What started out as a infant market, the demand for dongle-based DAC/amps has exploded in the recent months. Consumers are starting to grow weary of carrying a dedicated device for music playback. Carrying a smartphone is burdensome enough, and the addition of an extra audio player takes up unnecessary pocket space. The dongle solution offers users an alternative slimline option to carry around in their audio arsenal.

Today, we'll be reviewing the Hilidac Beam 2; a widely lauded dongle for having both a balanced and unbalanced headphone out, and its ease of compatibility across multiple electronic devices. Does the Beam 2 stand a chance in this already crowded market? Available at __

• DAC chip: ESS9281C Pro
• Single-ended Output Power: >180 mW (16 Ohms), >110mW (32 Ohms), 6.6 mW (600 Ohms) 
• Balanced Output Power: >145 mW (16 Ohms), 240 mW (32 Ohms), 26.6 mW (600 Ohms)
• THD+N: 0.0003%
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz- 40kHz (-0.04dB) 
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 118dB SNR
• Maximum supported sampling rate: PCM/DXD (up to 32-bit, 384kHz) 
• Support DSD Specification: up to DSD128 (DOP)
• Internal resistance: less than 1 ohm
• MQA decoding + Rendering: Full MQA decoder, supporting full decoding of original MQA files 
• Op amp: Independent dual op amp chip
• Input interface: USB C
• Output ports: 3.5 mm, 2.5 mm
• Body: 1.9 x 0.6 x 0.3 in (4.9 x 1.5 x 0.7 cm) 
• Included Accessories: Lightning to USB-C short cable, USB-C to USB-C short cable, USB-C short data cable

The Beam 2 comes sheathed in a elongated, white cardboard box. Upon further inspection, the box contains the Beam 2 dongle itself, alongside multiple instruction manuals and a plethora of Type-C USB connectors to use with either a computer or any Android/IOS device. Overall, the package itself offers the end user all that is necessary to use the Beam 2 right out of the box. A job well done, Hilidac.

The Beam 2's satin/brushed finish is smooth to the touch, with zero blemishes or imperfections. However, the sharp/angular edges are prone to hairline scratches and light denting. The chassis is lightweight, doesn't take too much real estate in my pocket on outdoor walks. However, I am not a huge fan of the positioning of both the 2.5mm balanced and 3.5mm balanced outputs. Their placements on the side is painfully awkward, serving as nothing but a hindrance for pocketed use.

The Beam 2 is a product that should be lauded for its ease of use across all smart devices. I found no issue using the Beam 2 on my Apple Ipad, Google Pixel 2XL and Windows laptop. It was a seamless, plug-and-play experience without the need to install any prerequisite drivers.

The output selections speak for themselves, you can use either one to your liking. The downside is the lack of a dedicated volume control; you'll have to control the output volume of your connected devices.

The Hilidac logo acts as an LED indicator to tell if you the type of data/music is being fed out from your device. A bright magenta indicates MQA playback, while a red indicator suggests PCM of up to 32bit/384kHz. Unfortunately, I do not have any MQA samples to test with the Beam 2. I can see potential for confusion with the multi-colored indicator. Instead, separate indicators for each data-set (PCM vs MQA etc) should be used for visual clarity.

Reference Tracks / Remarks:
Getting to Know You- Spazzkid

This track is notorious for its bloated, synthetic mid-bass. The Beam 2 aids both the Nanna and 58x in exerting tighter control over its low-end, exhibiting excellent restraint. 

When using balanced: The lows are tighter, with slightly more aggressive punch. 

Reference Tracks / Remarks:
This Place- PLASTIC PLACE

The mids display analog-like warmth when paired with the already lower-mid focused 58x. The Nanna has a noticeable shimmer/forwardness in the upper treble that is perfectly quelled by the Beam2's forgiving upper-mid damping. However, I believe that the Beam 2 should push the envelope and focus on a more engaging upper-mid range. 

Reference Tracks / Remarks:
This Tornado Loves You- Neko Case

It was difficult pinpointing any obvious changes, apart from a slightly cleaner upper-mid to high transition.  Overall, it complements both the Nanna and the 58x without exaggerating any glaring inconsistencies in the highs. 

Reference Tracks / Remarks:
Alfadhirhaiti- Heilung

*The Beam 2 accentuates the Nanna's already wide soundstage with added depth and extension, albeit slightly. The 58x, which sounds slightly closeted in, sounds slightly more out of head with the Beam 2. Overall, the Beam 2 enlarges the soundscape marginally.

When using balanced: I couldn't pinpoint obvious differences

Reference Tracks / Remarks:
Ezio's Family (Valhalla Edition)- Samuel Kim 

The Nanna has been widely commended for its stellar imaging and positioning, and it is fully realized here with the Beam 2's clean output. The 58x on the other hand, displays a marked improvement in perceived distances between both instruments and vocal arrangements.

The Beam 2 captures all the hallmarks of an every-day carry dongle that flexibly adapts to any scenario. Audirect has released a superb piece of kit that I'm proud to use as my daily travel dongle DAC.

*All ratings are accurate as of date of publication. Changes in price, newer models may affect Project A3's views on the performance and value of the reviewed product.