**Does LG V35 DAC Compare to Non-Mobile DACs?**

Does LG V35 DAC compared to non-mobile DAC performance? At compare.edu.vn, we delve into the audio capabilities of the LG V35’s built-in DAC and contrast it with dedicated, non-mobile Digital-to-Analog Converters. This comparison seeks to highlight the strengths and limitations of mobile audio solutions versus specialized audio equipment. Read on to learn about audio fidelity and sound quality.

1. Introduction to Mobile DACs and Dedicated DACs

Mobile Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) have evolved significantly, with smartphones like the LG V35 integrating high-quality audio processing to cater to audiophiles. The LG V35, renowned for its audio prowess, boasts a built-in DAC designed to deliver enhanced sound quality compared to standard mobile devices. However, the question arises: How does the performance of the LG V35’s DAC stack up against dedicated, non-mobile DACs?

Dedicated DACs, on the other hand, are external devices engineered solely for audio processing. These units often incorporate advanced components, superior power supplies, and specialized circuitry to achieve optimal sound reproduction. They cater to audio enthusiasts seeking the highest fidelity and nuanced audio experiences.

This detailed comparison will explore the specifications, performance metrics, and subjective listening experiences to provide a comprehensive understanding of where the LG V35’s DAC stands in relation to non-mobile DAC solutions. This information will empower audio enthusiasts to make informed decisions about their audio setups.

2. Understanding the LG V35 DAC

The LG V35, released in 2018, featured a 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter), a prominent component aimed at delivering superior audio quality. This DAC was designed to reduce distortion and noise, providing a cleaner and more detailed sound output than standard smartphone audio solutions.

• Key Features of the LG V35 DAC:

  • 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC: This architecture allows for precise audio processing, minimizing quantization errors and improving dynamic range.
  • Audio Format Support: The LG V35 supports a wide range of high-resolution audio formats, including FLAC, DSD, and ALAC, enabling users to enjoy lossless audio files.
  • MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) Support: This feature allows the phone to decode MQA audio files, providing studio-quality sound as intended by the artists.
  • Customizable Digital Filters: Users can adjust digital filters to fine-tune the sound output to their preferences, altering the sonic characteristics.
  • Impedance Detection: The device automatically detects the impedance of connected headphones, optimizing the audio output for the specific headphones being used.

• Technical Specifications:

  • DAC Chip: Typically, LG uses ESS Sabre DAC chips, known for their high performance and low distortion.
  • Output Power: The output power is designed to drive a variety of headphones, but it is limited by the phone’s power supply.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): High SNR ensures a cleaner audio signal with less background noise.
  • Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Low THD indicates less distortion in the audio output.
  • Dynamic Range: Wide dynamic range allows for a greater difference between the loudest and quietest sounds.

• Advantages of the LG V35 DAC:

  • Convenience: The integrated DAC eliminates the need for external devices, making it highly convenient for on-the-go listening.
  • High-Resolution Audio: Supports high-resolution audio formats, providing a superior listening experience compared to standard smartphones.
  • Customization: Customizable digital filters allow users to tailor the sound to their preferences.
  • Impedance Detection: Optimizes audio output for different headphones, ensuring the best possible sound quality.
  • MQA Support: Provides access to studio-quality audio through MQA decoding.

• Limitations:
  • Power Constraints: The DAC is limited by the phone’s battery, which can affect its performance and output power compared to dedicated DACs.
  • Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): The internal components of the phone can introduce EMI, potentially affecting audio quality.
  • Component Limitations: The size constraints of a smartphone limit the quality and size of components that can be used in the DAC.
  • Software Dependency: Performance can be affected by the phone’s software and firmware, which may not always be optimized for audio.

In summary, the LG V35’s DAC offers a significant improvement over standard smartphone audio, providing high-resolution audio support, customizable settings, and impedance detection. However, it is still subject to the limitations of being integrated into a mobile device, including power constraints and potential EMI.

3. Exploring Non-Mobile Dedicated DACs

Non-mobile dedicated DACs are standalone devices designed solely for converting digital audio signals into analog audio with the highest possible fidelity. These devices often feature advanced components, robust power supplies, and specialized circuitry optimized for audio performance. They cater to audiophiles and audio professionals who demand the best possible sound quality.

• Key Features of Non-Mobile Dedicated DACs:

  • High-Quality Components: Dedicated DACs use premium components such as high-end DAC chips (e.g., ESS Sabre, AKM), precision clocks, and low-noise op-amps to minimize distortion and noise.
  • Robust Power Supplies: These devices typically have dedicated power supplies that provide clean and stable power, crucial for optimal audio performance.
  • Advanced Circuitry: Specialized circuit designs, including balanced outputs and sophisticated filtering, ensure the highest signal integrity and minimal interference.
  • Versatile Connectivity: Dedicated DACs offer a variety of input and output options, including USB, optical, coaxial, RCA, and balanced XLR, making them compatible with various audio sources and systems.
  • High-Resolution Audio Support: These DACs support a wide range of high-resolution audio formats, including PCM, DSD, and MQA, often at higher sampling rates and bit depths than mobile devices.

• Technical Specifications:

  • DAC Chip: High-performance DAC chips from ESS Sabre, AKM, or Burr-Brown are commonly used.
  • Output Power: Sufficient output power to drive a wide range of headphones and connect to various audio systems.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): Typically exceeds 120dB, ensuring an extremely clean audio signal.
  • Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Often below 0.001%, minimizing distortion in the audio output.
  • Dynamic Range: Wide dynamic range, often exceeding 120dB, allows for a greater difference between the loudest and quietest sounds.
  • Sampling Rates and Bit Depths: Support for high sampling rates (e.g., 384kHz, 768kHz) and bit depths (e.g., 32-bit) ensures compatibility with high-resolution audio files.

• Advantages of Non-Mobile Dedicated DACs:

  • Superior Sound Quality: The primary advantage is significantly improved sound quality due to high-quality components and optimized circuitry.
  • Clean Power: Dedicated power supplies ensure stable and clean power, minimizing noise and distortion.
  • Versatility: Wide range of input and output options for compatibility with various audio sources and systems.
  • High-Resolution Audio Support: Support for high-resolution audio formats at higher sampling rates and bit depths.
  • Lower Noise and Distortion: Advanced components and circuitry result in lower noise and distortion levels.

• Limitations:
  • Cost: Dedicated DACs are typically more expensive than integrated mobile DACs.
  • Inconvenience: Require additional space and connections, making them less convenient for portable use.
  • Complexity: Can be more complex to set up and configure compared to integrated solutions.
  • Power Requirements: Require an external power source, limiting their portability.

In summary, non-mobile dedicated DACs offer superior sound quality and versatility due to their high-quality components, robust power supplies, and advanced circuitry. However, they are more expensive and less convenient than integrated mobile DACs.

4. Comparative Analysis: LG V35 DAC vs. Non-Mobile DACs

Comparing the LG V35 DAC to non-mobile DACs involves assessing several key factors, including audio quality, technical specifications, and practical usage scenarios. This analysis will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each type of DAC, providing a comprehensive understanding of their respective capabilities.

• Audio Quality:

  • LG V35 DAC:
    • Strengths: Offers a noticeable improvement in audio quality compared to standard smartphone DACs. Provides a cleaner and more detailed sound output with reduced noise and distortion.
    • Limitations: Audio quality is limited by the constraints of being integrated into a mobile device, including power limitations and potential electromagnetic interference.
  • Non-Mobile Dedicated DACs:
    • Strengths: Deliver superior sound quality due to high-quality components, robust power supplies, and advanced circuitry. Offer a more refined and detailed sound with greater clarity and dynamic range.
    • Limitations: Higher cost and less convenient for portable use. Require additional setup and configuration.

• Technical Specifications:

• Practical Usage Scenarios:

  • LG V35 DAC:
    • Ideal For: Users who want improved audio quality on the go without the need for additional devices. Suitable for everyday listening with headphones or IEMs.
    • Limitations: Not ideal for critical listening or demanding headphones that require more power.
  • Non-Mobile Dedicated DACs:
    • Ideal For: Audiophiles and audio professionals who demand the highest possible sound quality. Suitable for critical listening, studio monitoring, and driving high-impedance headphones.
    • Limitations: Less convenient for portable use and require additional setup.

• Subjective Listening Experience:

  • LG V35 DAC:
    • Strengths: Provides a pleasant and detailed listening experience for most users. Offers noticeable improvements in clarity and soundstage compared to standard smartphones.
    • Limitations: May lack the refinement and detail of dedicated DACs, especially with high-end headphones.
  • Non-Mobile Dedicated DACs:
    • Strengths: Deliver a more immersive and detailed listening experience with greater clarity, dynamic range, and soundstage. Provide a more accurate and nuanced representation of the music.
    • Limitations: The improvements in sound quality may not be noticeable to all listeners, especially with low-resolution audio files or lower-quality headphones.

• Power Output and Headphone Compatibility:
  • LG V35 DAC:
    • Strengths: Sufficient power to drive most IEMs and some headphones adequately. Impedance detection optimizes output for connected headphones.
    • Limitations: May struggle with high-impedance or power-hungry headphones, resulting in reduced volume and dynamic range.
  • Non-Mobile Dedicated DACs:
    • Strengths: Offer ample power to drive a wide range of headphones, including high-impedance and planar magnetic models. Provide a more consistent and controlled sound output.
    • Limitations: May require additional amplifiers for extremely demanding headphones.

In summary, while the LG V35 DAC offers a significant improvement over standard smartphone audio, it cannot match the superior sound quality and versatility of non-mobile dedicated DACs. Dedicated DACs provide cleaner power, higher-quality components, and advanced circuitry, resulting in a more refined and detailed listening experience.

5. Real-World Listening Tests and User Feedback

To provide a comprehensive comparison, it is essential to consider real-world listening tests and user feedback. These subjective evaluations offer valuable insights into how the LG V35 DAC and non-mobile DACs perform in practical scenarios.

• Methodology for Listening Tests:

  • Blind Tests: Conducting blind tests where participants are unaware of which DAC they are listening to can provide unbiased evaluations.
  • Controlled Environment: Listening tests should be conducted in a controlled environment with minimal background noise.
  • Variety of Headphones: Using a variety of headphones with different impedance levels and sound signatures can reveal how each DAC performs with different equipment.
  • High-Resolution Audio: Utilizing high-resolution audio files (e.g., FLAC, DSD) can highlight the differences in audio quality between the DACs.
  • Standardized Volume Levels: Ensuring that the volume levels are consistent across all tests is crucial for accurate comparisons.

• User Feedback on the LG V35 DAC:

  • Positive Feedback:
    • Improved Sound Quality: Many users report a noticeable improvement in sound quality compared to other smartphones.
    • Convenience: Users appreciate the convenience of having a high-quality DAC integrated into their phone.
    • Headphone Compatibility: The LG V35 DAC is generally compatible with a wide range of headphones.
    • Customization: Customizable digital filters are a popular feature among users.
  • Negative Feedback:
    • Power Limitations: Some users find the power output insufficient for demanding headphones.
    • Battery Drain: Using the DAC can drain the phone’s battery more quickly.
    • Sound Quality Limitations: Some audiophiles find the sound quality lacking compared to dedicated DACs.

• User Feedback on Non-Mobile DACs:

  • Positive Feedback:
    • Superior Sound Quality: Users consistently praise the superior sound quality of dedicated DACs.
    • Headphone Compatibility: Dedicated DACs can drive a wider range of headphones, including high-impedance models.
    • Versatility: Users appreciate the versatility of dedicated DACs with various input and output options.
    • Clean Power: The clean power provided by dedicated DACs is often cited as a significant advantage.
  • Negative Feedback:
    • Cost: The high cost of dedicated DACs is a common concern.
    • Inconvenience: Users find dedicated DACs less convenient for portable use.
    • Complexity: Setting up and configuring dedicated DACs can be more complex than using integrated solutions.

• Summary of Listening Test Results:

  • LG V35 DAC: Performs well for casual listening and provides a noticeable improvement over standard smartphone audio. Suitable for users who prioritize convenience and portability.
  • Non-Mobile DACs: Excel in critical listening scenarios and deliver superior sound quality, especially with high-resolution audio and high-end headphones. Ideal for audiophiles and audio professionals who demand the best possible sound.

• Specific Examples:
  • Test 1: A blind test comparing the LG V35 DAC to a mid-range dedicated DAC (e.g., iFi Zen DAC) using high-resolution FLAC files and Sennheiser HD650 headphones. Participants generally preferred the dedicated DAC for its greater clarity and dynamic range.
  • Test 2: A comparison of the LG V35 DAC to a high-end dedicated DAC (e.g., Chord Mojo) using DSD files and Audeze LCD-X headphones. The high-end DAC provided a more detailed and immersive listening experience, with better instrument separation and soundstage.

In conclusion, real-world listening tests and user feedback indicate that while the LG V35 DAC offers a significant improvement over standard smartphone audio, it cannot match the superior sound quality and versatility of non-mobile dedicated DACs.

6. The Impact of Audio Codecs and File Formats

The audio quality of both the LG V35 DAC and non-mobile DACs is significantly influenced by the audio codecs and file formats used. Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing the listening experience and maximizing the potential of each device.

• Common Audio Codecs and File Formats:

  • MP3: A lossy compression format that reduces file size but sacrifices some audio quality.
  • AAC: Another lossy compression format, often used by Apple, that generally provides better audio quality than MP3 at the same bit rate.
  • FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec): A lossless compression format that preserves all the original audio data, resulting in higher fidelity.
  • ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec): Apple’s lossless compression format, similar to FLAC.
  • WAV: An uncompressed audio format that retains all the original audio data, resulting in the highest fidelity but also the largest file size.
  • DSD (Direct Stream Digital): A high-resolution audio format used in Super Audio CDs (SACDs), known for its smooth and detailed sound.
  • MQA (Master Quality Authenticated): A lossless audio format that delivers studio-quality sound by folding and unfolding the audio data.

• How Audio Codecs Affect Sound Quality:

  • Lossy Codecs (MP3, AAC): These codecs remove some audio data to reduce file size, resulting in a loss of detail and clarity. The higher the bit rate, the less audio data is lost, and the better the sound quality.
  • Lossless Codecs (FLAC, ALAC, WAV): These codecs preserve all the original audio data, resulting in higher fidelity and better sound quality compared to lossy codecs.
  • High-Resolution Codecs (DSD, MQA): These codecs offer even higher fidelity and greater detail than lossless codecs, providing a more immersive and nuanced listening experience.

• LG V35 DAC and Codec Support:

  • The LG V35 DAC supports a wide range of audio codecs, including MP3, AAC, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, DSD, and MQA. This allows users to enjoy high-resolution audio files and take full advantage of the DAC’s capabilities.
  • The LG V35 also supports MQA decoding, which enables users to stream studio-quality audio from services like Tidal.

• Non-Mobile DACs and Codec Support:

  • Non-mobile DACs typically offer even broader codec support, often including higher sampling rates and bit depths than mobile devices.
  • Many dedicated DACs also support advanced features like DSD upsampling and MQA rendering, which can further enhance audio quality.

• Optimizing Audio Quality with Different Codecs:

  • For Casual Listening: MP3 or AAC files at higher bit rates (e.g., 320kbps) can provide acceptable sound quality for everyday listening on the go.
  • For Critical Listening: FLAC, ALAC, or WAV files are recommended for critical listening, as they preserve all the original audio data and provide higher fidelity.
  • For High-End Systems: DSD or MQA files can deliver the best possible sound quality, especially when paired with high-end headphones and dedicated DACs.

• The Importance of Source Material:
  • The quality of the source material is crucial for maximizing the potential of any DAC. Even the best DAC cannot improve the sound quality of poorly recorded or low-resolution audio files.
  • Using high-quality recordings and well-mastered audio files is essential for achieving the best possible listening experience.

In summary, the audio quality of both the LG V35 DAC and non-mobile DACs is heavily influenced by the audio codecs and file formats used. Choosing high-quality lossless or high-resolution formats can significantly improve the listening experience and allow users to take full advantage of the DAC’s capabilities.

7. The Role of Headphones and IEMs in Audio Quality

The headphones or In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) used play a crucial role in determining the overall audio quality, regardless of the DAC being used. The characteristics of the headphones, such as their impedance, frequency response, and driver technology, can significantly impact the listening experience.

• Key Characteristics of Headphones and IEMs:

  • Impedance: Measured in ohms (Ω), impedance affects how much power is required to drive the headphones. High-impedance headphones typically require more power than low-impedance models.
  • Frequency Response: Indicates the range of frequencies that the headphones can reproduce, typically measured in hertz (Hz). A wider frequency response generally means the headphones can reproduce a broader range of sounds.
  • Driver Technology: Different driver technologies, such as dynamic, planar magnetic, and electrostatic, have different sonic characteristics and performance capabilities.
  • Sound Signature: Refers to the overall tonal balance of the headphones, which can be described as neutral, warm, bright, or bass-heavy.
  • Sensitivity: Measured in decibels per milliwatt (dB/mW), sensitivity indicates how loud the headphones will be at a given power level.

• How Headphones Affect Sound Quality:

  • Impedance Matching: Matching the impedance of the headphones to the output impedance of the DAC is crucial for optimal sound quality. Using headphones with too high or too low impedance can result in reduced volume, distorted sound, or a loss of dynamic range.
  • Frequency Response and Sound Signature: The frequency response and sound signature of the headphones determine how the music will sound. Neutral headphones provide a balanced and accurate representation of the music, while colored headphones emphasize certain frequencies.
  • Driver Technology: Different driver technologies have different strengths and weaknesses. Dynamic drivers are known for their bass response, planar magnetic drivers for their detail and clarity, and electrostatic drivers for their speed and transparency.

• LG V35 DAC and Headphone Compatibility:

  • The LG V35 DAC includes impedance detection, which optimizes the audio output for the connected headphones. This helps ensure that the headphones are driven properly and that the sound quality is as good as possible.
  • However, the LG V35 DAC may struggle to drive high-impedance headphones adequately, resulting in reduced volume and dynamic range.

• Non-Mobile DACs and Headphone Compatibility:

  • Non-mobile DACs typically offer more power output than mobile devices, allowing them to drive a wider range of headphones, including high-impedance models.
  • Many dedicated DACs also include adjustable gain settings, which allow users to fine-tune the output power to match the impedance of their headphones.

• Choosing the Right Headphones for Your DAC:

  • For the LG V35 DAC: Choose headphones with low to moderate impedance (e.g., 16-150 ohms) and high sensitivity to ensure they are driven adequately. IEMs are often a good choice for portable use.
  • For Non-Mobile DACs: You have more flexibility in choosing headphones, as dedicated DACs can drive a wider range of models. Consider your personal preferences and listening habits when selecting headphones.

• The Importance of Headphone Quality:
  • Even the best DAC cannot improve the sound quality of low-quality headphones. Investing in a good pair of headphones is essential for maximizing the potential of any DAC.
  • Consider your budget, listening preferences, and intended use when selecting headphones.

In summary, the headphones or IEMs used play a crucial role in determining the overall audio quality. Matching the headphones to the DAC’s output capabilities and choosing high-quality models is essential for achieving the best possible listening experience.

8. Is an External DAC Necessary for the LG V35?

Deciding whether to use an external DAC with the LG V35 depends on individual listening preferences, the quality of headphones used, and the specific use cases. The LG V35 already has a built-in 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC, which offers significant improvements over standard smartphone audio. However, there are situations where an external DAC can provide further enhancements.

• Reasons to Use an External DAC with the LG V35:

  • Driving High-Impedance Headphones: If you use high-impedance headphones (e.g., 300 ohms or higher), the LG V35’s built-in DAC may not provide enough power to drive them adequately. An external DAC with a more powerful amplifier can provide the necessary power for optimal sound quality.
  • Improving Sound Quality: While the LG V35 DAC is good, an external DAC can offer further improvements in sound quality, such as lower distortion, higher dynamic range, and a more refined sound signature.
  • Reducing Noise and Interference: An external DAC can isolate the audio processing from the electromagnetic interference (EMI) within the phone, resulting in a cleaner and quieter listening experience.
  • Versatile Connectivity: External DACs often offer a wider range of input and output options, allowing you to connect to various audio sources and systems.
  • Critical Listening: If you engage in critical listening or audio analysis, an external DAC can provide a more accurate and detailed representation of the music.

• Reasons Not to Use an External DAC with the LG V35:

  • Convenience: The LG V35’s built-in DAC is highly convenient for portable use, as it eliminates the need for additional devices.
  • Cost: External DACs can be expensive, and the cost may not be justified if you are satisfied with the sound quality of the LG V35’s built-in DAC.
  • Portability: Adding an external DAC increases the size and weight of your portable audio setup, making it less convenient for on-the-go listening.
  • Adequate Sound Quality: If you primarily use low-impedance headphones or IEMs and are happy with the sound quality of the LG V35, an external DAC may not provide a significant improvement.

• Scenarios Where an External DAC is Beneficial:

  • High-End Headphones: Using high-end headphones with high impedance or planar magnetic drivers can benefit from the additional power and refinement of an external DAC.
  • Critical Listening Environments: In quiet environments where you can focus on the nuances of the music, an external DAC can provide a more immersive and detailed listening experience.
  • Home Audio Systems: Connecting the LG V35 to a home audio system can benefit from the improved sound quality and versatile connectivity of an external DAC.

• Recommended External DACs for the LG V35:
  • Portable DACs:
    • iFi Zen DAC: A popular choice for its balanced sound signature and affordable price.
    • AudioQuest DragonFly Series: Compact and easy to use, offering improved sound quality over the LG V35’s built-in DAC.
    • Chord Mojo: A high-end portable DAC known for its exceptional detail and clarity.
  • Desktop DACs:
    • Schiit Audio Modi: A well-regarded desktop DAC that offers excellent value for its price.
    • Topping D Series: Known for their clean and neutral sound signature, making them a good choice for critical listening.
    • RME ADI-2 DAC FS: A high-end desktop DAC with advanced features and exceptional performance.

In summary, whether an external DAC is necessary for the LG V35 depends on individual needs and preferences. If you use high-impedance headphones, seek further improvements in sound quality, or want versatile connectivity options, an external DAC can be a worthwhile investment. However, if you are satisfied with the LG V35’s built-in DAC and prioritize convenience, an external DAC may not be necessary.

9. Optimizing the LG V35 for the Best Audio Experience

To maximize the audio quality of the LG V35, several optimization techniques can be employed. These range from software tweaks to hardware choices, all aimed at ensuring the best possible listening experience.

• Software Optimization:

  • Use High-Resolution Audio Files: Opt for lossless audio formats like FLAC, ALAC, or WAV instead of compressed formats like MP3 or AAC to preserve audio fidelity.
  • Enable Hi-Fi DAC: Ensure the Hi-Fi DAC is enabled in the phone’s settings to take full advantage of its capabilities.
  • Customize Digital Filters: Experiment with the customizable digital filters to find the sound signature that best suits your preferences. The LG V35 offers various filter options that can subtly alter the audio output.
  • Disable Audio Effects: Turn off any built-in audio effects or equalizers that may distort the sound. The goal is to achieve a clean and uncolored audio output.
  • Update Software: Keep the phone’s software and firmware up to date to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the Hi-Fi DAC.

• Hardware Optimization:

  • Use High-Quality Headphones or IEMs: Invest in a good pair of headphones or IEMs that match your listening preferences and complement the LG V35’s sound signature.
  • Proper Headphone Impedance Matching: Ensure that the impedance of your headphones is compatible with the LG V35’s output. Low to moderate impedance headphones (16-150 ohms) generally work best.
  • Use a USB OTG Cable: When connecting an external DAC, use a high-quality USB OTG (On-The-Go) cable to ensure a stable and reliable connection.
  • Consider an External Amplifier: If you use high-impedance headphones and find the LG V35’s output insufficient, consider using a portable headphone amplifier to boost the signal.

• Environmental Optimization:

  • Minimize Background Noise: Listen to music in a quiet environment to reduce distractions and fully appreciate the audio quality.
  • Use Noise-Isolating Headphones: Noise-isolating headphones or IEMs can help block out external noise and improve the listening experience, especially in noisy environments.

• Advanced Techniques:

  • Rooting and Custom ROMs: Some users choose to root their LG V35 and install custom ROMs that offer additional audio enhancements and tweaks. However, this is an advanced technique that can void the warranty and potentially damage the device.
  • USB Audio Player Pro (UAPP): This app bypasses the Android audio stack and allows for bit-perfect audio playback, ensuring that the audio signal is not altered or resampled.

• Specific Settings to Check on the LG V35:

  • Hi-Fi DAC: Enable the Hi-Fi DAC in the settings menu under “Sound” or “Audio.”
  • Digital Filters: Experiment with the digital filter options (e.g., Short, Sharp, Slow) to find the sound signature that you prefer.
  • Gain Settings: If available, adjust the gain settings to match the impedance of your headphones.
  • Audio Codec Settings: If using an external DAC, ensure that the appropriate audio codec is selected in the settings menu.

By implementing these optimization techniques, users can significantly enhance the audio experience on their LG V35 and take full advantage of its Hi-Fi DAC capabilities.

10. Alternative Smartphones with High-Quality DACs

While the LG V35 is known for its audio capabilities, several other smartphones also feature high-quality DACs. Exploring these alternatives can provide additional options for users who prioritize audio quality in their mobile devices.

• LG Smartphones:

  • LG V Series: Models like the LG V60, V50, and V40 also feature high-quality Quad DACs, offering similar or improved audio performance compared to the LG V35.
  • LG G Series: Some models in the LG G series, such as the LG G7 and G8, also include Quad DACs, providing a superior audio experience.

• Other Smartphone Brands:

  • Sony Xperia: Certain Sony Xperia models, such as the Xperia 1 II and Xperia 5 II, feature high-resolution audio support and built-in DACs designed for audiophiles.
  • ASUS ROG Phone: The ASUS ROG Phone series, aimed at gamers, also includes high-quality DACs and amplifiers for immersive audio experiences.
  • Samsung Galaxy: While not always explicitly marketed, some Samsung Galaxy models, when paired with specific USB-C DAC dongles, can deliver excellent audio performance.
  • HTC: Some older HTC models, like the HTC 10 and HTC U11, were known for their BoomSound audio technology, which included high-quality DACs and amplifiers.

• Key Features to Look For in a Smartphone DAC:

  • 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC: This architecture allows for precise audio processing and minimizes distortion.
  • High-Resolution Audio Support: Look for support for lossless audio formats like FLAC, ALAC, WAV, and DSD.
  • MQA Support: MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) support enables streaming of studio-quality audio from services like Tidal.
  • Customizable Digital Filters: The ability to adjust digital filters allows you to fine-tune the sound signature to your preferences.
  • Impedance Detection: Automatic impedance detection optimizes the audio output for the connected headphones.

![Comparison chart highlighting smartphones with high-quality DACs and their key audio features](https://us1.discourse