Okay, let's get some things out of the way first:
If you don't use a special music player app on Android like USB Audio Player Pro, HiBy Music, or Neutron Player, get ready for low volume.
If you prefer a less balanced, bass-heavy sound with less definition, get a regular Samsung USB-C Headset Jack Adapter.
With that being said, it's time for the review!
Equipment used for testing:
-Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G (USB-C 3.2, USB On-The-Go)
-Moondrop Aria
-Status Audio CB-1
-Tripowin TC-01
-Soundcore Life Q30 (Wired mode, balanced EQ)
I decided to try this adapter because I saw many people praising it, even though it's not originally designed for Android. So, lo and behold:
My first impression when I got the box was that the unit was nicely packaged. I confirmed when I unboxed the unit. Having the unit in my hands was quite bizarre, since the USB-C male port and the 3.5mm female jack feel quite nice, with glossy plastic. On the other hand, the cable itself feels flimsy and like it'll break if I'm a little rough with the unit.
Connecting it to my Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 5G and without using any app, I get a good amount of volume, not enough for some, but okay enough to listen to Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, or any other music streaming service you prefer in a nice, quiet environment. Again, go for the Samsung USB-C Headset Jack Adapter if you want to make your ears bleed.
If you really want to make this adapter shine, use USB Audio Player Pro, HiBy Music, Neutron Music, or another Android music player app that bypasses Android's sound source. It can get plenty loud with minimal distortion if you have some good earphones, earbuds, in-ear monitors, or headphones. You can also use 16/24bit and 44.1/48kHz (with USB Audio Player Pro you can get bit-perfect sound output as long as you have files with those bit rates and resolutions. Anything else will be resampled).
The sound is quite clean and neutral/flat. Don't expect a huge bass, but a tight, detailed one. The mids are upfront and you'll be in a little heaven if you listen to some vocal-driven music. The high frequencies aren't harsh or piercing. They do feel good enough without being super detailed. I'd say that the sound from this unit is definitely enjoyable; a little bit analytical but not bright, and you can definitely appreciate any music genre you throw at it.
The instrument separation is very good, not amazing but very good. Imaging is quite okay, above your phone for sure. The soundstage feels not so wide, but it still feels a little open.
There's no perceptible hiss, which is something great, compared to the Samsung USB-C Headset Jack Adapter. The latter one has a quite noticeable background noise.
And now, the reason I give it five stars: $8.28. That's how much I paid for such a nice Dongle-DAC. There are other options out there, like the Xumee USB-C to 3.5 mm Adapter and the CX31993, but they're around $13.00 and $16.00 respectively. For $9.00 approx., this is an easy recommendation for any music lover and starter audiophile who uses Android (especially if you listen to well-produced music).