When I first heard about Strauss & Wagner's new Asti microphone and headphone cable, I was intrigued by its promise to improve the audio quality of mobile phones and laptops for just $14.95. In this review, I'll share my experiences with the Asti and discuss whether it lives up to its promises.
Design and build quality
The first thing that caught my eye about the Asti is its compact design. At just 0.3 m (about 0.98 ft) in length, it’s perfect for use anywhere without creating unnecessary clutter. The cable features a durable nylon braiding that feels sturdy and inspires confidence in its longevity.
I particularly appreciate the aluminum connectors, which give the Asti a sleek, premium feel that belies its budget price. The cable terminates in a Type-C male output, with two 3.5mm female connectors (one for input and one for output) on the other end. This design allows users to connect a microphone and a listening device simultaneously.
Although not explicitly stated in the product description, I found that the Asti functions as a DAC (digital to analogue converter). This feature potentially offers improved sound quality compared to the standard output of mobile or portable devices.
Compatibility and ease of use
The Asti is compatible with almost all Type-C devices, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. I tested it with my MacBook and noticed an immediate increase in audio fidelity compared to the built-in headphone jack.
One of Asti’s strong points is its ease of use. As someone who often juggles content creation and work calls, I found the plug-and-play nature of this microphone cable to be a godsend. It eliminates the need for a more complicated audio interface setup, making it perfect for users with minimal experience with audio equipment.
For content creators who primarily use their phones to record, Asti offers an elegant solution that doesn’t add bulk or complexity to your mobile setup. I can easily see it becoming an essential tool for vloggers, podcasters, and other content creators on the go.
The Asti also excels in professional settings. For those who constantly make video calls for work, this cable offers an easy way to improve audio quality. A standalone microphone connected through the Asti will almost always outperform microphones built into Bluetooth headsets or wired headphones. If clear communication is crucial to your work, the Asti offers a practical and cost-effective solution.
Gamers will also find value in the Asti. Its simplicity makes it an ideal solution for connecting gaming headsets or standalone microphones to mobile or portable devices. With adapters available for either XLR or 6.35mm connections, the Asti can fit into a wide range of gaming audio setups.
Sound quality and performance
To thoroughly test the Asti, I used it with several IEMs: the new Empire Ears Triton, the Moondrop Aria II, and the TRN Bax. I also connected a Shure MVL lavalier microphone for test recordings.
As for microphone performance, I was impressed with the Asti's ability to accurately reproduce recordings. I had no issues with distortion and the dynamic range was sufficient to capture vocals clearly.
The most noticeable improvement came in audio output quality. Compared to the headphone jack on my MacBook or a standard dongle adapter, the IEMs connected via the Asti delivered superior sound. While the overall sound signatures of the IEMs remained consistent (for example, the Bax and Triton retained their bass-heavy character), I noticed subtle but significant improvements in soundstage and presentation.
The Asti seemed to widen the soundstage, creating a more spacious listening experience. I also perceived an increase in the vertical dimension of the sound, which gave a more three-dimensional quality to the audio. To put this to the test, I listened to Devendra Banhart’s “Fancy Man,” a track rich with reverb-drenched vocals, synths, and modulated guitars. Through the Asti, everything sounded wider and more expansive, while still maintaining the precise imaging that quality IEMs are known for.
Importantly, these improvements felt natural and not artificially enhanced. The Asti didn’t create an unreal or overly holographic sound; instead, they seemed to unlock more potential from my IEMs and the audio content itself.
Value proposition
At $14.95, the Strauss & Wagner Asti offers exceptional value for money. It functions effectively as an inexpensive microphone interface and DAC, improving input and output audio quality for mobile devices and laptops.
For content creators, professionals who need clear communication, and casual users looking to enhance their audio experience, Asti represents a small investment that can yield significant improvements. Its versatility and ease of use further enhance its value, making it a practical addition to a wide range of audio setups.
Conclusion
After extensive testing, I can safely say that the Strauss & Wagner Asti punches well above its weight class. This modest microphone cable manages to address several common audio challenges for mobile and laptop users, all at a price that's hard to argue with.
The Asti's ability to function as both a microphone interface and DAC sets it apart from standard audio cables. It offers a noticeable improvement in audio quality, both for recording and playback, without introducing artificial coloration into the sound.
What impresses me most about the Asti is their versatility. Whether you’re a content creator looking for a simple mobile audio solution, a professional who needs clear audio for video calls, a gamer looking for a simple microphone setup, or just an audio enthusiast who wants to get the most out of their mobile listening experience, the Asti has something to offer.
The Asti's build quality and design belie its budget price. Durable construction and sleek aluminum connectors give it a premium feel that inspires confidence in its longevity.
While it's not a replacement for high-end audio interfaces or DACs, the Asti wasn't designed to be one. Instead, it offers a simple, effective, and affordable way to improve your mobile device's audio setup. For many users, the improvements it brings will be more than enough for their needs.
In conclusion, the Strauss & Wagner Asti is a small accessory that can make a big difference to your audio experience. Its combination of functionality, quality, and value makes it an easy recommendation for anyone looking to upgrade their mobile or portable audio setup without spending a fortune. Whether you’re creating content, gaming, working, or just enjoying your music, the Asti offers a simple yet effective way to enhance your audio experience.
