Audiophilepure

I’ve heard various implementations of the CS43198 chip in other dongle DACs, and none of them sound the same; they range from bright to slightly dull. So, I didn’t know what to expect from the ICEBORNE.

Luckily, the ICEBORNE’s sound is the one I like: neutral and transparent, without sounding dull or borinICEBORNE has a flat perceived frequency response, an accurate, balanced sound presentation, and good energy, which prevents it from sounding boring, dull, or dry.The bass might not be the tightest, but for dongle DACs this size, it’s acceptable. I don’t hear any ‘boomy’ sounds or artificial warmth, and the bass remains tonally neutral regardless of the volume.

Midrange is very neutral with no warmth or thinness in sound. I hear no elevation in the lower midrange, which causes a warm sound, and no elevation in the upper midrange, which pushes the instruments forward.

The treble has a flat, extended frequency response with smooth sound, yet maintains good energy and reasonable liveliness.