With Spotify introducing lossless music streaming for premium users, an entirely new dimension has emerged for your listening pleasure! Nonetheless, transitioning from lower-quality files accessible to non-premium users to the pristine 24-bit/44.1kHz FLAC files will necessitate some financial commitment on your end, as your Bluetooth earbuds may not be compatible with this new service.
If you possess over-ear headphones, you might already have the suitable gear for Spotify’s lossless audio, but a DAC is probably still required. No need to worry; we’re here to assist! We’ve compiled the collective insights of Android Central’s audio experts to provide you with suggestions on how to maximize your Spotify Premium experience with lossless sound.
Affordable options
Android Central’s Harish Jonnalagadda recommends the robust yet compact FiiO KA11 USB-C dongle as his DAC choice. It’s exceptionally durable, featuring a flexible silicone and braided cloth-covered cable that links the USB-C side to the 3.5mm ported DAC. It delivers a warm sound profile with excellent mid and treble reproduction, and the cost is just $32.99.
Brady Snyder has also been struck by the FiiO KA11, remarking that it’s “merely a USB-C to 3.5mm dongle on steroids” and that audio from your Android device “instantly sounds superior when processed through the KA11.”
For in-ear monitors (IEMs), Jonnalagadda suggests the Truthear Hexa ($89.99), which delivers impressive sound quality, although some have found the bass to be slightly lacking. However, a little EQ can easily address this! They lack an inline microphone for calls, but they’re aesthetically pleasing, come with memory foam, and include two types of silicone ear tips.
Regarding headphones, Snyder prefers KZ Audio’s KZ ZSN Pro X. He mentions that these $21.59 IEMs are cheaper than a meal nowadays and provide excellent audio for the cost. “I find the wrap-around cable design combined with the silicone ear tips to be very comfortable, and I appreciate that the cord is detachable if you need to swap or customize it.”
Snyder describes the sound quality as “firmly good enough” for casual listening sessions. You can procure both of his recommendations for under $60! Quite affordable.
For my own budget recommendation, I’m opting for the iFi Go Link USB-C DAC ($59.99). It features a stunning alloy body and a lovely braided cable. Its sound profile is rather neutral, providing an enjoyable soundstage and treble sparkle that gives music a live ambiance.
For connecting to those DACs, I recommend the Sennheiser CX 300S in-ear headphones with inline call and playback controls. As you’re considering budget earbuds, the $38.90 price on Amazon for the red variant fits the criteria!
The bass is decent, while the mids and highs are slightly emphasized, providing solid vocal clarity. Between the two options, you should be well-equipped to enjoy lossless audio for around $100, taxes included. If that’s still a bit challenging, you can’t go wrong with FiiO’s KA11 dongle DAC.
Entry-level enhancements
Harish kicks us off again with his DAC upgrade, the FiiO BTR17 Bluetooth 5.4 USB-C DAC AMP ($220). It accommodates not only wired connections but also LDAC and aptX Lossless. This unit is powerful with both 3.5mm and the more potent 4.4mm connections, allowing it to grow alongside your needs, and it includes a desktop mode to prolong battery life. This is an affordable DAC with some flagship traits that produces excellent sound!
For your IEM, he’s endorsing the TIN HiFi P1 Max II, which features 14.2mm planar drivers. They come with a 3.5mm cable but lack an inline microphone.
Brady’s upgrade suggestions include the esteemed Sennheiser HD600 and FiiO KA15. He notes that the former can achieve high volumes when paired with a good DAC and adapts well to a wide range of music genres, making them a versatile entry-level choice for audiophiles. They come with plush ear cushions and an adjustable headband, which he describes as “ideal for long listening sessions without discomfort.”
While he hasn’t personally used the KA15, he points out that “it’s the natural upgrade from the KA11 that I adore. This DAC is a bit larger, but offers higher balanced output power suitable for high-impedance headphones, plus supports up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD256 sampling rates — more than sufficient for Spotify’s lossless sound. I also enjoy the small display and the design that gives the KA15 a vintage cassette player vibe.”
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