Maktar Spectra X2 Portable Apple DAC & Headphone Amp: High Resolution 32bit / 384kHz DAC for iPhone 15, Lightning DAC Devices

I have only had this device for a few days and have yet to take it through it’s paces with my tougher to drive headphones. So far, I’ve logged a lot of time on the Westone W80. These IEMs are really efficient and sound surprising acceptable connected to the basic iPhone DAC cable; they are absolutely stunning running through the X2.The design is simple, smaller than a fountain pen and built rock solid.I’ll spare you the audiophile jargon and simply say if you listen to Hi-Res audio through an iOS device you cannot go wrong with the Maktar Spectra X2.While the X2 is nearly perfect, my only grip is that a device with this form factor and at this price point should really have an app to dial in the EQ.That said, I am extremely pleased with my purchase.EDIT: I tried this device with my HD 650. These headphones are notoriously power hungry. While the sound was clean there just wasn’t enough power to drive them. If you are expecting to use the X2 to push 300Ω, you are going to have a bad time.The description says as much. Not the reason I purchased this. My 5 star rating still applies.EDIT 2: A month in, I love this more than ever. I bought a right angle lightning adapter as I was afraid the attached cable may eventually fray and wear out. There was no evidence that this was the case but it was giving me anxiety.I’ve output the X2 to my primary desktop headphone amp. Pure audible bliss with the HD 650.My greatest fear now is that Apple will replace the lightning port on their phones.

First, I received product on time and in new condition. It works as it should - plug in the ends and you hear high quality audio.Part of the cost must surely have gone to the packaging as its high quality. Gives you that premium feeling.Is it worth the price?Not sure. I'm happy with it but I do suggest price shopping if budget is a concern.

After getting a few notes from audiophiles, I revised this review.---The $10 JSAUX dongle I was using before does just as good a job as this $170 Spectra X2 dongle. They both claim the DAC is good for up to 32bit/384kHz, and they sound the same.Spectra X2 claims to be an amplifier, but it doesn't power my 20 Ohm impedance headphones (HifiMan Sundara-C) any better than the cheapo dongle. Volume levels are exactly the same with or without the Spectra X2, across 3 different devices I used it on. The amp part must be super weak.The only reason to even mention amplification in the title must be for SEO/clickbait nonsense.---Furthermore, Amazon sent me a very Used scratched up one despite having ordered it New. It must be wrecked to offer such lousy performance. Instead of letting me throw it away and get a replacement, they want me to waste my day at the post office to return this junk first.Horrible experience overall.

Works as advertised. Allows my iPhone to play at higher resolution than possible with the normal lightning to mini adapters. Sound profile and soundstage are noticeably improved (depending on quality of recorded music). Only downside is the controls on my headphones don’t seem to operate when plugged into this adapter. Not really a big deal for me but thought I should mention it.

I would much rather have the power of the Spectra X than the great soundstage of the X2. Disappointed they reduced the power by a lot. Maybe it has to do with apples Mfi program but so not sure. All I know is that i would rather hook the X to a stupid apple camera adapter and then hook it to my iphone than to have this weak sound come out. The spectra X actually feels like a I have a mini amplifier with me. Not as convenient but its also $50 cheaper now.The spectra x is also more versatile since its USB instead of lightning.X2= great soundstage, weaker soundX= more power, versatility, cheaper...

Very happy with the sound, better if you use Qobuz or Tidal to enjoy full range

Really nice “looking” and well built. Other than that it absolutely does nothing for sound quality. I did extensive testing via klipsch x20 and klipsch x11 (both audiophile grade EIM) save your money and use the $8 apple dongle.

Looks great but I'm not sure if it's even working- there's nothing to tell you the difference- no switching anything on- just plug and play and since I use Sennheiser IE 300 with it- the headphones already play Hi Res Audio so idk- may end up returning it- bought it to use with my Sennheiser HD660 over ears but I don't hear any difference at all. And those HD660 sound pretty awful for something over 600 bucks although I got them at the Black Friday price. So to anyone in doubt- maybe shop around for something different where you can hear and see the difference.