Finding a smartphone with amazing sound quality at a low price is tough. Many new phones have removed the headphone jack and downgraded their audio hardware, leaving music lovers with fewer choices. But after extensive testing, we can confidently say that the LG V30 is a hidden gem. Even though it was released in 2017, it still delivers exceptional sound and remains one of the best budget-friendly options for music lovers.
Why the LG V30 Sounds So Good
Unlike most modern phones, the LG V30 comes with a premium 3.5mm headphone jack and a built-in Hi-Fi Quad DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter). This means you get cleaner, richer, and more detailed audio compared to regular smartphones. If you’re someone who listens to lossless audio formats like FLAC or WAV, youโll instantly notice the superior sound quality.
The ESS Sabre ES9218P Quad-DAC is actually the secret behind the V30โs incredible audio performance. This advanced chip significantly reduces background noise and distortion, delivering clearer sound with a wider dynamic range. Whether you prefer deep bass, crisp highs, or balanced mids, this phone enhances every note. It even automatically adjusts to high-impedance headphones up to 600ฮฉ, making it perfect for high-end headphones.
For those who prefer wireless listening, the LG V30 supports Qualcommยฎ aptXโข HD and LDAC, allowing you to stream high-resolution audio over Bluetooth without sacrificing sound quality. We tested it with various wireless headphones, and the difference was noticeable offering more detail and clarity than standard Bluetooth audio.
Why the LG V30 is Still a Great Choice in 2025
Aside from its incredible audio performance, the LG V30 is lightweight, durable, and affordable. Unlike bulky modern flagships, it weighs only 158g, making it easy to carry. Plus, it has MIL-STD-810G military-grade durability and IP68 water resistance, meaning it can withstand daily wear and tear with ease.
You can find this phone for under $150, making it an excellent deal for audiophiles on a budget. It also has a microSD slot supporting up to 2TB of extra storage, so you can carry thousands of high-resolution tracks without worrying about space. In our usage, we found the expandable storage to be a game-changer for users with large music libraries.
For tech-savvy users, the LG V30 supports custom ROMs like Lineage OS if you unlock the bootloader. An active community exists on Telegram and XDA where you can find the latest custom ROMs. However, based on our experience, most custom ROMs do not fully support the Hi-Fi Quad-DAC, meaning you wonโt get the same premium audio experience as you do on the stock firmware. Additionally, VoLTE is not supported on custom ROMs, which can be a dealbreaker for some users. For the best sound, we strongly recommend sticking with the official firmware.
Things to Consider Before Buying the LG V30
While the LG V30 excels in audio, it does have some drawbacks. The software is outdated, as LG stopped official updates at Android 9 Pie, which may limit app compatibility and security. The Snapdragon 835 processor is still decent for everyday tasks but may feel slow compared to newer phones. The phone performs well for music streaming, web browsing, and media playback but struggles with high-performance gaming and intensive multitasking. But you are not buying this phone for gamingโits real strength lies in its affordability, durability, and excellent audio capabilities.
Additionally, the camera is outdated, especially in low-light conditions, and it lacks 5G support. If photography and future-proof connectivity are priorities, you may want to look at newer options.
Where to Buy the LG V30
The unlocked version of the LG V30 works with most carriers, giving you more flexibility. Itโs still available on Amazon and eBay, often at affordable prices. Availability varies, so we recommend checking frequently for deals.
After extensive testing and real-world use, we can confidently say that if youโre looking for a cheap but powerful phone for high-quality music listening, the LG V30 is still a fantastic choice. Its Quad-DAC, 3.5mm jack, Qualcommยฎ aptXโข HD support, and expandable storage make it a perfect device for audiophiles. Plus, its lightweight and durable design make it a solid everyday phone.
However, if you need the latest software updates, a great camera, or 5G connectivity, you might want to consider newer alternatives. That being said, for pure sound quality at a budget price, the LG V30 remains one of the best choices even in 2025.
