AudioQuest DragonTail USB Extension

The AudioQuest DragonTail is a roughly 11.5-centimeter-short USB extension that provides a USB-A socket for your stick DAC on one end and the plug your device requires on the other. That solves the most banal problem of mobile digital playback: the DragonFly doesn't fit where the port is.

Why the DragonTail?

A USB stick DAC is wider than a memory stick and readily covers the neighboring port, bumps against housing edges, or sits so awkwardly on a tablet that any movement tugs at the plug. The DragonTail moves the converter a bit further away – and it doesn't do that with cheap material, but with semi-solid conductors and 5% silver, Hard-Cell Foam insulation, and carbon-based noise dissipation. In other words, with the construction AudioQuest otherwise uses in its Carbon class.

What you get

Three versions, all with a USB-A socket for the stick DAC: USB-A for computers and laptops, Micro-USB (OTG) for older Android devices, and USB-C for current smartphones, tablets and laptops.

Who is the DragonTail for – and who isn't it for?

Straight talk: as a connection between a streamer and a desktop DAC, it's the wrong tool – proper USB audio cables exist for that. Its place is right at the mobile device, when a stick DAC otherwise doesn't sit cleanly. If you can already comfortably plug in your DragonFly, you don't need it. Everyone else will wonder after two days how they ever managed without it.

Our verdict

A small part, a big difference in everyday use – and technically far beyond what a standard adapter offers. We'll tell you which of the three versions suits your device in a quick chat: HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, 044 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Technical data

• Type: short USB 2.0 extension for USB stick DACs
• Length: approx. 11.5 cm (4.5 inches)
• Device-side connector: USB-A, Micro-USB (OTG) or USB-C – depending on version
• DAC-side connector: USB-A socket
• Conductors: semi-solid, 5% silver
• Insulation: Hard-Cell Foam
• Noise dissipation: carbon-based noise-dissipation system

Frequently asked questions

How long is the DragonTail?

Roughly 11.5 centimeters, or 4.5 inches. That's deliberately kept short: enough to get a wide stick DAC clear of a tightly built connection panel, but too short to dangle around anywhere. For real distances, you're better off with a regular USB audio cable from the Forest or Cinnamon series.

Which variant do I need for my device?

All three end in a USB-A socket, where your stick DAC plugs in. The connector at the other end differs: USB-A for laptops and computers, Micro-USB in OTG mode for older Android devices, USB-C for current smartphones and tablets. Tell us your device, and we'll pick the right one.

Does the DragonTail only fit the DragonFly?

No. Any USB stick DAC or even an ordinary USB device fits into the USB-A socket. The DragonTail was developed for the DragonFly family, but the principle works just as well with other compact converters that would otherwise bump into the neighboring connector or block the port next to it. If in doubt, just ask us.

What's technically inside the DragonTail?

More than in a hardware-store adapter: semi-solid conductors with 5% silver, Hard-Cell Foam insulation, and carbon-based noise dissipation – in other words, the construction AudioQuest otherwise uses in its Carbon class. That keeps the short intermediate stretch electrically clean, instead of eating back up the convenience you just gained.

Why order the DragonTail from HD Zürisee?

Because we first clarify which port your device has, and if needed, recommend the matching stick DAC right along with it. Our team in Wädenswil has looked after headphone and computer audio for years and has already solved the typical connection problems dozens of times. Get in touch by phone or WhatsApp.

Goes well with

The matching converter is among the DACs & D/A Converters, stationary connections are under USB Cables, and the rest of the brand's range awaits in the AudioQuest world.