Celest CD-3 Portable USB DAC/Amp with 3.5mm & 4.4mm Outputs

Celest CD-3 Portable USB DAC & Headphone Amplifier

The Celest CD-3 adds dedicated digital-to-analogue conversion and headphone amplification to compatible phones, tablets and computers. Its KT02H20 audio codec and OPA97220 headphone amplifier support PCM playback up to 32-bit/384kHz, with both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs.

Key Features

• KT02H20 audio codec paired with an OPA97220 headphone amplifier.
• PCM support up to 32-bit/384kHz with a compatible source and application.
• 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs.
• Rated output power: 30mW at 32Ω via 3.5mm and 120mW at 32Ω via 4.4mm.
• 3.5mm microphone support for compatible headsets and host devices.
• USB Audio Class 2.0 connectivity through a USB Type-C input.
• Compact 48 × 20 × 11mm body weighing approximately 20.4g.
• Powered directly by the connected source, with no separate charger required.

Dedicated Dual-Chip Audio Design

The KT02H20 handles digital audio conversion while the OPA97220 provides dedicated headphone amplification. Connect the CD-3 between your compatible device and wired earphones for a compact listening setup at your desk, on your commute or while travelling.

Single-Ended and Balanced Outputs

Choose the 3.5mm output for compatible single-ended headphones or the 4.4mm output for headphones fitted with a suitable balanced cable. The balanced connection uses separate positive and negative signal paths for each channel. Its higher rated output provides an alternative for compatible earphones that benefit from additional power.

The 3.5mm jack also supports headset microphones for calls and gaming voice chat, subject to headset wiring, operating-system and application compatibility. Microphone support is not specified for the 4.4mm output.

Designed for Portable Headphones and IEMs

Celest specifies the CD-3 for headphones in the 16–32Ω range. Rated power is 30mW at 32Ω through the 3.5mm output and 120mW at 32Ω through the 4.4mm output. Suitability also depends on headphone sensitivity and listening level; demanding over-ear headphones may require a more powerful amplifier.

USB Audio Class 2.0 Connectivity

The CD-3 uses the UAC2.0 protocol and is listed as compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and HarmonyOS. Plug-and-play operation requires a host device with compatible USB audio support. Older systems may require configuration or drivers. Devices without a USB-C connection may require a suitable data adapter or cable, not specified as included.

Compact, Source-Powered Design

At approximately 20.4g, the CD-3 fits easily into a pocket or headphone case. The USB-C connection supplies both digital audio and power from the source device. The included Type-C cable connects compatible USB-C sources without a separate power adapter.

Audio Performance

Manufacturer-listed measurements include a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 100dB, dynamic range greater than 100dB at 1kHz, and total harmonic distortion no higher than 0.018% at 1kHz. Actual results depend on the source, load and measurement conditions.

Specifications

• Model: Celest CD-3
• Type: Portable USB DAC and headphone amplifier
• Chipset: KT02H20 + OPA97220
• PCM decoding: Up to 384kHz / 32-bit
• Digital input: USB Type-C
• USB audio protocol: UAC2.0
• Headphone outputs: 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced
• 3.5mm rated power: 30mW at 32Ω
• 4.4mm rated power: 120mW at 32Ω
• Recommended headphone impedance: 16–32Ω
• Microphone support: 3.5mm jack, with compatible headset and host
• Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz; supplied specification lists +3dB tolerance
• Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥100dB
• Dynamic range: >100dB at 1kHz
• Total harmonic distortion: ≤0.018% at 1kHz
• Dimensions: Approximately 48 × 20 × 11mm
• Weight: Approximately 20.4g
• Power: USB bus-powered
• Listed operating systems: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS and HarmonyOS

What's in the Box

• 1 × Celest CD-3 portable USB DAC/amp
  

Compatibility Notes

Check USB audio support and headphone connector compatibility before ordering. Maximum PCM resolution depends on your source device, playback software and audio files. The 4.4mm socket is a balanced headphone output, not a microphone input.

Product Details