TempoTec Sonata HD V

Disclaimer:

• I won this unit from a recent raffle giveaway held by tempotec. Rest assured that this review will be free from any form of bias/s as much as possible.
• Tempotec did not force nor urged me to do a review for this one. They do not even know that I’ll be making a review of this dongle either.
• I have not tested this with MQA files or MQA streaming since I don’t use MQA at all.
• The following remarks and observations shall be made and owned only by me.
• No monetary compensation is/was involved before, during, and after the period of creation of this review.
• I have only tested this with earbuds and IEMs, so there won’t be any inputs here about the Tempotec Sonata HD V paired with headphones as I have not experienced or tested it in person.
• Your mileage may (and always, will) vary.

Burn-in time: 5-10 hours per day, 10 days.

IEMs/Earbuds/Source used:

• Shaytan Customs’ Lilith
• Shaytan Customs’ Mr. Stark V2
• VE Monk Plus 5th Edition
• BQEYZ Autumn
• BQEYZ Topaz
• LETSHUOER D13
• Astrotec AM850 MK2
• Tangzu Shimin Li
• NF Audio NM2
• KBEAR Little Q
• KBEAR Ormosia
• Etymotic HF3
• KZ AS16 Pro
• Non-HiFi smartphone (Infinix Note 12 G96, Samsung Galaxy A6 (2018))
• Desktop PC, Laptop.
• Local Files via Foobar and Roon, YouTube Music, Deezer, and Qobuz with UAPP.

Setup configuration: Sonata HD V paired with phones/laptop/pc.

Essential Product Specifications:

• 2*ES9219 DAC
• Support MQA, DSD ,DXD Music file
• 3.5mm headphone port
• ASIO driver
• Power output: 2VRMS,
• SNR: -123dB
• THD+N: -105dB
• DSD 64/128/256 (NATIVE), 145MW/16Ω, 95MW/32Ω
• PCM 32/384 (kHz)

Sound signature:

• The Tempotec Sonata HD V is a neutral, transparent-sounding DAC that reveals a lot of details and technical performance depending on the audio equipment tracks paired with it. There is nothing much else to say here because it really sounds good as a transparent-sounding DAC and performs well for critical listening when needed.

Build Quality:

• The Sonata HD V has a very good premium build quality. Its motif is very comparable to modern smartphones - a glass sandwich. Both front and rear sides are in glass while the internals are enclosed in a thick, metal housing. Its cable connector is removable and is twisted. There is also an RGB indicator which is found in the piano logo. It will lit green when playing PCM/16-24 FLAC files, red when idle, and blue when DSD/DXD are playing.

Device Compatibility:

• This USB DAC is plug-and-play for all of the devices I have tested with, whether it be a smartphone or PC. I have not experienced any form of incompatibility issues across all of my devices. Same goes with the music player apps I have tested with this app such as UAPP, Foobar, and Hibymusic. Streaming platforms such as Spotify, Deezer, and Youtube Music did not have any problems utilizing it either.

Battery Consumption:

• Battery consumption here is, I would say decent and lasts for 6 hours at most when paired with my Galaxy A6 2018 (3000mah battery). It will depend on devices but for most phones that has a bigger battery it will last longer, regardless of any file used.

Power and volume:
Since this does not have a hardware volume adjuster, the volume depends on the device itself. Here are some IEMs and earbuds I have tried with their respective listenable/ enough volumes: (Note: 100 = 100 volume steps).

• VE Monk Plus 5th Edition (64 Ohms) - 25/100
• Shaytan Customs’ Lilith V1 and Mr. Stark V2 - 18/100
• Most IEMs - 10-14/100
• BQEYZ Topaz and Autumn, KBEAR Ormosia - 16/100

The Tempotec Sonata HD V is an excellent, clean sounding DAC and is worthy if your gears are mostly IEMs or easy to be driven equipment as this can pair them to its full potential, due to its neutrality. However, if we are talking about its power output, people may find it lacking for its asking price due to the competition under 60 USD for USB DACs because most DACs have the same, or even more power output that they can offer for a lower price. The only advantage of this dongle for me is its transparent sound presentation which will be suited for most types of synergy/pairing. Overall, this will still be one of my recommendations for those people who are looking for a well-done, neutral sounding DAC under 100USD.

Who is the Tempotec Sonata HD V for?

• For those people who want their easy to drive earbuds and IEMs to sound to its full potential.
• For those people who wants their MQA unfolded.
• For those people who seeks for a neutral-sounding DAC.
• For those people who looks for a well-done build quality on a dongle.
• For those DSD/DXD aficionados who live by their file type preference.

Why should you not buy the Tempotec Sonata HD V?

• If you look for more power output for 60USD+.
• If you don’t want fingerprint smudges on your DAC.
• If you hate or dislike MQA.

Thank you for reading!

Additional Photos here:

Introduction

You could say that Tempotec is the queen of the dongle. But it is not only dedicated to creating this kind of devices. Their catalogue is full of DAC-Amps, especially small ones. Their Sonata series is the most prolific and I would like to highlight their Sonata E44 model in particular, as the paradigm of a product matured to the best that its internal components can provide. But not only this series, but also the Serenade series, as desktop DAC-Amps, and the Variations series, as DAPs, stand out. And here is Tempotec's step forward. After occupying a relatively affordable price range, it has now moved into the upper price range, bringing two great new products in this series to the market. They are the Serenade X, a desktop DAP-DAC-AMP with Bluetooth, display and balanced output, priced at around $269. On the other side is the new DAP Variations V6, soon to be released on Kickstarter. It's an Android 8.1-based DAP, dual DAC AK4493SE, Snapdragon 425 processor, 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL outputs, among other features and virtues. As you can see, Tempotec is in a sweet moment and its new products look very good, although there are still no opinions about them, as they are so recent.
What has been on the market for some time now is the product in question. It is a new dongle, of course, from the Sonata HD series, the V version, to be more precise. Tempotec keeps stretching this series and relying on the single 3.5mm output. When will a dongle with 3.5mm SE and 4.4mm BAL output be available? It is clear that dual outputs are taking over the market and yet Tempotec persists with single outputs. In this new product, Tempotec has assembled a dual DAC ES9219 from Sabre, capable of decoding 32bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256 natively and MQA decompression. Of course, it supports ASIO drivers in exclusive mode, is Hi-Res certified and has HiBy application hardware certification. Its power reaches 145mW/16Ω and 95mW/32Ω and is compatible for Android and Windows 7, 8, 10. The IOS compatible version is a different release.
The design is a bit of a departure from the other Dongles in the series, with a silver mirrored metal rim and two black glass sides. But they still use a cable as the USB connection, with a micro connector instead of Type-C.
We'll see what all the features and other virtues of this new product are.



Specifications

• DAC/AMP: Dual ESS Sabre ES9219.
• Maximum output voltage: 2V RMS.
• SNR: -121dB.
• DNR: -120dB.
• Crosstalk: -112dB.
• Power: 145mW @ 16Ω, 95mW @ 32Ω.
• Support: MQA.
• Support: DXD.
• Support: DSD 64/128/256 (Native).
• Support: 32bit PCM/384kHz.
• Headphone output SE 3.5mm, gold-plated.
• Aluminium alloy body.
• Dimensions: 20x46x10mm.

Packaging

The Tempotec Sonata HD V comes in a compact case with dimensions 127x100x34mm. Its colour is eminently black, with parts in an eye-catching light blue. On the main side you can see a real picture of the product, diagonally across. At the top left is the brand logo, at the bottom right the DSD logo. On the back side are the specifications and information about the brand and website. It should be noted that the specifications of the HD V written on the box do not match the specifications on the website. So I have reviewed the specifications on the box, complementing some others from the WEB.
Once the outer cardboard is removed, the box is completely black. After removing the lid you can see the product, as well as the rest of the cables and adapters encased in a thick black foam mould. The complete contents are as follows:

• Tempotec Sonata HD V.
• Micro USB male to USB Type-C male cable.
• USB Type-C female to USB Type-A male adapter.
• Hi-Res logo sticker.
• Envelope with two-step cleaning wipes.
• 2 transparent plastic protectors.

Simple and basic. Protectors are appreciated, although it would be nice if they came with them, as on other occasions. No carrying case.



Construction and Design

The dongle is a small tablet, measuring 20x46x10mm. The rim is metallic, in aluminium alloy, with a mirror finish, slightly curved, rounded. The glass faces are subtly recessed into the dongle. Both sides are black. On the main face, at the top are three vertical lines, next to the audio output. In the centre, the Tempotec log, below which is the LED indicating mode and status. At the bottom, the brand name, next to the micro USB connection. On the back side, the text "Sonata HD V", "HIGH QUALITY USB DAC&HPA", "DSD | MQA | DXD | ASIO" can be read horizontally. In total 3 lines. All text or marking is white. The audio output is 3.5mm with a gold rim, although the inside is black plastic.
The micro USB male to USB Type-C male cable has an approximately 65mm cable with 4 coiled brown strands.
The design is very sleek, eye-catching, attractive. Although it is a magnet for fingerprints, as they say. I find it incongruous that it uses a micro USB connector, rather than a Type-C connection.
The size is measured, and the weight too. It looks sturdy, although the metal parts could be scratched.
Inside is a Dual ESS9219 SoC (System on Chip), in which the DAC and amplification are integrated.



Connectivity

There are two versions: the Android model (the one I am reviewing) and the IOS model. It is compatible with Win7, 8, 10. For Windows 10 no driver is needed. For the rest of Windows it is necessary to download the driver from the WEB. At the same time it is the exclusive ASIO driver, so it is convenient to install it for Win10 as well.
Allows exclusive mode with the HiBy Music APP. It has official MQA certification. It does not support microphone.



Operativity

No volume control. Decodes MQA, DXD, DSD 64/128/256 natively. Supports 32-bit PCM up to 384kHz. Supports exclusive mode for all platforms. Has ASIO drivers. Connects in exclusive HQ USB Audio mode with HiBy Music APP. It has a multi-coloured status indicator LED:

• Red: connected, but paused.
• Green: PCM.
• Blue: DSD.
• Purple: MQA.

Very simple and also common. Sometimes, in order to have a 30 step volume control, I prefer it to have no volume control and adjust to the source much more precisely.
I don't know if it's the summer heat, but I've found that it gets a bit warm, it doesn't burn, but it does feel warm.



Measures

As usual with Tempotec, their measurements are usually accurate. The sources have a low output impedance and a linear frequency range. Virtually all of this is true of the Sonata HD V. But let's take a closer look at all the measurements we have acquired.

No load

Without load, the voltage measurement is above 2V RMS, with a small decrease from low to high frequencies. This is a common occurrence, maybe my little oscilloscope has this small variation. Be that as it may, the upper measurement is 2.1V, a great value.



15 Ω

The maximum measurement observed without distortion in the curve gives an RMS voltage of 1.28V at 1kHz. This implies a power of 110mW and a current of just over 85mA. The specifications make it clear that at 16Ω a power of 145mW is achieved, implying a voltage of 1.52V and over 95mA. As my many measurements have shown, 90mA is the magic value that is rarely exceeded. This is strongly influenced by the input voltage and many other things. So, it was clear that this value would not be very achievable in practice, maybe in the labs yes... But, be that as it may, 110mW for 15Ω is spectacular, with those 85mA of current delivery. Nothing to complain about.



33 Ω

I love Tempotec and surprises: 1.82V at 33Ω = 100mW and 55mA. Above specification and without a hint of visible distortion - what's the point of cheating? It's not among the best in terms of power, but it has a good kick.



100 Ω

The maximum is achieved with the top load. Tempotec gives its maximum voltage at this impedance without decay at any frequency: 2.07V at 1kH.



Frequency Response

Frequency response is absolutely flat from 20Hz to 20kHz, with no crosstalk at different volumes. Linearity is excellent from 10Hz to 30kHz and reaches 40kHz with a very slight roll-off. Hi-Res sound without restriction.



Sound

It is worth noting that the sound of the Tempotec Sonata HD V is worthy of its Dual DAC ESS9219 and as a SoC it leaves little room for alteration. This is not a bad thing, on the contrary. The purity of the Sabre character is fully exposed, with all its virtues and also flaws, for those who don't like analytical sound. But as I am an avowed fan and this is not the first time I have tried this SoC, I know what I am dealing with and the sound really is as I expected it to be. It's a neutral, slightly bright profile, although it's not as cold as before. Somehow it feels more mature, although I still think there is an analytical side to it and this is corroborated when paired with more detailed headphones. It can also accentuate the mid-highs in some of the prominent IEMS in this area, though it can also counteract the warm character of some of them. In this sense, it's not a completely neutral source, in terms of synergy with the connected headphones, as the Sabre SoC makes its presence felt. I enjoyed it much more with neutral headphones or headphones with a darker or warmer tendency. In these cases, I found the synergy to be proactive. I found sparkle and more brightness with the Falcon Pro and its Atmospheric filter, as well as a highly recommendable pairing with Penon Audio's warm IEMS and a bit of a missing edge with the Letshuoer S12, among other favourites in my collection. But I also felt a sharper, clearer and, why not to say so, more critical and demanding character of the IEMS of the other segment emphasised. In this respect, the analytical character, combined with not very good recordings, does not sit too well. When connected to this type of headphones, the chain must retain its quality for a more pleasant listening experience. That's my recommendation: warm headphones will be more forgiving with more ordinary recordings. But if you want to achieve critical listening, try the more detailed IEMS with the best recordings - this is when the Sonata HD V's great potential can be realised.
The lower range of the HD V is characterised by a high level of agility. The technical character is apparent from the bass, which is fast, just the right weight, with slight decay, great definition and dryness. There is a remarkable ability to layer complex passages and separate them without dilution, allowing it to be used with wilder electronic music when paired with competent IEMS. The HD V will be able to handle with remarkable skill, a great deal without saturating. And that is not within the reach of many sources. Others, when faced with this challenge, tend to muddy the sound, to ignore details, sacrificing the bottom end and compacting the bass. Here, the clarity and analytical capacity of the Sabre SoC shines through in the low frequency range.
Special mention should be made of the midrange, more so with the new dynamic drivers. This association is fully productive and rich. The detailed character of the HD V brings out the organic plasticity of these IEMS, maximising their resolution potential. In this way, voices acquire a superior evocative power, as well as a fleshier body, a more evident texture, thanks to the emancipation of the nuances resolved by a more suggestive analytical power. The higher level of resolution and definition serves to accompany and dress with complex elegance the instrumentation of the central range. The result is an opulent and more lush fringe, which takes an organic or analogue feel to a resolute extreme of another level.
The timbre of the centre range is offset by achieving a neutrality. The weight of the notes is just right, there is no excess in the low end, nor in the mids. This allows for a higher speed, more transparency and the possibility to reach the bottom with a dark and discernible silence at the same time.
If the coupling is with more analytical, vivid or bright headphones, the result can become more overwhelming, critical, even fatiguing, at least in my case.
The upper range is explicit and airy. It continues with a very eloquent weight and thinness, the treble is neither too fine nor too penetrating, but bright and remarkable. This is coupled with a high descriptive level, along with the speed already characteristic of the SoC. Sabre continues to mature and the treble is no longer as cold. They can become crisp, but more weighted, balanced, contributing to the liveliness and dynamism of the sound. The amount of air is also remarkable, the music sounds clean, very well sculpted, defined and full of resolution. Note construction is categorical, nothing is left to chance or imagination. HD V knows how to assemble the music, the structure is clear, perspicuous, like a good 3D shot, with concise and precise lines, well separated and discernible. In this way, the image is open, wide but concrete. The limits are known despite its size. The good positioning and accuracy in the musical development somehow traps the scene and attaches it to a real and closer environment. The good airy feel and sparkle adds a point of ethereal or vaporous level to the mix. But a certain limitation in depth generates a rather frontal, oval stage, with remarkable height and good zenithal presence, even, but without being fully immersive, although it can be surprising in this aspect. To highlight a remarkable laterality of the sound and, again, I want to emphasize the musical construction, because it is structurally precise and very well defined. And so I think this is a virtue of a good analytical sound.



Conclusion

Tempotec has pioneered and continues to set the benchmark for dongle devices. It has taken an ESS9219 Dual DAC SoC and dressed it up in a small and perhaps the most elegant body in the series. The good results are not long in coming, as the solution delivers sound that can be found at higher price points. Technically, the Sonata HD V is very competent, precise, highly resolving, high-definition and high-resolution. The large dynamic range is evident and the sound is very clean, clear, open and airy. At the same time, Sabre has matured its sound away from being simple, analytical and cold. In my opinion, the analytical aspect is preserved, but with a more balanced, less exalted and better implemented development.
On the other hand, the output is single 3.5mm, although with a remarkable power, a micro USB socket is still used and there is no volume control. After so many models, one misses a more ambitious solution in terms of controls (volume, gain, bass boost) and audio outputs (SE 3.5mm + BAL 4.4mm). The best thing is that Tempotec can surely do it.



Earphones and Sources Used During Analysis

• HiBy R3 Pro
• Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro
• Penon Globe
• Hidizs MD4
• Rose QT9 MK2s
• TRN Kirin
• BQEYZ Topaz
• Dunu Falcon Pro
• Tin HiFi T2 Plus
• Yanyin Aladdin
• Ikko OH10
• Letshuoer S12

Ratings

• Construction and Design: 89
• Packaging and Accessories: 75
• Connectivity: 80
• Operability: 75
• Sound: 88
• Quality/Price: 88

Purchase Link



You can read the full review in Spanish here

Intro
Tempotec is a familiar name in the dongle’s market especially speaking of dongles with high price performance ratio. I reviewed Tempotec’s E44 previously and I like it. Today I have another dongle which is from Tempotec as well, namely Sonata HD-V. HD-V has lesser output power compared to E44, but in terms of its sonic performance, we will take a look at it today.


Specifications
DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9219 DAC Dual
Full MQA decoding
3.5mm Single Ended Headphone Out
RGB Indicator light
Supports Multiple Devices: Windows/MAC, iOS/Android
Output Level: 2VRMS
SNR: -123dB
THD+N:-105dB
Output Power: 145mW@16Ω, 95mW@32Ω
PCM: 32-Bit/384kHz
DSD: Up to DSD256 natively


Packaging
Packaging is very straight forward, doesn’t come with a storage pouch or case, however, like the E44, it does comes with a front and back film protector to prevent scratches on the HD-V’s body


IEMs used for testing

• FAudio Major
• Rose Technics QT9-MK2S
• Effect Audio Axiom
• TinHifi P1 Max

Source
Win 11 Foobar2k -> Sonata HD-V(ASIO)
iPhone 12 Mini Apple Music -> Sonata HD-V


Sound Impression
Upon my first listen to HD-V, it definitely has got the neutral to slight bright sound signature, but not fatiguing to listen to. I wouldn’t say the timbre sounds organic nor thin, but it definitely sounds natural to my ears.

Bass

• Bass is clean and tight, HD-V shows no emphasis on both the sub and mid bass
• However, on the P1 Max, the bass doesn’t sound as clean as it’s supposed to compared to other IEMs that i have tested with, i believe it could be due to P1 Max’s Planar driver requiring slightly more juice
• The bass overall is “uncolored” and it has got the “audiophile” kind of bass rendition
• Bass decay sounds pretty fast to my ears as it is keeping up properly in Slipknot’s Duality, it doesn’t linger too long causing the track to sound muddy

Mids

• The vocal sounded a little pushed back to my ears, compared to E44. So it does give a slight perception of being slightly laid back, however this is totally up to individual’s preference, some like the vocals forward and some like them laid back

Treble

• The texture is pretty good and it doesn’t sound thin which could contribute to “cold” sounding. This is not the case here at all
• Plenty of detail and good amount of air rendered here on most of my IEMs
• Nowhere near analytical sounding, i would say a balance between fun and detailed, which is good for its asking price

Soundstage/Imaging

• Soundstage rendition is somehow slightly out of your head to give the perception of space, however it is far from being very wide but not to the extent of sounding very in your head
• Imaging is good, instruments can be identified easily and doesn’t over power each other, layering is also impressive on orchestral track where each and every instruments can be heard clearly

Comparison (Xduoo Link2Bal)

• Link2Bal sounds a lot fuller compared to HD-V, but this is to be expected as the amplification power is also higher on the Link2Bal, but this is not to say that HD-V is bad either, considering the price of HD-V, the performance is actually impressive
• Link2Bal sounds warmer compared to HD-V, bass is slightly emphasised on the Link2Bal
• Timbre is slightly more organic on the Link2Bal
• Soundstage is wider on the Link2Bal
• In terms of imaging, I’m surprised to say that HD-V is actually better on this, instruments are well layered and at times, Link2Bal actually does suffers a little on this

General Functionality

• Battery drain when using HD-V with my iPhone 12 Mini is not bad (i do not have professional measurement tool to measure current draw, this is based solely on my average estimation)
• From 92%, at 40% volume level playing Tidal’s MQA tracks on my iPhone 12 Mini, dropped to 83% over the course of 20 minutes on screen off scenario. Considering iPhone 12 Mini has got much smaller battery capacity compared to most of the Android/iPhones out there, the estimated current draw is actually very acceptable for me
• I personally preferred the detachable cable design compared to E44’s cable which is attached directly on the dongle itself, at least there is an option to opt for better cable, or cable replacement when the cable is worn out compared to on detachable cable design
• Supports decoding of various formats including MQA which is very welcome at this price point. Xduoo’s Link2Bal does not have MQA decoding even though its priced 2x of HD-V

Final Thoughts
HD-V is a very good dongle dac/amp that offers good performance at entry level price point. It has got decent driving power as well as good sonic reproduction capability. Sure, it is not the most detailed sounding dongle in the market, nor it offers a lot of output power, but considering the asking price and also the size of HD-v, i believe it is fair and in fact it is very easy to look past the said weakness that i mentioned.

All in all, this is a very good dongle and I highly recommend this if you are in search of a good sounding dongle yet it will not break a hole in your pocket.

If you are interested in getting one, head over to Tempotec’s Aliexpress store via the link below, it is not an affiliated link.

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003754826241.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.0.0.792e1802pDPWTS

*A big thanks to Tempotec for sending over the sample in exchange for my review. I am in no way compensated nor influenced to produce this review despite receiving the sample for F.O.C.

TONALITY: 8.2/10
TECHNICALITIES: 8.5/10
CONSTRUCTION-DESIGN: 8.5/10
SOUND VALUE: 9/10

TEMPOTEC is a very experienced and specialized portable DAC-AMP company that have more than 10 years of experience and have begin as OEM DAC-AMP circuit furnisher for other chinese audio company like Hidizs for their (now old) Sonata DAC-AMP. Then they become an independant DAC-AMP brand and gain big recognition with their (still excellent) TEMPOTEC SONATA HD PRO dongle, which I praise obsessively at the time as the very best dongle sound value available on the market. At 40$, it use a cirrus CS43131 which was quite exotic 4 years ago and deliver reference grade crisp neutral clean sound with decent amping power of 60mw (high gain unlock).
Since then, I always have big respect for this company and follow their evolution with great interest, even if my 1 year break from audio reviews make me a bit late to review their new products line up, I will try to make up time by begining by the one that impress me the most for it’s incredible sound value: the Tempotec HD V.

Ok, this is a kind of bad strategy to keep suspense high, but yes, after 1 months of intense use, I just can’t get enough about the HD V and how it’s the perfect upgrade to my beloved HD PRO. Let’s see why in this review.

CONSTRUCTION​

Now this is already a big evolution from the HD PRO, sure their no volume control but personally if their non Play-Pause buton too, i’m not a big fan of extra volume control option, especially when it doesn’t bypass source volume. So, this time we have thick solid metal that feel ultra sturdy with solidly implemented 3.5mm jack and USB-C that doesn’t seem possible to make looser, which happen with HD PRO due to cheap metal used. It’s very small, smooth in hands. Body side are mirror metal, so a bit prompt to micro-scratch and finger prints. On top of body their the Tempotec logo which offer different light color depending of music format rate. This is an interesting new feature, which i don’t personally care about though.




In term of boxing and accessories, nothing mind blowing here, surely to keep this super competitive price that low. Their a USB-C to micro USB cable of decent quality and micro-USB to USB-C adapter. But really do we need more? For those that need IOS cable, their a version selling at same price with it.

AMPING POWER AND QUALITY​

The HD V don’t use extra independant amplifier but those included in sabre ES9219 DAC SOC (system on chip) solution, each DAC deliver up to 2vrms of power output, making the HD V achieve as high as 145mw@32ohm load. Using dual DAC for left and right channel permit to achieve higher sound dynamic and crosstalk that will inflict on spatial openess.
With this amount of power for a single ended output, it make the HD V extremely versatile for anything under 150ohm, and the result will never be compressed in dynamic.
Simply put, the HD V can drive properly all my earphones, but will not drive properly my Hifiman Sundara even if it will be enjoyable and loud enough. You have about 4 times more power than your phone, and this in a ultra portable format. This more than enough amping power translate in effortless dynamic sound without roll off in low or high end, no current struggling distortion at high volume with low sensitivity IEM etc.
In all relativity, the amping quantity is sure there, but what about the quality? This is what blow my mind with these Dual DAC SOC…since it sound cleaner than same DAC using extra independant OPamp that tend to add warmth and THD in the chain. So, quality is sure there, it’s clean, with very black noise floor and non foggy sens of silence between sounds. Attack weight too is there, another sign of proper amping for me.

OVERALL SOUND IMPRESSIONS​

(IEM used: Final A8000, Hisenior T2U, Moondrop Kato, UM 3DT and BQEYZ Autumn)


TONALITY is very neutral here, yet energic in dynamism and rich in texture. We can say ”bright-lush” since it’s not cold, analytical or dry in the way it present music. It’s not airy, yet sure snappy. To me, we hit the sweet spot between tonal and timbral balance and technical performance, without forgiving the mix of both result in a musical experience and not a monitoring of cerebral sound engineer. Let say smooth W shape since presence jump at you of low, mids and highs without feeling like intruder, but dancers.

TIMBRE is not similar to something like ES9038q2m, unless higly filtered-tweaked in implementation. It’s more similar to ES9281C DAC, since it seem Sabre try to add a hint of color in timbre with these new generation models that begin with ES9218. Balance between texture and density is extremely well done, wich result in gently bright naturalness without any harshness or grain. Transparency is there too but I would never call timbre thin of this DAC, in that regard HD PRO is more problematic.

SPATIALITY
I would not call this dongle king of openess and soundstage, still I would not say it sound too closed or intimate neither. We are in a buble with the HD V, perhaps as big as a car if I can find an example. You feel cozy and secure in this space and your vision is great. Wideness, Tallness, deepness all seem on par, thus the spherical bubble. As well, again this overabuse term, but it’s holographic enough, it have tactile 3D sens of instrument and sound, even if not in a hall like spacious realm. I find important sens of some depth with music, and DAC-AMP can cancel this possibility sometime, this isn’t the case with HD V and i think we most thanks the clean rendering for that. For exemple, it add some deepness to the BQEYZ Autumn that is more about (impressive) wideness and tallness, but this is more evident with a near monitor IEM like Hisenior T2U, here due to already deep soundstage the whole experience gain way more soundstage size!

TECHNICAL IMPRESSIONS

With it’s dual 32bit/384khz MQA compatible ES9219 DAC with a signal-to-noise (SNR) of 123db and THD+N of 105db, even if not class leading, the HD V is far from being bad specs wise, but how do it translate in real sound. An interesting measurement to have would have been the crosstalk, which translate in imaging capacity to some extend but it’s not available. While SNR is higher than HD III, it’s lower than HD PRO which is 128db, indeed, HD PRO is more transparent and crisp in resolution, but not as hefty in dynamic.
DYNAMIC RANGE is weighty and tight in attack, every note of instrument are well sculpted in their individual presence. Amplitude is diversify but not spiky or boosted in specific region.
RESOLUTION of HD V is excellent both in macro and micro definition, but it have slightly polished edge that can blur it’s sharpness in contour and relief, while keeping body of instrument full the presence isn’t the cleanest or more transparent. It’s far from being warm or foggy, but sound image is just a hint polished.
Attack sustain release is very fast, but have more sustain than release in the sens post impact will not have a long natural airy decay, so some percussions will cut a bit fast, this can stole some treble sparkle and brilliance too, so, this isn’t the type of dongle that add air to the top, even if far from being treble roll off it just feel softed to avoid attack spikyness.
Layering is excellent too, this help mid range articulation for exemple, piano and cello tend sometime to mix and get blurry with too warm DAC-AMP, it’s not the case here and have accuracte separation that enrich both immersivity and spatial articulation and precision.

BASS seem flat but lively and perhaps just a hint mid bass focused, without any unwanted boost that will warm the mids or overall clarity, it have good texture grip too, making electric bass line very snappy sometime. Overall, its quite flat yet not recessed, so it doesnt stole anything and tend to even improve too bassy earphones due to clean bass presentation and extra texture. It will not add nor stole rumble though.

MIDS are gently pushed in presence, it’s not dull or flat, its well define, centered and separated with good body density, natural timbre and superb resolution. Again, the layering impress here, but sens of openess and wideness in presence isn’t magnify.

TREBLE sound full, not thin, it doesn’t feel in your face or analytical yet when you dig in sound scape you can find plenty of sound info and nuance, fully restitue in image, not half done by emphasizing brilliance or snap. For some, it could lack a bit of air or analytical boost, while for other it will be perfectly balanced and natural in tonal and timbral cohesion.

TO BE NOTED: UAPP will interfer with proper amping power and this will affect both max volume loudness and dynamic weight and spatial openess. I now throw away UAPP and just use Hiby Music free app which permit proper exclusive mode that sound exact same as my laptop with Musicbee wasapi exclusive mode. As well, you need to install USB 2.0 driver for some music software, since my HD V doesnt get recognize by Fruity Loop otherwise. All drivers can be find here:
http://www.tempotec.com.cn/en/3-Support/index.htm

PAIRING​

FINAL A8000 sound more balanced than ever with the HD V, smoother too and less spiky or prompt to sibilance. Bass is cleaner and rumble more tight. Their a trade off in air and silence feel here, making A8000 a bit less crisp and clean than with a THX amp for example. Mids sound a bit fuller and timbre too.

HISENIOR T2U is an excellent pairing since timbre can feel a bit thin0dry with some dongle like FIIO KA3 or Tempotec HD PRO, bass gain in roundness and weight. Again, tonal balance is a bit smoothed too. Sens of openess isn’t affect since this dual BA is very airy and open.

MOONDROP KATO was a very interesting pairing that tend to highlight it’s technical prowess and heal the abrasive part of it’s timbre. Level of details in layering was near overlwhelming sometime, and it even make me reconsider whole Kato perception I have. Sure, soundstage doesn’t gain extra wideness, but it gain a hint of deepness that magnify holographic spatiality in a closed way that never get muddy or messy. Very good pairing.

COMPARISONS​

VS LG V30+ (ES9218 DAC-High gain unlock)

The V30 did proove to me that phone can be a decent DAP if using a well implemented hifi DAC chip like the ES9218P in this case, but it’s evident it’s inferior to dual ES9219 especially in crosstalk and SNR it seem, as well as power limitation.
First thing that hit is how more distant I feel from music with the V30, as well the tonality is notably brighter and less rounded, so timbre sound more artificial and distorted in texture.
Dynamic presentation lack amplitude diversity, sens of openess and attack weight being way higher with HD V. Noise floor too is notably more dirty with the V30. Bass feel weightless in impact, mids tend to lack presence extraction and treble is harsher, less snappy-sparkly.
Imaging is more open, holographic and well mixed in static positioning and moving sound layers where V30 sound overly static and like a flat wall of sound.

All in all, the sound upgrade is evident here and worthy of a 60$ investment even for a V30.

VS TEMPOTEC HD PRO (40$)
DAC=single CS43131
Power output=65mw@32ohm (bypass impedance gain adjustment)

Ok, these 2 while not polar opposite are a bit similar in the sens they are higly resolve and detailed with a rather neutral tonality. HD V biggest difference is in dynamic energy, making the instrument less lean in presence and more lively in amplitude and attack weight.
HD PRO is leaner, more delicate and transparent, colder and less hefty punchy in bass impact and rumble. This make the HD V feel a bit W shape in tonal balance so HD PRO is more neutral-dead-flat.
Strangely, spatiality seem wider perceive with HD PRO, while notably taller and hint deeper with HD V. HD PRO transparency seem higher but definition of individual instrument a bit more softed in edge and contour. As well, attack note weight of HD V is higher making piano sound better articulate and fuller rounded.
Timbre too is more dense and less organic-liquid, so more nuanced and natural in texture too. Listening to fabulous album ”Gurdjieff Chants, Hymns and Dances” from cellist Anja Lechner and pianist Vassilis Tsabropoulos is way more enjoyable and immersive and holographic with the HD V than HD PRO which lack dynamic heft and mix cello and piano in same flat loudness level, this make piano note hard to perceive individually and cello lack in lead attack and resonance blossom.

Amping power is 30mw higher with the HD V too. Construction feel more sturdy and durable since volume botton isn’t a plus with HD PRO(fragile and hard to push) and body is made of light metal with micro-usb connector than can go loose after some time.

All in all, HD V is the logical upgrade over HD PRO since both tonaly and technically it’s superior as well as in amping power output. It’s MQA compatible which isn’t the case with HD PRO too. The sound have a more lively and weighty dynamic, timbre is fuller and more natural and micro definition is better sculpted, making the HD PRO seem a bit foggy and lean. This isn’t to say HD PRO is bad, I was again very impress by it’s performance, but HD V underline how flat is it’s sound dynamism too.

XDUOO LINK2 BAL(160$) VS TEMPOTEC HD V (60$)
Both compared with SE output.

SE output of HD V=95mw@32ohm
SE of LINK 2 BAL=125mw@32ohm
(using the Final A8000 for reference IEM that can dig all details and imperfection of any audio source)

These aren’t similar at all, the XDUOO sound more open, warmish, holographic with more sub bass presence (surely due to extra power and/or independant amp not sure). This bass is a bit warmer yet cleaner-organic and less saturated thicken with texture or THD.

Don’t be fool though, HD V is no slouch and deliver higher level of details and sound info, the dynamic seem move varied in amplitude too, bass is tigher more punchy, overall resolution less analogish.

Wider spatial presentation of LINK2 make it more immersive, less intimate vision if we can say. But for rock and stuffs that need more bite, extra energy and texture of HD V is more appropriate.

Timbre wise, the LINK2 is smoother-lusher especially in mid range, vocal having a less energic yet more appealing presence.

Technically, and this will perhaps be polemical, but the HD V seem superior, with complex ****ed up track, amount of sounds layers are better separated and define, details doesnt get mix up or prompt to harmonic distortion and sub bass doesnt mix up neither, attack is sharper-snappier yet less resonant and spacious.

I’m surprise to come to this conclusion myself in fact. Will perhaps change my mind once i test balanced output of LINK2.

Anyway, here, with HD V we have another big winner in term of supreme sound value, while sound benefit is not as high with LINK2 BAL, it’s sure there for superior versatility both in musicality and power output. As well, construction fo both is very good, but LINK2 BAL have control button, another big plus, and seem even more sturdy in the sens it will not get side scratch like the HD V will surely do due to its mirror finish side.

Both are Keeper for me. But you’ll see, TEMPOTEC HD V will grow in hype and praise, perhaps as high as their best seller HD PRO in the past.

HD V LINK2 BAL
TONALITY: 8.2/10 8.8/10
TECHNICALITIES: 8.6/10 8.2/10
CONSTRUCTION-DESIGN: 8.5/10 9/10
SOUND VALUE: 9/10 8.5/10



VS AUDIRECT BEAM2

Single-ended output power: ≥ 180mW (at 16 ohms), ≥ 110mW (at 32 ohms), ≥ 6.6mW (at 600 ohms)

• Balanced output power: ≥ 145mW (at 16 ohms), ≥ 240mW (at 32 ohms), ≥ 26.6mW (at 600 ohms)
• Frequency response range: 20 Hz – 40 kHz (-0.04dB)
• THD + N: 0.0003%
• Signal to noise ratio: ≥ 118dB SNR

So, what hit me first is number of sound info I receive, which is notably higher with HD V, as well, attack timing is faster-sharper with better sustain-release.

Second thing is bass being less warm-sloppy, and dynamic having a more vivid amplitude and contrast balance.

After this, spatiality seem less wide and more compressed, yet, in busy complex music it will not go as messy as BEAM2. I would love to know Crosstalk measure of these both, but it seem unavailable. I might be wrong, but i would bet on HD V being higher, perhaps to dual DAC use because the ES9080Pro is suppose to be superior, we must note that it use dual OPamp and this is were my bet go, in term these OPamp might affect negatively crosstalk. But who know, since SNR is higher with HD V, it can be that too.

Anyway, resolution is higher and fuller with the HD V, transparency too, were BEAM2 feel a bit grainy-opaque-euphonic. Biggest issue might be extra bass warmth we get with BEAM2, which inflict on bass-mids separation, and slam is darker in definition too, making sub bass line veil the kick impact and presence.

Tonality enjoyment is always subjective, it can’t be measure as precisely as technical aspect of DAC and AMP, so, here, i do enjoy wider spatiality of BEAM2 more, but not it’s poorer resolution-definition and less precise attack. In term of price value, their not a single doubt HD V is miles ahead. If you take this with superior technicalities, it’s hard to justify BEAM2 buy.

CONCLUSION​

I hope it’s evident I adore the TEMPOTEC HD V, and this is from somebody that have intensely high expectation for this dongle, since I still use and praise the old HD PRO. The fact Tempotec choose a different DAC company is very refreshing too, since it’s a more different flavor than upgrading to BHD or E44 which use dual CS43131 DAC instead of single one find in HD PRO.
At 60$, the HD V is extremely competitive both in performance and musicality, as well as quality built and versatility of connection. The fact you can change the cable promise longer durability too than dongle with built in cable.

If you search for a dongle with decent power output, lush yet technicaly impressive sound and MQA compatibility, the Tempotec HD V should be in your priority list. For more power and sens of openess and crispness, the E44 should be on your list too.

Highly recommended!

———

PS: I wanna thanks Tempotec for the review sample which they were glad to send me when I manifest my interest about this dongle. Even if i’m a big fanboi of Tempotec, I don’t love all their dongles and i’m in no way pay or affiliated to this company. As always, i’m 100% independant in my review impression.
You can buy the HD V directly from their official Ali express store here (now available in 4 colors):
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003754735791.html

For more add free sponsors free honnest audio reviews, give a read and subscribe here:
https://nobsaudiophile.com/

TempoTec Sonata HD V​

Review Date: 27 February 2022

SPECIFICATIONS
DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9219 DAC Dual
Full MQA decoding
3.5mm Single Ended Headphone Out
RGB Indicator light
Supports Multiple Devices: Windows/MAC, iOS/Android
Output Level: 2VRMS
SNR: -123dB
THD+N:-105dB
Output Power: 145mW@16Ω, 95mW@32Ω
PCM: 32-Bit/384kHz
DSD: Up to DSD256 natively

Test Equipment

Headphones:

• FOSTEX T40RP MK3 (Magnetic Planar, 50 Ohm, 91db Sensitivity)
• Beyerdynamic DT880 (Dynamic Drivers, 600 Ohm, 96db Sensitivity)

IEMs:

• Etymotic ER4SR (Single BA, 45 Ohm, 96db Sensitivity)
• Shure KSE1500 (Single Electrostatic 200V, KSA1200 Energizer)
• TRN VX Pro (8 BA + 1DD Hybrid, 22 Ohm, 106db Sensitivity)
• TIN HiFi T3+ (Single DD, 32 Ohm, 105db Sensitivity)
• Kinera Idun Golden (3BA + 1DD Hybrid, 32 Ohm, 112db Sensitivity)

Sources:

• LG V50 ThinQ (UAPP USB Exclusive Mode, Bitperfect)
• Sony Xperia X Compact (UAPP USB Exclusive Mode, Bitperfect)
• HiBy Music Player App (USB Exclusive Mode)

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LISTENING EQUIPMENT USED IMPARTED HUGE INFLUENCE TO SOUND IMPRESSIONS & RATING

The continuation of TempoTec Sonata line-ups. Sonata HD V appeared modest and simple. Competitively priced and now with MQA support.

Build, Functions, Usability​

The build and construction of Sonata HD V is simple and practical. Aluminum chassis sandwiched between two glass faceplates. Being glossy glass, Sonata HD V will attract fingerprint smudges that would otherwise tarnish the elegant look from time to time.

The unit that I ordered is specific to USB C only variant. But TempoTec provisioned for consumers with options between USB or iOS Lightning, similar to Sonata HD Pro. The USB cable constructed in twist braid design and complement the look of Sonata HD V perfectly. I do observe though, that the braid can unwind itself if the Dongle unit is subjected to active usage where the body may turn clockwise.

At the front, there’s a big LED RGB indicator to show the current resolution level being played. Typically Green and Red for different PCM levels, purple for MQA.

On the subject of MQA. I must state that my Sonata HD V does not seem to work properly with Tidal own native app on Android. It gets recognized properly on my LG V50 ThinQ, however the volume was stuck at MAX, any attempt to adjust the volume simply futile and unresponsive. It will only work properly when accessing Tidal via UAPP. I switched to Sony Xperia X Compact and it gets even more baffling, Tidal app does not even recognize Sonata HD V and thus playback was only possible via native Android SRC (no exclusive mode), which means MQA does not load properly and played at fixed resolution as sampled by Android.

Endurance wise, Sonata HD V scored 5 hours of continuous play on Sony Xperia X Compact (Android 8, 2700 mAH battery, UAPP USB Exclusive Mode, driving TRN VX Pro). That’s on par to the battery drain of Colorfly CDA M1 and FiiO KA3. In comparison, iBasso DC05 and Cayin RU6 scored 6 hours. Admirably, Sonata HD V remained cool enough to the touch after prolonged use with minor hint of heat.

Sound Impressions​

Simply put, Sonata HD V is Sonata HD Pro with MQA support. Yes they are practically identical sonic wise. Neutral bright and highly resolving, the timbre lacks some organic touch to it but it remained polished and crisp enough to not sound outright digital.

Dynamics range exhibited great extensions end to end. Sparkly and crisp Treble exhibiting proper details and texture, Deep Sub-Bass with crisp decays, Fast and Impactful Mid-Bass that remained neutral and uncolored. Mids equally neutral and devoid of any coloration. The overall theme of dynamics handling being well balanced and truthfully neutral.

There’s maturity in the way dynamic transients are handled. Greatly controlled attack and vibrancy to keep it from sounding outright euphonic. I am relieved that Sonata HD V does not exhibit any of the dreaded ESS Sabre Pinna Glare, at least not pronounced enough to cause for concerns. However, with neutral/bright partners like Etymotic ER4SR, TRN VX Pro and Beyerdynamic DT880 600 Ohm, there’s some hint of aggressive upper Mids brightness. Luckily it wasn’t offensive enough to spoil the output that could ended up being sibilant.

Sonata HD V has ample note weight and density to dynamics body. It does not sound lean or dry even when paired with flat neutral partners. I would have prefer a more organic touch to it, but that can be easily solved by pairing Sonata HD V with strongly organic sounding partners like TIN HiFi T3+, Kinera Idun Golden, Shure KSE1500 or Fostex T40RP MK3.

The highlight of Sonata HD V, it is one hell of competent Dongle with technicalities. Soundstage appeared admirably wide with proper depth and headroom. Spatial imaging and positioning crisp and very holographic. Macro and Micro details practically on par with the top dogs of #donglemadness. Sonata HD V has the speed to resolve even the most complex of passages as it is agile with outright speedy tracks. Layers separation crisp and well laid out making it easy to discern individual instruments.

Driving Power​

Rated at 2 Vrms, Sonata HD V exhibited admirable driving power to drive Beyerdynamic DT880 600 Ohm and Fostex T40RP MK3. With DT880, I was able to get proper listening loudness at 26/32 volume on HiBy Music App USB Exclusive mode. For T40RP MK3, volume at 21/32. By my estimation, the performance of Sonata HD V is at approx 60-65% fidelity as compared to iFi ZEN Stack of ZEN DAC V2 + ZEN Can driving those two juggernauts, losing on headroom, soundstage and dynamics density. Otherwise it is still commendable as I have observed worse performances from other Dongles within the same power bracket.

On the other hand, Sonata HD V proved to be very clean serving as AUX feed for my Electrostatic Shure KSE1500. And this is where Sonata C performs the best. The output being amazingly well balanced, organic and natural.

VERDICT​

TempoTec Sonata HD V is a very well tuned Dongle. It continues the legacy of Sonata HD Pro with similar sound signature – neutral bright. This also means Sonata HD V prefers warmer sounding partners. Pairing it with natively bright partners may result in something which appeared overly crisp and edgy. Pair it with an already organic sounding IEMs/Headphones and there’s good balance that I consider great.
However, all is not dandy with this Sonata HD V. The MQA playback with Tidal own App exhibited major flaw of not being able to adjust the volume. I hope TempoTec can fix this with FW upgrades. Other than that, TempoTec Sonata HD V is a solid Dongle all things considered, especially how amazing it is with technicalities.

​

Best Pairing: Prefers warmer pairing partners

#donglemadness