"Yes, the M12i still supports inline microphones as long as your headset has a CTIA jack." - Questyle recently confirmed on comment section of their video "Does the M12 support phone calls? | Questyle". Even if not part of the features officially announced, if mic works with this dongle, then it's a big point on its favor and certainly a differentiating factor from many other dongles which lack this resource. Andy, can you please try it out and let us know if it works? Thanks a lot.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks, I will try this later. And I will pin this post
@MsSivaraman87
5 ай бұрын
Finally a good dongle with microphone support! I hope M15i will support this feature too :)
@mayonotes9849
5 ай бұрын
@@MsSivaraman87I believe the original M15 doesn't support it, so the M15i might not support as well.
@jcadag8789
Ай бұрын
I like that you put how efficient the DAC.
@Rsalmond83
5 ай бұрын
Watched this review early this morning and quickly ordered the M12i. Received a couple of hours ago and so far this has taken over the top spot. Thanks for the fantastic review!
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Hope you enjoy it! 😀
@questyle_official
5 ай бұрын
I'll second that! Enjoy it to its fullest 😄
@LLab71
5 ай бұрын
This sounds great. I also appreciate how this appears to have been made with Apple users in mind. Will hold out to see how the M15i is. Wouldn’t want all my 4.4 cables going to waste. Appreciate your reviews. You’re the GOAT of the dongleverse.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Lol. Thanks and cheers
@RandolphNwaiwu
4 ай бұрын
I have a THX Onyx and have been researching dongle dac/amps for like a week now, as I want to get a new one. So happy the KZitem gods have finally let me to you. Amazing detailed content. Love the quality of your reviews.
@donglemadness
4 ай бұрын
Thank you, good luck on your hunt!
@RandolphNwaiwu
4 ай бұрын
@@donglemadnessthank you❤. Also, I see you have never reviewed the THX Onyx. Would have loved to hear your opinion. But from what I can see online that particular dongle didn’t get much love from the community.
@sebolla9791
5 ай бұрын
M15i will be so interesting
@Mastermnd1
5 ай бұрын
I was thinking of buying an fc6 during the spring sales, because it's 100 usd off! But with this review... I think I'm going to hold my horses.
@temskee6792
3 ай бұрын
I had the first version. m12i build quality has stepped up compared to the original. not sure if its a placebo effect, but it seems more consistent in terms of amp power when connected to a macbook and iphone usbc. previously I could notice significant drop in bass when connected to iphone compared to macbook usb c thanks for your review! it did help me decide to get it. PS: I love the format of your review. keep it up
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
Thanks!
@jgdpsu
5 ай бұрын
Nice review Andy. I managed to score one of these from the Amazon's Vine reviewers program. I concluded it's very analog sounding as well and suits my tastes as well. It's currently my daily driver.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks. Really surprised me too, my regular rotation here as well
@MarsChan07
5 ай бұрын
I can't wait on your review of the M15i.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Me too, lol
@MarsChan07
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness lol
@daniell80781
5 ай бұрын
when do you plan to do the M15i review?@@donglemadness Looking forward to it
@colddish
5 ай бұрын
The relationship between current and voltage is analog to torque and horsepower. You can have high horsepower but without high torque the peak hp will only be achieved after a very long journey. Based on your description the M12i is like a turbo charged car with very high torque count which will beat any naturally aspirated car at traffic light and this should drive many headphones well. Planar speakers love high current amps that’s why people say they don’t like digital amps as they tend to have low current, which I can attest to as I have a 1000w digital amp that still can’t adequately drive my entry level Magnepan LRS. So I bet this dongle will drive planar iems well.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
So true
@enemyspider87
5 ай бұрын
Wow! What are great review! I just got the KA17 for $132 USD recently thanks to your review. I mainly listen to electronic music. I can’t wait to purchase a analog sounding Dac/amp in the future! 👌
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks!. If you listen to electronic music then KA17 is already perfect. This analog sounding DAC would be best suited for something more traditional
@RobbieKhan
2 ай бұрын
I just got the M15i to drive Ananda Nano (14 ohms) and well I returned the desktop amps for refund as the M15i delivers better sound than them (Fiio K7 and Topping DX3 Pro+) - But most of all it's so convenient and small. Modern audio tech has moved in ways I'd have never imagined. Super clean sound, DSD512 supported and it has some col features too like the fade in on signal received so the headphone driver isn't damaged if host volume is loud etc. The most amazing thing of all is the sound, it resembles analogue sound signature style from the old NAD days that I remember, and going by the website it seems Questyle wanted that signature and got just that. Super clean and planar magnetics like the Ananda Nano really pair well with zero brightness amplification as the Nanos are known to be slightly bright. Just smooth warmth. I would say the M15i gets that final 10% you mention over the M12i, obviously it costs more, but you get the full package with the M15i.
@donglemadness
2 ай бұрын
Thanks for the info. Dongle tech has indeed advanced so much in the last three years. Cheers
@pappsa8
5 ай бұрын
Iam not tired hearing about if something has analog sound!🙌🙌😝
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
lol
@fiddlix
5 ай бұрын
Andy, any time you use organic and analog…..dude, that is what I love and gets my attention….you keep right on saying it brother, Cheers..!
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Hahahaha. Cheers!
@pointlessdemon
5 ай бұрын
I have an M15i coming tomorrow! I hope I get to hear your thoughts on that too!
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Enjoy your M15i!
@zord0nTV
5 ай бұрын
I was hearing multiple sound reviews on KZitem from so many people but I need to admit that you are the best of them all! Great description of what to expect from a device that you are interested in and great humor as well 😀 When you have said "I'm not joking" I've giggle a bit 😅 Another great review. Now I'm addicted to your reviews. Very fun to watch and also very professional 👏
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Wow, thanks! You made my day lol. Cheers 🎉🥂
@hokagoteatimereviews
5 ай бұрын
Great review as usual Andy! Can we call this baby fc6? As someone who cannot gush enough about the fc6 the m12i looks so interesting ❤️ Also the power efficiency too is very good crazy how good it is.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Baby? More like on equal footing to FC6 except for some minor differences here and there, so yes M12i at least for me is qualified to substitute FC6
@hokagoteatimereviews
5 ай бұрын
Oh, my bad I meant in terms of price. It amazing that the m12i comes so close to the fc6. Really curious to try them now.
@jaroslavfricek7772
5 ай бұрын
I think Hiby R6 pro 2 uses this current wizardry with lower Wattage…❤️✌️
@jaroslavhavlicek7002
4 ай бұрын
Again, a very exciting review with an unexpected conclusion for me, as far as score sound qualities are concerned. It is a big surprise to me that (and here I may be wrong) with similar technological design to the M15, these two models stand at opposite poles of each other in terms of analogue quality. Thank you for the review Andy!
@donglemadness
4 ай бұрын
My pleasure!
@crate718
4 ай бұрын
You right the M12i is amazing and lot of happiness in such a small unit. One problem it does not work with my IPhone 13 max at all. Took me two weeks to figure how to make it work. The only solution is buying lightning to usb camera charger. That did the trick but it sounds even better on my pc. I guess the voltage difference
@donglemadness
4 ай бұрын
Glad you managed to solve it. And I agree, despite being able to work off iPhones, but the limitation of power feed from iPhones (which are still very weak), you will hear audibly that any dongles will always perform better when connected to PC (especially USB 3.0) or Android running USB 2.0-3.0 with USB Exclusive mode
@crate718
4 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness after i am paid off my iphone I will switch to samsung galaxy
@crate718
4 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness what do you think of fiio btr7?
@franka6515
3 ай бұрын
Great job!!! Their own website support is non-existent. I have had to roam the Internet to find technical details and construct my own "owners manual." I like the product and own one but it seems wrong that I have to do this. Thank you for your work and posting this video. They took so much are to make this product; why they not make an owner's manual?
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
Glad I could help!
@nusu5331
5 ай бұрын
once again thank you for the great review! As some reviewers are raving about the new Muse Hifi M4 and M3 II, I hope you will get your hands on it.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks, I can only review what I have, so we shall see how this goes. Thanks!
@DarenLee
5 ай бұрын
I would like to understand one day on the extreme side of analogue sounding. After watching till the end of the video and it seems like it’s almost the jack of all trade :)
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Lol, bro spend time listening to some vinyl at Ben's Coffee Shop and you will totally understand analog sound. And have some great coffee while at it
@DarenLee
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness will call you soon for Ben’s
@gogo8033
5 ай бұрын
Want to see Questyle CMA18 vs Fiio Q15🤓
@cschoi100
4 ай бұрын
Thanks for the informative video. Could you help me answering the following two questions? 1. How does the m12 and m12i sounds with 600 ohm headphones? (DT880,dt990) 2. Does m12 operates on iPhone? Is there a big difference in dynamic and power when you compare m12 and m12i with iPhone?
@donglemadness
4 ай бұрын
1. I haven't tried 600 Ohm yet on M12i so I can't give you a conclusive answer on this. M12 I think will still operate on iPhones but not as optimized as M12i. I wish I can tell you more but I have stopped using iPhones since 2021 because iPhones restrict too much power for USB DAC/Amps
@cschoi100
4 ай бұрын
Thanks for the reply. Probably I will get android tablet for now.
@forsakenedzero
5 ай бұрын
great review , thank you. Would be really great to get your insights at the questyle cma18 portable :)
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks. I would like to get my hands on CMA18 too
@gwine9087
5 ай бұрын
Sounds great. Unfortunately, my favourite IEMs only have a 4.4.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
99% of my IEMs and headphones are wired for 4.4mm BAL, but I keep two reducer adapter from 4.4mm to 3.5mm that solves that issue
@gwine9087
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness I have been looking for one but cannot find one.
@rockenen655
2 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Which reducer adapter from 4.4mm to 3.5mm are you using ?
@nmatheis
5 ай бұрын
Hi Andy! I'm wondering if you can review Penon Tail. I like it very much because it even though the features are lacking, it sounds very nice. I'm wondering how you think it sounds vs the other Cirrus Logic dongles out right now. I also think it's hilarious that you wear metal shirts but mention Diana Krall as a sound reference. I could care less about Diana Krall. I'm much more interested in how you think audio gear sounds with metal 🤘🤘🤘
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
If I get it, i will review it. There's just too many now I don't even know where to start. While I listens to Black/Doom/Industrial Metal 80% of the time, it makes little sense to talk about audio referring to them, Diana Krall and Alison Krauss I immensely enjoy listening to and they are a bit more accessible to the audiences as opposed to explaining to them how this gear performs with BURZUM? or Bathory? lol, you get the idea
@nmatheis
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness I think a lot more people listen to metal than your think, Andy. Including some harsh music to let us know how audio gear performed with that as well as something more audiophile like Diana Krall would help a lot of people!
@northborneo
5 ай бұрын
It would be very interesting to compare this and Colorfly CDA M1P with the Kiwi Ears Allegro. Which one of these is the best analogue sounding dongle dac?
@lambdastorm7787
5 ай бұрын
Dunno about the allegro but M12 does not compare with M1P. It is very digital sounding. M1P on the other hand sounds unlike any other dongles it sounds like a full sized desktop system. Very full bodied sound. The details are there but they never shout at u.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
I think from the chart of timbre you can see that M12i is the only other dongle that share the same analog spot with FC6, that alone should give you the idea of how close M1P is (just next door) and Allegro another level nearby. Regardless, all of them already great for what they do for being analog and well tuned
@lambdastorm7787
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness hey Andy, I never heard the 12i but I've owned the M12 for a year. It sounds very digital. From your description it seems they've tweaked the internals apart from having it certified by apple.
@user-xf6lj3fz4r
5 ай бұрын
Thanks for the great review Andy! Serious question: do you think that m12i or even m15i would be an upgrade over OG m15 or rather sidegrade at best? I recently got OG m15 from Ali for really good price slightly below 200 USD and it's great. And looking at the marketing materials for m12i/m15i it seems that "i" in the models' name mostly stands for better iOS support (which I'm not interested at all). I'm perfectly fine with existing OG m15 (power efficiency, output power, sound quality) and hopefully this device will be relevant for years to come. But who knows, maybe some of the features form "i" models are worth looking at?
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks. M15 as you can see in the comparison section of this video is already a top tiered performer and will still be one of the very best with technicalities and dynamic handling/presentation. So, you already have something quite solid in hand now that will remain a top performer nonetheless. At this point, usually personal sonic preferences will determine which one you like the most. It is quite evident I like M12i more because my senses jive better with the more musical/analog nature of M12i. The i designation is not just an improvement for Apple MFi related features but apparently also includes refinement in sound tuning over what was an already great M12
@giallosenzafine9831
5 ай бұрын
Great review, Andy! Considering your thoughts, I'm assuming that the M12i would be capable of drive the HD 650 that I own. That's very interesting... the analog sound is what I'm looking for. Thanks! It's also not that expensive after all. That's great!
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks, and yes HD650 just like HD600 will synergize and driven well by M12i, that organic and analog sound will be more prominent with that pairing
@carlomarchese6003
3 ай бұрын
Congratulations for the competence and simplicity with which you exhibit. I have a question: I would like to know what differences there are with the older brother M15i in terms of timbre and energy efficiency, thanks.
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
Thanks. Unfortunately I can't answer that now as I don't have M15i to compare yet
@Stylianos.
5 ай бұрын
Nice I'm surprised by the analog sound of this , .the way you described it Andy as it's near analog as FC6 !! Now the question is how does M12i compare to FC6 soundstage wise?
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
M12i is practically similar to FC6 on analog charateristics. M12i also offer wider sense of staging, the R2R nature of FC6 natively frontal so it is not as wide as M12i
@Stylianos.
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness thank you for the reply
@Stylianos.
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Now Andy I would really like to know , if this M12i supports mic , like M12 did before . Because it's one of the reason why I need it for a gaming setup .
@syedrehanfida
5 ай бұрын
Great review as always! I ordered the Moondrop Dawn Pro a few days ago during sale, and I see that it's in the middle between analog and digital sound on your scale. Can you please tell what analog sound means?
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Analog = Natural/Organic sound, no hint of digital tint to the sound, accurate to real sound as heard by human ears in real life situations
@syedrehanfida
5 ай бұрын
Thank you@@donglemadness
@FranciscoHoLi
2 ай бұрын
❤😊❤ Great video or review. The M 15i is on offer here in Germany. It costs 100 € more than the M12i. Is it worth it? Is it worth going straight for the M15i? Sorry for the many questions 🤷😜! Best regards Francisco
@donglemadness
2 ай бұрын
Thanks, I wish I can help you with the questions but I personally haven't tried M15i yet so I really don't know
@user-sw6pu9rk9x
5 ай бұрын
Hi Andy! I want to buy a Colorfly M1p or Questyle M12i dongle for a pleasant listening to my audio library and I don't know which one is better to choose.What can you recommend? You are an authoritative expert for me.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Both already very pleasant and smooth to listen to. Just get the one that is easy for you to obtain because I like M1P as much as I like M12i
@MaicolBv
3 ай бұрын
Would you reccomend m12i or fiio k11 for pc?
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
M12i all the way
@c.s.7749
5 ай бұрын
Hi Andy, finally the review of my favorite dongle the M12i. Great work from you as usual, thank you very much! I have a question though. I find the M12i brighter than the original and also brighter than the FC6. Yet you classify it as super analog. I must certainly confuse analog and warm sound (like tubes). In the same way you classify the UA4 or the DC03 PRO as more Hi-Fi more energetic, which I understands, because I feel it when listenig (I own them all). I'm a little confused between an analog sound, a warm, a brighter, more energetic...I think a lot of people are in my situation. So, if I understand correctly, brighter sound does not necessarily mean Hi-Fi sound? I also have the Moonriver 2 Ti, which I consider to be "super neutral" compared to my FC6 or my DC03 PRO, the two opposites. It would be super interesting if you could make an explanatory and informative video on all the possible nuances of sounds. Best regards
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Some tube amps can sound bright too, like some Class B tube setups, or even class AB. So being analog is not about sounding "warm". It also depends on what you use to judge them, hence why I always use Etymotic ER series or Kinera Idun Golden or Sennheiser HD600 to ascertain the timbre presentation. These listening devices impart the least amount of coloration that might mask the true nature of the source. For example, by simply swapping DAC and using Etymotic ER2XR, you would immediately notice the differences in the energy, tonality and temperament of the output, analog sound is all about perceived output that is close to real life listening experience. If you spend time listening to musical instruments or vocals in person, you would know how this sounds like, especially for stringed and percussions. Digital Hi-Fi sound is focused heavily on pristine cleanliness and in this process, they tend to shed off the realism of tonality in favor of super clean imaging and resolution. But ultimately, it is the listener sensitivity to sound and also preferences will determine how they perceive the output
@c.s.7749
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Thank you so much Andy for taking the time to answer my question. I understand, I understand better now, thanks to your explanation. I'm a big fan of your channel!
@Mastermnd1
5 ай бұрын
This was actually a very good question and answer. Thank you both. When I was a total noob it took me a while to understand these exact points
@Alxtorr77
5 ай бұрын
Andy nice review as always! Try to get some penon iem.. If you like analog sound.. Penon iem (serial, fan 2, vortex, fan, globe..etc.) are beast.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks, yes I heard a lot of great feedbacks on Penon IEMs, they do seem to be in alignment with my taste
@robcrooks8663
5 ай бұрын
Another great review Andy!! I have the original M12 and recently purchased the KA17. I find the KA17 a little bright bright but very detailed. I was thinking of returning the KA17 and buying the M12i. Is the M12i a big improvement over the M12 sound wise?
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks, M12 is already great so realistically the improvements are subtle, but there are improvements overall
@jonathan.singer
5 ай бұрын
Great review! Just wondering, where can I find the USB type C cable you have connected to your HiBy FC6 at 15:16? All of my USB C cables are quite stiff and I'd love to have something that flexible.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks. I use iBasso CB18 cable for my FC6
@jonathan.singer
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Perfect, thanks for taking the time to respond!
@Jamy4ya
5 ай бұрын
Hi Andy, how would you compare this to cayin ru6,7 and the cheaper Aklliam PD4 Plus which you recently reviewed ? As i am chasing a bit warm and analogue sounding dac.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
M12i is even more analog sounding with stronger organic tint to the timbre versus RU6/RU7, but not as frontal/Mids centric as how Resistor Ladders DAC would sound. PD4 Plus on the other hand is even less analog sounding compared to RU6/RU7 and M12i
@elimgrc1292
3 ай бұрын
After this review i got one.
@gskyflakes
5 ай бұрын
cant wait for the fiio ka11 reviewwww
@Nordi1_0745
5 ай бұрын
Hello Andy! Thanks you very much review and for the price M12i looks really promising! As that can drive HD600 so easy and seems to have good power amp, why it is rating with 9 out of 10? Can't wait for your review of Akliam PD5 so as to find out if the AKM budget dongle empire strikes back to ESS!
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks, the power rating is not perfect 10 because something like KA17 or DC04Pro can do the same loudness with more headroom to spare, M12i to achieve the same level of loudness will be left with less headroom when run via Android (USB Exclusive Mode)
@Nordi1_0745
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Thank you Andy. Which of M12i,M1P and DC04 PRO( or something else) for HD600 and even K701, based always to your personal preference. Μy budget can not afford more than 100-120$ Thanks for all!
@jefffeith4201
5 ай бұрын
Placed an order. You deserve a commission. Many thanks for your subjective reviews.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
My pleasure
@szch664
5 ай бұрын
Could you review FIIO KA11? It's a new budget dongle that looks promising.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Yes, it is in progress now
@imD1yeah
5 ай бұрын
Great review andy, and since u love the btr15 so much, but i never see the rating on your rating sys. For sound preferences which will u pick btr15 vs questyleM12i.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Thanks, BT dongles does not have a rating table, I don't have enough volume to start rating them. But yes I use it quite a lot especially on the move on LDAC BT. Sound wise, I like the analog presentation of M12i more, with BTR15 coming super close behind - however I must admit that BTR15 still have an edge with soundstage width and airy decays, just a hair better than M12i - so you can say I love both equally for what they do best - both faithfully neutral and mature with sound tuning
@imD1yeah
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness thanks andy, very detailed answer and as always cant wait for your next video. 🫡
@AndresVa-lf8wn
3 ай бұрын
Además no se desconecta físicamente, cuando hago algún movimiento,en el teléfono dice que se desconecto pudo ser el puerto c del doongle, me sorprendió lo frágil que es
@zygote8888
5 ай бұрын
Hmmmmm very interesting to see single ended dongle giving analogue sound signature I hope you review fiio ka11 soon too Andy thank you 🙏🏼 , did you say 104usd? In india it's showing 225usd yikes
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
KA11 in the works now. The prices I mentioned are for AliExpress. Anywhere from $104 to $130
@zygote8888
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness thanks for quick reply much appreciated 👍🏼
@PL-ri3bz
5 ай бұрын
Good morning Andy from here in the UK. A few questions for you please. You used this with your Fostex T40RP so what was the driving power of this dac with those headphones? Windows volume reference? I think my hearing and loudness preference is similar to yours so that'll be very helpful. Also the standard M12 is it the same regarding driving power? As the M12 is £20 cheaper than the i version Thank you
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Hey morning. Now, assuming you have similar sonic sensitivity levels to my eardrums, my T40 RPMK3 (which has been recabled to use permanent soldered high purity 6N copper cable), running off my PC (USB 3.0), playing Alison Krauss Album on Tidal "Lonely Goes Both Ways", I needed only 38-42/100 volume for proper listening loudness and that leave quite a bit of headroom still. M12i is illegally powerful. I will admit my JDS Labs Atom 2 DAC/Amp stack and BURSON Audio Playmate 2 V7 will offer a bit more of sound texture and impact, but without comparing, M12i did a HELL of a job making that Fostex sing too! I don't recall the older M12 being this powerful, if memory serves me right
@PL-ri3bz
5 ай бұрын
Great Andy thank you again for your speedy and very comprehensive answer , that's what I needed to know , I really like my newly acquired T40RP but finding the right driving partner for them is essential to make them sing.....illegally powerful lol love it!
@PL-ri3bz
5 ай бұрын
Also I was considering paying a bit more and getting the Fiio K7 full size THXX AKM chip dac amp which I'm pretty confident of being able to drive my T40RP as it's not essential I get a dongle size unit as it will be only for desktop use with windows 11 but I do like the discreet form factor of dongles
@DarenLee
5 ай бұрын
Yes I remember this very black background the old one. I forgot got MQA or not? But work well that time with my iPhone lightning port.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Yes this one have MQA
@Nordi1_0745
4 ай бұрын
Hello Andy! Can EPZ TP50 reach the analogue feeling of M12i Will I gonna loose the analogue richness? As I am going to buy TP50 and match it with my HD600,K701 and Tanchjim Zero and I think from your reviews that TP50 is the most complete dongle in the price range of 100-130$. Thank you very much!
@donglemadness
4 ай бұрын
Between M12i and TP50 (on Slow filters), they are very closely matched with analog sound presentation and I use TP50 more because it has both 4.4mm and 3.5mm SE. Both M12i and TP50 sounds amazing with my HD600 and Tanchjim ZERO, so now you just need to decide if you want a bit more of features with TP50 offer or simplicity M12i exhibits
@Nordi1_0745
4 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Thank you really Andy, I make my choice of TP50!
@eboboboy
Ай бұрын
@@donglemadnessAndy, wondering is the TP50 on a slow filter also similar to FC6? Since the M12i sound you said is very similar to FC6. But I read some other reviews that TP50 is neutral bright. Im looking for a neutral warm and analog sound DAC for long listening. Hope you can help me 😃
@paolozafra5499
5 ай бұрын
Seems like a good option indeed especially for someone like me with mostly single ended gear. Why you make me empty my wallet Andyyyyy!!! hahahaha... Great review brother!
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Hahahaha sorry for your wallet
@SileDevil
5 ай бұрын
wow impressive in terms of timbre rating. Pitty it doesnt have volume buttons. Kinda expensive for the lack of buttons in fact.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
It does bothered me at first, the lack of independent volume controls, but then the sound makes up for the lack of hardware features it offers
@SileDevil
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness yeah but at 100$+ and no buttons is kinda shit lol
@benmacdhui
5 ай бұрын
Andy, sound as rich vs FC6? Also, does it not have independent volume is that why it scores a 6
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Yes, as noted in the comparison section and also sound timbre, the only dongle so far that matches FC6 sound richness and timbre. And no, it does not have independent volume that it is why 6 for that
@benmacdhui
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Not having independent volume is too bad. In todays competitive market, Questyle definitely dropped the ball on that one
@lorien223
4 ай бұрын
Thank you for the great review. I’m currently using an older model, the M12, and I’m wondering if it’ll be able to drive the HD600s without any issues. I’ve been listening to music with the Ksc75 for a while now, using my old M12 DAC connected to my computer. I’m now looking to try out other headphones, but I’ve heard from many people that an amp is essential for using the HD600s. I’m wondering if I really need to spend the extra money on an amp to drive the HD600s, or if the M12 alone will be enough.
@donglemadness
4 ай бұрын
Thanks. I think you have watched in this video I have showed how great M12i is with HD600. There's no need for an amp really on its own. The older M12 with the later model FW, sounds warmer compared to M12i, but no less powerful
@lorien223
4 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Thank you for your reply. I'm currently using my M12 with M15 firmware, forced into high gain mode. That's great to hear! Sounds like the M12 can drive the HD600 on its own. While an amp would be an upgrade, I'm happy to enjoy my hobby for now without breaking the bank. I'll definitely check out headphone amps when I have more room in the budget. :)
@PL-ri3bz
3 ай бұрын
Hi Andy , I'd be interested on your views on the newer M15i My Astell and Kern HC4 still reigns supreme though
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
I don't have M15i yet
@sorcerermax5111
5 ай бұрын
My Shanling UA4, best value 😁😁
@michagorecki6241
3 ай бұрын
Hi Andy I just bought an M12i, it's really good. I have a question for you, what does Driving power (38/100) mean? Because when I use it with H650 on my phone (Realmy GT2 pro and TIDAL), I have to set the volume to 80-90% (two steps before the maximum volume) to get a satisfactory volume. Your review says that the satisfactory volume is around 40%. Is this an error (38/100)? Regards
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
Thanks, 38/100 was the volume I needed when I use M12i driving Sennheiser HD600 on my PC via USB 3.0 PD. It is really powerful. But then I also understand that people have different level of sonic sensitivity to dB levels. While my ears needed only 38/100, I know some of my friends would need more than double that just to get to the same listening loudness. This is normal, each human tends to be different due to many factors
@michagorecki6241
3 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Thanks for your answer, you're right. It plays much louder on the computer. At a volume setting of 40/100 it is already very loud, even too loud in some recordings. Good luck with your blog, it's the best. Regards.
@M0N0XS
4 күн бұрын
what best in SQ tone, timbre, dynamic, richness and technicality vs M1P ? also is m12i have independent volume ?
@donglemadness
4 күн бұрын
M12i does not have independent volume adjuster. Both M1P and M12i are on equal terms when it comes to analog timbre, richness and smoothness. M12i however does offer a bit more of resolution overall
@user-vv2ok6fd1j
Ай бұрын
Haloo Mr andy cloud you please compare questyle m12 vs m12i in soundstage and ambient
@donglemadness
Ай бұрын
M12i is more open and slightly wider than the og M12
@user-vv2ok6fd1j
Ай бұрын
@@donglemadness if compare with Hiby FC 6 and Onix m12i is still open and wider
@PL-ri3bz
5 ай бұрын
Can I ask you another question of interest Andy. When powering your Fostex T40 does the M12i switch automatically to high gain?? As the table you show says anything under 70 ohm it stays on low gain whereas I would think to power the T40 it would need high gain I think it would be better to have manual control over the gain
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
I have no definite technical info to back this up, but as I use my T40RPMK3 now, it does seem to run High Gain otherwise that 50 Ohm 91 dB planar would sound meek if not powered properly. The lower impedance Sundara also seems to run on high gain, otherwise I would have noted that in my review if it is not sufficient. Perhaps you can shoot an email to Questyle asking how does it behave for low impedance/low sensitivity planars
@PL-ri3bz
5 ай бұрын
Thank you Andy very much yes I did wonder because of the automatic gain thing and under 70 ohm it goes to low gain but as you say it goes into high gain if you use your Fostex. Anyway my M12i is arriving today so I'll be using it with my T40 also so I'll be very interested in the results from my windows PC USB 3.0 and very much looking forward to hearing this dongle my first Questyle ! I love analogue / organic sounding type of sound like you. Yes I might email Questyle for a response on how they get around the low impedance planar input less than 70db....interesting
@RishuKumar-zo2hc
5 ай бұрын
Very noisy or reverby voice, maybe dynamic microphone?
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
It could be the compression of KZitem during upload conversion
@cliffordchan.
2 ай бұрын
Welps, order placed 😂
@donglemadness
2 ай бұрын
😂🙏🙌
@FLASH-bx9jj
Ай бұрын
Recently i purchase Simgot EA1000 and i dont have any dac i m just using normal type c to 3.5mm dongle the device i used OnePlus 11 and using apple music sound quality is just amazing.. So my question is should i buy DAC Questyle 12i please reply me..
@donglemadness
Ай бұрын
Yes it does, especially if you are limited to 3.5mm SE plug then the M12i is an improvement over direct phone out
@Zombieflourish
5 ай бұрын
niceee
@jasmeetsingh7982
3 ай бұрын
what will sound better with etymotic er2xr this or tanchim space, my preference is wider soundstage, better resolution and neutral , natural tonality
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
My personal choice will be the M12i for ER2XR any day any time, most analog and wide open sound. Space is already good, but to me M12i is more refined and natural sounding
@DaddyYanToTe
5 ай бұрын
Andy, if u compare between CDA m1p vs M12i which have wider sound stage and technicalities ?
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
M12i is wider and more pronounced with technicalities, as you can see the rating on the comparison section of this video
@DaddyYanToTe
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Thanks, i will buy this soon as a analog lover🫶
@agusarifianto4367
Ай бұрын
Andy what cable you use for ety er2xr?
@donglemadness
Ай бұрын
I use the stock Etymotic cable, re-terminated to 4.4mm BAL
@agusarifianto4367
Ай бұрын
@@donglemadness any recommendations good quality cable for er2 series Andy?
@KskDd-dp8nu
5 ай бұрын
hi andy! just out of curiosity, how well does abigail pro and moondrop dawn pro compares to LG in built quad dac?? and how will you rate LG quad dac in terms of dongle-madness conditions?
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
I am very familar with LG Quad DAC of V35 and V50 respectively, I had both phone for quite a while. I can say that the only thing that impressed me was the technicalities. Otherwise, Abigail Pro and Dawn Pro is superior with natural and neutral sound without the ESS Sabre pinna glare observed with the LG Quad DAC setup, DAWN Pro especially will more than match LG Quad DAC technicalities. But I can understand that many would still like LG Quad DAC performance especially if tonal accuracy is not a requirement, or you don't mind bright sharp crispy edged resolution/imaging - it is all about what's important to the listener after all
@KskDd-dp8nu
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness thanks a lot for the reply also do you have any plans to review the new fiio ka11?? it seems to be good, looks promising
@andresvr8357
5 ай бұрын
It seems that it does not give many numbers on the amplification, How much do you estimate it to be in MW?.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
I have no idea as I am not well versed with calculations. I can only tell what I hear and I hear powerful output as demonstrated in this video
@user-vv2ok6fd1j
Ай бұрын
m12 vs m12i on soundstage which one is wider
@donglemadness
Ай бұрын
M12i sounds more open and wide
@andresvr8357
5 ай бұрын
Aveces el ancho de la escena sonora puede ayudar en la separación de capaz,cómo se compara en ancho vs Yuki? y en profundidad como se compara m12i con allegro?.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Yuki has a bit more of air and space but staging width both are similar
@AndresVa-lf8wn
3 ай бұрын
Que tan normal es que sufra desconexión?presionó medianamente la parte que se conecta al doongle y se desconecta, al principio lo conecte mal de la parte que dice questyle lo conecte al revés y creo que lo dañe pero no estoy seguro
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
For any detachable USB C connectors, always be careful when detaching them, they can get loose easily. I have damaged my Samsung Galaxy S21 sometime ago when I was not careful with this. Once loose, either on the phone side or dongle side, it can be a permanent issue which can only be fixed by replacing the USB C female port
@vishnudh1216
3 ай бұрын
I'm confused if I should get M15i or just go for a Hiby R4. Not able to understand how a dongle and Dap have same price
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
Different usage scenario and preferences. You want all in solution, use R4
@vishnudh1216
3 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness but m15i would have better audio quality than Hiby R4? Or in general based on your experience dongles have performed better than daps in the same price range? Thanks for the help
@andresvr8357
5 ай бұрын
So if you add a fairly analog iem to that, what level of tubes would it be compared to?.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
In my case I paired M12i with SIVGA Nightingale which is already warm/analog, the output is akin to listening to Class D tube amps
@andresvr8357
3 ай бұрын
Sabe si es compatible con otros cables o tiene que ser de la marca?.
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
It will work with any OTG or data capable USB C cables
@Stylianos.
4 ай бұрын
I still wonder Andy if this supports microphone like m12 did🎤
@donglemadness
4 ай бұрын
Yes, I have tested it personally
@Stylianos.
4 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Thank you , now that's the reason for me to proceed to purchase it .
@shawnpwatsons1
5 ай бұрын
Please get your hands on the iFi Audio Kensei GoBAr for $449. It should be your highest performing dongle.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
I would love to 😁
@shawnpwatsons1
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness I'll be waiting and watching.
@Gatecrasher3
5 ай бұрын
@donglemadness Can you recommend a pocketable amp/dac that can power my Hifiman Sundara? Something in the $100 US or less price range? Thank you
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
There's tons of dongles that can power Sundara properly. As tested with my own Sundara, my pick is HIBY FC6 (3.5mm SE) or Aune Yuki (4.4mm BAL). So does many others especially the ones I rated 80/100 and above and with power rating at least 8
@Gatecrasher3
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness thanks so much for getting back to me. Would either the HiBy FC4, the Fiio KA13, or the ibasso DC04 have the power requirements for the Sundara? Those three models are more in my price range. Thank you.
@Gatecrasher3
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness never mind, I looked at your ranking list and it has all the suggestions I need. I believe I will go for the DC04. Thank you!
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
@@Gatecrasher3 Yes them too 😁
@rial2997
5 ай бұрын
Earfun ua100 vs questyle m12i. Which one best ❤
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
If you look at the rating of UA100, it is clear that M12i is superior in every way
@umeshmanna5396
5 ай бұрын
how is the volume control in moondrop dawn pro
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Have a look at my review on Moondrop DAWN Pro, it is independent volume
@blindman8093
Ай бұрын
is this compatible with windows 11 laptop?
@donglemadness
Ай бұрын
Yes, plug and play on Windows 10 and 11
@_lauft
3 ай бұрын
What about heavy load? HD600 is high peak-to-peak )
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
You mean low impedance low sensitivity? something like Sundara? yes my Sundara seems to work much similar to what I get from HD600 on M12i
@yvaib9793
9 күн бұрын
Does m12i support call?
@donglemadness
9 күн бұрын
No it does not support MIC
@yvaib9793
9 күн бұрын
@@donglemadness can you recommend for me a best p/p dongle dac under $150 that support micro ?
@rafeezrazi92
5 ай бұрын
is this upgrade from earfun UA100
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
More than UA100 by miles
@rafeezrazi92
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness *add to chart
@87togabito
5 ай бұрын
Heard it. Honestly I don’t think it’s that impressive against the competition like the l&pW4 etc. if you’re going to be spending 100 on it, you might as well just top up a bit more and get something significantly better for a better value proposition.
@andresvr8357
5 ай бұрын
Entonces vs simgot,fiio ka13 hidiz s9,y los doongle Sub 100 dirías que es muy mínima la diferencia en detalles.
@johnwee6800
5 ай бұрын
Muse M4 wen? Hehehe
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
In my wishlist
@GetID
5 ай бұрын
Hy Andy, do you have recommendation DAC dongle for warm and lush IEM under $200? thanks
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
If your IEM is really warm, then you can go for the more energetic and bright sounding Shanling UA4 or iBasso DC06Pro. EPZ TP20 and Fosi Audio DS1 will also be really good with warm IEMs
@frankd.b.9233
3 ай бұрын
I got the M15I a nice small thing @ hd800s lol;l
@ea2re
3 ай бұрын
auto_awesome Traducir del: español 191 / 5.000 Hi Andy, I have the M15i, I like it a lot, should I buy the M12i too?, I really like the M15i because of its level of height and overall quality. I noticed in your review that the M12i has a more analogue sound
@donglemadness
3 ай бұрын
Thanks, unfortunately I don't have M15i yet to compare, so I have no idea how they would compare side by side. Once I get it, then I will know. Cheers
@andresvr8357
2 ай бұрын
Lo compraste?
@ea2re
2 ай бұрын
@@andresvr8357 Are on the way. I think there are stock problems and I think it will take a few days to get there.
@user-sw6pu9rk9x
5 ай бұрын
Hi Andy! I want to buy a Colorfly M1p or Questyle M12i dongle for a pleasant listening to my audio library and I don't know which one is better to choose.What can you recommend? You are an authoritative expert for me.
@donglemadness
5 ай бұрын
Already replied to this question the first time you asked it. Thanks
@user-sw6pu9rk9x
5 ай бұрын
@@donglemadness Sorry, Andy, I didn't notice the answer right away. Thank you very much for the good advice. I prefer to buy a Colorfly. Good luck to you, dear friend.
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