Kiwi Ears USB DAC/Amp Dongles Compared: Allegro Mini, Coda, Allegro BAL and Allegro Pro
Four USB-C dongles from $20 to $51 that plug into a phone or laptop and drive IEMs or headphones. We compare what Kiwi Ears lists for each, and who each fits.
Prices and availability checked on 2026-11-03; they may change.
See Kiwi Ears dongles
Comparison first
| Model | Price | Outputs | Power | Notable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allegro Mini | $20.40 | 3.5mm + 4.4mm | Not stated in text we read | PCM 384kHz, DSD128, aluminium body |
| Coda | $25.49 | 3.5mm + 4.4mm | 30mW+ at 32 ohm | 2uV noise floor, web EQ |
| Allegro BAL | $42.49 | Balanced | 180mW+180mW | THD 0.005% |
| Allegro Pro | $50.99 | 4.4mm balanced | Dual ES9603 op-amps | 3 sound modes, RGB |
Figures from Kiwi Ears' product pages. Power ratings are quoted at different conditions per model, so compare them loosely.
Check current Kiwi Ears pricesWhat separates them
The Allegro Mini is the smallest and cheapest: a compact aluminium body with both 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, PCM up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD up to DSD128. The Coda costs about five dollars more and shifts the emphasis to noise: Kiwi Ears quotes a 2uV noise floor and over 114dB signal-to-noise ratio, aimed at sensitive IEMs where hiss shows up, plus a browser-based EQ so no app is needed.
The Allegro BAL is the power step, quoted at up to 180mW per channel with 0.005% THD and a 5uV noise floor. The Allegro Pro takes a different route with dual ES9603 operational amplifiers, a 4.4mm balanced output and three sound modes (Game, Movie, Music) with colour indicators, aimed at harder-to-drive headphones.
The four dongles
Allegro Mini
Pocket-sized entry.
- All-aluminium compact body
- 3.5mm single-ended + 4.4mm outputs
- PCM up to 32bit/384kHz, DSD up to DSD128
- USB-C
Coda
Low-noise pick for sensitive IEMs.
- 3.5mm and 4.4mm, 30mW+ at 32 ohm each
- 2uV noise floor, 114dB+ SNR
- Crosstalk below -100dB on 4.4mm
- Web-based EQ, PCM up to 32bit/384kHz
Allegro BAL
More power for demanding IEMs and headphones.
- Up to 180mW per channel (360mW total)
- THD 0.005%, noise floor 5uV
- PCM 32bit up to 384kHz
- Balanced output
Allegro Pro
Tweakable desktop-style dongle.
- Dual ES9603 operational amplifiers
- 4.4mm balanced output
- Game / Movie / Music modes with RGB indicator
- Aimed at higher-impedance headphones
How to choose
Efficient IEMs, daily carry: Allegro Mini or Coda. Choose the Coda if background hiss bothers you with sensitive IEMs.
Headphones or less sensitive IEMs: Allegro BAL for headroom; Allegro Pro if you want modes and the higher-impedance focus.
Check before buying: that your device supplies USB-C audio, and that your cable ends (3.5mm vs 4.4mm) match the output you plan to use.
Strengths on paper
- Prices from $20 to $51
- 4.4mm balanced output on all four, per their pages
- High-resolution PCM decoding listed on each
- Web EQ on the Coda without an app
Watch-outs
- Specs are manufacturer claims, not PickNexo measurements
- Power figures use different test conditions
- Listed discounts compare against Kiwi Ears' own original prices
- Dongles can draw noticeable power from a phone battery
FAQ
Which is cheapest?
The Allegro Mini at $20.40 in the store listing.
Which suits sensitive IEMs?
The Coda lists the lowest noise floor of the four, 2uV.
Which has the most power?
The Allegro BAL lists up to 180mW per channel.
Do they work with iPhones?
Compatibility depends on adapters and the specific device; check each product page before buying.
Sources
PickNexo has not tested these products hands-on; this article summarises official information and reputable reports. Some links are affiliate links, which may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure.
Shop Kiwi Ears