity and volume headroom than a stock adapter but does not include amplification. A reliable choice for those who just need to restore 3.5mm functionality without paying a premium.

FiiO KA11 – $31.99

The FiiO KA11 is one of the smallest true DAC/Amps on the market, available in both USB-C and Lightning versions. Despite its size, it provides a surprisingly clean output with enough power to drive most easy-to-run headphones and IEMs. Sonically, it leans toward a slightly warm and musical character with a bit of extra low-end body, making it pleasant for long listening sessions. No frills, just plug-and-play functionality with an impressive noise floor for the price.

iFi GO Link / GO Link Max – $59 / $79

The GO Link series is known for versatility and high output in a compact form factor. Both models include adapters for USB-C, Lightning, and USB-A, making them compatible with virtually any device. The GO Link Max adds a 4.4mm balanced output for greater power delivery and improved channel separation. These DACs have a clear, slightly bright tuning that works well with warm or dark headphones. Ideal for IEM users who want portability without sacrificing soundstage or detail.

FiiO Retro Nano – $62.99

A standout in the sub-$100 range for both functionality and design. The Retro Nano includes Bluetooth support (LDAC, SBC, AAC), a 3.5mm jack, and a 4.4mm balanced output—all in a case styled like a miniature cassette player. While not the cleanest-sounding unit on the market, it offers strong driving power for the price and a noticeably warmer tone that suits bass-forward headphones and pop-focused listening. Great for listeners who want something practical but also fun to use and carry.

Mid-Range DAC/Amps ($100–$350)

FiiO BTR15 – $114.99

An excellent wireless DAC/Amp for users who want both portability and functionality. The BTR15 includes LDAC Bluetooth, a small OLED screen for navigation, and dual outputs (3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced). Sound-wise, it’s neutral-leaning with solid detail retrieval and very low background noise. It lacks some of the microdynamics found in higher-end models but delivers well above its price point. USB DAC mode is also supported, giving it desktop-like flexibility.

iFi GO Blu – $199.00

Despite its compact size, the GO Blu has a powerful internal amplifier and iFi’s signature EQ functions: XBass and XSpace. These offer subtle but useful enhancements to bass response and spatial presentation. Bluetooth quality is excellent, with LDAC and aptX Adaptive support. The sound profile is rich and smooth, leaning slightly warm but remaining detailed enough for critical listening. A great middle-ground option for wireless users who don’t want to compromise on tone or drive.

FiiO BTR17 – $209.99

A step up from the BTR15 in both hardware and interface. The BTR17 adds dual USB-C ports (for simultaneous charging and data), an updated screen, and deeper customization via the FiiO Control App. Compared to the BTR15, it has a more refined output with slightly improved imaging and separation. Bluetooth connectivity remains strong, and the unit can handle medium-impedance headphones without strain. A great choice for audiophiles who want to tailor their sound on the go.

Astell & Kern HC4 – $220.00

A wired-only DAC that caters to listeners who value fidelity over flexibility. The HC4 has both 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs and delivers a clean, mildly warm signal with excellent depth and texture. There’s no app control or Bluetooth, but the focus here is on consistency and low coloration. The included USB-C to USB-A and Lightning adapters make it compatible with most devices. Best suited for those who want plug-and-play quality from a reputable hi-fi brand.

Questyle M18i – $349.00

An extremely compact DAC/Amp that doesn’t compromise on power. The Questyle M18i supports Bluetooth, wired connections, and features a built-in display, making it ideal for users who want a clean, integrated experience. It runs slightly neutral-bright with excellent resolution and fast transients, making it a good match for warm headphones or IEMs. It’s slim enough to stack with your phone, yet robust enough to handle over-ear headphones up to moderate impedance levels.

High-End Portable DAC/Amps ($500–$1,000+)

iFi xDSD Gryphon – $599.00

The Gryphon sits at the edge of portability, offering nearly desktop-grade performance in a mobile form factor. It supports both Bluetooth and USB inputs, balanced and unbalanced outputs, and has an OLED screen for quick adjustments. With XSpace and XBass II onboard, it provides user-friendly tuning without DSP artifacts. Sonically, it’s smooth, spacious, and dynamic, with more body than many other portable DACs. Works especially well with IEMs and efficient over-ears.

Chord Mojo 2 – $650.00

A highly respected DAC/Amp with a unique internal architecture. The Mojo 2 includes Chord’s proprietary FPGA DAC technology, which allows for an extremely precise digital filter and internal EQ control. It has two 3.5mm outputs but no balanced connection. Sound-wise, it’s one of the most refined portable units available, with a neutral reference tone and exceptional layering. Ideal for those who want a compact unit with no sonic compromise—though the user interface requires some learning.

Questyle CMA 18 – $699.00

A recent addition to Questyle’s portable lineup, the CMA 18 blends a modern aesthetic with serious output capabilities. The amp section uses Current Mode amplification for low distortion and high bandwidth, providing excellent control over hard-to-drive headphones. It includes balanced output, USB DAC support, and Bluetooth. Sonically, it is detailed and balanced, with great texture in the low mids and strong separation in complex tracks. An impressive performer in a slim form factor.

Transportable Audiophile DAC/Amps ($1,000+)

iFi Valkyrie – $1,699.00

Designed for listeners who want high-end performance in a semi-portable package. The Valkyrie includes a large battery, multiple digital filters, and selectable gain levels. It supports 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended output, and has a neutral-warm tuning with a strong sense of dynamics. While not pocketable, it is backpack-friendly and functions equally well as a desktop DAC/Amp when plugged in. Suited for full-size headphones and critical listening on the move.

Chord Hugo 2 – $2,500.00

The Hugo 2 is a reference-class DAC/Amp that’s technically portable but best suited for transportable setups. It features Chord’s top-tier DAC implementation, extensive digital filter controls, and an ultra-transparent sound signature with class-leading detail retrieval. It’s on the heavier side and lacks wireless connectivity, but its sonic performance is unmatched in this category. For audiophiles who want world-class digital-to-analog conversion without being tethered to a desk.

Conclusion

Choosing the right portable DAC/Amp depends on your listening habits, headphone requirements, and how much customization you want in your setup. For casual everyday use, a sub-$100 dongle can offer a massive improvement over onboard sound. If you’re pairing with higher-end headphones or IEMs, mid-tier and high-end options provide better synergy and control. And if you want uncompromising audio quality away from your desk, transportable rigs like the Hugo 2 or Valkyrie deliver desktop-caliber sound wherever you go.

You can find all of these portable DAC/Amps and more at Audio46, where our staff can help you choose the best solution for your setup.