Short answer: the Rode AI-Micro, though neither ranks well in its class. It ranks #13 of 14 usb-c dongle DACs by measured performance, rated 2.1/5, at $79. The Periodic Audio Rhodium ranks #14, rated 1.6/5, at $49, $30 cheaper, a saving that is not big enough to make up the sound-quality gap. Both are rated below 3.0/5 among the 14 usb-c dongle DACs, so if measured performance matters, consider the TRN Black Pearl instead, ranked #3 at $35.
The Rode AI-Micro is the better-sounding option. It doubles as a small audio interface, with two 3.5 mm microphone inputs alongside its headphone jack, and weighs just 0 lbs (13 g). The tradeoff: Audio Science Review measured only 80 dB SINAD, a level where noise and distortion can be audible, especially with sensitive in ear monitors.
What the Periodic Audio Rhodium does well: It is extremely small and light at 0 lbs (4.4 g), adding a 3.5 mm headphone jack to any USB-C device with volume set from the phone or computer. The catch: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of only 82 dB, a real audible weakness that sensitive in-ear monitors will reveal as hiss or noise.
Buy the Rode AI-Micro. It is rated higher, and the $30 you would save on the Periodic Audio Rhodium does not close the gap.
Still deciding? The full Headphone Amps and DACs rankings cover every ranked option.
Specifications Side By Side
| Rode AI-Micro | Periodic Audio Rhodium | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.00 | $49.00 |
| Ranked | #13 of 14 in USB-C Dongle DACs | #14 of 14 in USB-C Dongle DACs |
| Device Type | USB-C dongle | USB-C dongle |
| SINAD | 80 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) | 82 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Output Power (32 ohms) | 125 mW (manufacturer rated) | 31 mW (manufacturer rated) |
| Headphone Outputs | 3.5 mm | 3.5 mm |
| Balanced Output | No | No |
| Inputs | USB-C, 2 x 3.5 mm TRS/TRRS microphone | USB-C |
| Dimensions | 1.6” x 1.5” x 0.4” (40 x 38.2 x 11.1 mm) | 0.4” x 0.3” x 4.6” (10.8 x 6.9 x 117 mm) (overall length incl. cable) |
| Weight | 0 lbs (13 g) | 0 lbs (4.4 g) |
| Volume Control | - | None (phone/PC volume) |
Related Amp and DAC Comparisons
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Prices on this page were last checked October 11, 2026 at 4:59 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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The Two Amps and DACs In Full
Rode AI-Micro: $79.00 B&H Photo eBay
Pros: It doubles as a small audio interface, with two 3.5 mm microphone inputs alongside its headphone jack, and weighs just 13 g. A rated 125 mW into 32 ohms drives most headphones. It rates higher than the Periodic Audio Rhodium.
Cons: Audio Science Review measured only 80 dB SINAD, a level where noise and distortion can be audible, especially with sensitive in ear monitors. There is no balanced output. The FiiO KA11 rates far higher with much cleaner measurements for less.
Full Rode AI-Micro review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | No |
|---|---|
| Device Type | USB-C dongle |
| Dimensions | 1.6” x 1.5” x 0.4” (40 x 38.2 x 11.1 mm) |
| Headphone Outputs | 3.5 mm |
| Inputs | USB-C, 2 x 3.5 mm TRS/TRRS microphone |
| Output Power (32 ohms) | 125 mW (manufacturer rated) |
| SINAD | 80 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Weight | 0 lbs (13 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
Periodic Audio Rhodium: $49.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: It is extremely small and light at 4.4 g, adding a 3.5 mm headphone jack to any USB-C device with volume set from the phone or computer.
Cons: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of only 82 dB, a real audible weakness that sensitive in-ear monitors will reveal as hiss or noise. It is rated for just 31 mW into 32 ohms, which suits in-ear monitors and easy headphones only. The Samsung USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter rates higher and measures cleaner for less.
Full Periodic Audio Rhodium review and specifications →
| Balanced Output | No |
|---|---|
| Device Type | USB-C dongle |
| Dimensions | 0.4” x 0.3” x 4.6” (10.8 x 6.9 x 117 mm) (overall length incl. cable) |
| Headphone Outputs | 3.5 mm |
| Inputs | USB-C |
| Output Power (32 ohms) | 31 mW (manufacturer rated) |
| SINAD | 82 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | None (phone/PC volume) |
| Weight | 0 lbs (4.4 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons