Today my latest review: DDHiFi TC09s OTG cable. My setup included the HiBy R4 as the source and the Questyle M12i DAC/amp. My plan is to test the sound first without the cable and then add the TC09s to observe any differences. I’m no materials engineer or technician, so my approach is purely practical and experience-based. Here’s how it went.
Cable Specifications:
• Cable Design: Starquad structure for power and signal, individually shielded.
• Inner Insulation: High-precision NUC chemical foam PE, made in Japan.
• Outer Insulation: SoftFlex PVC with high transparency, made in the USA.
• Signal Transmission Core
• Conductor Gauge: 26.7 AWG (White) + 26.7 AWG (Green).
• Material: High-purity Litz silver (2×7/Ø0.14mm).
• Shielding: Litz oxygen-free copper and Litz silver-plated LCOFC.
• Power Transmission Core:
• Conductor Gauge: 25.6 AWG (Red × 2) + 25.6 AWG (Black × 2).
• Material: High-purity Litz oxygen-free copper (4×7×7/Ø0.06mm).
• Shielding: Litz silver-plated LCOFC.
• Weight/Length: 13g / 10cm.
• Connectors: USB-C OTG.
Initial Listening Without the DDHifi TC09s In R4 + m12i Combo
At about 15% volume on HiBy Music, I started with American Life (2013 Mix) by Primus. Despite not using a balanced connection or the Pro version of the S12, I was struck by how well the bass performed. The soundscape around me felt incredibly spacious, almost empty, allowing every element to shine. This openness became more apparent as I moved to The Crane Wife by The Decemberists.
The track’s introduction was delicate, transparent, and beautifully layered, without neglecting the background. Beneath the British-accented vocals, I could distinctly hear the bass guitar, followed by the drum rhythm, and then both together briefly. The cymbal decays lingered in the air as if melting away slowly. As the psychedelic keyboard kicked in later, the channel separation was simply marvelous. Even at this stage, the S12 was performing at a level I’d never experienced before.
Next, I turned to Hans Zimmer, whose 96-piece orchestra never fails to impress. The Questyle M12i brought everything to the forefront with respect—clarity improved, resolution sharpened, decays became more natural, and depth emerged in the soundstage.
Adding the DDHiFi TC09S In The Circuit
Now came the real test: adding the TC09s cable to the mix. Starting again with Zimmer, the soundstage expanded significantly, and overall resolution and depth soared to new heights. It felt as if the S12’s planar nature had finally come home. The playback was like wild horses galloping freely, brimming with energy and releasing bursts of natural tones. Every note occupied its own space effortlessly, especially in the bass, which carried its full body with grace.
Returning to The Crane Wife, I was convinced—the TC09S subtly enhances every aspect of the sound. It polishes the presentation just enough while secretly preparing you for music styles that thrive on slam and impact. Honestly, if this weren’t a first impressions review, I’d have thrown some drum’n bass into the mix for fun. That said, back to The Crane Wife. In this 24-bit, 1613 kbps recording, the surfaces struck by the drummer were distinctly audible, a joy to experience. When the psychedelic keyboard moments began, I felt as though I was right there in the room.
Switching back to American Life (2013 Mix), I noticed slightly less dominant bass compared to the stock cable. However, the band’s rock roots remained vivid in the background, making it feel as though I was listening through a pair of headphones priced at several hundred dollars.
Pros:
1. Enhanced Soundstage: Expands the soundstage significantly, providing a more immersive and spacious listening experience.
2. Improved Clarity and Detail: Brings out subtle details in tracks, making instruments and vocals more distinct and natural.
3. Bass Definition: Adds body and presence to bass without overpowering other frequencies, delivering a balanced performance.
4. Build Quality: High-quality materials like Litz silver, oxygen-free copper, and premium insulation ensure durability and long-lasting performance.
5. Versatility: Works seamlessly with portable DACs and amps, enhancing performance across a variety of setups.
6. Natural Decay: Improves the natural decay of instruments, adding realism and depth to the overall sound.
7. Aesthetic Appeal: Compact and visually premium, matching high-end audio setups.
Cons:
1. Price: Premium build and performance come at a higher price point compared to standard OTG cables.
2. Slight Learning Curve: Users unfamiliar with advanced audio cables might not immediately recognize the nuances it adds.
3. Cable Length: The short 10cm length may not suit all use cases or larger setups without additional extenders.
4. Subtle Bass Impact: Some tracks might exhibit slightly less bass dominance compared to stock cables, which may not appeal to bass-heavy listeners.
5. Not for Every Genre: While excellent for nuanced genres like classical, jazz, and rock, it may not add as much slam for bass-centric genres without additional amplification.
Summary
The DDHiFi TC09S is a clear step up for those seeking to maximize the performance of their audio gear. While the premium price and subtle changes may not suit every user, its soundstage, clarity, and overall build quality make it an excellent choice for audiophiles looking for refinement and balance.
DDHifi TC09s Review Conclusion
My takeaway from this review is clear: the S12’s potential shines brightest when paired with the right combination of gear. The M12i’s natural resolution and clarity, combined with the TC09S’s ability to expand the soundstage and enhance detail, deliver a listening experience that is both technically and emotionally fulfilling. Every note and instrument finds its place with authenticity—bass is full, mids are transparent, and treble is bright and detailed.
In short, this setup doesn’t just let you hear the music; it makes you feel it. The DDHifi TC09S isn’t just a cable; it’s a transformative upgrade that unlocks the full potential of your gear, making every track an immersive experience.