If you’re an audiophile or just want clearer, more authentic sound, you’ve probably noticed a common issue:
Flagship smart phones like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra have removed the 3.5mm headphone jack. Using wireless earbuds, whether in sound quality, detail, battery life or bass performance, can’t compare to a true HiFi wired headphones..
Question for you:
How can you enjoy premium sound quality HiFi music on your smartphone without buying an expensive and bulky DAP?
The answer is: You can — and it’s much simpler than you think. This article recommends two cost-effective IEM (in-ear monitor) + USB-C audio solutions that work with most Android phones and the latest iPhones, allowing you to easily get a listening experience comparable to professional equipment.
🚫 Why Native Phone Audio Can’t Satisfy Audiophiles
❌ No headphone jack
Most mainstream phones now only keep USB-C (or Lightning for iPhone), and most adapters on the market use low-end DAC chips that produce muffled, detail-lacking sound.
❌ Bluetooth = audio quality loss
Even high-end TWS earbuds like AirPods Pro 2 and Galaxy Buds suffer from Bluetooth compression (AAC / SBC), causing loss of detail and increased latency, making true HiFi enjoyment impossible.
❌ DAPs are expensive and not portable
Brands like Astell & Kern and FiiO offer powerful DAPs, but their prices are intimidating and their bulky size makes them unsuitable for daily carry by most users.
So, how can you enjoy the delicate, immersive sound of wired in-ear monitors without investing in an expensive and bulky DAP?
✅ Solution 1: Use a USB-C Upgrade Cable with Built-in DAC
This combo is simple yet delivers excellent results, especially for USB-C smartphones.
🔧 Recommended setup:
IEM: NICEHCK DB2
Dual-driver hybrid design (dynamic + balanced armature), clear sound, strong bass, suitable for pop, vocals, and gaming.
Cable: NICEHCK SP4 USB-C IEM Upgrade Cable
Built-in CX31993 high-performance DAC chip, standard 0.78mm 2pin connector, plug directly into your phone.
✅ Advantages:
🎵 True digital audio: bypasses phone’s internal audio processing for HiFi digital output.
🔌 Plug & play: compatible with Android, iPhone (USB-C), tablets, laptops without drivers.
🎧 Noticeable sound improvement: clearer highs, tighter bass, wider soundstage than stock cables or ordinary adapters.
🎤 Supports mic and inline controls: convenient for calls and voice commands.
✍️ This setup is amazingly affordable and sounds better than many devices costing over $200. I call it the “budget killer” — it truly competes with gear twice its price.
✅ Solution 2: Use a USB-C to 3.5mm HiFi DAC Adapter
If you already have favorite 3.5mm wired headphones, this option is more flexible and versatile.
🔧 Recommended setup:
IEM: NICEHCK DB2 or any wired headphones with 3.5mm plug.
DAC Adapter: NICEHCK NK1 MAX USB-C to 3.5mm Adapter
Integrates CX31993 DAC chip + MAX97220 amplifier, highly compatible and great sound quality.
✅ Advantages:
🔊 Dual-chip design: high-resolution DAC plus amplifier for stronger drive.
💪 63mW @ 32Ω power output: easily drives most sensitive IEMs with full, impactful sound.
🧰 Premium build: aerospace aluminum shell + silver-plated copper wiring for strong anti-interference and stable signal.
🌍 Universal compatibility: supports Android phones, new iPhones (USB-C), iPads, laptops, gaming consoles.
💬 Real User Feedback:
"If you're not sure whether your ears can really tell the difference in sound quality — just try this budget-friendly sound-enhancing machine!"
🔍 Quick Comparison:
Solution 1 : DB2 + SP4 USB-C HiFi Upgrade Cable
Portable and easy to use. The built-in CX31993 DAC bypasses your phone’s low-quality audio processing, delivering clearer and more detailed sound. Perfect for audiophiles seeking a light, no-hassle setup. Compatible with most USB-C phones, tablets, and laptops. Offers richer layers and clearer details for music, gaming, and movies.
Solution 2 : DB2 + NK1 MAX USB-C to 3.5mm DAC Adapter
If you want stronger power and fuller bass, NK1 MAX is the better choice. It integrates CX31993 DAC and MAX97220 amplifier, outputs 63mW, easily driving most mid-impedance headphones. Supports more 3.5mm headphones and suits users who already have good headphones but want to upgrade sound quality. Compatible with most new phones, computers, and gaming consoles.
🎯 Summary: Enjoy Audiophile-Level Sound Without a DAP
You don’t need to spend thousands on a DAP to hear good sound.
Just a good pair of headphones plus a quality cable or USB-C adapter lets you easily enjoy high-quality music on your phone.
🎧 Recommended Purchase:
NICEHCK DB2 IEM – dual-driver with great resolution and excellent value
SP4 USB-C Upgrade Cable – built-in DAC for direct HiFi playback
NK1 MAX USB-C DAC Adapter – powerful, highly compatible, best value amplifier
