Fosi Audio MD3 MagDac takes some hassle out of upgrading iPhone audio
The Fosi Audio MD3 MagDac looks like a good middle ground for those seeking to upgrade their iPhone audio without losing too much convenience
If you’re looking for the best possible audio quality from your iPhone, adding a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and pairing with wired headphones is the way to go. It’ll give you access to the hi-res, lossless formats and a better-tuned listening experience overall.
The trouble is, adding cables and an often-hefty extra gadget to carry takes away a big plus of the mobile listening experience – the convenience of just popping in your AirPods and hitting play. However, a solution that might offer a suitable middle ground is around the corner. The Fosi Audio MD3 MagDac is a compact (50g, 0.47-inches thick), MagSafe-compatible headphone amp and DAC. As the name would suggest.
It won’t negate the need for a headphone cable, but it does mean you won’t have to carry the DAC around with you. With 16 N52 magnets it’s unlikely to fall off your phone. As well as magnetically clinging to the back of your Apple smartphone the device offers support for both 3.5mm and 4.4mm cables along with a USB-C port for charging. Furthermore, it has a 1.28-inch LCD display that showcases a 100-step volume control interface, although it can display photos too. It’s even got mini games like spin the bottle. Cheeky.
The device features a Flagship DAC and amplifier chips from ESS, which promise Hi-Fi-grade sound for a more detailed listening experience. It’ll also work with a MacBook or an iPad, but obviously you’ll lose MagSafe compatibility with those devices.
“Traditional dongle DAC/amps often feel awkward to use—hanging from the phone, pulling on cables, and falling short on true portability,” Fosi Audio writes. “Some units add a screen, but it’s usually limited to basic information like volume, with little presence or purpose. We wanted to break away from this pattern.
“MD3 features a strong magnetic backplate that securely attaches to your phone, while its lightweight, compact design makes it effortless to carry wherever you go. We also adopted a circular display not just to show essential audio information, but to make interaction feel alive. Paired with the Vista Button, it lets you browse a photo album and upload images you love. MD3 represents our pursuit of balance in sound, design, and interaction. We hope MD3 becomes a companion you’ll want to take with you wherever you go.”
It’s coming out on May 25 and you can sign up for more information about price and availability here.
Chris Smith
