Audio T Verdict
The EarMen Angel sits somewhere between a pocket DAC and a desktop headphone amplifier. At 152mm long and 340g it is more substantial than a simple USB dongle, but its rechargeable battery means serious headphone listening does not have to remain tied to the Hi-Fi rack or computer desk.
Inside is an ESS ES9038Q2M DAC partnered with an XMOS USB interface capable of handling PCM and DXD at up to 768kHz, DSD256 via DoP and native DSD512. More importantly, EarMen has surrounded that digital platform with a fully balanced analogue architecture rather than relying on the specification of the DAC chip alone.
Headphone connectivity is excellent. A conventional 3.5mm output is joined by a fully balanced 4.4mm connection, with Gain+ available when more output is needed. EarMen specifies up to 7.2Vrms from the single-ended headphone output and 8.5Vrms balanced with Gain+ active.
The Angel is considerably more versatile than a headphone amplifier alone. Both connections can also operate as line outputs, with fixed Direct Out and variable Pre Out modes, allowing the Angel to feed a conventional amplifier, active speakers or another power amplifier.
Separate USB-C data and charging connections are another sensible touch. The internal two-cell 6000mAh battery isolates normal portable operation from the source device, while the dedicated charging input means the Angel can continue operating while connected to power.
There is no Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, network streaming or display, and that is really the point. The Angel concentrates on converting and amplifying digital audio rather than trying to become an all-in-one music player.
For someone wanting one high-quality DAC and headphone amplifier that can move between a laptop, compatible phone, headphones and a full Hi-Fi system, the Angel remains an unusually capable little box.
EarMen Angel Portable DAC and Headphone Amplifier
The EarMen Angel is a battery-powered high-resolution digital-to-analogue converter, balanced headphone amplifier and pre-amplifier designed for both portable and desktop listening.
Its combination of rechargeable power, USB and S/PDIF digital inputs, conventional and balanced outputs and substantial output voltage makes it much more flexible than a typical compact USB DAC.
Key features include:
- ESS ES9038Q2M digital-to-analogue converter
- XMOS USB interface
- Fully balanced analogue architecture
- USB-C digital audio input
- Separate USB-C charging connection
- Coaxial and optical S/PDIF compatibility
- 3.5mm single-ended headphone output
- 4.4mm fully balanced headphone output
- Gain+ high-output mode
- Single-ended Direct Out and Pre Out
- Balanced Direct Out and Pre Out
- PCM playback up to 768kHz
- DXD playback up to 768kHz
- Native DSD playback up to DSD512
- DSD256 through DoP
- MQA hardware decoding for compatible legacy files
- Two 3000mAh rechargeable battery cells
- Charging time of under three hours with a suitable supply
- Made in Europe
ESS ES9038Q2M DAC
Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by the ESS Technology ES9038Q2M.
The DAC itself provides the foundation for high-resolution conversion, but the final performance of a DAC depends on considerably more than the chip carrying out the conversion.
EarMen combines the ES9038Q2M with:
- XMOS USB processing
- Carefully regulated power supplies
- Fully balanced analogue amplification
- Low-noise circuit design
- Short signal paths
- Battery power for portable operation
This complete implementation determines how effectively the digital information is converted and delivered to the connected headphones or audio system.
XMOS USB Interface
An XMOS USB receiver handles incoming high-resolution computer and mobile audio.
It allows the Angel to accept very high sample-rate PCM, DXD and DSD signals from compatible playback software and source equipment.
The maximum format specification should not be confused with a requirement to use 768kHz recordings. Conventional 16-bit/44.1kHz CD-quality music and lower-resolution material can also be played normally.
PCM Up to 768kHz
The USB input supports PCM audio at sample rates up to 768kHz.
PCM is used by the vast majority of conventional digital music, including:
- CD-quality files
- FLAC
- WAV
- AIFF
- Apple Lossless
- Many streaming-service downloads
The actual format available will depend on the source file, operating system and playback software.
Native DSD512
The Angel supports native DSD playback at up to DSD512 through a compatible USB source and playback configuration.
DSD256 is also supported through DoP, where DSD information is packaged inside a PCM-compatible data stream for transmission.
The source computer, driver and software must support the required transmission method before the maximum DSD rates can be used.
DXD Up to 768kHz
DXD is also supported at sample rates up to 768kHz.
DXD was developed as a very high-resolution PCM-based format and is primarily encountered in specialist recordings and production environments.
Its inclusion demonstrates the considerable digital bandwidth available through the Angel's USB implementation, although most music libraries will contain considerably lower sample rates.
Fully Balanced Architecture
The Angel uses a fully balanced signal path from its digital-to-analogue conversion stage through to the balanced headphone and line outputs.
In a balanced architecture, positive and negative signal phases are handled separately rather than sharing the same return path used by a conventional single-ended connection.
A properly implemented balanced circuit can provide benefits including:
- Greater available output voltage
- Improved channel separation
- Reduced susceptibility to common-mode noise
- Greater dynamic capability
- Lower distortion within the complete circuit
Balanced operation should not automatically be considered superior simply because a different connector is being used. The headphones, cable and complete amplifier implementation all influence the final result.
4.4mm Balanced Headphone Output
A 4.4mm Pentaconn connection provides the Angel's fully balanced headphone output.
With Gain+ active, EarMen specifies a maximum output level of 8.5Vrms at 0dBFS.
The published measurements for the balanced headphone output include:
- 8.5Vrms maximum output with Gain+
- THD+N of 0.002%
- Signal-to-noise ratio greater than 119dB A-weighted
- Dynamic range greater than 119dB
- Frequency response within ±0.2dB
The higher available voltage can be particularly useful with headphones that require more drive than a conventional phone or laptop headphone socket can provide.
Use a Genuine Balanced Headphone Cable
A balanced headphone output must not be converted to a conventional single-ended headphone connection using an unsuitable passive adaptor that joins the negative amplifier outputs together.
Doing so can damage a balanced headphone amplifier.
If your headphones do not already have a suitable 4.4mm balanced cable, check compatibility before connecting them to the Angel's balanced output.
3.5mm Single-Ended Headphone Output
A conventional 3.5mm stereo connection is also provided.
This makes the Angel compatible with the large number of headphones and earphones supplied with a standard unbalanced cable.
With Gain+ active, EarMen specifies:
- 7.2Vrms maximum output at 0dBFS
- THD+N of 0.004%
- Signal-to-noise ratio greater than 120dB A-weighted
- Dynamic range greater than 120dB
- Frequency response within ±0.2dB
There is therefore no requirement to replace an existing headphone cable simply to use the Angel.
Gain+ Mode
Gain+ increases the available amplifier gain for headphones requiring a higher signal level.
It can be useful with:
- Lower-sensitivity headphones
- Some planar magnetic headphones
- High-impedance dynamic headphones
- Recordings mastered at a relatively low level
Normal gain should be used where sufficient listening level is already available.
Reduce the Volume Before Selecting Gain+
Gain+ can produce a substantial increase in listening level.
Reduce the volume before changing gain settings, particularly when using sensitive in-ear monitors or low-impedance headphones.
Use the lowest gain setting that provides sufficient volume and dynamic headroom.
Stepped Volume Control
The Angel uses electronically controlled stepped volume adjustment rather than relying on a simple miniature analogue potentiometer.
This helps provide consistent adjustment between channels, particularly at lower listening levels where conventional controls can sometimes exhibit greater left-to-right imbalance.
Always reduce the volume before connecting a different pair of headphones, switching output modes or activating Gain+.
USB-C Digital Audio Input
A dedicated USB-C DATA connection accepts digital audio from a compatible computer, smartphone or tablet.
Depending on the source device, an appropriate USB cable, OTG adaptor or Apple-compatible camera adaptor may be required.
The source device and operating system determine which sample rates and formats can be transmitted.
Separate USB-C Charging Port
The Angel separates USB data and battery charging into two physical USB-C connections.
This provides several practical advantages:
- The source device does not have to provide all operating power
- The Angel can continue operating while connected to a charger
- A permanent desktop power connection can be kept separate from the audio source
- Battery operation can be used where electrical isolation from the mains supply is preferred
This arrangement is particularly useful when the Angel is used as a desktop DAC and headphone amplifier for extended periods.
The Two USB-C Connections Have Different Jobs
Use the DATA connection for USB audio and the dedicated charging connection for battery charging.
Do not assume that connecting a charger to the data socket or a music source to the charging socket will provide the same functionality.
Two-Cell Rechargeable Battery
The Angel contains two 3000mAh rechargeable battery cells.
The dual-cell arrangement provides the power supply required for its comparatively high headphone-output voltage while still allowing the unit to operate away from mains power.
EarMen does not publish one fixed listening-time figure because battery duration depends heavily on:
- Headphone impedance
- Headphone sensitivity
- Listening volume
- Single-ended or balanced operation
- Gain setting
- Headphone or pre-amplifier use
A fixed battery-runtime claim should therefore be treated cautiously.
Charging in Under Three Hours
EarMen specifies a charging time of less than three hours when an appropriate power supply is used.
The Angel can also continue playing while connected to its dedicated charging input, making it practical to leave the unit powered during longer desktop listening sessions.
S/PDIF Digital Input
In addition to USB, the Angel accepts S/PDIF digital audio for use with suitable source equipment.
The input supports coaxial and optical digital signals using the appropriate connection arrangement.
This allows equipment such as a compatible:
- CD transport
- Network streamer
- Digital audio player
- Television
- Other S/PDIF source
to use the Angel's internal DAC and analogue stages.
Using the Angel with a CD Transport
A CD player or transport with a compatible optical or coaxial digital output can feed the Angel through S/PDIF.
The Angel then performs digital-to-analogue conversion and can feed either headphones or a conventional amplifier.
This provides a useful way of adding high-quality headphone listening to a digital source that does not already contain an appropriate headphone amplifier.
Direct Line Output
The Angel can operate as a dedicated DAC with fixed-level analogue output rather than only as a headphone amplifier.
EarMen specifies the Direct Out levels as:
- 1.5Vrms through the 3.5mm single-ended output
- 3Vrms through the 4.4mm balanced output
This mode is suitable when volume will be controlled by the connected integrated amplifier, pre-amplifier or active speaker system.
Direct Out Is Fixed Level
When using Direct Out, control the listening level from the receiving amplifier or active speaker system.
Do not connect a fixed high-level output directly to a power amplifier or other equipment without its own appropriate volume control.
Variable Pre-Amplifier Output
Pre Out mode allows the Angel's volume control to adjust the analogue signal being sent to another component.
This means the Angel can act as a compact digital pre-amplifier for:
- A stereo power amplifier
- Active loudspeakers
- A headphone amplifier
- Another component requiring variable line-level input
Maximum pre-amplifier output is considerably higher than conventional fixed line level, so the volume should always be reduced before switching to Pre Out or connecting another component.
Single-Ended Pre Out
The 3.5mm connection can provide variable single-ended pre-amplifier output.
With the output at maximum, EarMen specifies:
- 7.2Vrms output level
- THD+N of 0.004%
- Signal-to-noise ratio greater than 120dB A-weighted
- Dynamic range greater than 120dB
- Frequency response within ±0.2dB
Balanced Pre Out
The 4.4mm connection can also operate as a fully balanced variable pre-amplifier output.
EarMen specifies a maximum output of 8.5Vrms together with:
- THD+N of 0.002%
- Signal-to-noise ratio greater than 119dB A-weighted
- Dynamic range greater than 119dB
- Frequency response within ±0.2dB
A suitable 4.4mm balanced interconnect will be required to connect the Angel to conventional balanced Hi-Fi equipment.
8.5Vrms Is a High Pre-Amplifier Output
Do not switch to Pre Out with the Angel's volume already set high.
Begin with the volume reduced and increase it gradually. The maximum 8.5Vrms balanced output is considerably greater than the standard line-level voltage produced by many domestic source components.
Using the Angel with Active Speakers
Pre Out mode makes the Angel suitable for a compact active-speaker system.
A computer or compatible mobile device can feed digital audio to the Angel, which then performs digital conversion and controls the level sent to the speakers.
This produces a compact system consisting of:
- Digital source
- EarMen Angel
- Active loudspeakers
The speakers must provide a compatible analogue input and the correct interconnect must be used.
Using the Angel in a Conventional Hi-Fi System
Direct Out allows the Angel to operate as the DAC within a conventional stereo system.
Connect the fixed line output to a normal line-level input on the integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier, then control listening volume from the main amplifier.
Suitable amplifier inputs may be labelled:
- Aux
- Line
- CD
- Tuner
- Analogue
Do Not Connect the Angel to a Phono Input
The Angel produces line-level analogue audio and must not be connected to a moving magnet or moving coil turntable input.
Phono inputs provide additional gain and specialised equalisation intended for cartridge signals and will produce severe distortion when fed from a normal DAC output.
MQA Hardware Decoding
The Angel includes hardware decoding for compatible MQA, MQA Studio and authenticated MQA material.
This remains useful for owners of downloaded or locally stored MQA music files.
TIDAL No Longer Streams MQA
TIDAL discontinued MQA playback on 24 July 2024 and now uses FLAC for stereo music.
The Angel's MQA hardware capability therefore remains relevant to compatible legacy or locally stored MQA material, but it should not be purchased specifically to provide MQA decoding for the current TIDAL service.
Current TIDAL FLAC material plays as conventional PCM through the Angel.
No Bluetooth or Network Streaming
The Angel is a DAC, headphone amplifier and pre-amplifier rather than a wireless network music player.
It does not contain:
- Bluetooth audio reception
- Wi-Fi
- Ethernet
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Qobuz Connect
- AirPlay
- Internet radio
- Internal music storage
A computer, smartphone, tablet, streamer or other digital source is required.
Using Streaming Services with the Angel
The absence of integrated streaming does not prevent the Angel from being used with online music services.
Instead, the service runs on the connected computer, phone or tablet and sends digital audio to the Angel through USB.
This means compatible applications for services such as Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify or locally stored music can still be used, with the source device handling browsing and playback control.
Smartphone Compatibility
The Angel can be used with compatible mobile devices capable of transmitting USB digital audio.
The exact cable or adaptor depends on the phone or tablet.
Modern USB-C devices may connect directly with a suitable data cable, while older Apple Lightning products generally require an appropriate Apple-compatible USB adaptor.
The ability to output a particular high-resolution format will also depend on the operating system and playback application.
Computer Audio
The Angel can act as an external USB sound device for a compatible Windows or macOS computer.
This allows it to replace the computer's internal audio circuitry for headphone listening or analogue output to a Hi-Fi system.
Depending on the operating system and required format, dedicated drivers may be required to access the full range of supported sample rates and native DSD playback.
Portable or Desktop?
The word portable can mean very different things in headphone audio.
At 152 x 66 x 27mm and 340g, the Angel is significantly larger and heavier than a miniature USB dongle DAC.
Its dimensions are better suited to:
- A bag or case
- Hotel-room listening
- Working between home and office
- Moving between several computers
- Listening from a sofa or bedside system
- Desktop use without permanent mains connection
Customers wanting the smallest possible device to leave attached directly to a smartphone may prefer a compact dongle-style DAC.
Made in Europe
EarMen designs and manufactures its audio products in Europe, with an emphasis on compact aluminium construction, carefully arranged circuitry and high-resolution digital audio.
The Angel's substantial metal enclosure also provides considerably greater physical protection than the plastic housings commonly found on inexpensive portable audio adaptors.
Angel or EarMen Sparrow?
Choose the Angel When
- Greater headphone output is required
- A rechargeable internal battery is preferred
- 4.4mm balanced headphones are being used
- S/PDIF input is useful
- Pre-amplifier functionality is required
- Native DSD512 is important
- Desktop and portable use are equally important
Choose the Sparrow When
- The smallest possible DAC is the priority
- A smartphone dongle-style solution is preferred
- USB is the only digital input required
- Lower weight matters
- The source device providing operating power is acceptable
- Lower overall cost is important
Explore the EarMen Sparrow Pocket DAC for a substantially smaller USB-powered alternative.
Angel or EarMen ST-Amp?
Choose the Angel When
- Portable operation is required
- Battery power is useful
- USB and S/PDIF digital sources are the priority
- Native DSD512 playback matters
- The system needs to move between locations
- A compact DAC, headphone amp and preamp is wanted
Choose the ST-Amp When
- The system will remain on a desk or Hi-Fi rack
- Mains-powered operation is preferred
- Analogue inputs are required
- A 6.35mm headphone output is useful
- More conventional desktop ergonomics are preferred
- Portable battery operation is unnecessary
The EarMen ST-Amp is the more conventional fully balanced desktop DAC, headphone amplifier and pre-amplifier.
Angel or a Separate DAC and Headphone Amplifier?
Choose the Angel When
- Compact dimensions are important
- Portable operation is useful
- One box is preferred
- USB and S/PDIF cover the digital sources
- Balanced headphone output is required
- The system may also use active speakers or a power amplifier
Consider Separates When
- The system will remain permanently at home
- More digital and analogue inputs are needed
- Individual DAC and amplifier upgrades are planned
- Full-size balanced XLR connections are preferred
- Remote control is important
- Greater power is required for particularly demanding headphones
System Matching
Well Suited To
- Wired Hi-Fi headphones
- Balanced 4.4mm headphones
- In-ear monitors with sensible gain settings
- Portable digital audio players
- Laptops and desktop computers
- Compatible smartphones and tablets
- CD transports
- Network streamers with S/PDIF outputs
- Active loudspeakers
- Stereo amplifiers requiring an external DAC
- Compact desktop systems
Check Before Buying
- No Bluetooth
- No Wi-Fi or Ethernet
- No integrated streaming services
- No display or music-browser interface
- 340g weight is substantial for pocket use
- Balanced headphones require a suitable 4.4mm cable
- Gain+ should be used carefully with sensitive earphones
- Pre Out can produce up to 8.5Vrms balanced
- Mobile devices may require a suitable USB adaptor
- Maximum file support depends on source software and drivers
- MQA is no longer used by TIDAL
Connection Guidance
- Reduce the volume before connecting headphones.
- Begin with normal gain and select Gain+ only if additional output is required.
- Use a genuine balanced headphone cable with the 4.4mm output.
- Do not short the balanced negative outputs together with an unsuitable adaptor.
- Use the USB-C DATA input for digital audio.
- Use the separate USB-C charging connection for battery charging.
- Use an appropriate OTG or Apple-compatible adaptor where required by a mobile device.
- Use Direct Out when connecting to an integrated amplifier that will control volume.
- Use Pre Out when the Angel itself needs to control volume.
- Reduce the volume before switching to Pre Out.
- Do not connect the Angel's line output to a phono input.
- Check S/PDIF cable and adaptor compatibility before connecting optical or coaxial sources.
- Keep the unit ventilated during charging and high-output headphone use.
Key Features
- Portable DAC
- Portable headphone amplifier
- Digital pre-amplifier
- Fully balanced analogue architecture
- ESS ES9038Q2M DAC
- XMOS USB receiver
- USB-C digital audio input
- Separate USB-C charging connection
- S/PDIF digital input
- Coaxial digital compatibility
- Optical digital compatibility
- 3.5mm single-ended headphone output
- 4.4mm balanced headphone output
- Gain+ mode
- 7.2Vrms single-ended headphone output with Gain+
- 8.5Vrms balanced headphone output with Gain+
- Single-ended Direct Out
- Balanced Direct Out
- Single-ended Pre Out
- Balanced Pre Out
- 1.5Vrms single-ended Direct Out
- 3Vrms balanced Direct Out
- 7.2Vrms maximum single-ended Pre Out
- 8.5Vrms maximum balanced Pre Out
- PCM playback up to 768kHz
- DXD playback up to 768kHz
- DSD256 through DoP
- Native DSD512 playback
- MQA hardware decoding
- MQA Studio compatibility
- Two 3000mAh battery cells
- 6000mAh combined nominal battery capacity
- Under three-hour specified charging time
- Simultaneous charging and playback capability
- Stepped volume control
- Greater than 120dB single-ended SNR
- Greater than 119dB balanced SNR
- Greater than 120dB single-ended dynamic range
- Greater than 119dB balanced dynamic range
- ±0.2dB frequency response
- 152mm length
- 66mm width
- 27mm height
- 340g weight
- Aluminium construction
- Made in Europe
- Two-year manufacturer warranty subject to EarMen terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EarMen Angel?
It is a rechargeable portable DAC, fully balanced headphone amplifier and digital pre-amplifier for computers, compatible mobile devices and S/PDIF digital sources.
Which DAC does the Angel use?
The Angel uses an ESS ES9038Q2M digital-to-analogue converter.
Is the Angel fully balanced?
Yes. EarMen uses a fully balanced signal architecture through to the 4.4mm balanced headphone and line output.
Does it have a normal headphone socket?
Yes. A conventional 3.5mm single-ended headphone output is provided.
Does it have a balanced headphone output?
Yes. It has a 4.4mm balanced headphone connection.
Can I connect a normal 3.5mm pair of headphones?
Yes. There is no requirement to use the balanced output.
Can I adapt the balanced output to 3.5mm?
Do not use an adaptor that electrically joins the negative balanced amplifier outputs together. Use the Angel's dedicated 3.5mm output for single-ended headphones.
What is Gain+?
Gain+ increases amplifier gain and available output for headphones requiring a stronger signal.
Should Gain+ always be switched on?
No. Use normal gain where it already provides sufficient volume. Lower gain generally gives greater usable volume-control range with sensitive headphones and earphones.
How powerful is the single-ended output?
EarMen specifies up to 7.2Vrms with Gain+ active.
How powerful is the balanced output?
EarMen specifies up to 8.5Vrms through the 4.4mm balanced output with Gain+ active.
Can it drive planar magnetic headphones?
Its comparatively high output voltage and Gain+ mode make the Angel suitable for many demanding headphones, including a range of planar magnetic models. Actual compatibility depends on the headphone's impedance, sensitivity and required listening level.
Can it be used with sensitive IEMs?
Yes, although normal gain and a low initial volume setting are recommended. Particularly sensitive earphones should ideally be demonstrated because required gain and usable volume range vary considerably.
What is the maximum PCM resolution?
PCM is supported at sample rates up to 768kHz through a compatible USB source.
Does it support DSD?
Yes. It supports DSD256 through DoP and native DSD up to DSD512.
Does it support DXD?
Yes. DXD is supported at up to 768kHz.
Does the Angel support MQA?
Yes. Hardware decoding is provided for compatible MQA and MQA Studio material.
Does TIDAL still use MQA?
No. TIDAL stopped offering MQA on 24 July 2024 and now uses FLAC for stereo playback. The Angel's MQA support remains useful for compatible locally stored or legacy MQA files.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No. The Angel is a wired digital audio device.
Does it have Wi-Fi?
No.
Does it support Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect or Qobuz Connect?
Not internally. Those services can be played on a connected computer or compatible mobile device, which then sends digital audio to the Angel.
Can I use it with a smartphone?
Yes, provided the phone can output USB digital audio and the correct data cable or adaptor is used.
Can I use it with an iPhone?
Yes, with a compatible USB connection or Apple adaptor appropriate to the particular iPhone model.
Can I use it with Android?
Yes, with a compatible Android device and suitable USB OTG or direct USB-C connection.
Can I use it with a Windows computer?
Yes. Driver installation may be required for some high-resolution and native DSD operating modes.
Can I use it with a Mac?
Yes, subject to the playback application's format support.
Does the Angel have optical input?
Its S/PDIF input supports optical digital signals using the appropriate connection arrangement.
Does it support coaxial digital input?
Yes, through its S/PDIF input with a suitable cable or adaptor.
Can I connect a CD player?
Yes, if the CD player or transport has a compatible coaxial or optical digital output.
Can it work as a DAC in my main Hi-Fi?
Yes. Direct Out provides fixed-level analogue output for connection to a conventional integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier.
Can it work as a pre-amplifier?
Yes. Pre Out provides variable analogue output controlled from the Angel.
Can it drive active speakers?
Yes, provided the active speakers have compatible analogue inputs. Pre Out allows the Angel to control listening volume.
Can it connect directly to a power amplifier?
It can operate as a pre-amplifier for compatible power amplification, but begin with the Angel's volume reduced and confirm electrical compatibility before connection.
What is the difference between Direct Out and Pre Out?
Direct Out provides a fixed line-level signal for equipment with its own volume control. Pre Out provides a variable output controlled by the Angel.
What is the Direct Out level?
EarMen specifies 1.5Vrms single-ended and 3Vrms balanced.
What is the maximum Pre Out level?
Up to 7.2Vrms single-ended and 8.5Vrms balanced.
Does it have a rechargeable battery?
Yes. It contains two 3000mAh rechargeable battery cells.
How long does the battery last?
EarMen does not publish one fixed runtime because consumption changes according to headphones, output connection, gain and listening level.
How long does it take to charge?
EarMen specifies less than three hours with a suitable charging supply.
Can I listen while charging?
Yes. Separate USB-C data and charging connections allow the Angel to continue operating while connected to power.
Does the phone power the Angel?
The Angel contains its own rechargeable battery, reducing dependence on the connected mobile device for its main operating power.
How big is the EarMen Angel?
It measures approximately 152 x 66 x 27mm.
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 340g.
Is it genuinely pocket sized?
It is portable, but at 340g it is substantially larger and heavier than a dongle DAC. A bag, case or desktop is likely to be more practical than a trouser pocket.
Where is the Angel made?
EarMen manufactures its products in Europe.
What is the warranty?
EarMen products carry a two-year limited manufacturer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, subject to the company's registration, purchase and regional warranty terms.
Related EarMen Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- EarMen Angel demonstrations
- Headphone and earphone matching advice
- Balanced and single-ended headphone comparisons
- Gain-setting guidance
- USB computer-audio setup
- Smartphone and tablet connection advice
- High-resolution PCM and DSD setup
- S/PDIF source matching
- Direct Out and Pre Out setup
- Active-speaker integration
- Stereo-system DAC integration
- Balanced cable and adaptor guidance
- Comparison with other portable and desktop DACs
- Ongoing system and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss headphones, digital sources, balanced connections or integrating the EarMen Angel into a desktop or full Hi-Fi system.