Check the USB-C adapter and built-in DAC before plugging wired earphones into your phone

How do analog pass-through and built-in DAC adapters differ?

USB-C audio adapters fall into two main categories. The first is analog pass-through adapters, where the smartphone's internal DAC outputs analog audio directly across dedicated pins on the USB-C port. These adapters contain no conversion chips and simply route wires, making them inexpensive, but they only work if the phone hardware specifically supports analog audio accessory mode over USB-C.

In contrast, adapters with a built-in DAC receive pure digital audio streams from the smartphone and convert them into analog signals using an onboard chipset. Most modern smartphones, including recent models from Apple and Samsung, do not send analog signals through their USB-C ports, requiring a digital adapter with an integrated DAC. Information checked on October 25, 2026.

Why is there no sound when connected to a Galaxy or iPhone?

If your smartphone displays an unsupported audio accessory warning or continues playing audio through its built-in speakers, you have likely connected an analog pass-through adapter. According to official Samsung customer support documentation, Galaxy smartphones follow digital USB Type-C audio standards. Without an internal DAC in the adapter, the device cannot recognize the connected headphones.

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series also adhere to standard digital USB audio specifications. Connecting an official Apple USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, an MFi-certified dongle, or a compatible digital DAC adapter immediately switches audio output to headphones. Always confirm that product descriptions state "built-in DAC" or "digital audio adapter" before purchasing.

Should you choose an adapter or integrated USB-C earphones?

If you already own quality earphones with a 3.5mm plug, getting a digital DAC adapter is the most economical solution. On the other hand, if you are buying new earphones, choosing a pair with a native USB-C connector can be more convenient. Native USB-C earphones incorporate a miniature DAC directly into the plug housing, ensuring a secure and tidy connection without extra dongles.

When using earphones with an inline microphone and volume controls, make sure the adapter supports 4-pole CTIA wiring. If you plug a headset with a mic into a 3-pole audio-only adapter, music will play normally, but the microphone and inline remote buttons will not function.

What should you check for high-resolution lossless listening?

When playing 24-bit lossless audio on streaming platforms like Apple Music, standard bundled DAC dongles generally support resolutions up to 24-bit/48 kHz. For everyday listening and standard lossless streaming tiers, 48 kHz delivers excellent clarity.

However, to experience Hi-Res Lossless recordings mastered at 24-bit/96 kHz or 192 kHz without downsampling, you will need an external portable high-performance DAC. Verify whether your smartphone operating system and playback application support direct bit-perfect streaming at those sample rates by checking the manufacturer specifications.

For more details on audio streaming quality and wireless settings, continue with the lossless audio settings guide. Review your download quality options alongside your wired setup.