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Fosi Audio DS2 Dongle DAC 2024


The updated version of the Fosi Audio DS2 Dongle DAC is equipped with Dual Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips, this compact device delivers powerful performance with single-ended power output of 128mW (32ohms) and balanced output of 510mW (32ohms). Its frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz with a deviation of only +/- 0.5dB ensures accurate sound reproduction across the audible spectrum. Supporting PCM up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD 64/128/256, the DS2 provides versatility for various audio formats.
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With a dynamic range of 130dB and an incredibly low THD+N of 0.0002%, the DS2 delivers pristine audio reproduction with exceptional clarity and detail, making it suitable for critical listening sessions.

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Despite its compact size, the DS2 offers robust power output, particularly in balanced mode, providing ample drive even on some planar headphones and earphones.

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The DS2 has a neutral to bright sound signature, characterized by clarity and precision, it has a wide airy sound stage, with good mid bass focus its fast punchy well defined bass with clear emphasized mids, natural sounding vocals and energetic and well extended treble with just the right amount of sparkle to give more detail and clarity, stellar instrument separation adds to a more holographic sound.

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Compared to the Shanling UA4 Dongle DAC, the Fosi Audio DS2 offers several advantages, particularly in terms of power output and technical specifications. While both devices provide high-resolution audio support and compact form factors, the shanling ua4 offers a more complete feature rich dongle with a status screen, app support, filters and gain switch to name a few but the DS2 stands out with its simple compact elegant design with just a volume buttons on the side and a small rgb light to indicated track file type and a higher power output in both single-ended and balanced modes, and lower THD+N. Additionally, the DS2's neutral to bright sound signature may appeal to users seeking precise and detailed audio reproduction, whereas the UA4 may offer a different sonic character depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices may come down to specific audio requirements, budget considerations, features and personal sound preferences.

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While the DS2 is a very good dac like any other dongle dacs its not without fault, i noticed when pushing the ds2 on balance 4.4 to almost max volume (painfully loud) using my Hifiman he400se planar headphones and ARTTI T10 planar iem there is a very noticable distortion on low and mid frequencies. i do believe the proclaimed output of 510mw on balance is accurate but its pushing the ds2 to its limits and resulting to a very noticable distortion.

I also noticed when using the DS2 on Samsung Galaxy tab A8 tablet, Samsung S23 Ultra mobile phone the sound cuts off and restarts every 10-20 seconds i tried tweaking usb settings on my tablet and the UAPP, Hiby and Tidal app, changed cables etc.. still the sound cuts off making the DS2 useless but it works perfectly on my old iphone 7 plus, ipad mini, iphone Xs Max and my older Samsung Galaxy tab A7. Hoping that Fosi Audio will have a fast fix for this compatability issue.


The DS2 is a very good sounding powerful dac, the compact elegant simple design, with stellar detail and clarity compared to dongle twice its price. it truly performs above its price range BUT with the current compatability issue in some android devices it is a total deal breaker for me. i would advice android users to wait until they fix this problem and for IOS users to go get one i have tested it with old and new models of iphone and ipads and i can confirm that there no issues with sound cutting off. this is really a good sounding solidly built dongle dac that out performs some that is above its price point.

I will update my post once Fosi Audio releases a fix for the Android compatibility issue.





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