The iQube Enigma (Review Updated) - Page 2 - Head-Fi: Covering Headphones, Earphones and Portable Audio

musicmaker · 03-03-2008, 05:19 PM

Very nice review. I really like your writing style. Enjoyed reading it !

aluren · 03-03-2008, 05:34 PM

nice review! loved the rubik's cube mesh pic!

hoosterw · 03-03-2008, 05:48 PM

Originally Posted by Joelc87

the iQube is around 600 USD I believe

At the current rate it is only 500US$ (335euro)

tfarney · 03-03-2008, 05:55 PM

Originally Posted by hoosterw

At the current rate it is only 500US$ (335euro)

Pity it doesn't come with a DAC. Or better yet, pity it isn't class D digital, so it would essentially BE a high-power DAC. I've got to assume, given all the talk about efficiency and volts that this would be a portable particularly well-suited to 300 ohm Senns? Yes, no, mabye?

Tim

Dexdexter · 03-03-2008, 06:11 PM

First off, thanks everybody for your kind feedback!

Originally Posted by XTC

How much does that thing cost?

Here in Europe, it lists for €399, which includes the requisite exorbitant 19% VAT (value-added-tax). So outside of Europe, it is €335, which converts to about $509.

I know from this thread over on the Qables sponsor forum that Hans has recently begun a relationship with a fellow in the States to sell his cable ranges, but excluding the iQube. But if there was enough interest, perhaps Hans could be leaned-on a little to arrange a group-buy at a more attractive price. I have no idea whether he would be amenable to such a thing, so it's just a thought...

Originally Posted by dazzer1975

Beautifully written, send me a pm though to tell me how to open the damn thing to change the batteries.

Managed it once, but cant open it again. Damn, that is a rubiks esque puzzler.

Heh-heh, dazzer, I only had to do the deed once myself...and it wasn't easy!

I just followed the printed instructions, grunted a lot, and eventually the iQube caved to in my sheer force of will...

Originally Posted by tfarney

How does it do with 300 ohm cans?

Tim

Good question, Tim, but I haven't any truly high-impedance cans around. My next encounter with the iQube will be at the Netherlands Meet on the 16th and there will certainly be some HD650s, DT880, DT990, etc. for me to try out there with it.

In the meantime, I'm hoping that some of those shy, closeted current iQube owners out there will feel encouraged to represent their experiences here.

manaox2 · 03-03-2008, 06:42 PM

Wow, I enjoyed that review for the language as much as the content. Great stuff. I love the iQube, its the one true portable amp that has got me interested. I would have jumped on one had I not been able to grab the LISA III for cheaper and wanted to get a desktop before a better portable. It truly deserves the ranting more then the PICO or certain other FOM amps IMO.

I wish its costs weren't so prohibative. That is the best (truly) portable amp on the market IMO.

PS: Moon-Audio down the road is negotiating a deal to distribute the iQube in the US. That is how I reviewed it.

mrarroyo · 03-03-2008, 06:42 PM

Magnificent review, it has raised the bar for anyone doing a report.

I should get an iQube shortly, do I have to give it back!

Joelc87 · 03-03-2008, 06:42 PM

Originally Posted by hoosterw

At the current rate it is only 500US$ (335euro)

Ah okay I forgot about the VAT.

hoosterw · 03-03-2008, 07:55 PM

Originally Posted by Joelc87

Ah okay I forgot about the VAT.

kooncm · 03-03-2008, 08:07 PM

Thank you for your great review. I'm enjoy reading it. I totally agree that iQube is a great amp. It drive my K701 and HD600 without any problem. It make me appreciate it more as i'm away from home now.