ddHiFi TC44Pro E3 3rd-Gen DAC Dongle | USB-C
The Third-Gen TC44Pro E3 Packs Serious Power into a Compact Form, Thanks to Dual SGM8262-2 Amp Chips and Refined DAC Architecture
- Third generation interchangeable cable DAC and amp
- Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips
- Independent volume control (60 steps) and gain switch
- Includes one standard ddHiFi TC03SS cable
- 3.5mm SE + 4.4mm BAL outputs
The Most Compact Generation
The Eye series DAC and amp adapters are designed with connecting cables, featuring interfaces on both ends for an extremely symmetrical style. The TC44Pro E3 embodies functional integration aesthetics through its exquisite design. Despite incorporating both 3.5mm and 4.4mm output jacks, a USB-C port, a DAC and amplification motherboard, and three additional control buttons, its final size is only about the size of a thumb. This achieves a breakthrough in portability while expanding interface and functionality options.
Energy Paradox in a Compact Form
Don’t let its size fool you, the TC44Pro E3 delivers serious power from its pocket-sized frame. At its core are dual SGM8262-2 high-output amplifier chips, pushing up to 510mW of power, enough to drive many popular over-ear headphones with ease. This striking contrast between compact design and formidable performance makes the E3 a true powerhouse in miniature.
A Masterpiece of Performance
The Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chip redefines the audio experience with its multidimensional technological advantages. Equipped with a high dynamic range architecture and low-distortion circuit design, complemented by high channel isolation, it ensures pristine sound quality from the source. In terms of format compatibility, it supports high sample rate decoding, native DSD processing, and seamless format switching, adapting to diverse audio scenarios.
Furthermore, the integration of advanced filtering technology and a low-power architecture balances performance and energy efficiency, providing a core solution for portable audio devices.
Expanded Connectivity
The TC44Pro E3 features an integrated dual-port design with both 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, offering greater flexibility for headphone/earphone pairing. In balanced decoding scenarios, the 4.4mm interface stands out as the preferred choice, delivering powerful drive and refined audio performance.
Meanwhile, the return of the 3.5mm jack ensures compatibility not only with traditional headphones, but also with instruments and audio equipment. Through an optimized spatial layout, the new design achieves a more compact form factor despite the additional port. It perfectly balances functional expansion and portability.
Independent Volume and Gain Switch
Designed with ergonomics in mind, the TC44Pro E3 features three front-facing buttons that allow for effortless one-handed operation. The volume up/down buttons are intuitively sized for easy blind adjustment, while the less frequently used gain switch is strategically placed at a slight distance to prevent accidental toggling.
Button Operations
- Volume Control: Short press the +/- buttons repeatedly to adjust volume, with 60 precise steps available.
- Gain Switch: Short press to turn on and off high gain mode, and the yellow indicator light on the back will illuminate when high-gain mode is active.
Indicator Lights
The Eye3's indicator lights are positioned on the back to prevent discomfort from direct light exposure during nighttime use.
- Blue: Represents PCM decoding output
- Green: Indicates native DSD decoding output*
- Yellow: Signifies high-gain mode is active
*When playing DSD files on an Android phone, first enable USB exclusive mode in the app, then set the DSD input to "Native"
Specifications
- DAC: Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
- Amp Chip: Dual SGM8262-2
- Volume Control: 60-step adjustment
- SNR: ≥123dB
- Dynamic Range: ≥120dB
- THD+N: ≤0.0004%
- PCM Decoding: Up to 32bit/384kHz
- DSD Decoding: Native DSD64/DSD128/DSD256
- Plug: USB-C OTG
- Jacks: 4.4mm BAL + 3.5mm SE
- Dimensions: 44.3mm x 17.5mm x 11.6mm
- Weight: 13.6g
3.5mm Single-Ended (High-gain mode, 32 Ohms Load)
- Output Power: ≥175mW
- Output Voltage: 2.35Vrms
4.4mm Balanced (High-gain mode, 32 Ohms Load)
- Output Power: ≥510mW
- Output Voltage: 4Vrms