Fosi are known for bringing high quality, budget friendly audio product and the DS2 definitely aims to keep this this tradition.
Disclaimer:
Hi everyone! the reviewed Fosi DS2 here was provided to me by Fosi for a review. While I am grateful for the opportunity to test this product, it is important to note that my opinions remain unbiased and unaffected by this fact. My goal is to always give you an honest and objective review, which is based only on my experiences with the device.
Introduction:
In my point of view, Fosi has built up a reputation for making excellent audio quality at a reasonable cost, and the DS2 (2024 edition) is no different. The DS2 stands out as a small powerhouse that promises to improve your sound quality without breaking the bank (59.99$). In the world of portable audio, size usually means power, but not in this case…
With its excellent technical specs, it punches well above its weight. I would say that the DS2 is designed to satisfy the needs of both casual listeners and audiophiles. This dongle DAC uses two Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips and has a high power output, which means it can give a great sound quality and power even more power hungry headphones and IEMs.
We will go into more details about the Fosi DS2 (2024 edition) in this review, examining its entire value, technological capabilities, and sound quality.
Unboxing:
Ok, so lets go to the unboxing.
When you open up the box of the Fosi DS2 (2024 version), you will see that it is all about simplicity. The packaging is clean and simple and inside there is the DS2 dongle DAC which sits in foam padding.
Beside the DS2, there’s a well made and attractive cable. In addition, a user manual and a convenient Type A to Type C converter are included in the package, making it simple to connect the DS2 to many devices.
Overall, the unboxing experience of the Fosi DS2 is straightforward and user friendly, just like the device itself. It’s all about getting you up and running quickly, so you can start enjoying your music without any hassle.
Technical Specifications:
The Fosi DS2 (2024 version) is equipped with dual Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips, which can be found in many other dongles, but the DS2 offers some extra for less, delivering powerful output in a compact form factor and budget price. Here’s a breakdown of its key technical specifications:
Technical Specifications:
- Output Power: 130mW(SE); 510mW(BAL)
- Terminating Impedance: 16~300Ω
- Input Mode: USB Type C
- Output Mode: 3.5MM + 4.4MM Headphone
- Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz (±0.5dB)
- THD: ＜0.0001%
- SNR: ≥130dB
- SINAD: ＞109dB
- Noise Floor: ＜1μV
- Sampling Rate: PCM 32bit/384kHz, DSD256
- DAC Chip Set: CS43131x2
- Compatible Devices: iOS/Android/Mac/Windows
- Device Weight: 3.2 ounces
DAC Chips:
Featuring dual Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips, the DS2 gives high fidelity audio reproduction with great clarity and detail. These DAC chips are known for their performance on portable audio devices.
Power Output:
The DS2 has a HUGE power output, which is able to drive a wide range of headphones and earphones. In single ended mode, it gives 128mW (32 ohms), while the balanced output brings an impressive 510mW (32 ohms). This ample power output makes it so you can drive even hard to drive headphones and IEMs. The minus is that there are no gain controls…
Audio Formats:
Although not like its predecessor which offered DSD up to 512 and PCM up to 768kHz The new DS2 supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD 64/128/256. This still allows you to enjoy high-resolution audio files with uncompromised quality.
Background Noise:
The DS2 has a signal to noise ratio (SNR) of 130dB and an incredibly low total harmonic distortion (THD) of 0.0001%. This definitely gives a minimal background noise which allows you to experience pure, undistorted audio with an absolutely dead silent background.
Volume Control:
The newer version of the DS2 has 60 independent volume levels that gives a precise control for the volume. Whether you want subtle background music or immersive soundscapes, the DS2 allows you to change the volume to your preferences with ease.
Light indicator:
Red – PCM <48kHz, Green – PCM 48kHz-96kHz, Yellow – PCM 96kHz-384kHz, Blue – DSD 64/128/256.
Overall, in my opinion the Fosi DS2 (2024 version) combines advanced technology with user friendly design which makes it a versatile and reliable companion.
Sound performance:
Tonality: Sound signature
The Fosi DS2 offers a sound signature that I can describe as neutral with a touch of brightness. This means that it aims to give audio with a faithful and accurate representation of the original recording and also adding a tiny bit of liveliness to the sound.
The DS2 has a well controlled and clear low end to start with. It gives a good amount of depth and impact without being too pushed. It really gives a realistic and lifelike sound for singers and instruments in the midrange. The instruments have a truthful sound that really pulls me someyimes into the performance, while the vocals sound very clear and expressive.
Moving to the treble, the DS2 extends well into the higher frequencies and offers a very crisp and detailed highs without ever being harsh or fatiguing. This adds sparkle and clarity to the overall sound and gives me the sense of airiness and openness.
Technicalities:
Soundstage and layaring:
The DS2 offers a spacious and expansive soundstage that gives a sense of depth to the music. Instruments and vocals are well positioned in the stage and gives a more realistic and three dimensional presentation. So whether you are listening to intimate acoustic tracks or dynamic orchestral pieces, the DS2 creates a very nice sense of space and airiness in the music.
The DS2 also does a fantastic job at layering, which makes it easy to tell clearly and precisely different instruments and sounds. To me, the DS2 makes it so that every nuance is heard clearly and precisely, whether it’s the light tapping of percussion instruments or the sensitive plucking of guitar strings.
Background and clarity:
One of the most notable features of the DS2 is its silent background, which is very important for keeping the purity of the audio signal. Even when I’m listening at low volumes, or when the music is very quiet, I can hear absolutely no hiss, hum, or other unwanted noises.
The zero background noise is very beneficial when paired with high sensitivity headphones or IEMs, where even the tiniest noise can be amplified and heard. With the DS2, I can enjoy music without the fear of noise, and I know that I’m hearing it exactly as the artist intended, without any added noise.
Furthermore, the DS2’s great clarity and transparency makes each instrument and sound in the audio mix to be reproduced with precision and accuracy. There’s a sense of openness and airiness to the sound which gives good separation between instruments and a better experience overall.
Overall:
The Fosi DS2 (2024 version) brings a very balanced and pretty engaging sound performance with neutral to slightly bright sound signature. While its bass may be slightly lighter than some competitors, it keeps warmth and naturalness. Vocals and instruments are presented with clarity and realism in the midrange, although some may find it slightly recessed. The treble is energetic and well extended and gives a good amount detail without harshness. So for me the DS2 has an exceptional sound quality for its price, which makes it a great choice for budget conscious audiophiles.
Comparison with the older version:
When I compare the newer Fosi DS2 (2024 version) to the older model, there are a few big differences that really stand out, especially in sound quality, background noise, build, and power output.
Sound Signature:
The most obvious change for me is the sound. The 2024 DS2 has a much more refined and balanced sound. It’s neutral with a slightly brighter tone, but it feels more musical and engaging. I noticed much better clarity, detail, and separation between instruments. On the other hand, the older version had harsher treble and lacked depth and warmth, which made it less enjoyable for me. The newer DS2 gives a more natural and pleasing sound, and it’s definitely my preferred choice between the two.
Background Noise:
Another big improvement in the 2024 DS2 is the background noise. The older version had a very noticeable hiss, especially during quiet moments in the music, and it was really disappointing for me… But the newer DS2 has absolutely no background noise, and it really makes the music come through cleaner and clearer. It’s has a much more enjoyable sound without that unwanted noise!
Build Quality:
The build quality has also seen a little upgrade. The new DS2 feels more solid and durable for me, with fewer sharp edges and a better color finish. It just feels more premium and sturdy compared to the older one. So overall it looks and feels like it’s built to last longer.
Power Output:
Where the 2024 DS2 really shines is in power output, especially with the balanced output. It gives double the power compared to the older model. So whether I’m using high impedance headphones or more power hungry IEMs, the newer DS2 handles them much better, and with better control and sound.
Overall, the Fosi DS2 (2024 version) is a major improvement over the older one. The sound quality, silent background, better build, and increased power output make it a huge step up! For me, it brings a much better value and a much better listening experience.
Conclusions:
Ok, so to wrap things up, I have to say the Fosi DS2 (2024 version) really stands out for an affordable dongle. It’s compact but packs a punch with impressive sound quality and for just $59.99.
In terms of sound, it does a great job across the board. The bass is punchy and clear, and while it’s not the bassiest dongle out there, it still gives solid depth to your tracks. The mids come through naturally, so vocals and instruments sound really lifelike. The treble is crisp and energetic but never too harsh, making it pleasant to listen to for longer periods.
Compared to the older version, the new DS2 is a clear upgrade! The sound is more neutral overall. Plus, any background noise or hissing is pretty much gone, which really helps to keep the music clean. And it feels sturdier with better build quality, smoother edges and a more durable finish.
All in all, I have to that the Fosi DS2 (2024 version) is a great choice if you are looking to boost your audio setup without spending a lot of money. In my opinions this little DAC really gives great performance for its price!
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Small and robust build.
- A lot of power from the balanced output.
- Very easy to operate.
- Dead silent background.
- Neutral to a little bright sound signature, making it more analytical.
- Good-quality cable.
- Independent 60-step volume control.
Cons:
- No gain options.
- Not the most natural sounding.
- Might be bright to some.
- Nothing else for the asking price.
