Enable USB audio on any Android 4.0 device

[DanBa]

If you want the USB audio feature enabled via official firmware/kernel, please vote (i.e. request to Google) here:
Issue 24614 - android - Enable USB audio on the Galaxy Nexus (or any Android 4.0 device) - Android - An Open Handset Alliance Project - Google Project Hosting/

Vote: Click on the star (it appears after signing in)


According to Android specs, Android 4.0 devices could support the USB audio feature, i.e. Android 4.0 devices and USB_CLASS_AUDIO compliant devices like standard USB DAC could interoperate:
USB Host and Accessory | Android Developers
UsbConstants | Android Developers

USB audio is enabled in the modded kernel of the Nook tablet allowing USB DAC "FiiO E7" and Nook to interoperate:
xda-developers - View Single Post - [webcam support] USB Host support that YOU can try (now in nightlies)


Some USB DAC:

. Portable FiiO USB DAC/amp:
FiiO

. Portable iBasso USB DAC/amp:
iBasso

. Portable RSA USB DAC/amp:
Emmeline "The Predator" Portable USB DAC/Amp - Ray Samuels Audio

. Portable HeadAmp USB DAC/amp:
HeadAmp - Audio Electronics (pico USB DAC/Amp)

. Portable GoVibe USB DAC/amp:
Jaben Online Store

. Desktop CEntrance USB DAC/amp:
CEntrance -> Products

. Desktop MSB DAC IV :
List Prices


A digital audio system is composed of:

. A storage module: Music is stored in file as a series of bits 0 & 1 with different encoding formats (MP3, WAV, FLAC…).
. A player: The player decodes the bits 0 & 1 to PCM digital audio signals.
. A DAC (Digital to Analog Converter): The DAC converts the PCM digital audio signals to the original analog audio signals.
. An amplifier: The amplifier amplifies the analog audio signals.
. A speaker: The speaker restitutes the music.


Like a PC or a Mac, an Android phone is a digital audio system.

Hopefully, an Android phone, running on a kernel with a USB audio driver, can output the PCM digital audio stream to an external standard USB DAC & amplifier & headphone, much more efficient than the internal DAC & amplifier & speakerphone.

A list of stock Android-powered devices reportedly interworking with standard USB DAC:


stock Android device > digital USB audio out >> USB OTG cable >> standard USB DAC >> amp >> headphones


. Acer Iconia Tab A200 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/15/acer-iconia-tab-a200-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Acer Iconia Tab A500 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/26/acer-iconia-tab-a500-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Archos G9 (tablet):
http://www.anandtech.com/show/5802/the-archos-g9-tablet-reviews-fast-enough
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1539576


. Asus Transformer Pad TF300 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/22/asus-transformer-pad-tf300-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Asus Transformer Pad Infinity TF700 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/25/asus-transformer-pad-infinity-tf700-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Asus Transformer Prime using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/asus-eee-pad-transformer-prime-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Google Galaxy Nexus using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.theverge.com/products/galaxy-nexus-gsm/2946
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=35484769&postcount=52


. Google Nexus 7 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/06/28/nexus-7-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Google Nexus 10 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/02/nexus-10-review/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1110#post_8973836


. HTC Butterfly / HTC Droid DNA / HTC J Butterfly (smartphone):
http://www.htc.com/www/smartphones/htc-butterfly/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1425#post_9082851


. Huawei Ascend D1 Quad XL using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/20/huawei-ascend-d1-quad-xl-review/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/628254/fiio-e18/15#post_8988466


. Huawei MediaPad using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.androidnz.net/2012/09/rapid-review-huawei-mediapadt-mobile.html
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Meizu MX Quad-Core using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.xda-developers.com/android/meizu-mx-quad-core-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Motorola Razr Maxx HD using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/19/droid-razr-hd-and-razr-maxx-hd-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Motorola Xoom using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/23/motorola-xoom-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Samsung Galaxy Camera EK-G100 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (camera):
http://www.digitaltrends.com/digital-camera-reviews/samsung-galaxy-camera-ek-gc100-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Samsung Galaxy Note II (smartphone):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/08/samsung-galaxy-note-ii-review/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs


. Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 (tablet):
http://phandroid.com/samsung-galaxy-note-10-1/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/645#post_8814831


. Samsung Galaxy R using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/samsung-galaxy-r-officially-announced-for-europe-and-asia-nobod/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Samsung Galaxy S III (smartphone):
http://www.theverge.com/2012/5/25/3042640/samsung-galaxy-s-iii-review
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs


. Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/11/samsung-galaxy-tab-2-7-0-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/samsung-galaxy-tab-7-7-review-international-edition/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/15/samsung-galaxy-tab-2-10-1-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Sony Xperia S using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/08/sony-xperia-s-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Sony Xperia Sola using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.androidcentral.com/device/sony-xperia-sola
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Sony Xperia Tablet S using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2012/09/24/sony-xperia-tablet-s-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Toshiba Thrive using USB Audio Recorder PRO (tablet):
http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/22/toshiba-thrive-review/
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/


. Wiko Cink King using USB Audio Recorder PRO (smartphone):
http://www.wikomobile.com/telephone-portable-Cink-king.php
http://www.extreamsd.com/USBAudioRecorderPRO/




A list of standard USB DAC reportedly interworking with the Android-powered smartphone Samsung Galaxy Note II:


stock Galaxy Note II > digital USB audio out >> USB OTG cable (micro-A plug inserted into the Note II) >> standard USB DAC >> amp >> headphones


. Apex Glacier (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/632019/apex-glacier-amp-dac-review-and-appreciation-thread
http://www.head-fi.org/t/632019/apex-glacier-amp-dac-review-and-appreciation-thread/165#post_8924724


. Asus Xonar U3 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.overclockersclub.com/reviews/asus_xonar_u3/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1200#post_8997468


. Audio-gd NFB-16 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/Headphoneamp/NFB16/NFB16EN.htm
http://www.head-fi.org/t/625054/samsung-galaxy-note-2/120#post_8943120


. AudioQuest DragonFly using USB Audio Recorder PRO:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/617241/audioquest-dragonfly-review-affordable-outstanding-tiny-dac-amp
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1035#post_8959237


. CEntrance DACport LX using USB Audio Recorder PRO:
http://www.headfonia.com/cheaper-better-the-centrance-dacport-lx/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1065#post_8968468


. ELE EL-D01:
http://www.cnfeature.com/goods.php?id=1299
http://www.head-fi.org/t/643883/por...note-2-and-grado-sr80i-heaphones#post_9012249


. FiiO E07K Andes (USB DAC/amp): to be confirmed
http://www.headphiles.org/index.php?t=msg&goto=253249&
http://www.head-fi.org/t/638910/new-fiio-e07k-andes-information-and-impressions/15#post_8924515
http://www.head-fi.org/t/628254/fiio-e18/15#post_8973799


. Focal XS 2.1 (USB speakers):
http://reviews.cnet.com/speakers-speaker-systems/focal-xs-speakers-with/4505-6467_7-33618064.html
http://www.homecinema-fr.com/forum/...16-go-android-4-1-2-t30029275.html#p177362999


. GoVibe Magnum (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/324577/review-govibe-magnum-usb-dac-amp
http://www.head-fi.org/t/633201/con...xy-s3-international-us-or-note-2#post_8809248


. GoVibe Martini-U (USB DAC/amp):
http://jaben-bandung.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=196
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/990#post_8942287


. GoVibe Vulcan (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/386127/go-vibe-vulcan
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/960#post_8929084


. HRT HeadStreamer Mobile (USB DAC/amp):
http://highresolutiontechnologies.com/headstreamer-mobile
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f...-note-2-while-using-usb-dac-how-please-14029/


. HeadAmp Pico USB DAC/Amp: bug fixed by HeadAmp
http://www.headfonia.com/headamp-pico/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1305#post_9037872


. HeadAmp Pico Upsampling USB DAC:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/413230/headamp-pico-upsampling-usb-dac-pre-order-now-at-intro-price
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1305#post_9037872


. Headstage Lyrix Pro USB total (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.headphonia.com/Amps/Headstage-Lyrix-Pro-USB-total::10071.html
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/795#post_8854850


. iBasso D-Zero (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.headfonia.com/fiio-e7-meet-your-rival-the-ibasso-d-zero/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/625054/samsung-galaxy-note-2/120#post_8943120


. iBasso D12 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=63
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/405#post_8750862


. Leckerton UHA-6S MKII (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/leckerton-uha-6s-mkii-portable-headphone-amplifier
http://www.head-fi.org/t/625054/samsung-galaxy-note-2/30#post_8777791


. MyST 1866 PortaDAC (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.musicaacoustics.com/wp/amplifiers/myst-1866/
http://player.ru/showthread.php?t=74459&page=34&p=1084707&viewfull=1#post1084707


. Objective DAC (ODAC):
http://epiphany-acoustics.co.uk/our-products/e-dac-24bit-miniature-usb-dac/
http://www.jdslabs.com/item.php?fetchitem=46
http://www.headnhifi.com/index.php/shop/objective/odac
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/435#post_8758515


. ODAC+O2 (USB DAC/amp):
http://epiphany-acoustics.co.uk/our...ure-desktop-headphone-amplifier-with-usb-dac/
http://www.jdslabs.com/item.php?fetchitem=48
http://www.headnhifi.com/index.php/shop/objective/o2120527192048
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/435#post_8758515


. RSA Intruder (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.innerfidelity.com/conten...ruder-balanced-portable-headphone-amp-and-dac
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/660#post_8819856


. RSA Predator (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/predator/predator_2.html
http://www.head-fi.org/t/625054/samsung-galaxy-note-2/120#post_8960049


. Sony PHA-1 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.touchmyapps.com/2012/10/09/sony-pha-1-idevice-dac-and-headphone-amp-in-review/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/465#post_8769593


. Stoner Acoustics UD100:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/626632/tiny-dac-big-sound-impression-of-stoner-acoustics-ud100-vs-odac
http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopic=2449848&st=220&p=56352256&#entry56352256


. VentureCraft Go-Dap X (USB DAC/amp): USB cable provided by VentureCraft
http://www.head-fi.org/t/609906/new-venturecraft-go-dap-x-for-both-idevices-and-pcs
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/465#post_8769593


. xDuoo XP-1 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.jaben.com.hk/ProductView.asp?ID=776&SortID=358
http://www.head-fi.org/t/642504/xduoo-new-company-making-interesting-portable-dac-and-amp-units


. Zoom H4 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (USB recorder):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoom_H4_Handy_Recorder
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=35472432&postcount=23




So far, like the quad-core Exynos powered Galaxy S III, the new quad-core Exynos powered Samsung Galaxy Note II can work with the FiiO E7, the iBasso D12, Leckerton UHA-6S MKII, the ODAC, … ; had some issue with the HeadAmp Pico (bug fixed by HeadAmp); and doesn’t work with the FiiO E17 using the stock USB audio driver.


So, in regard to the USB protocol, the behaviour of the Galaxy Note II is likely identical to the behaviour of the Galaxy S III.




A list of standard USB DAC reportedly interworking with the Android-powered smartphone Samsung Galaxy S III:


stock Samsung Galaxy S III > digital USB audio out >> USB OTG cable (micro-A plug inserted into the S III) >> standard USB DAC >> amp >> headphones


. AMB Gamma 1:
http://www.amb.org/audio/gamma1/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/608535/wolfson-dac-confirmed-for-galaxy-s3/780#post_8750043


. AMB Gamma 2:
http://www.amb.org/audio/gamma2/
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=27247705&postcount=279


. Apex Glacier (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ttvjaudio.com/Apex_High_Fi_Audio_Glacier_portable_headphone_amp_p/aaa0000010.htm
http://www.head-fi.org/t/608535/wolfson-dac-confirmed-for-galaxy-s3/825#post_8776449


. Asus Xonar U3 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.asus.com/Multimedia/Audio_Cards/Xonar_U3/
http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/429589-Samsung-Galaxy-S3?p=8551119&viewfull=1#post8551119


. Atoll DAC 100:
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/atoll2/atoll.html
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=35266076&postcount=17


. Audio-gd Sparrow Version A (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.audio-gd.com/Pro/Headphoneamp/Sparrow/SparrowEN.htm
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/915#post_8907415


. Behringer UCA202 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/UCA202.aspx
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/240#post_8654226


. Behringer UCA222 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.behringer.com/en/Products/UCA222.aspx
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f6-dac-digital-analog-conversion/usb-audio-enabled-android-powered-samsung-galaxy-s-iii-12338/#post171651


. Beresford Caiman:
http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/hi-fi-and-audio/hi-fi-accessories/beresford-caiman-673787/review
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f6-dac-digital-analog-conversion/usb-audio-enabled-android-powered-samsung-galaxy-s-iii-12338/#post171651


. C-Media chipset-based sound card Dynamode 7 channel USB 2.0 (USB DAC/amp):
http://soundplayer.systempebisnisonline.com/speaker/dynamode-7-channel-usb-2-0-sound-card/
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=27604946&postcount=449


. Cakewalk Sonar SPS 25:
https://www.cakewalk.com/support/kb/reader.aspx/2007013101
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f6-dac-digital-analog-conversion/usb-audio-enabled-android-powered-samsung-galaxy-s-iii-12338/#post171651


. Cambridge Audio DacMagic:
http://www.headfonia.com/cambridge-dacmagic-review/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/631855/galaxy-s3-and-ca-dacmagic-plus#post_8899779


. CEntrance DacMini using USB Audio Recorder PRO (USB DAC/amp):
http://centrance.com/products/dacmini/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1200#post_8998731


. Corsair HS1 Gaming headset (USB DAC/amp/headphones):
http://www.anandtech.com/show/3989/corsair-hs1-gaming-headset
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=27238117#post27238117


. Creative Xmod:
http://reviews.cnet.com/external-audio-adapters/creative-xmod/4505-9335_7-32105686.html
http://www.forum-audiophile.fr/musique-demat/fonction-usb-audio-a-activer-dans-android-t24441-60.html#p336853


. Dared MP 5 or ALO JV5 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue24/dared_mp5.htm
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/990#post_8948190


. ELE EL-D01:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/586909/the-discovery-thread-new-dannybs-first-take-ath-ckn50-pg383-ele-hi-fi-usb-18-dac-pg-328/4905#post_8886336
http://www.head-fi.org/t/642554/fiio-e7-galaxy-s3-questions-for-car-audio/15#post_8991125


. FiiO E7 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.headfonia.com/fiio-e7-portable-dac/
http://www.androidnz.net/2012/07/galaxy-s-iii-real-user-review-part-2.html


. FiiO E07K Andes (USB DAC/amp): to be confirmed
http://headfonics.com/2012/12/fiio-e07k-the-andes/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/638910/new-fiio-e07k-andes-information-and-impressions/15#post_8924515
http://www.head-fi.org/t/628254/fiio-e18/15#post_8973799


. FiiO E17 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.headfonia.com/the-upgrade-fiio-e17-alpen/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1020#post_8958018


. Furutech ADL Cruise (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.furutech.com/a2008/product2.asp?prodNo=399
http://www.head-fi.org/t/608535/wolfson-dac-confirmed-for-galaxy-s3/585#post_8567838


. GoVibe DAC:
http://jaben.net/forums/index.php?topic=2824.0
http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopic=2440879&st=500&p=53317360&#entry53317360


. GoVibe Mini USB DAC:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/566934/introducing-the-govibe-mini-usb-dac
http://www.head-fi.org/t/614111/finally-digital-out-for-galaxy-siii/15#post_8525675


. GoVibe Petite (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/290711/govibe-petite-dac-amp-appreciation-thread-pics-little-update
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs-how-to-increase-the-issues-priority-with-google/195#post_8552452


. HRT HeadStreamer (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.headfonia.com/hrt-headstreamer-review/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/608535/wolfson-dac-confirmed-for-galaxy-s3/750#post_8677483


. HRT Music Streamer II:
http://highresolutiontechnologies.com/music-streamer-ii
http://www.head-fi.org/t/608535/wolfson-dac-confirmed-for-galaxy-s3/465#post_8534856


. HeadAmp Pico USB DAC/Amp: bug fixed by HeadAmp
http://www.head-fi.org/t/258967/headamp-pico-portable-amp-w-optional-upsampling-24-96-usb-dac-pre-order-thread
http://www.head-fi.org/t/632019/apex-glacier-amp-dac-review-and-appreciation-thread/270#post_9036297
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1305#post_9037872


. HeadAmp Pico Upsampling USB DAC:
http://www.headamp.com/pico/pico_usb_dac/index.htm
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1305#post_9037872


. HeadRoom Total BitHead (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.headphone.com/learning-center/bithead-faq.php
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs-how-to-increase-the-issues-priority-with-google/135#post_8527516


. HeadStage USB DAC cable:
http://www.inearmatters.net/2010/04/short-review-headstage-usb-dac-cable.html
http://www.headphiles.org/index.php/topic,4452.msg241979.html#msg241979


. HiFiMan Express HM-101:
http://www.head-fi.org/t/571330/hifiman-express-brand-and-hm-101-portable-usb-dac
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=27284184&postcount=291


. HiFimeDIY Sabre USB DAC using USB Audio Recorder PRO:
http://hifimediy.com/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=83
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=36704343&postcount=75


. Hippo CriCri+ using USB Audio Recorder PRO (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/626412/review-hippo-cricri-what-more-could-you-ask-from-this
http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopic=2222840&st=60&p=57358183&#entry57358183


. iBasso D-Zero (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=73
http://www.head-fi.org/t/571116/review-ibasso-d-zero-with-fiio-e7-comparison/30#post_8933882


. iBasso D2 Boa (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=30
http://www.head-fi.org/t/552014/pictures-of-your-portable-rig-part-xv/5535#post_8509186


. iBasso D2+ Boa (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=42
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/f6-dac-digital-analog-conversion/usb-audio-enabled-android-powered-samsung-galaxy-s-iii-12338/#post171651


. iBasso D5 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/556490/ibasso-d5-hj-yet-another-usb-dac-amp
http://www.head-fi.org/t/614111/finally-digital-out-for-galaxy-siii#post_8462693


. iBasso D6 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=69
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1170#post_8980613


. iBasso D10 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=39
http://www.head-fi.org/t/628374/samsung-galaxy-s3-to-dac-usb-micro-b-male-to-mini-b-male#post_8735134


. iBasso D12 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=63
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=29069294&postcount=924


. iBasso DB2 using USB Audio Recorder PRO:
http://www.ibasso.com/en/products/show.asp?ID=71
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1035#post_8959039


. iQube v2 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.i-qube.nl/index.php?id=24
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=31207282&postcount=1268


. JH Audio JH-3A (USB DSP/DAC/amp/JH16 CIEM):
http://www.jhaudio.com/product/jh-3a-dsp-amp-jh16-pro-custom-ear-monitor
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/585#post_8799910


. Jabra GN 5035 (USB headset):
http://reviews.cnet.com/headsets/jabra-gn5035-headset/4505-13831_7-32462996.html
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=33203364&postcount=1368


. KingRex UD-01:
http://www.kingrex.co.uk/dac.html
https://www.facebook.com/headfonia/posts/352787358128700


. Leckerton UHA-4 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.leckertonaudio.com/products/uha-4/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/536982/leckerton-audio-slimline-uha-4/1020#post_8773152


. Leckerton UHA-6S MKII (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.leckertonaudio.com/products/uha-6s-mkii/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/602493/new-leckerton-uha-6s-mkii-portable-headphone-amplifier-announced-update-user-impressions-added-july-20th-2012/435#post_8698006


. Logitech wíreless gaming headset G930 (USB wireless headset):
http://www.logitech.com/en-gb/product/7248?crid=721
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1215#post_9004830


. M-Audio Duo USB Audio Interface:
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/oct02/articles/maudio.asp
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/540#post_8788814


. Matrix Mini-i (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.headfonia.com/matrix-mini-i-balanced-dac/
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/465#post_8768166


. Meier Audio Cantate.2 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/products/meier-audio-corda-cantate-2
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/660#post_8820899


. Microsoft Philips Digital Sound System 80 (USB DAC/amp/speakers):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Sound_System_80
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1703218


. Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000 (USB headset):
http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/en-au/p/lifechat-lx-3000/JUG-00003
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=32899845&postcount=1355


. MyST 1866 PortaDAC (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/616889/myst-1866-bluetooth-optical-coaxial-usb-dac-headphone-amp-impressions-thread
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/795#post_8852573


. NuForce Icon HDP (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.nuforce.com/hp/products/iconhdp/index.php
http://www.head-fi.org/t/608535/wolfson-dac-confirmed-for-galaxy-s3/585#post_8567838


. NuForce Icon Mobile (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/nuforce10/mobile.html
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/435#post_8759826


. NuForce Icon uDAC-2 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.digitaltrends.com/headphone-amplifier-reviews/nuforce-icon-udac-2-review/
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=35266076&postcount=17


. Objective DAC (ODAC):
http://epiphany-acoustics.co.uk/our-products/e-dac-24bit-miniature-usb-dac/
http://www.jdslabs.com/item.php?fetchitem=46
http://www.headnhifi.com/index.php/shop/objective/odac
http://www.head-fi.org/t/628374/samsung-galaxy-s3-to-dac-usb-micro-b-male-to-mini-b-male/30#post_8939722


. ODAC+O2 (USB DAC/amp):
http://epiphany-acoustics.co.uk/our-products/ehp-o2d-miniature-desktop-headphone-amplifier-with-usb-dac/
http://www.jdslabs.com/item.php?fetchitem=48
http://www.headnhifi.com/index.php/shop/objective/o2120527192048
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=410941392302962&id=164588276945555


. Ordnance .25 (USB DAC/amp):
http://jaben.net/forums/index.php?topic=9984.0
http://www.head-fi.org/t/614111/finally-digital-out-for-galaxy-siii#post_8462693


. RSA Intruder (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/intruder
http://www.head-fi.org/t/627080/new-balanced-portable-amp-from-rsa-w-dac/30#post_8781567


. RSA Predator (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.raysamuelsaudio.com/products/predator
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/150#post_8538933


. Sony PHA-1 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/624676/sony-pha-1-portable-dac-amp
http://www.head-fi.org/t/645086/samsung-galaxy-s3-and-hd598s#post_9033830


. Stoner Acoustics UD100:
http://stoneracoustics.blogspot.fr/
http://forum.lowyat.net/index.php?showtopic=2452730&st=160&p=54596977&#entry54596977


. Syba SD-AUD20101:
http://www.sybausa.com/productInfo.php?iid=1191
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/375#post_8736082


. Topping D1 Mark 2 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.head-fi.org/t/636606/topping-d1-mark-2-review
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=28673076&postcount=871


. Topping D2 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.mightybigword.com/tnt/2012/03/topping-d2-dac-review/
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=32920194&postcount=1357


. Topping TP30 (USB DAC/amp):
http://news.cnet.com/8300-5_3-0.html?keyword=Topping+TP-30
http://www.androidnz.net/2012/05/samsung-galaxy-s-iii-usb-audio.html


. Turtle Beach Audio Advantage Micro II:
http://linkai8424.blogspot.fr/2011/03/turtle-beach-audio-advantage-micro-ii.html
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/1155#post_8978516


. Unique Melody PP6 using USB Audio Recorder PRO (USB DSP/DAC/amp/CIEM):
http://www.custom-iem.com/um-platform-pure-pp6-p-670.html
http://www.head-fi.org/t/613417/unique-melody-platform-pure-6-pp6-discussion-appreciation-tour-thread/360#post_8965862


. VentureCraft Go-Dap X (USB DAC/amp): USB cable provided by VentureCraft
http://venturecraft.jp/gadget_en/gdx.php
http://www.head-fi.org/t/595071/android-phones-and-usb-dacs/315#post_8708233


. xDuoo XP-1 (USB DAC/amp):
http://www.xduoo.com/xduoo/ProductShow.asp?ID=47
http://www.erji.net/read.php?tid=1320392&fpage=0&toread=&page=1

 

[DanBa]

Thank you for your votes!

The USB audio request is currently ranked 50, and there are 17550 requests.
Issue 24614 - android - Enable USB audio on the Galaxy Nexus (or any Android 4.0 device) - Android - An Open Handset Alliance Project - Google Project Hosting

In fact, it is ranked in top 10 of less than one year old requests.

 

[peterpressure]

Guys!!!!!! It is in Jelly Bean!!!USB Audio Out support in Android 4.1!!!!Now they just need Audio input support then I am all set...Android 4.1 for Developers | Android DevelopersUSB AudioUSB audio output support allows hardware vendors to build hardware such as audio docks that interface with Android devices. This functionality is also exposed with the Android Open Accessory Development Kit (ADK) to give all developers the chance to create their own hardware.

 

[DanBa]

The USB DAC recommended by Google is a new type of device. It is not compatible with PC or Mac.
Android Open Accessory Protocol 2.0 | Android Developers
Accessory Development Kit 2012 Guide | Android Developers

A legacy USB DAC compatible with PC / Mac acts as a USB device, and a PC / Mac acts as a USB host.
A USB DAC recommended by Google acts as a USB host, and a Android smartphone / tablet acts as a USB device.

Personally, I prefer the legacy USB audio feature implemented by Samsung on Galaxy S III, which can interwork with a legacy USB DAC like FiiO E7 or ODAC.

The legacy USB audio feature is still specified in the Android specs:
USB Host and Accessory | Android Developers
USB Host | Android Developers
UsbConstants | Android Developers
"USB_CLASS_AUDIO USB class for audio devices"

 

[DanBa]

An Android 4.1 Jelly Bean-powered device can have both USB audio out modes: standard USB audio out and Android-specific USB audio out.
These features are at the Android kernel level.
http://developer.android.com/tools/adk/aoa...l#audio-support


"Android Open Accessory Protocol 2.0 includes optional support for audio output from an Android device to an accessory. This version of the protocol supports a standard USB audio class interface that is capable of 2 channel 16-bit PCM audio with a bit rate of 44100 Khz. AOA 2.0 is currently limited to this output mode, but additional audio modes may be added in the future.
To enable the audio support, the accessory must send a new USB control request: SET_AUDIO_MODE"

It should be easy to enable standard USB audio out and Android-specific USB audio out on an Android 4.1 Jelly Bean-powered device with USB host capability.


Let's keep up the pressure on Google and the Android device manufacturers for the standard USB audio out:
http://code.google.com/p/android/issues/de...Summary Stars

 

[DanBa]

A list of standard USB DAC reportedly interworking with the Android-powered smartphone Samsung Galaxy S III for the time being:

Samsung Galaxy S III > digital audio stream >> USB OTG cable with USB Micro-A plug inserted in the S III >> standard USB DAC >> amp >> headphones

. AMB Labs Gamma2:
The γ2 Compact High Performance DAC
xda-developers - View Single Post - Official Sound Quality thread

. C-Media chipset-based sound card Dynamode 7 channel USB 2.0:
Cables - Cheap Cables from Cables Manufacturer. View product (40099516) info.
xda-developers - View Single Post - Official Sound Quality thread

. Corsair HS1 Gaming headset (USB DAC/amp/headphones):
AnandTech - Corsair HS1 Gaming Headset
Galaxy sIII definitely works with usb speakers - xda-developers

. FiiO E7 (USB DAC/amp):
FIIO-Amplifier
AndroidNZ: The Galaxy S III "Real-user" Review: Part 2 - Entertainment and media - Music and video playback, gaming, browser

. GoVibe Mini USB DAC:
Jaben Audio — Go-Vibe Mini USB DAC
Finally, digital out for Galaxy SIII

. HeadAmp Pico (USB DAC/amp):
HeadAmp - Audio Electronics (pico USB DAC/Amp)
Wolfson DAC confirmed for Galaxy S3!

. HeadRoom Total BitHead (USB DAC/amp):
FAQs - BitHead Portable Headphone Amplifier | HeadRoom Audio
Android phones and USB DACs - how to increase the issues priority with Google

. HiFiMan Express HM-101:
HIFIMAN EXPRESS Brand and HM-101 Portable USB DAC
xda-developers - View Single Post - Official Sound Quality thread

. iBasso D2 Boa (USB DAC/amp):
iBasso
Pictures Of Your Portable Rig (part XV)

. iBasso D5 (USB DAC/amp):
iBasso D5 Hj - Yet Another USB DAC/Amp
Finally, digital out for Galaxy SIII

. iBasso D12 (USB DAC/amp):
iBasso
Finally, digital out for Galaxy SIII

. Microsoft Philips Digital Sound System 80 (USB DAC/amp/speakers):
Digital Sound System 80 - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Galaxy sIII definitely works with usb speakers - xda-developers

. Objective DAC (ODAC):
E-DAC 24bit miniature USB DAC | Epiphany Acoustics
JDS Labs - Standalone ODAC
ODAC
https://plus.google.com/107354758331405644147/posts/PCaM42irMeU

. ODAC+O2 (USB DAC/amp):
EHP-O2D miniature desktop headphone amplifier with USB DAC | Epiphany Acoustics
JDS Labs - O2+ODAC Combo
O2+ODAC Headphone Amplifier / DAC combo
https://plus.google.com/107354758331405644147/posts/PCaM42irMeU

. RSA Predator (USB DAC/amp):
Emmeline "The Predator" Portable USB DAC/Amp - Ray Samuels Audio
Enable USB audio on any Android 4.0 device

. Topping D1 Mark 2 (USB DAC/amp):
Google Translate
xda-developers - View Single Post - Official Sound Quality thread

. Topping TP30 (USB DAC/amp):
Topping TP-30 posts on CNET
AndroidNZ: The Samsung Galaxy S III: USB audio confirmed!

 

[DanBa]

The Samsung Galaxy S III interworks with the asynchronous USB DAC HRT Streamer II:
Wolfson DAC confirmed for Galaxy S3!

Samsung Galaxy S III > digital audio stream >> USB OTG cable with USB Micro-A plug inserted in the S III >> asynchronous USB DAC HRT Streamer II >> cMoyBB headphone amplifier >> headphones

 

[DanBa]

Samsung Galaxy S III interworks with RSA Predator:
Android phones and USB DACs - how to increase the issues priority with Google


"Just purchased a usb otg cable today and tried out with my RSA predator, works without any problem.
What a suprise! the sound quality actually upgraded, from iPod classic + Predator(amp only) to SIII + Predator(DAC/amp)"


Samsung Galaxy S III > digital audio stream >> USB OTG cable >> USB DAC/amp RSA Predator >> IEM

 

[DanBa]

The combo "Odac + Neco V3" is very well-praised:
NECO SOUNDLABS PORTABLE V.2 AMP

"ODAC + NECO V.3 + Sennheiser HD580 = A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN.
I can't tell you how beautiful this rig sounds. We all know how well the HD580/600 scales with better sources and amps.. but synergy is often undervalued. The ODAC is beautifully resolving and clean.. but the Neco really steals the show, IMO.
My V.3 has the 8610s & lithium battery.. and boy, does the HD580 love it. A DEAD silent background, fantastic dynamic range.. and the artful Sennheiser sound.. on steroids! Treble has spectacular air, crispness, and detail.. the mids are very very transparent and deep.. with the bass coming tight and punchy. One thing I've really noticed the Senn benefits from is the V.3's dual opamp setup.. which provide fantastic channel separation, imaging, and soundstage. It's so immersive.. I can listen to this setup for hours on end. I like this little combo more than my desktop rig (via the tube or SS output!) and the ODAC+O2 (which is a little too clinical). For those one the fence about this amp.. stop waffling.. it's a GEM.
I also dropped the gain jumpers in so I've got it set at low gain (2.3x) since it's being used with the ODAC (2 Vrms output). the Neco it quite ably drives the HE-500, btw. Very clean & dynamic, again.

When driving the HE-500.. I like this combo more than the O2."


The Odac USB DAC can interwork with an Android powered smartphone Samsung Galaxy S III as well as with a PC or a Mac.

Odac USB DAC:
E-DAC 24bit miniature USB DAC | Epiphany Acoustics JDS Labs - Standalone ODAC
ODAC

Neco V3 amp :
new V3 DUAL AMP portable headphone amplifier | eBay

 

[peterpressure]

Anyone try with the Nexus 7 yet?

I received my Nexus 7, waiting for my OTG cable to arrive this week and I will try a few DACs I have around.

 

[DanBa]

As expected, for the time being the Nexus 7 doesn't interwork with standard USB DAC like FiiO E7 or FiiO E17:
Google Nexus 7 Tablet (Tegra 3)

 

[tonymail]

Thank you for sharing this helpful post it is very interesting and read worthy.

 

[DanBa]

A stock Jelly Bean powered Nexus 7 should be able to interwork with an upcoming Android-specific USB audio out-capable USB DAC, like the Gear4 speaker dock, that acts a USB host (and the Nexus 7 as a USB peripheral).
Gear4 speaker dock supports USB audio for Jelly Bean at Google I/O 2012 (hands-on video) -- Engadget

Nexus 7 operating as a USB peripheral > digital audio stream >> Android-specific USB DAC "Gear4 speaker dock" operating as a USB host > Gear4 speaker dock’s amp > Gear4 speaker dock’s speakers

Anyway, the Android-specific USB audio driver is included in the Jelly Bean kernel source code of the Nexus 7:
[REF] All In One Nexus 7 Jelly Bean Android Development ! Sources,Roms,Kernels etc - xda-developers
https://github.com/edoko/Air_Kernel_for_GN/blob/master/drivers/usb/gadget/f_audio_source.c#L2

2 * Gadget Function Driver for USB audio source device
4 * Copyright (C) 2012 Google, Inc.

43 .bInterfaceClass = USB_CLASS_AUDIO,
44 .bInterfaceSubClass = USB_SUBCLASS_AUDIOCONTROL,

308 .bInterfaceClass = USB_CLASS_AUDIO,
309 .bInterfaceSubClass = USB_SUBCLASS_AUDIOSTREAMING,


The standard USB audio driver is also included in the Jelly Bean kernel source code of the Nexus 7:
https://github.com/drewis/android_k...tegra3-grouper-3.1-jb-fr2/sound/usb/card.c#L2

2 * (Tentative) USB Audio Driver for ALSA

174 if ((altsd->bInterfaceClass != USB_CLASS_AUDIO &&
175 altsd->bInterfaceClass != USB_CLASS_VENDOR_SPEC) ||
176 altsd->bInterfaceSubClass != USB_SUBCLASS_AUDIOSTREAMING) {


692 .bInterfaceClass = USB_CLASS_AUDIO,
693 .bInterfaceSubClass = USB_SUBCLASS_AUDIOCONTROL }

a standard USB audio-enabled Nexus 7 operating as a USB host > digital audio stream >> standard USB DAC like FiiO E7 or Objective DAC operating as a USB peripheral >> amp >> headphones


It’s up to us to require Google & Android device manufacturers to enable standard USB audio!
Issue 24614 - android - Enable USB audio on the Galaxy Nexus (or any Android 4.0 device) - Android - An Open Handset Alliance Project - Google Project Hosting

 

[peterpressure]

The standard USB audio driver is also included in the Jelly Bean kernel source code of the Nexus 7:
https://github.com/drewis/android_k...tegra3-grouper-3.1-jb-fr2/sound/usb/card.c#L2

It’s up to us to require Google & Android device manufacturers to enable standard USB audio!
Issue 24614 - android - Enable USB audio on the Galaxy Nexus (or any Android 4.0 device) - Android - An Open Handset Alliance Project - Google Project Hosting

What about an app that enables this standard USB driver on rooted devices. Not the best, but a solution for now.
Google Nexus 7 Tablet (Tegra 3)

 

[DanBa]

Instructions of Tsynik, who has successfully enabled the standard USB audio feature on some Android-powered tablets:
USB audio cards support (drivers and libs) - SlateDroid.com
"There are no special code for support USB sound devices in Android itself. It's all in Hardware Abstraction Layer, so it's always device specific.

We just need 3 base things:
1st: USB Host support in Android kernel.
2nd. USB audio driver, in kernel, or compiled as a module.
3rd. Some logic to switch to USB audio card, or back to internal one. So, it can be checkbox in Android preferences, or automatic switching via init.rc and it's on-device-added events. Last thing is your choise, you can set it in many ways (as it's controlled by property change, or, on other devices, by asound.conf rules), but it's not universal yet."