Changed my source from 3G iPod nano to iRiver H140 via headphone jack. I'm working my way up to then adding the iBasso D1 DAC/AMP via optical out, then going to lossless optical out via my Sony pcdp.
WOW!
The Livewires are impressive to say the least. I knew the iRiver was a better source via headphone jack from previous tests I've done - but I wanted to see how my "Most Portable" setup would work first. I should have just skipped right to the iRiver.
In regards to the source, with the LW's I can clearly hear the LACK OF HISS in the iRiver.
The nano does have some hiss at first, which does quiet down when the program material begins. Also, if I play anything under 256kbps VBR I can tell more easily with the LW, just by listening to the imperfections in 192, 160 and easpecially in 128kbps. The 3G nano hides those, covers them up.
With the proper source the bass is now BASS and improved noticably, in volume level, impact and bass texture and not just amplitude.
Sound stage is improved noticably as well. Pianos are not a question mark anymore, they are clean and detailed and blend right in with the rest of the instruments. The nano just couldn't do them justice. I've documented this in iRiver vs the 5.5G ipod video on other threads before.
Going back to try the Denons, the LW do everything the Denon do, just better. Same with the SE500's, the E500's just hid the imperfections in the source, and the LW are now my favorite IEM's
Next up, I will do optical out into iBasso D1 (source iRiver or Sony pcd). But, I am off to bed now. You'll just have to wait
