Strauss & Wagner Rue Review

Gone are the days of every device having a headphone jack. Nowadays, most devices are aligned on the USB-C port for audio processing. This shift creates a need for adapters and dongles to maximize audio device compatibility. With numerous dongle options available at various price points, finding a portable and efficient solution can be challenging. That’s why Strauss & Wagner has introduced the Rue, a powerful USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter. At MajorHifi, we’ve been long-time fans of Strauss & Wagner’s work. Does the Rue live up to the company’s high standards? Let’s find out.

What’s in the Box:

• Rue USB-C to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter

Build Quality:

The Rue USB-C to 3.5mm DAC/Adapter showcases excellent build quality with a premium silver construction that enhances both durability and conductivity. This choice of material ensures the adapter’s longevity while adding an elegant touch to your audio setup. The compact design, with a total length of 10cm (3.9 in.), strikes a balance between portability and robustness, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go audio needs. Each component of the Rue is crafted with precision, ensuring it can withstand regular use while maintaining a sleek and professional appearance. The high-quality construction reflects Strauss & Wagner’s commitment to excellence, ensuring that the Rue performs exceptionally well under various conditions.

Technical Design:

The Rue’s design focuses on delivering superior audio performance through advanced technology. At its core is a 32-bit DAC with the 5686 chipset, ensuring high-quality digital-to-analog conversion for an exceptional audio experience. The adapter features a 3.5mm female socket and a USB-C plug, providing seamless connectivity between USB-C enabled devices and traditional audio devices. This design preserves the original sound’s integrity while enhancing audio clarity and detail, offering substantial power for moderately demanding headphones. The integration of the 5686 chipset highlights the Rue’s capability to handle high-resolution audio files, making it a perfect choice for audiophiles who demand the best in portable audio solutions.

Sound Impressions:

To test the Rue’s performance capabilities, I used devices that would present somewhat of a challenge, such as the Final Audio E5000 IEMs and the newly released Sennheiser HD620S headphones. Despite their moderate difficulty to drive, the Rue handled them impressively.

Starting with the E5000, the Rue pushed volume to appropriate levels while maintaining Strauss & Wagner’s signature transparency. The E5000’s warm sound character remained intact, with punchy bass, textured midbass, and clear, present treble. The Rue notably improved the E5000’s soundstage, providing exceptional clarity and resolution. The adapter’s ability to enhance the E5000’s natural sound profile without introducing any noticeable distortion or coloration is particularly commendable.

Moving to the HD620S, I initially worried that the 150-ohm impedance might be too challenging for the Rue. However, the adapter performed admirably, delivering loud listening levels without strain. The HD620S’s bass was strong, mids were clean and detailed, and the treble was crisp with a bit of sparkle. The Rue enhanced the HD620S’s soundstage, emphasizing its angled drivers’ capabilities effectively. The synergy between the Rue and the HD620S was impressive, showcasing the adapter’s capability to handle more demanding headphones with ease.

Final Thoughts:

Overall, the Strauss & Wagner Rue is a highly capable audio-decoding device. It’s an excellent solution for taking your IEMs and headphones on the go while maintaining a stylish and portable profile. Priced at just $29.95, the Rue offers impressive value and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for any audio enthusiast. The combination of robust build quality, advanced technical design, and excellent sound performance makes the Rue a standout choice in the crowded market of USB-C to 3.5mm adapters. Whether you are a casual listener or an audiophile, the Rue will enhance your audio experience, providing a seamless connection between your USB-C devices and your favorite audio equipment.

The Strauss & Wagner Rue is available at Audio46.