thaslaya's star rating system:
☆☆☆☆☆ - Fantastic!
☆☆☆☆ - Recommended
☆☆☆ - There are buyers but not for me
☆☆ - Can't see the appeal
☆ - Product is a failure
Disclaimer:
This product was sent to me on tour for a trial period through the Audio Geek group in exchange for an honest and impartial review. I received no compensation; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Non-affiliate link for those interested:
https://www.qudelix.com/products/copy-of-qudelix-t71-usb-dac
Gear used:
● Samsung Galaxy s25 Ultra
● HiBy R1
● Softears S01
● Various DAC/amps
● Various IEMs
Source:
● Listening was done through Amazon Music HD or Ultra HD as well as local FLAC files.
Introduction:
Qudelix is an audio systems engineering company based in Seoul, South Korea. They are well known in the community for their budget portable DAC/amp, the Qudelix 5K. However, this review will cover their higher-end model, the T71. This model costs $229 and features 7.1 surround sound capabilities. I will also include my brief impressions of the AME T71 IEM, which is compatible only with the T71 DAC/amp. This IEM sells separately for $229. Let's break down the T71 system and see what it can do.
Unboxing and build quality:
The unboxing experience is simple and underwhelming, very similar to Qudelix's other highly regarded DAC/amp, the 5K. Inside the plain cardboard box, you'll find the unit itself, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and a USB-C to USB-A cable. The included cables are quite nice; they are soft, pliable, braided, and not too short. The T71 has a CNC aluminum body and features a small LCD screen on the front. The unit feels sturdy and is lighter in weight than you might think, although I personally wish it were a bit heftier. The T71 includes a USB-C input for power/data on one end, and 2.5mm, 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C outputs on the other. The top and bottom each have two LED-illuminated buttons, the functions of which I will detail later in the review. This unit also included a clear plastic magnetic case, which can be purchased separately for $10.
Technical information and features:
• NXP iMXRT600 ARM + DSP Core
• Four ES9219C SABRE HiFi® DAC
• Two Texas Instruments INA1620 AMP
• Balanced output max. 8V RMS (2.5 & 4.4mm)
• 4~10 hours battery time (1000mA Battery)
• 2.0 Channel Stereo Mode 384KHz / 32-bit
• 7.1 Channel Surround Mode 96KHz / 32-bit
• 20-band Double Precision PEQ/GEQ
• 7 digital filter options
• Two High Sensitivity MEMS Microphones
• PC Chrome App Windows/macOS/Linux
• Android Mobile App
• 84 x 40 x 16mm / 75g
The T71 is jam-packed with features and options to tweak the sound. Simply plugging the unit into your phone or chosen source will power it on. It has an internal battery but will immediately turn off when unplugged. This is a bit weird, since the battery could keep the unit powered for at least a short time, allowing me to change options or see the battery charge percentage without having to plug it in. It especially made using it with my HiBy R1 difficult. When connected in 2.0 or 7.1 mode, it would shut off after about one second. In order to make it compatible, I had to switch the mode to PS5 or NSW using the Qudelix app first, then plug it into the R1. I understand the battery is for on-the-go use to limit power draw from the source, but being able to power on a battery-powered device without plugging it in first is a bare minimum function, in my opinion. There are a few different screens to cycle through on the T71, and the buttons have different functions for each. I won't go too deep into the specifics, as there are many intricacies, but basically, the top two buttons cycle through the screens, and the bottom ones adjust options displayed thereon. A long press of the top buttons can also change certain modes, depending on the screen displayed. One simple yet appreciated feature is that the screen can be flipped for easy viewing in either configuration. A few options are locked behind the Qudelix app, which is fairly straightforward to use, if not a bit overwhelming at first. Unfortunately, it is only available for Android, so iPhone users are out of luck. However, a desktop app is available for Windows and Mac users. The T71 utilizes a 20-band EQ, and the options are quite intricate and fun to use. But as someone less familiar with EQ in general, I am not ashamed to admit that it goes over my head. I would recommend reading the instructions to grasp all the options and perhaps watching some EQ tutorials as well.
T71 IEM impressions:
This set has a 1DD, 4BA driver configuration and is manufactured by AME specifically for use with the T71 DAC/amp. The shells are made of resin and utilize a non-detachable cable terminating in a non-standard USB-C specification. It is engineered to work only with the T71 system and will not produce sound if plugged into other devices. In fact, the USB-C output on the amplifier only works for this specific IEM, as far as I can tell through my testing. The T71 DAC drives eight speaker units in the IEM independently, utilizing a specially designed 10-wire cable (5-wire for the left earbud and 5-wire for the right) and a very specific crossover system to enable the 7.1 surround function. The black shells are average-sized, lightweight, and fit well, but the design is a bit plain. The accessory package includes a nice AME-branded case and six pairs of tips in two different styles: standard silicone and a foam/silicone hybrid. Regarding the sound, I feel a long description of the stock tuning is a bit unnecessary, given that much of this system's appeal lies in its EQ capabilities. I will say that the stock tuning is somewhat V-shaped, quite bassy and fun, and honestly pretty enjoyable as is. The technicalities aren't amazing, but the imaging is a standout feature. If this IEM were released as a standalone product with a typical removable cable design, I think I would enjoy the stock tuning. This IEM obviously responds very well to EQ, and the Qudelix app makes it very appealing to those who want to customize the tuning. If I were to offer any specific criticisms, it would be the non-removable cable. If it breaks, the entire IEM would then be useless, which is disappointing for a $200+ product. But I view this more as a tech demo for EQ enthusiasts. Unfortunately, I am not a big proponent of EQ myself, so the appeal is somewhat lost on me, but it is fun to play around with. I will say that the 7.1 surround sound is great, and watching movies or playing games is a fantastic experience. The T71 system is a quality option for impressive surround sound on the go.
Power consumption and battery life:
With my devices in airplane mode, I let my library play at a medium-high volume with high gain enabled, while limiting unnecessary screen interaction. The T71 did work with my HiBy R1 but only once I changed the mode to PS5/NSW when plugged into my phone first. Here are the battery drain results after one hour:
~9% on Galaxy S22 Ultra through 4.4 and ~8% through 3.5.
~30% on HiBy R1 through 4.4 and ~28% through 3.5.
The battery life will really depend on the volume level, enabled options, and the transducer. I found that using the 7.1 surround sound mode with the T71 IEMs resulted in faster battery drain. But using the standard 2.0 stereo mode with the 3.5mm output, it lasted much longer. I'd say to expect an average of about 4–8 hours depending on use, which isn't phenomenal but is perfectly fine for me.
Comparisons: I utilized the "linear phase fast' filter and 2.0 CH mode for all comparisons.
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Questyle M18i ($349) - The T71 and the M18i have similar build quality with a metal casing and an LED/LCD screen. The T71 is larger, but both weigh about the same. The M18i has a more refined aesthetic and feels more premium. Both have internal batteries, but the T71's lasts much longer. The M18i does include a separate USB-C port for charging. The T71 has 2.5mm and USB-C outputs, which are not available on the M18i. When it comes to features, the T71 wins hands down. It has full app support, a built-in EQ, seven digital filters, and a slew of other features like 7.1 surround sound. The M18i does have Bluetooth functionality, unlike the T71, but the battery life leaves a lot to be desired. For my sound comparisons, I utilized the linear phase filter on the T71. The M18i sounds much more dynamic and has a certain fullness to its presentation. The soundstage is deeper, too, and they have a similar width. Overall, the M18i is more musical with added bass rumble and extension, but it is also a little more accentuated in the treble, so there is somewhat of a V-shaped presentation. The T71 does sound a bit flat in comparison due to its more balanced and even-kiltered tuning, but it also has a slightly unnatural quality to the sound at times. The M18i accentuates piano strikes and the bow draw of string instruments exquisitely well, as if you're at a live performance and can hear the passion of the performers. It really gives me that goosebumps feeling when there's an emotional connection to the music that the T71 doesn't quite have. It is good quality, just not emotionally charged like the M18i. From a purely sound quality point of view, I definitely prefer the M18i, but for the overall package and value, the T71 is a much better bang for buck, especially for those who enjoy EQ.
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EPZ TP35 ($60) - The TP35 is pretty tiny compared to the T71. It has decent build quality and a sleek design that is a bit more premium-looking than the T71. Both feature 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, low/high gain, and digital filters. However, the T71 also has a 2.5mm output and two more filter options, as well as EQ and app support. The T71 sounds a bit more balanced and has better bass resolution, reverberation, and extension. It also sounds a little fuller and has a bit more note weight, whereas the TP35 is a little thinner, especially in the upper mids/lower treble. The TP35 presents a slightly more midrange-focused sound signature that emphasizes vocals without sacrificing too much bass and treble energy. It also has a touch more musicality, but sounds quite a bit behind the T71 in terms of technicalities. I must say I really like the TP35's sound signature when paired with certain IEMs and more vocal-focused genres, but the T71 is clearly the better device in terms of sound quality and overall features.
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iFi GO link Max ($79) - The Max is about as simple a dongle as they come. The small, metal body is nice and solid, and it has both 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, but the cable is non-removable, which is a flaw for me. The T71 is much larger and less pocketable, but it is also decently lightweight for its size and features four buttons. There is not much to touch on when it comes to the Max's features—it literally has none. The T71 offers much more versatility with EQ, filters, and 7.1 surround sound, among other options. The bass resolution and sub-bass extension are better on the T71. The Max has a tendency to highlight mid-bass impact, and the elevation also adds a warm tilt to the tonality. The T71 has a more natural-sounding midrange and better separation between the bass and mids. The Max has a bit more upper mids/lower treble emphasis and also exhibits some harshness at times with "s" and "sh" sounds and splashier cymbals. Overall, the T71 is more balanced, with a better technical and refined sound signature. It also has a slightly wider and deeper soundstage and better dynamism. The Max is a decent enough little dongle with an inherent warmth and musicality that I enjoy, but its simple nature pales in comparison to the intricacy of the T71.
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Snowsky Retro Nano ($59) - The T71's metal build is much better than the plastic Nano's, although the latter does have a replaceable battery, which is nice. The T71 also features a 2.5 mm input, while the Nano has only 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm inputs, although I doubt that makes much difference for most audiophiles. Both have companion apps, but the Qudelix's dives deeper into EQ options, offering digital filters and many more customization options. To be fair, the Nano offers Bluetooth, a major point in its favor for me. Regarding sound, the T71 is a little more neutral and revealing. It also has better sub-bass extension, and vocals are a bit more forward, sweet, and melodic. The Nano sounds a little warmer, especially in the midrange, which has a slight lower-midrange recession. The T71 has better treble extension and sounds a little more "hi-fi," but the Nano has a certain charm and helps rein in any treble harshness or brightness, which I appreciate. Cymbals, however, are a bit unnatural and lack a certain realistic decay and splashiness. Also, the sound signature may be a bit too dark for some. The T71 has clearly better detail, separation, and overall technical performance, but it also lacks a little musicality compared to the Nano. For full performance and customization, the T71 is the clear winner, but the Nano still offers a lot for the price and is a very fun little device.
Sound impressions:
Overall, the T71 has a well-balanced sound signature that might lean slightly V-shaped. It is also very technically capable and offers great detail, separation, layering, and timbre. It has an engaging and dynamic presentation, but unfortunately, it lacks some depth and musicality that other DAC/amps provide. It improves sub-bass extension and treble air, and brings the midrange more forward for better balance. This can be positive or negative, depending on the transducer's tuning. With inherently bright IEMs, the T71 highlights areas I find troublesome. While the T71's presentation sounds a bit flat at times, the 7.1 mode adds decent depth and enhances the soundstage. Toggling this mode provides a significant change and is a very appealing feature, along with the seven filter and EQ options. It is worth noting that I experienced some minor electronic interference when using the T71 in the magnetic case attached to my phone, but not when they were farther apart.
In conclusion:
The T71 DAC/amp is a truly impressive piece of equipment, and the accompanying T71 IEM only serves to enhance the experience further. This one is definitely marketed towards consumers who like to EQ or tweak the sound to their liking, but at its core, the DAC/amp is still a very capable and great-sounding device that most anyone would be happy to use. One major upside is that it can accommodate just about any transducer due to the included 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm outputs. Even if you opted not to use the app or EQ functions, the T71 has a balanced, hi-fi sound signature that can elevate both headphones and IEMs to the next level. It is also quite powerful for such a small device, and I did not have any issues driving my IEMs. I do wish they could have found a way to include Bluetooth capabilities, like the Qudelix 5K, but with so much already packed into this device, I can somewhat understand why it was omitted. As someone who does not normally use EQ, the T71 does not hold a lot of appeal for me personally, but I can still understand its strengths and why some will find it a lot of value here, even just for the surround sound capabilities. The design and finish may be plain, but the build quality feels solid, and for what all it can do, I think the price of $229 is very fair. Qudelix was already my go-to recommendation for portable DAC/amps with prominent EQ features, and the T71 has further solidified that opinion.
