Search for a USB-C DAC/Amp dongle and you will find a plethora of options. Most of them will have a similar design and many will use identical technology. Frequently, it is the unique design that will capture your attention and spark your curiosity to delve deeper into researching it. The Aune Yuki is an example of such a device.
The Aune Yuki will set you back $170 from the bank account. The Yuki features dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips, supports up to 32-bit, 768 kHz, DSD 256 processing, includes 4-Way Discrete Balanced Amplifier Circuitry, 4 x 4 Transistors, is UCA1.0 compatible, and provides outputs of 90mW on SE and 160mW on BAL.
Purchase/More Information:
Aune Store (non-affiliate link):
Amazon (non-affiliate link): https://www.amazon.com/Portable-Headphone-Smartphone-Earphones-Headphones/dp/B0CJXYNNTH
Aune Yuki Case:
Aune Store (non-affiliate link): https://www.aune-store.com/en/accessories/aune-yuki-cover-orange/aune-yuki-cover-orange_1104011_1248/
The unboxing experience of the Aune Yuki is quite simple. The white cylindrical box has a blue sleeve covering its exterior. The blue sleeve, labeled with Yuki, features artistic flair on the back. The white cylindrical box features specifications at the base, with gold lettering "Yuki" on the front and "Yuki" and "For Music We Design" on the top.
Underneath the cover, you will find QR codes for the user manual. Beneath them, there is the Yuki, a cable, and a USB adapter.
The USB-C cable and adapter are of good quality. Although the cable is somewhat short, it is flexible and not rigid. The connectors feature subtle Aune branding.
A leather protective cover can be purchased for $15, offered in green and orange colors. The cover is well-made and visually appealing. However, it makes pressing the already awkward volume buttons on the back even more difficult.
The Yuki is distinctive in its appearance. The initial focal point is the transparent window revealing its internal components. The gold lettering gives it a unique touch compared to other dongles.
Positioned at the bottom are the 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs, with the USB-C input located at the top.
Oh, there is a Hi-Res sticker, it's got to sound good!
There are no buttons on the sides, but the volume and gain multi-function buttons are found at the rear. The volume buttons are differentiated by a notch on the up button and a smooth surface on the down button. Pressing both buttons simultaneously and holding them toggles between low and high gain settings. While the rear button placement is a distinctive feature, it may not be very practical for daily use.
Overall, the Yuki is well-built, emanating durability and a stunning appearance.
The Aune Yuki supports pretty much any audio bit rate you desire, except for MQA.
I had no issues connecting the Yuki to my Samsung S24 Ultra with Tidal, AmazonHD, YouTube Music and Spotify. BUT the Yuki didn't work with the Google Pixel 8 Pro; https://youtu.be/D_NPKtGiF_A?si=wFkvQkdVNLc_HeIo
The power output of the Aune Yuki is average for a dongle, lackluster for the price. If you are looking to power more demanding IEM or headphones the Yuki will struggle. With a meager 90mw on SE and 160mw on Bal the Yuki falls into the average range of dongles.
The Yuki didn't have issues on balanced output with any IEM I tested, hi gain was needed frequently. The SE output is not as good with more demanding IEM even on hi gain. For headphones the balanced output was capable with easier to drive headphones but more demanding headphones was an issue, get them to louuder volumes but struggling to bring out the full capabilities.
Gear Used to Test:
CTM Da Vinci X
ThieAudio Oracle mk11
ThieAudio Oracle mkiii
ThieAudio Hype4
SoftEars Studio4
Westone Mach60
Tin Hifi T2
Tanchjim Kara
Tanchjim 4U
Moondrop Kato
Tin Hifi P1 Max
I/O Volare
Aune AR5000
Rode NTH-100
Hifiman Sundara
Sennheiser HD660s2
My Review Process: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/honest-audiophile-review-process
My Terms & Definitions:
How does the Aune Yuki sound?
BASS:
The Aune Yuki's bass is extended, impressively commanding, and intricate. It possesses a natural tone and timbre, along with solid note weight and body. The bass delivers a strong impact, packing a punch and slamming down without ever seeming uncontrolled. Yuki's bass has a pleasing rumble, grumble, and grit to it, offering a lively and captivating neutral natural sound presentation.
MIDS:
The midrange of the Aune Yuki possesses a unique natural quality. It offers a well-balanced sound with a sense of fullness and richness. The midrange delivers an organic and authentic sound akin to a refreshing spring morning breeze. It maintains a good sense of air, spaciousness, and energy while exuding a calming effect. The tone and timbre are precise, faithfully reproducing the sound of instruments and vocals.
TREBLE:
The Aune Yuki's treble stands out as exceptional when compared to other dongles. It offers a balanced and extended treble, creating a natural feeling of air and space. The device achieves an impressive equilibrium between analytical and natural sound presentation. Despite having enough sparkle and energy, it avoids sounding overly artificial. The Yuki accurately reproduces the tone and timbre of treble notes.
TECHNICAL ABILITIES:
The presentation of the Aune Yuki is truly remarkable. It offers a natural sense of spaciousness, accurately representing venues of all sizes, from intimate studios to large concert halls and stadiums. The imaging is incredibly precise, enabling you to pinpoint and follow details across the stage. Depth is exceptional, allowing for a full development and exposure of notes and details. The layering is superb, enabling you to distinguish between various elements of the track without them clashing for attention. The retrieval of details is outstanding, providing numerous opportunities to discover new intricacies within a track. The resolution of these details is very impressive, with no blurring, harshness, or distortion. The tone and timbre are natural and true to life.
In comparison to some of the more popular and recent dongles, how does the Aune Yuki fare?
vs Fosi Audio DS2 - $60
The Fosi Audio DS2 leans towards a more analytical sound rather than being as rich as the Yuki. It delivers greater energy in the higher frequencies, enhancing bite, edge, and crispness. While the note weight and body may not be as full as the Yuki, the level of detail retrieval is comparable, with the Yuki having a larger advantage in resolution. The Yuki provides a more extensive soundstage, improved layering, and upgraded imaging accuracy. Nevertheless, given the considerable price gap, the Fosi Audio DS2 competes quite well with the Yuki.
vs Rose Technics RD9039 Roseselsa - $76
The Roselsa RS9039 by Rose Technics is another dongle option that comes at a significantly lower price compared to the Aune Yuki. In terms of sound quality, the RS9039 stands out for its increased energy and vibrancy. However, it falls short in terms of detail and resolution can be harsh and glassy when compared to the Yuki. The upper frequencies exhibit a bright and hot quality, at times, showing unwanted sibilance. While the soundstage width is similar, it lacks depth and the ability to layer sounds as effectively. Additionally, the tone and timbre of the RS9039 may not sound as natural due to some artificial metallic tones in the upper frequency range. The RS9039 is a decent dongle by itself, but it is outclassed by the Yuki when put side by side..
vs Fiio KA17 - $151
The Fiio KA17, priced similarly, offers a wide range of additional features compared to the Aune Yuki. Moreover, the Fiio KA17 provides three times the output power on SE at 270mw and four times on balanced at 650mw. The Yuki and the KA17 have similar levels of natural tone and timbre, with the KA17 being just as proficient in technical aspects. However, the distinction lies in their tonal characteristics: the Aune delivers a warmer and richer sound, whereas the Fiio offers a slightly more airy and sweeter sound.
vs AFUL Snowy Night - $110
The AFUL Snowy Night is priced at two-thirds the price of the Yuki, yet it offers double the output power and includes additional features such as filters. While the Snowy Night has a slightly brighter and more airy presentation, its detail retrieval and resolution fall just a bit short of the Yuki. Similarly, the tone and timbre of the Snowy Night lag slightly behind the Yuki. Overall, the Snowy Night is a strong performer that closely rivals the Yuki but falls short of surpassing it.
To sum up, the Aune Yuki stands out as a top-notch USB-C dongle. Its exceptional rich and natural tone and timbre are unparalleled among most dongles. The impressive detail retrieval and resolution consistently leave a lasting impression. While there are few dongles that can match the Yuki's performance with IEMs, it may be outperformed by more powerful options for headphones. Despite its few limitations and flaws, the Aune Yuki's positive attributes easily overshadow any shortcomings. This dongle is highly recommended for individuals seeking a natural tone and timbre, precise stage and placement, as well as outstanding details and resolution.
I am Dave the Honest Audiophile. Thanks for reading, and I will catch you in the next one. Don't forget to enjoy the music and that honesty is the BEST policy! I am not a professional sound engineer, producer, musician, or vocalist, etc. I have not done any scientific research, measurements, or in-depth testing of any kind; just my own listening, comparing and internet reading/research. I have limited, real-life experience with recording, mixing and mastering gear. I have been involved since my teenage years with various churches as an amateur sound booth technician.
Please take these thoughts, opinions and reasonings as just that, my honest audiophile thoughts, opinions and reasonings.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TalkDbs @TalkDbs
Website: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com
YouTube membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgMj7xJ1SDxGqqxZ5l3g_jg/join
The Honest Audiophile research/review process: https://youtu.be/UkSnoZZNyYc Tierlist:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=sharing
Audio Terms/Definitions: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/the-honest-audiophile-s-terms-and-definitions-guide
Test Tracks: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/does-your-music-preference-impact-your-sound-impressions
Amazon playlist: https://music.amazon.com/user-playlists/afb5506483ba4ae3be17c2184797ebb6sune?ref=dm_sh_ycUHvBw1lOkeqCrwPFcc45NAl
Tidal Playlists:Jazz: https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/ea7f58ba-f05d-466f-9714-936d0ab7fa0f
Recommended Gear:
Audeze LCD-5: https://www.audeze.com/products/lcd-5
Rosson Audio Design RAD-0: http://www.rossonaudiodesign.com/
Meze Empyrean: https://mezeaudio.com/products/meze-empyrean
Hifiman Ananda: https://hifiman.com/products/detail/290
Sennheiser HD660s2: https://www.sennheiser-hearing.com/en-US/p/hd-660s2/clcrij55r0b570bw9bubufphu/
Austrian Audio Hi-X60: https://austrian.audio/headphones/hi-x60/
Audeze LCD 2 Closed: LCD-2 Closed Back (audeze.com)
CTM Da Vinci X: https://cleartunemonitors.com/products/da-vinci-x-universal
Tin Hifi T2: https://www.linsoul.com/products/tinhifi-t2?_pos=1&_sid=7cddd72dc&_ss=r&variant=34447375302811
Sony NW-A105: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/walkman-digital-recorders/walkman-mp3-players/p/nwa105-b
Sony NW-WM-1a: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/walkman-digital-recorders/walkman-mp3-players/p/nwwm1a
Mytek Liberty DAC ii: https://mytek.audio/shop/lbrt-dac-ii-287#attr=
HeadAmp GSX-Mini: https://www.headamp.com/products/gs-x-mini
Tor Audio Roger: https://toraudio.com/main.html#
Schiit Audio BiFrost 2: https://schiit.com/products/bi-frost-1
Massdrop THX AAA 789:
Massdrop THX AAA One Linear: https://drop.com/buy/drop-thx-aaa-one-linear-amplifier?utm_source=linkshare&referer=FTSS2S
If you like the content of this channel and want to see more like this in the future, please consider donating. All funds donated to the channel will be used to purchase headphones and audio gear for the channel.
Paypal: https://www.paypal.me/dbsylvia
Venmo: @David-Sylvia-6
If you would like to contact the channel please send an email to: dbstechtalk@gmail.com
Affiliate links:
Apos Audio: https://apos.audio?sca_ref=45218.8XN5h6dArS
ADV-Sound: https://adv-sound.com/?mct=8ENJK5lB promo code: DavidS10
コメント