ddHifi TC09L Review
DISCLAIMER
ddHifi was kind enough to send me the TC09L cable to review. I am not affiliated with ddHifi, and of course, I was not asked for any copy-checking before publishing. All opinions shared in this ‘ddHifi TC09L review’ are my subjective thoughts.
One thing more: The review is based on my personal experience and what I hear using different sources. Your experience may vary because of personal preference and physical differences like the shape & depth of the ear canal.
For your personal purchase, checkout GEEK MART or ddHifi for their fantastic products and promotions (non-affiliated link).
INTRO
In the first, let’s talk about why we need a good cable for data transmission and power supply when it comes to audio. Without this discussion, I can’t justify the requirement of this certain product.
Good-quality data connections ensure that the digital audio signals are routed appropriately from the sources to the outputs. Poor-quality cables may cause data loss or deterioration that can lead to sound problems, including clicks, among other issues; therefore, it is paramount to have strong data connections, particularly for high-resolution audio with large data files.
In general, for all audio components that include DAC and amplifier sections, good quality and stable power feeding are required. Lack of power can be related to distortion or a decrease in dynamic range, for instance. USB Power Delivery tries to provide a negotiation between host and device to arrive at an optimum possible power delivery level so that each section gets just what it needs for top performance.
TESTED WITH
● DAP: Cowon Planue R2, Cayin N3 Ultra
● DAC & AMP: xDuoo XD05 Plus, Kaei Design TAP 2, ifi Hip DAC 2, Cayin RU7, iBasso DC 04 Pro, Dunu DTC 480, Fosi Audio DS-1, Celest CD-10, Celest CD-20 Hidizs SD8 Pro Robin, Moondrop Dawn Pro.
● Smartphone: Poco X3
PACKAGING, BUILT & DESIGN
It comes in a small square pack, which is common for almost all the ddHifi cables and accessories. Nothing fancy here, and it’s too straight forward. The ddHiFi TC09L is actually very strong and can survive much usage. Its angling contributes to keeping the connections secure with minimal stress on the ports, with the angled connectors. The high-quality finish actually makes the cable really strong and could definitely stand frequent plugging and unplugging. It is unique in design, with a very modern look and sleekness. Its length is very short, actually 8 cm, making it easy to carry. Angled connectors make it way more functional—preferably a comfortable choice where either small spaces or a portable setup is required.
MATERIAL USED
ddHifi employs top-notch materials in this cable:
- Data Transmission Line: Pure silver Litz wire for high conductivity and minimal signal loss.
- Power Line: Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) for stable current flow.
- Shielding: Silver-plated copper to reduce electromagnetic interference. These materials ensure efficient and reliable performance for both data and power transmission
DATA CONNECTION
This is designed to provide an upscale solution for high-quality data transfer and applications that link a DAC into a smartphone or any other source. These cables apply the usage of USB 2.0 standards, and data speed is up to 480 Mbps. Although this takes precedence over USB 3.0 or USB 3.1, this is fast enough for the high-resolution audio format, such as 32-bit/768kHz native PCM or DSD. Shielding provided by silver-plated copper helps to reduce electromagnetic interference and crosstalk. This is crucial in audio applications, maintaining the flow of data without any interruption, even within regions whereby signals can easily be interrupted by the presence of wireless devices or even other electronic devices.
CURRENT TRANSMISSION
The power line of the cable is made of oxygen-free copper, that could provide steady current with low resistance. This cable can work with USB standard power delivery, supporting up to 5 volts and 3 amps, meaning it will be capable of providing a maximum power output of 15 watts. That’s quite enough for most portable DACs, dongles, and even small amplifiers powered via a USB connection. In this cable, ddHiFi separates the power and data lines to minimize interference between them. Individual shielding of the power line means the sensitive data transmission line is not affected by the electrical noise that easily could have been the case if the cable had a poor design. This separation maximizes performance on the connected audio device, avoiding even a hint of audible noise or distortion.
SOUND CAPABILITIES
When I finally laid my hands on the ddHiFi TC09L, I wasn’t expecting more than what the world had already documented: practicality and durability. I have always been skeptical with regard to data/power cables ever changing the sound quality, but then curiosity overcame my pride. I replaced the stock cable of my setup with the TC09L, plugged in, and let the music take over.
It wasn’t some huge difference—small, really, like cleaning a camera lens to suddenly see a bit more detail. First, I notice that the sound seemed to flow more smoothly, as if some sort of grit or roughness had been gently smoothed over. The vocals, in particular, sounded more natural. They weren’t fighting for attention or striving to be heard. Instead, they incorporate neatly, leaving the song with a smooth, almost natural feel.
What really surprised me most was how the changing sounds in a song sounded. Songs, which I thought I knew well, sounded stronger and more vivid. Quiet parts sounded more quiet, and the loud parts a little stronger. It wasn’t a big change, but it made me notice more. The separation of instruments was also getting a little better.
This doesn’t mean the TC09L made my setup into some super-expensive system—it didn’t. For those who really care about sound, even these minute changes can make a difference. The TC09L won’t completely change your setup, but it may add that little extra joy you might not have been aware you lacked. It’s one of those upgrades that you learn to appreciate after some time has passed, subtle yet really enjoyable.
CONCLOSION
In my very own experience, Cayin RU7 delivers some background noise with the stock cable and even with different cables I tried. And my xDuoo XD05 Plus also makes the same kind of noise when I use it while charging. But ddHifi TC09L came to rescue and solved these problems with ease. And with all other sources I paired this cable, all gave me a fantastic dark background that made the sound so clear. And that’s the reason why the details in the music sound so clear. Though it’s a bit pricy as a ‘c to c’ cable.
But if you love uninterrupted sound without any background noise, you should give it a try. IMHO, it’s a must-have accessory if you are a serious audiophile.
You Can Read Other Reviews here.
