DDHiFi TC44Pro E2 Review: Compact High-Res DAC with Premium Build and Sound Quality

  • Sound performance
  • Technicalities
  • Build quality and design
  • Iem compatibility
4.3/5Overall Score
Pros
  • Good neutral sound with a little bass boost
  • Good iem compatibility
  • Premium build quality
  • High quality type c connector and cable
  • No background noise
  • Classic looks
  • Easy to use
  • Good technical performance and resolution
Cons
  • No c to usb adapter
  • Fixed cable
  • Only 4.4mm output no 3.5mm (se)
  • Not for power demanding headphones

Intro

If you’re in the audio scene, you’ve probably come across DDHiFi. They’ve got a great rep for making reliable, well-built gear—whether it’s a solid DAC, a quality adapter, or some seriously tough cables. DDHiFi doesn’t cut corners; they’re all about creating products that stand up to daily use and just feel good to use. Their adapters and cables, for example, are the kind of gear you don’t really worry about, because they’re made to last.

In this review, I’ll be looking at the DDHiFi TC44Pro E2 DAC dongle. I’ve been using it every day for a month, testing how it handles different devices and getting a feel for its sound quality. So, let’s dive in and see if it delivers on that DDHiFi standard.

DDHiFi TC44Pro E2
Disclaimer:

DDHiFi sent me this DAC dongle for review, so a big thank you to them for giving me the chance to check it out. I’ve been using the TC44Pro E2 as my personal, daily driver for the past month, and this review is based purely on my real-world experiences with it. I’ve done my best to capture my honest impressions, hoping this review will give you a clear sense of what this DAC dongle has to offer.

If you’re interested in ordering the DDHiFi TC44Pro E2, you can visit the official DDHiFi website or find it on their AliExpress store. For a hassle-free option in Bangladesh, you can also purchase it through Geek Mart.

Additionally, if you’re looking for high-quality C to C cables, audio adapters, or other audio-related accessories, DDHiFi could be a great option to explore. They offer a wide range of quality products that might just fit your needs.

DDHiFi TC44Pro E2

Build Quality and Design

Honestly, the DDHiFi TC44Pro E2 is built like a tank—but in the best possible way. It’s made from aluminum alloy, so it feels sturdy but still light enough that you won’t mind carrying it around. The silver finish looks clean and modern, and those little gold accents on the 4.4mm balanced jack add just enough of a premium touch without going overboard. It’s sleek and simple, but it still feels like something special.

One thing I love is the little leather snake knot strap that comes with it. It’s great for keeping the dongle neat when you’re not using it, although when it’s plugged in, it doesn’t make it any more compact. But still, it’s a nice extra touch that shows DDHiFi thought about the little details.

Now, about the size: it’s a bit bigger than most dongles out there. At 20.7g, it’s still light, but if you’re used to something more compact, like their TC44C model, you’ll notice the difference. If you’re someone who’s always on the go and portability is a top priority, this might feel a bit bulkier. But for me, that slight increase in size is worth it because of the improved build and sound quality.

One thing that did worry me at first was the fixed cable. I usually prefer detachable cables just in case something goes wrong—it’s easier to replace. But after using the TC44Pro E2 for a while, I stopped worrying. The cable feels solid and durable, and both the Type-C connector and 4.4mm jack are well-made. It’s not the kind of thing that’s going to wear out anytime soon. All in all, it feels like this dongle is built to last, even with daily use.

In short, the TC44Pro E2 has a premium design that’s both functional and stylish, and it definitely gives off the vibe that it’s going to stick around for the long haul.

Technical Specifications

Let’s dive into what’s under the hood of the TC44Pro E2. Inside, it’s running dual CS43131 DAC chips, which deliver impressively clean and detailed sound—pretty impressive for something this compact. Plus, DDHiFi didn’t just stop at one but added two ES9603Q amplifiers, giving it some extra punch. This means it can drive a good range of headphones, even those that need a bit more power. Now, while the amp’s full capability is limited to about 80%, this actually helps keep distortion low, balancing power with smooth, clean sound.

In terms of audio decoding, the TC44Pro E2 handles up to 384kHz/32-bit PCM and native DSD256. Sure, there are DACs that support even higher, but this is more than enough for most high-res files and gives a really enjoyable listen.

One thing to note: there’s only a 4.4mm balanced output here—no 3.5mm single-ended option. But if you’re a fan of balanced audio, this setup is great, giving you a clean, spacious soundstage. You might need an 4.4mm balanced audio cable, for this dac. Since most of my cables are 4.4mm anyway, I didn’t run into any issues. It’s pretty convenient for me.If you’re already in the 4.4mm world like I am, this setup feels seamless.

Sound Impressions

For the purposes of this review, I listened to the DDHiFi TC44Pro E2 DAC dongle paired with a number of different IEMs including Dunu SA6 MK2, Dunu Zen, Softears Twilight, Hisenior Mega5 EST, Aful Cantor, and Softears Studio 4. Such a wide range of IEMs gave a good chance to assess the performance of the tested DAC in various driver types, tunings, and technical capabilities.

Tonality

The sound profile is generally balanced with a slight mid-bass boost. It’s not a warm or overly bright signature but sits in a comfortable middle ground. This neutrality with a hint of energy makes it versatile, pairing well with various IEMs and headphones and covering a range of genres effectively.

DDHiFi TC44Pro E2
Bass

The bass performance of the TC44Pro E2 is admirably controlled and full of impact. The mid-bass is considerably more forward than the sub-bass; this gives a fuller yet more energetic bass response. This slight mid-bass enhancement gives body and impact to the lower frequencies, making rock and metal genres especially fun. The punch in the tracks with bass guitars or kick drums is excellently delivered with authority, giving more weight and drive to the music.

While the mid-bass is dominant, it doesn’t mean that the sub-bass is completely forgotten, and it stays rather well-extended. Low-end rumble is there, but mid-bass is still emphasized, which makes general bass more interesting to listen to with fast-rhythm songs.

When paired with IEMs like the Dunu SA6 MK2 — well-known for its balanced armature drivers and detailed bass — the Ddhifi TC44Pro E2 adds a nice touch of warmth without sacrificing control. On the other hand, with more neutral IEMs, such as the Hisenior Mega5 EST, the bass feels balanced, weighty, rather than overpowering the rest of the frequency spectrum.

Midrange Clarity

What I find interesting is the midrange in the Ddhifi TC44Pro E2, which sounds very neutral. This makes it helpful in keeping vocals and instruments clear and well-separated. Vocals, both male and female, have a good, natural forwardness, especially in acoustic or vocal-centric simpler tracks.

When paired with IEMs like the Softears Twilight, which uses a dynamic driver and naturally adds more body to the mids, the neutral tune of the E2 complements it in perfect harmony. Rich yet not overly colored, it’s a balance that ensures the midrange isn’t overshadowed by an overly boosted bass or sparkling treble, allowing clear separation of vocals and instruments.

Pairing with the Aful Cantor, which also has an energetic character, helps keep the midrange dynamic without becoming too aggressive. Overall, the E2 provides a well-balanced performance, handling everything from vocal tracks to more intricate instrumental compositions with ease.

Treble and Energy

The treble of the TC44Pro E2 is slightly boosted for a nice, energetic sparkle. This helps give cymbals, hi-hats, and other high-frequency instruments some extra clarity and presence in the mix.

The E2 shines with IEMs like the Softears Studio 4 and Maga5 EST, both of which are known to possess exemplary treble extension and clarity. The additional treble energy gives these IEMs a much more dynamic and engaging tone, which will be ideal for listeners looking for that little extra sparkle without crossing the line into harshness.

On the other hand, with brighter-sounding IEMs like the Dunu Zen, the treble tends to be a bit too much. On some tracks, the inherent brightness of the Zen combined with the E2’s treble boost results in sharpness that could be fatiguing if listening is extended. On the upside, if the treble energy synergizes well with more balanced or slightly warm IEMs like the Softears Twilight, it makes them sound more open and detailed.

Soundstage and Imaging

Starting with the soundstage, the Ddhifi TC44Pro E2 is comparable to its predecessor, the TC44C, offering a middle ground between being too large or too small. The soundstage feels fairly intimate, particularly noticeable in tracks with more complex arrangements. Despite this, the layering and imaging are top-notch, with instruments well-placed and a depth of stage that helps each element stand apart for better immersion during one’s listening.

Along with the naturally larger soundstaging IEMs such as the Softears Twilight and Maga5 EST, the TC44Pro E2 did not make the soundstage feel like a box and retained a good sense of space. The slight reduction in stage size was welcomely complemented by the dongle’s ability to retain musicality and precise instrument separation.

Pairing and Synergy

The TC44Pro E2 complements a wide variety of IEMs quite well. Balanced armature-based ones like the Dunu SA6 MK2 benefit from added warmth and a generally more musical sound without sacrificing the inherent resolution of the IEM. On the Softears Twilight, the E2 adds punch into the dynamic driver’s low-end while keeping the midrange natural and the treble clean.

As I mentioned earlier, though, the Dunu Zen can sometimes become too sharp with the treble boost, which won’t be ideal for listeners sensitive to peaks in the treble. Otherwise, it performs quite well with more neutral or warmer IEMs and works as a versatile dongle for those wanting to add a bit of energy and detail to their sound.

Technicalities

The standout feature of the TC44Pro E2 is definitely the technical performance. The resolution and separation, especially up high, is impressive. From cymbal crashes to guitar plucks to ambient sounds, there’s good definition and no real feeling of muddiness, even on busier tracks. Also, on sensitive IEMs such as the Dunu Zen, the sound remains clean and free from background noise or hiss, a testament to the DAC’s clean output.

Compatibility and User Experience

Device Compatibility

The DDHiFi TC44Pro E2 is designed for versatility, smoothly pairing with a range of devices—smartphones, laptops, and tablets. It’s plug-and-play, so you can connect it and start listening right away without needing drivers or complex setup. Whether you’re on Android or iOS, the Type-C connector works seamlessly across both platforms, a big plus for anyone who switches between devices. Unlike some dongles that have quirks or compatibility issues with specific operating systems, the TC44Pro E2 consistently works across different devices without a hitch, making it an easy, reliable choice.

User-Friendly Features

One of the standout elements of the TC44Pro E2 is its simplicity. With a minimalistic design that avoids extra buttons or controls, it’s as user-friendly as it gets. There’s no need for a dedicated app, and all adjustments happen directly from your source device. This streamlined approach is ideal for those who prefer straightforward, distraction-free listening without the need for any extra tweaks. The overall ease of use makes it a practical choice for both new and experienced users who want quality audio without added complications.

PC Compatibility Note

For those planning to use it with a PC lacking a Type-C port, a separate Type-C to USB adapter will be necessary. Given the TC44Pro E2’s price, including a Type-C to USB adapter in the box would’ve been a thoughtful addition, especially since lower-priced dongles often include one. This simple addition would make the initial setup more convenient right out of the box.

Conclusion:

In a nutshell, the DDHiFi TC44Pro E2 has been a fantastic addition to my setup over the past month. From the first time I held it, the solid aluminum build and sleek design immediately gave off a premium feel. It’s one of those devices that just feels built to last, which I came to appreciate even more with daily use.

Initially, I was a bit skeptical about the fixed cable, but after regular use, it feels sturdy and dependable, and that concern quickly faded.

Sound-wise, this DAC dongle really delivers. The 4.4mm balanced output shines with impressive detail and clarity, bringing out the best in my IEMs. I haven’t missed the 3.5mm port, although it might be a factor for some. The balanced output just sounds so good that I’m happy with the single port. It’s also incredibly easy to use—just plug and play, whether on my phone or laptop. A small note, though: if you’re connecting to a PC without a Type-C port, you’ll need a Type-C to USB adapter. It would have been nice if one was included, but that’s a minor issue. Overall, the TC44Pro E2 has smoothly integrated into my daily listening routine, whether it’s music at my desk or podcasts on the go.

In short, if you’re looking for a solid, well-built DAC dongle that’s as stylish as it is capable, the TC44Pro E2 is definitely worth checking out.

DDHiFi TC44Pro E2

For more reviews on audio gear, click here

Md. Rohit
Md. Rohit
Articles: 4

4 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *