Unleashing the Power of Audio: A Deep Dive into the Khadas Tea Pro DAC & Headphone Amplifier

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The built-in microphone allows for direct voice input during calls. The total charge time ranges from two to three hours, depending on the power source and method used. The hardware volume control is managed by an independent NJU72315 chip, while power management is overseen by a dedicated low-dropout regulator and MPS power management chip for optimal efficiency and minimal noise operation.

The Khadas Tea Pro has undergone some significant improvements in design compared to its predecessor. The most prominent upgrade is the addition of a new 0.95″ AMOLED color display that provides essential information like battery life, connection mode, audio format, and sample rate. The device now features more buttons that allow users to control most of the DAC’s functions without relying on the companion app.

Internally, the Tea Pro has enhanced chipsets for Bluetooth, DAC, and USB, alongside a new USB chipset. Despite these changes, the fundamental design remains similar to the previous model, maintaining its sleek and ultra-thin form factor. A small MagSafe case is included, enabling users to attach the Tea Pro to their iPhone or Android phone with a Magnetic case.

Setting up the Khadas Tea Pro is straightforward, similar to other Bluetooth devices. Users can pair it with their phone or PC via Bluetooth or connect it directly using a USB-C cable for improved audio quality with UAC2.0. The device offers user-friendly controls for adjusting gain levels, selecting EQ modes, changing language options, customizing device names, and managing other settings.

While the Tea Pro is designed for iPhone compatibility, it is also compatible with Android and Windows devices. Android users can download the Khadas Audio app to customize settings, while Windows users may need to install drivers to adjust bit rate and sampling rate settings. To access the drivers for the Khadas Tea Pro, go to the downloads page under products > Tea Pro.

When using an Android device, you can connect the Khadas to the phone, and it will be recognized as a wired headphone, as observed on my Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Audio Performance:
The Khadas Tea Pro offers a significant audio upgrade compared to its predecessor and typical smartphone audio output. Featuring the ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip, high-precision resistors, and a dedicated low-noise power supply, the Tea Pro delivers a clean, detailed, and powerful sound output.

Testing various audio formats, the Tea Pro supports up to PCM 96 kHz/24 bit over Bluetooth and up to PCM 768 kHz or DSD512 (Native) over USB and UAC2.0.

The device excels in wired USB operation, providing improved clarity, detail retrieval, and dynamic range compared to Bluetooth streaming. The soundstage is wider, and instrument separation is more distinct, especially with high-quality headphones and lossless audio files.

The balanced 4.4mm output stands out, offering more power and a lower noise floor than the single-ended 3.5mm jack. This feature is ideal for driving high-impedance headphones and enhancing performance with sensitive in-ear monitors.

The ten-band equalizer and various filter settings allow for extensive sound tuning, while the inclusion of codecs like LDAC and aptX Adaptive ensures high-quality wireless performance. However, a wired connection still provides a superior listening experience for critical listening.

Battery Life:
With a built-in 2100 mAh battery, the Tea Pro offers up to 11 hours of Bluetooth playback and up to 8 hours of wired USB playback. The device also supports pass-through charging for continuous use.

Price and Alternative Options:
The Khadas Tea Pro is priced at $199, with the older Khadas Tea available for $109. Comparable alternatives include the FiiO BTR15, FiiO BTR17, iFi GO blu, and Qudelix-5K, offering varying features and price points.

Overall:
The Khadas Tea Pro is a significant upgrade, offering a range of new features and improvements that make it a competitive portable audio solution. With its sleek design, MagSafe compatibility, and high-quality audio performance, the Tea Pro is a versatile option for audiophiles on the go. The Khadas Tea Pro DAC & Headphone Amplifier boasts exceptional build quality, featuring an aluminium chassis, Gorilla Glass, and a leather back that exudes a premium feel. Its audio performance is top-tier for its size, particularly through the balanced connection, delivering clean, powerful, and detailed sound ideal for driving various headphones and showcasing high-resolution audio files. While the Bluetooth performance is impressive, it cannot quite match the fidelity of a wired connection.

The companion app offers a good level of customization, allowing users to adjust system settings and utilize an effective equalizer. On-device controls and screen functionality also provide convenience, reducing dependence on the app for adjustments. Despite these strengths, there are some minor drawbacks such as the unintuitive button layout, susceptibility to fingerprints on glossy surfaces, and occasional sluggishness of the app in reflecting changes made on the device.

For iPhone users seeking high-resolution codec support, the Khadas Tea Pro serves as a top solution, bypassing Bluetooth limitations when used wired and enhancing wireless listening when necessary. Android and computer users will also appreciate its portability and feature-rich design as a DAC/amp.

The Khadas Tea Pro represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, addressing previous shortcomings while offering enhanced power, flexibility, and high-quality audio performance in a slim and portable package. Although priced slightly higher than some competitors, its premium build, balanced output, and MagSafe compatibility make it a standout choice in the portable DAC/amp market, especially for iPhone users.

Pros:
– Excellent wired audio quality with balanced 4.4 mm output
– Wide codec support including LDAC and aptX Adaptive
– Slim design with premium build and MagSafe compatibility
– Colour AMOLED screen with on-device controls
– Effective app with EQ and firmware updates

Cons:
– Higher price compared to alternatives like Qudelix-5K or FiiO BTR7
– Unintuitive button layout
– Bluetooth performance falls short of wired performance

Overall, the Khadas Tea Pro DAC & Headphone Amplifier offers a compelling blend of performance, design, and features, making it a versatile and high-quality choice for audio enthusiasts. Transform the following statement into a question:

“Could you please pass me the salt?”

Question: Can you pass me the salt, please? Transform the following sentence into the passive voice:

“The chef prepared a delicious meal for the guests.”

“A delicious meal was prepared for the guests by the chef.”