Disclaimer:
The Moondrop Dawn 4.4mm was sent to me by Hifigo and Moondrop, whom I thank very much.
This review may become outdated given the Moondrop Dawn Pro review, but I still feel it merits a thorough analysis!
From my point of view, the Dacs sound very similar to each other, or at least they shouldn’t take away or add anything to the sound.
I’m going to compare it with similar dongles I own with similar prices and chips.
However, the review will still be 100% honest and, in no way, biased.
I’m not an audiophile; I’m just a guy that likes to test out different IEMs and DACs and spends a lot of time listening to music.
So I’m not going to use super-technical words to review it, but I will do my best to describe it.
Tech Specs:
- Dual-DAC architecture.
- Fully-Balanced Architecture.
- 4.4mm Fully-Balanced Output.
- Dual-Independent Crystal Oscillators.
- Compact, Smart, and versatile.
- Super-Clean Background.
- Ideal for Music, Gaming, and Movies.
- Immersive Sound Experience.
- It works perfectly fine with PC, Laptops, Mobile Phones, Tablets, etc.
- Aluminum-Alloy Shell.
- Moondrop Link is compatible.
- DAC Chips: Dual CS43131.
- DNR: 132dB.
- THD+N: 0.00017%.
- Decoding: PCM up to 32-Bit/768kHz, Native DSD256.
- Output Power: 230mW@32Ω, 54mW@300Ω.
- Line-Out: 4Vrms(High-Gain), 2Vrms (low).
- Interface: USB Type-C.
Packaging:
The Moondrop Dawn 4.4 comes in the same rounded metal package as the Dawn Pro, which is quite good in my opinion.
Once opened inside, we find the DAC embedded, and on the other side, we find the accessories:
- Moondrop Dawn
- USB to Type C adapter
- Manual, QC and Warranty
Unfortunately, the cable is fixed to the DAC. As you can see, it is of the same quality as the one included with the Dawn Pro. Fortunately, there is a USB adapter.
First impressions:
The Moondrop Dawn 4.4mm has an unusual shape; it is cylindrical, practically a single block. On the specifications, I read that the shell should be made of aluminum but honestly, to the touch, it doesn’t feel like it but in any case, the construction is excellent. We find a small engraving on the front, along with the hole for the status LED. As mentioned before, the cable is fixed, and that’s the only real problem with this model. Personally, I take great care of my items but with everyday use, the cable could have problems in the future. Since it is not possible to replace it, it could mean throwing away the DAC. Let it be clear that even those with a separate cable can break the Type C port. Overall, a particular format—even doing it with only a balanced output—is a particular choice.
Power:
The power is very similar to all the other dual-cirrus logic 43131 Dacs in my possession. I won’t go into further detail but it is 90% similar to the Dawn Pro.
Compared to the 4.4MM output of the Dawn Pro, the differences in terms of power are zero. They can easily handle the Hifiman He400Se so there are no problems with IEMs.
Gain and volume have no physical buttons, but thankfully they can be controlled via the app. It follows the volume of the connected device instead of having 100 volume steps like the new model does; however, if you have the Moondrop app installed on your smartphone, you will receive the 100 volume steps.
I tested it with:
- KZ PR2 on 4.4 balanced high gain and needed just 40/50% volume to get them to a really high pressure level.
- EPZ Q5 on 4.4mm needs just 10% volume
- HE400se on 4.4mm is just less than 60–70% volume
- Hidizs MP145 on 4.4mm needs 40% volume
- GeekWold Gk20 needs 30% volume on 4.4mm
- EPZ Q5 needs 20% on 4.4mm
Moondrop Link APP:
As if that wasn’t enough at this price, we also have an app for managing the settings of the Moondrop Dawn. On the official Moondrop website, you can find the latest version of the Moondrop LINK 2.0 app.
From the app, it is possible to manage the operation of the digital filters, gain, LED light, and volume. There are a few excellent functions that are often not seen until they double in cost. I attached some screenshots of the app (same function as Dawn Pro)
Sound Signature:
Taking the latest release as an example, the Dawn is slightly less impressive in terms of soundstage and the tone is slightly warmer. In any case, it is different from other stock Cirrus without customization by the manufacturer.
Fast Comparison:
vs Moondrop Dawn Pro
The newest Moondrop Dawn Pro is definitely the improved and definitive version. In addition to the greater general versatility given by the presence of the 3.5mm socket, there are also physical buttons, a replaceable cable, and slightly better sound performance. But what really makes you choose the Moondrop Dawn Pro is the lower price. Until the price of Dawn drops, it is difficult to recommend it.
vs EPZ TP20
The EPZ TP20 has a few more buttons to manage playback directly, which, on the one hand, makes it much faster to use. Its weight and aluminum construction make it one of the heaviest on the market. It gives a sensation of solidity but at the same time, it is a considerable weight to keep attached to a type C. Darker tone and non-independent volume. No apps.
vs Kmerj Km01
The Kmerj KM01 is practically the same as the TP20. My iMac can’t tell them apart when I connect them. I recommend you read the full review. Its strong points are the design and the greater lightness compared to the TP20.
vs iBasso DC04 pro
The iBasso DC04 Pro is out of budget, as it costs significantly more than the previous ones. Can you feel the difference? I’m sorry to admit it but you can feel it. The sound comes out more refined; it doesn’t even sound like a CS43131. The app is well made but the Moondrop one is better. The same buttons are present on the Moondrop Dawn Pro. The sound is super refined and on sensitive headphones, it manages to give a further boost in definition and stage. Absolutely worth the extra money. I’ll do a review as soon as I have some extra time.
Who do I recommend this DAC to?
The Moondrop Dawn is a DAC currently on a limited market. There are too many dongles with the same configurations but above all, there is the new model with more features and a lower price.
Let’s say that having only a balanced output is not for everyone. Those looking for their first DAC usually look at 3.5mm versions or those that also have balanced output for future upgrades.
It is currently a DAC, which, in my opinion, should be reduced in price so that it can be sold again.
Pros:
- Small format
- Balanced output
- Warm sound (typical Cirrus) with slightly bright touch
- Type c to USB adaptor
- Functional button for volume adjustment
- 100 independent volume steps by app
- Strong power
- Moondrop link App
- Filters are really working
Cons:
- No physical buttons
- Fixed Cable
- The price is high compared to the Dawn pro
- It lacks a little bit of depth and definition like many other budget CS.