Audio
Giabuao USB-C to 3.5mm DAC Dongle with CX31993 & MAX97220 Headphone Amp
Product description
This compact USB-C to 3.5mm adapter pairs a Conexant CX31993 digital-to-analog converter with a dedicated MAX97220 headphone amplifier to deliver high-fidelity portable audio. The DAC supports high-resolution streams up to 32-bit/384kHz, while the amp provides a clean output with a quoted signal-to-noise ratio of 124dB and total harmonic distortion plus noise around –95dB.
Power delivery is tuned for portable listening: the dongle supplies about 63mW into 32Ω and is engineered to drive earphones and headphones in the 16–32Ω range with confidence. That makes it a practical upgrade from typical phone outputs, offering stronger dynamics and improved control without becoming a power-hungry desktop unit.
Signal wiring uses an 8-strand, 4N single-crystal copper (OCC) silver-plated braid to minimize transmission loss and skin-effect artifacts. The short, lightweight cable measures approximately 12.5 cm and terminates in a machined aluminum housing that provides effective shielding from electromagnetic interference and a premium tactile feel.
Functionality extends beyond playback: the dongle carries a built-in ADC (24-bit/96kHz) and full inline control support for CTIA-standard headsets, enabling volume, play/pause and call handling with compatible headphones. It is Hi-Res certified for high-definition audio work and requires no drivers for most modern phones, tablets and computers.
The package contains one Giabuao Type-C to 3.5mm DAC dongle and one USB-A adapter for use with older hosts. A 24‑month warranty is provided, and customer support is available around the clock for product questions.
Pros
- High-resolution dual-chip design (CX31993 + MAX97220)
- Adequate output for 16–32Ω IEMs and portable headphones
- Durable silver-plated OCC cable and CNC aluminum shell
Cons
- Built-in cable is relatively short
- Very sensitive IEMs may hear a faint noise floor
- Some users report USB-C fit issues with certain ports
VerdictThis Giabuao USB-C DAC dongle combines a high-performance CX31993 DAC with a dedicated MAX97220 amp to lift mobile audio well above typical phone outputs. It produces studio-grade detail and strong channel separation while providing enough power for most in-ear monitors and light over-ear cans. The silver-plated OCC cable and machined aluminum housing improve signal integrity and durability. It’s
Reviews
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Dustin 5/5
Performs as expected
Does exactly what I need — I use it to connect my IEMs to both my PC and phone without issues.
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Benjamin Burke 5/5
Solid
Reliable and straightforward — it works well for everyday listening.
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kgunslinger 1/5
Won't fit my ports
Looks well made but the USB-C plug seemed out of spec and wouldn’t insert into any of my devices.
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T. Scrilla 5/5
No noticeable latency
Working well so far; I haven’t detected any audio delay unlike some other 3.5mm adapters I’ve tried.
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CY 4/5
Small package, impressively clean sound
I was surprised at how much clearer and fuller this adapter makes my music compared with the cheap USB-C dongles I owned. It was plug-and-play with enough volume for my wired headphones. The braided cable feels more robust than the flimsy leads on budget units, and the included USB-A adapter increases its usefulness. One review I read mentioned a very faint hiss; I didn’t find it distracting during normal listening sessions. Overall, it’s a compact, well-built DAC that offers good value for daily music playback.
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sreviews 5/5
Clear upgrade over phone output
This compact DAC made my headphones sound fuller and more dynamic than the phone’s jack. Tested with several budget IEMs and on-ear cans, it tightened bass and added headroom. The cable and build feel sturdy and I didn’t notice hissing or pops during my listening.
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ScooterB 5/5
Good mid-range option with sensible power
I wanted something with more drive than the simplest dongles but without the battery drain of a desktop amp. This unit hits a nice middle ground: the CX31993 DAC and MAX97220 amp give it more headroom than single‑chip budget adapters while remaining efficient for phone use.
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