Dongle Comparisons
Using my M3 Macbook Air I compared the OS133 with other dongles to get a feel for how it stacks up.
Penon Tail (USD $74.90)
The Tail is vastly more powerful and even comes with a hi-gain switch, making it the better option if you use headphones. Even with IEMs the Tail delivers a far more dynamic, powerful sound.
Tail bass goes deeper and it feels more bass-driven, its’ midrange is more forward with greater engagement, and its’ stronger amplifier controls & separates instruments better during busy passages.
The Tail’s soundstage is deeper and its’ resolution especially through the midrange is higher, delivering performance closer to that of a full-fledged DAP. I recommend spending the extra on the Tail if you prioritise performance, but the OS133’s form factor is still unbeatable in daily use.
Cayin RU7 (USD $289)
Sonically the RU7’s superior refinement is reflected in its’ vastly higher price.
The great strength of the RU7’s 1bit DAC great is its’ remarkably organic, vividly textured midrange which makes the OS133 sound quite digital. The OS133 is bassier in quantity but the RU7 has better bass texture, and is more musically engaging whereas the OS133 can feel flat & uninvolving by comparison.
The RU7 also features lower background noise, better dynamics and a blacker background, greater control during busy passages and a slightly wider stage, along with higher resolution delivered with greater nuance & delicacy.
Page 1 – Introduction, Tech Specs & Ergonomics
Page 2 – Sound Impressions & Technical Performance
Page 3 – Dongle Comparisons
Page 4 – Conclusion
Not really understanding your comparisons. They don’t equate. And there are a few similar dongles using both chips for dac and amp. Common sense would be seeing how it compares to them. Not many are deicing between devices in vastly different price points.
That’s a good point you make Ryan.
Unfortunately Tail and the RU7 were the only other dongles I had at the time, but you’re right in that these aren’t really apples to apples comparisons given the respective price differences.
The OS133 is excellent value but I’m sure there are plenty of other dongle options out there which use similar hardware chips, it’s a very crowded marketplace these days!