Reviews by Zortven
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label is a portable, powerful DAC with a lot of functionalities like MQA. It is priced at 599USD.
Sound quality for the price
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 10 out of 10.
Value
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Packaging
The box has the same design as all older iFi products do. Inside you can find a lot of things, so here’s a full list of them.
Four adapters – from USB type B to USB type A, USB type A OTG, 10cm interconnects terminated with 3,5mm jack, rubber feet, 3.5mm to 6.3mm jack adapter, normal optical connector to 3,5mm type, black soft pouch with iFi logo, RCA interconnects, two rubber straps and a rubber pad which you can use to stack the iDSD with your phone or DAP. This is a pretty nice list, Isn’t it?
Build quality
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label is basically a bigger brother of iDSD Nano series, so they share the same build quality. It is made of metal, with a lot of connectors, switches, subtitles and so on. I’ll explain the functionality of all of them in the next paragraph. Back to the topic, iDSD Micro is built perfectly, everything you can move is working with some resistance, but I wouldn’t define this as a problem. Dimples on both sides of iFi DAC improves the grip and look of this little person.
Functionality
That will be a long part of the text, so if you’re interested only in the sound you can skip this paragraph without any guilt.
The one really important thing for sound quality is the fact that iFi can decode MQA files, so you can listen to the master quality tracks on tidal.
On the front, you can find 6,35mm jack as an output, 3,5mm jack as an analogue input, two switches and the potentiometer which also turns on the whole device. Going back to switches, the one bestead closer to the 6,35mm jack is called XBass and it boosts bass in the best way I’ve heard in a DAC ever. It isn’t expanding reverberation, it really boosts the quantity of bass, but also improves the dynamic so the bass still remains fast as hell. The second switch is called 3D, and it is trying to enhance the soundstage and imaging, it is making such a deluded feeling with open-back headphones that produce wide scene, but it may help closed-back headphones of which the holography isn’t the strong point, anyway I wouldn’t use it for music, maybe for gaming and movies.
On the left side, iFi placed three sliders, the first one is a digital filter with the help of which you can choose between bit-perfect, minimum phase and standard. Differences between them are noticeable, but they aren’t game changers. Bit-perfect is the sharpest, but last two sound almost the same, the minimum phase is more delicate and the standard is the most natural. The second slider is called Polarity and the name explain everything, you can invert the phase using this one. The third and last on this side is Power Mode which is basically the gain. There’s Eco, normal and turbo. Always check if it is set properly because my very first try of this option scared me with the volume level.
On the rear, you can find RCA output, SPDIF In/Out connector and USB Type A connector that works as a digital input.
On the right side, iFi placed a USB Type A which allows the iDSD to charge other devices, like your phone. There’s 7,5W on the output (5V, 1,5A).
Finally, the last two sliders are located on the bottom of the device. First one supports the iEMatch function, so you can use your IEMs with such a powerful device without any issues. There are options of high sensitivity and ultra sensitivity, so even Campfire Audio Andromeda can be uses with it without any problems. The second slider allows you to choose between direct and preamplifier for RCA output.
Sound
A big, portable device with so many options. Can it be that good? Sure it can.
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label can easily fight with its stationary competitors like Topping DX7s, and in my opinion, it’s way better as a DAC than the Chord Mojo. iFi plays a very detailed, natural sound that can be a little brightened for some people. I would say that iFi lets the headphones play with their style, imposing almost nothing from itself. That’s a huge merit in my opinion, but it is making it harder to describe the DAC itself.
Taking a look at the power, it can easily drive most of the headphones available on the market.
As I mentioned before iFi isn’t providing much from itself to the sound but there are some things I can talk about. The bass sounds really natural. It can strike hard, it can be lazy, just like the engineer/musician wanted to. It is very detailed, you can hear every single bounce of the stringing of the drums, every jolt of the strings from a bass guitar. Checked on the Fyne F500 that are very source sensible iFi slightly boosts the lows, they aren’t as hard as usual, they are very deep. Loved that thing, because it wasn’t warmed, just more like listening to the live sound.
The midrange isn’t recessed even a little, vocals are always the first on the place. There’s no sign of smoothness, lower mids are very well texturized with a huge amount of confidence in the voices. It might sound strange for you, but I felt like wow, I would trust him, even if he was singing about something I disagree with at all. On the other hand, female vocals are delicately sharpened and brightened, on bad mixed tracks it is even painful, so I have to reduce the volume even if I’m not sensible for things like that. Personally, I do not consider this as a con, since iDSD Micro BL focuses on being transparent and neutral, and it actually helps with evaluation of the song’s mastering.
The treble is more similar to bass than higher midrange when it comes to overall sounding. It’s natural, not delicate, not sharp, it’s just playing nicely with a lot of details that are starting and ending with a kind manner. I love the timbre and accurateness of drum plates, they are very exact with a pleasant glimmer. Treble is like playing with long, soft hair. You can feel every single one of them, but it isn’t unpleasant for you in any way.
The soundstage is – as it usually is on portable devices – narrower and less accurate compared to stationary devices like DX7s or RME ADI DAC-2, but way better than Chord Mojo or cheaper options like DACAMP L1 or Q5s. As for its width, the soundstage is deep and holography is great, even with complicated songs where there are many instruments. Separation stands on a high level, with a noticeable black background that is covered quickly with other sound sources.
Summary
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label is micro only by the name, it sounds like a stationary DAC. It can charm you with its natural sound signature that isn’t inflicting the headphone that much as other sources sometimes do. Many functions, some like XBass and iEMatch works better, some like 3D, well, they are there. If you’re looking for a source that lets your headphones perform with their own style, you should check this one. But there’s one question at the end. Is it still a portable DAC with its dimensions and weight?
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label is a portable, powerful DAC with a lot of functionalities like MQA. It is priced at 599USD.
Sound quality for the price
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 10 out of 10.
Value
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Packaging
The box has the same design as all older iFi products do. Inside you can find a lot of things, so here’s a full list of them.
Four adapters – from USB type B to USB type A, USB type A OTG, 10cm interconnects terminated with 3,5mm jack, rubber feet, 3.5mm to 6.3mm jack adapter, normal optical connector to 3,5mm type, black soft pouch with iFi logo, RCA interconnects, two rubber straps and a rubber pad which you can use to stack the iDSD with your phone or DAP. This is a pretty nice list, Isn’t it?
Build quality
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label is basically a bigger brother of iDSD Nano series, so they share the same build quality. It is made of metal, with a lot of connectors, switches, subtitles and so on. I’ll explain the functionality of all of them in the next paragraph. Back to the topic, iDSD Micro is built perfectly, everything you can move is working with some resistance, but I wouldn’t define this as a problem. Dimples on both sides of iFi DAC improves the grip and look of this little person.
Functionality
That will be a long part of the text, so if you’re interested only in the sound you can skip this paragraph without any guilt.
The one really important thing for sound quality is the fact that iFi can decode MQA files, so you can listen to the master quality tracks on tidal.
On the front, you can find 6,35mm jack as an output, 3,5mm jack as an analogue input, two switches and the potentiometer which also turns on the whole device. Going back to switches, the one bestead closer to the 6,35mm jack is called XBass and it boosts bass in the best way I’ve heard in a DAC ever. It isn’t expanding reverberation, it really boosts the quantity of bass, but also improves the dynamic so the bass still remains fast as hell. The second switch is called 3D, and it is trying to enhance the soundstage and imaging, it is making such a deluded feeling with open-back headphones that produce wide scene, but it may help closed-back headphones of which the holography isn’t the strong point, anyway I wouldn’t use it for music, maybe for gaming and movies.
On the left side, iFi placed three sliders, the first one is a digital filter with the help of which you can choose between bit-perfect, minimum phase and standard. Differences between them are noticeable, but they aren’t game changers. Bit-perfect is the sharpest, but last two sound almost the same, the minimum phase is more delicate and the standard is the most natural. The second slider is called Polarity and the name explain everything, you can invert the phase using this one. The third and last on this side is Power Mode which is basically the gain. There’s Eco, normal and turbo. Always check if it is set properly because my very first try of this option scared me with the volume level.
On the rear, you can find RCA output, SPDIF In/Out connector and USB Type A connector that works as a digital input.
On the right side, iFi placed a USB Type A which allows the iDSD to charge other devices, like your phone. There’s 7,5W on the output (5V, 1,5A).
Finally, the last two sliders are located on the bottom of the device. First one supports the iEMatch function, so you can use your IEMs with such a powerful device without any issues. There are options of high sensitivity and ultra sensitivity, so even Campfire Audio Andromeda can be uses with it without any problems. The second slider allows you to choose between direct and preamplifier for RCA output.
Sound
A big, portable device with so many options. Can it be that good? Sure it can.
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label can easily fight with its stationary competitors like Topping DX7s, and in my opinion, it’s way better as a DAC than the Chord Mojo. iFi plays a very detailed, natural sound that can be a little brightened for some people. I would say that iFi lets the headphones play with their style, imposing almost nothing from itself. That’s a huge merit in my opinion, but it is making it harder to describe the DAC itself.
Taking a look at the power, it can easily drive most of the headphones available on the market.
As I mentioned before iFi isn’t providing much from itself to the sound but there are some things I can talk about. The bass sounds really natural. It can strike hard, it can be lazy, just like the engineer/musician wanted to. It is very detailed, you can hear every single bounce of the stringing of the drums, every jolt of the strings from a bass guitar. Checked on the Fyne F500 that are very source sensible iFi slightly boosts the lows, they aren’t as hard as usual, they are very deep. Loved that thing, because it wasn’t warmed, just more like listening to the live sound.
The midrange isn’t recessed even a little, vocals are always the first on the place. There’s no sign of smoothness, lower mids are very well texturized with a huge amount of confidence in the voices. It might sound strange for you, but I felt like wow, I would trust him, even if he was singing about something I disagree with at all. On the other hand, female vocals are delicately sharpened and brightened, on bad mixed tracks it is even painful, so I have to reduce the volume even if I’m not sensible for things like that. Personally, I do not consider this as a con, since iDSD Micro BL focuses on being transparent and neutral, and it actually helps with evaluation of the song’s mastering.
The treble is more similar to bass than higher midrange when it comes to overall sounding. It’s natural, not delicate, not sharp, it’s just playing nicely with a lot of details that are starting and ending with a kind manner. I love the timbre and accurateness of drum plates, they are very exact with a pleasant glimmer. Treble is like playing with long, soft hair. You can feel every single one of them, but it isn’t unpleasant for you in any way.
The soundstage is – as it usually is on portable devices – narrower and less accurate compared to stationary devices like DX7s or RME ADI DAC-2, but way better than Chord Mojo or cheaper options like DACAMP L1 or Q5s. As for its width, the soundstage is deep and holography is great, even with complicated songs where there are many instruments. Separation stands on a high level, with a noticeable black background that is covered quickly with other sound sources.
Summary
iFi iDSD Micro Black Label is micro only by the name, it sounds like a stationary DAC. It can charm you with its natural sound signature that isn’t inflicting the headphone that much as other sources sometimes do. Many functions, some like XBass and iEMatch works better, some like 3D, well, they are there. If you’re looking for a source that lets your headphones perform with their own style, you should check this one. But there’s one question at the end. Is it still a portable DAC with its dimensions and weight?
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
- Headphones – Meze Rai Solo, Campfire Audio Andromeda, Audeze LCD-3, Brainwavz Alara, Fostex TH-610, Fyne F500
- Sources– DX3 Pro, Little Dot MK IV, Topping DX7s, Nuforce HA-200, DACAMP L1, Chord Mojo, FiiO Q5s, iFi iDSD Nano BL
iFi Hip Dac is an entry level portable DAC with balanced output and MQA decoding. It is priced at 149$.
Sound quality for the price
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Value
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Packaging
The box is small, but well designed with nice in touch triangles embossed on the sides. Inside you can find rubber feet, a USB A to USB C cable, and OTG Cable with USB A on both sides. The first one is braided, the second one isn’t.
Build quality
iFi Hip Dac is made from metal with plastic front and rear. Edges of metal are too sharp in my opinion, the paint may scratch off. The potentiometer at the front is made of metal, painted gold. Moreover, on the front we have two jack connectors, the first one is balanced 4,4mm and the second one is 3,5mm single ended. On the left side of the potentiometer, you can find two buttons that are not holding out securely – when you move the device they will start shaking. On the rear part, you can find two USBs. OTG USB-A and standard USB-C.
Nonetheless, I adore how the Hip Dac looks. This “Ocean” color really sets it apart from the competition, and that gold volume knob is just like a cherry on top. Sweet.
Battery life
The battery life of built-in 2200mAh battery stands on a great level, it can easily hold up to eight hours, when I was testing (only on PC, but using OTG USB with Hip turned on as first, so only data was going through) it held for 9-10 hours, using Tidal Master from time to time, but it depends on the headphones and volume level.
Sound
iFi Hip Dac sounds similar to iFi xDSD and RHA DACAMP L1, even if Hip costs way less.
It is warm, pretty dense, with an objectively narrow scene and decent holography, but I think it’s the problem of many portable DAC’s. Hip sounds delicately smooth, but it isn’t imposing itself that hard. In two words, it is playing with a delicately warmed bass, natural sound, but straight to the ear caused by smaller soundstage compared to DACAMP mentioned earlier. Power match function works really great, Hip Dac can drive many headphones, Beyerdynamic DT770 80Ohm wasn’t a problem, but I think 250Ohm version could be problematic.
The bass is really strong. Not that fast, but it sounds very wide going around the head, but without a specific direction. Details and texture are great, you won’t hear the moment of pulling the string, but it is on a really high level considering the price.
You can also boost sub and mid bass by using the X-Bass option, it is like the popular option “Loudness” in amplituners. It works better than the boosting option in FiiO K3, Hip sounds more natural with X-Bass turned on.
The midrange is natural, slightly smoothed. It is well detailed for this price, placed close to the listener. Smoothness relies on soothing vocals and string instruments. I didn’t notice this behavior in any other situation. Both female and male vocals are quite engaging, they are able to keep us listening easily. When I matched Hip with Bqeyz Spring 1 with Satin Audio Chimera cable listening became a pure pleasure. It wasn’t so dynamic, but very comfy to listen to.
The treble overall is similar to midrange when it comes to sound signature. It is quite brighter than DACAMP L1, but I think a little softer than iDSD Nano LE. Detail reproduction is great, it is playing delicately further away than midrange.
The soundstage is delicately narrower and shallower than Zen Dac, but bigger than in FiiO K3. As a portable DAC, it is great in this price range. It wasn’t annoying until I was trying to listen to Dead Can Dance, then I felt something was missing. Same in the computer games, it didn’t satisfy me during gaming sessions. In daily listening, it didn’t bother me tho.
I was shocked by the possibilities of separation, I thought it would be much more difficult to distinguish a large number of sound sources, but wow. iFi Hip Dac is doing this very great, even if the holography isn’t spectacular.
Summary
iFi Hip Dac is a very good product in this price range, but I wish it would have had Bluetooth functionality. It sounds natural with boosted bass. After launching X Bass whole sounds becomes warmer, so it will please fans of this playstyle. It also provides much power, so it will feed most of the portable headphones. Recommended.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
Sound quality for the price
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Value
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Packaging
The box is small, but well designed with nice in touch triangles embossed on the sides. Inside you can find rubber feet, a USB A to USB C cable, and OTG Cable with USB A on both sides. The first one is braided, the second one isn’t.
Build quality
iFi Hip Dac is made from metal with plastic front and rear. Edges of metal are too sharp in my opinion, the paint may scratch off. The potentiometer at the front is made of metal, painted gold. Moreover, on the front we have two jack connectors, the first one is balanced 4,4mm and the second one is 3,5mm single ended. On the left side of the potentiometer, you can find two buttons that are not holding out securely – when you move the device they will start shaking. On the rear part, you can find two USBs. OTG USB-A and standard USB-C.
Nonetheless, I adore how the Hip Dac looks. This “Ocean” color really sets it apart from the competition, and that gold volume knob is just like a cherry on top. Sweet.
Battery life
The battery life of built-in 2200mAh battery stands on a great level, it can easily hold up to eight hours, when I was testing (only on PC, but using OTG USB with Hip turned on as first, so only data was going through) it held for 9-10 hours, using Tidal Master from time to time, but it depends on the headphones and volume level.
Sound
iFi Hip Dac sounds similar to iFi xDSD and RHA DACAMP L1, even if Hip costs way less.
It is warm, pretty dense, with an objectively narrow scene and decent holography, but I think it’s the problem of many portable DAC’s. Hip sounds delicately smooth, but it isn’t imposing itself that hard. In two words, it is playing with a delicately warmed bass, natural sound, but straight to the ear caused by smaller soundstage compared to DACAMP mentioned earlier. Power match function works really great, Hip Dac can drive many headphones, Beyerdynamic DT770 80Ohm wasn’t a problem, but I think 250Ohm version could be problematic.
The bass is really strong. Not that fast, but it sounds very wide going around the head, but without a specific direction. Details and texture are great, you won’t hear the moment of pulling the string, but it is on a really high level considering the price.
You can also boost sub and mid bass by using the X-Bass option, it is like the popular option “Loudness” in amplituners. It works better than the boosting option in FiiO K3, Hip sounds more natural with X-Bass turned on.
The midrange is natural, slightly smoothed. It is well detailed for this price, placed close to the listener. Smoothness relies on soothing vocals and string instruments. I didn’t notice this behavior in any other situation. Both female and male vocals are quite engaging, they are able to keep us listening easily. When I matched Hip with Bqeyz Spring 1 with Satin Audio Chimera cable listening became a pure pleasure. It wasn’t so dynamic, but very comfy to listen to.
The treble overall is similar to midrange when it comes to sound signature. It is quite brighter than DACAMP L1, but I think a little softer than iDSD Nano LE. Detail reproduction is great, it is playing delicately further away than midrange.
The soundstage is delicately narrower and shallower than Zen Dac, but bigger than in FiiO K3. As a portable DAC, it is great in this price range. It wasn’t annoying until I was trying to listen to Dead Can Dance, then I felt something was missing. Same in the computer games, it didn’t satisfy me during gaming sessions. In daily listening, it didn’t bother me tho.
I was shocked by the possibilities of separation, I thought it would be much more difficult to distinguish a large number of sound sources, but wow. iFi Hip Dac is doing this very great, even if the holography isn’t spectacular.
Summary
iFi Hip Dac is a very good product in this price range, but I wish it would have had Bluetooth functionality. It sounds natural with boosted bass. After launching X Bass whole sounds becomes warmer, so it will please fans of this playstyle. It also provides much power, so it will feed most of the portable headphones. Recommended.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
- Headphones – Shozy Form 1.1, Fidelio X2HR, Beyerdynamic DT770, Brainwavz Alara, Noble Audio Django, Meze Rai Solo, Bqeyz Spring 1
- Sources– RHA DACAMP L1, iBasso DX160, Topping DX3 Pro, iFi Zen DAC, FiiO BTR5, iFi iDSD Nano LE
Attachments
TiborM
Love mine too!
necktru
I can confirm my Beyer 770 pro 250ohm are working great, 60%-65% volume with high gain switch
FiiO FH3 is the newest product from FH series by FiiO, it uses 1DD and 2BA per channel. It is priced at 149USD.
Sound quality
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Price
Rating: 10 out of 10.
Packaging
FiiO FH3 comes in a well designed, pretty big box. Fiio always treat the customer with a lot of accessories, and it’s no different with FH3. Inside you can find two cases (soft and hard), four types of tips, standard LC-B cable and obviously the FH3 earphones.
Cable
The stock cable is a standard FiiO LC-B terminated with 3,5mm jack using MMCX connectors. For me it is slightly too stiff and too heavy, but it has very strong standoffs, so I haven’t noticed any slipping out of the ear or discomfort when listening to the IEMs.
Build quality
FiiO did an excellent job with the build quality of these. They feel a little bit cheaper than the FH5, but that’s understandable looking at the price difference. Anyway, they’re nice to the touch, become warm very quickly thanks to the full metal construction. I also like the fact that they removed the shiny frame, they are more discreet looking now. Overally, these are very well made and are quite solid.
Comfort
FiiO FH3 offers a very high level of comfort, they have longer nozzles than FH5, but a little shorter than F9 Pro so they may be better for a lot of people. The only inconvenience I see are stiff standoffs which can disturb people with large ears or glasses users.
Sound
Damn, that’s good. In my opinion, FiiO killed FH5 by releasing FH3, unless the latter is too bassy for your personal taste. The sound signature is very enjoyable, I think I can call them natural with rich bass and high musicality level. Everything is very luscious with very good holography but a narrow soundstage. They are gentler in presenting texture compared to Shozy Form1.1.
The bass is powerful. It is very deep, especially lower and mid bass, the higher part is recessed a little. It is also greatly elastic, it’s jumping in the ears, so for some that might be too much, especially with warm sources like DX160 or Zen Dac. The best option for me is something like FiiO BTR5 or Q5s, holography regains the boost and bass isn’t that clamant. In my opinion, it easily adapts to the music you’re listening to, therefore they are very universal in this regard.
The midrange is full of life, that’s the best words to describe it The main part is set relatively far away, compared to Meze Rai Solo and Shozy Form 1.1. In my opinion, that’s really great, sound might run away from the head. The detail retrieval is first class. There isn’t any sharpness, but it also doesn’t smoothen that hard, I think that part may please fans of both options.
Treble doesn’t have any sign of dryness, it is even gently sweetened. It is more delicate than FH1s, also more detailed. It doesn’t sibilate and is not overly bright on the stock cable. I didn’t try them on the other cable, but I heard that FiiO LC-C is spot-on for more visible treble. But don’t get me wrong, treble is not missing, it is just delicate to listen to.
The soundstage is relatively narrow, but as for its width, it reproduces the depth and height well. I think it is on a barely lower level than the FiiO FH1s, but for this price anyway, it’s pretty good. On some sources, the scene was slightly unarranged, unprecise. FiiO products and Shanling M6 have produced good results from the tested sources.
Summary
FiiO FH3 provides one of the best price to performance ratio I’ve heard. Very enjoyable sound, good imaging, a rich set of accessories, but they definitely need to match the source. For me, neutral or natural sources are the best option, but these earphones are very source dependent, that’s why they will sound differently regarding what source you’re gonna be using to drive them.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
Sound quality
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Price
Rating: 10 out of 10.
Packaging
FiiO FH3 comes in a well designed, pretty big box. Fiio always treat the customer with a lot of accessories, and it’s no different with FH3. Inside you can find two cases (soft and hard), four types of tips, standard LC-B cable and obviously the FH3 earphones.
Cable
The stock cable is a standard FiiO LC-B terminated with 3,5mm jack using MMCX connectors. For me it is slightly too stiff and too heavy, but it has very strong standoffs, so I haven’t noticed any slipping out of the ear or discomfort when listening to the IEMs.
Build quality
FiiO did an excellent job with the build quality of these. They feel a little bit cheaper than the FH5, but that’s understandable looking at the price difference. Anyway, they’re nice to the touch, become warm very quickly thanks to the full metal construction. I also like the fact that they removed the shiny frame, they are more discreet looking now. Overally, these are very well made and are quite solid.
Comfort
FiiO FH3 offers a very high level of comfort, they have longer nozzles than FH5, but a little shorter than F9 Pro so they may be better for a lot of people. The only inconvenience I see are stiff standoffs which can disturb people with large ears or glasses users.
Sound
Damn, that’s good. In my opinion, FiiO killed FH5 by releasing FH3, unless the latter is too bassy for your personal taste. The sound signature is very enjoyable, I think I can call them natural with rich bass and high musicality level. Everything is very luscious with very good holography but a narrow soundstage. They are gentler in presenting texture compared to Shozy Form1.1.
The bass is powerful. It is very deep, especially lower and mid bass, the higher part is recessed a little. It is also greatly elastic, it’s jumping in the ears, so for some that might be too much, especially with warm sources like DX160 or Zen Dac. The best option for me is something like FiiO BTR5 or Q5s, holography regains the boost and bass isn’t that clamant. In my opinion, it easily adapts to the music you’re listening to, therefore they are very universal in this regard.
The midrange is full of life, that’s the best words to describe it The main part is set relatively far away, compared to Meze Rai Solo and Shozy Form 1.1. In my opinion, that’s really great, sound might run away from the head. The detail retrieval is first class. There isn’t any sharpness, but it also doesn’t smoothen that hard, I think that part may please fans of both options.
Treble doesn’t have any sign of dryness, it is even gently sweetened. It is more delicate than FH1s, also more detailed. It doesn’t sibilate and is not overly bright on the stock cable. I didn’t try them on the other cable, but I heard that FiiO LC-C is spot-on for more visible treble. But don’t get me wrong, treble is not missing, it is just delicate to listen to.
The soundstage is relatively narrow, but as for its width, it reproduces the depth and height well. I think it is on a barely lower level than the FiiO FH1s, but for this price anyway, it’s pretty good. On some sources, the scene was slightly unarranged, unprecise. FiiO products and Shanling M6 have produced good results from the tested sources.
Summary
FiiO FH3 provides one of the best price to performance ratio I’ve heard. Very enjoyable sound, good imaging, a rich set of accessories, but they definitely need to match the source. For me, neutral or natural sources are the best option, but these earphones are very source dependent, that’s why they will sound differently regarding what source you’re gonna be using to drive them.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
- Earphones– Shozy Form1.1, FiiO FH1s, FiiO FH5, Ikko OH10, Kinera Idun, Final Audio E3000, Kinera Freya, Bqeyz Spring 1
- Source – DX3 Pro, Hip-Dac, iBasso DX160, FiiO M11, FiiO BTR5, Shanling M6
Dionietzscheus
Criscar, what source you using with FH3? I am using EarMen Tr-amp & DX 160? Planning to get FiiO LC 4.4C cable asap.
Sivga Phoenix is an open-back headphone sporting a dynamic driver and wooden earcups. It is priced at 255$.
Sound quality
Rating: 7.5 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Price
Rating: 8 out of 10.
Packaging
Sivga comes in a very aesthetic box with two cases and a cable. The first case is a high quality leather case for headphones, alcantra-lined inside, the second one is linen, for carrying the cable.
Cable
The cable is braided with some nice to touch material, and is two meters long. It is terminated with a 3,5mm jack which is closed in a small case and has a spring on the beginning, so it shouldn’t break. At the end of the cable, we have two 2,5mm mono jacks, so it’s easy to buy an aftermarket balanced one. Unfortunately, there is a microphone effect here which is really annoying, but it occurs only on the section from the splitter to the headphones.
Build quality
Phoenix is made very well. Wooden cups, metal grills and headband are made of metal and leather. It all feels premium, made as several times more expensive headphones. I have nothing to attach to.
Comfort
Sadly, comfort isn’t on such a high level as the quality of the workmanship. They’re too small for big heads. I feel like they’re trying to scrunch up my head. Pads are too soft and thin, my ears are touching the cover of the driver. Also, wearing glasses is a bad idea here, they’re too tight for that. Definitely the worst point of the whole product.
Sound
It is hard to describe Sivga Phoenix in two words. Everything is close and far away at the same time, depends on the performer they can hide or expose the vocals, even if their voice sounds similar. They are also kinda flat, but I don’t mean neutral, they just are not juicy as for example Fidelio X2HR, but not boring and correct as AD900x. Something in between. Matching the source is really important there, e.g. with Little Dot MK IV they were bad, boring and lazy in holography reproduction. They don’t need much power, so only a well-matched DAC is needed. Personally, I would prefer something with a dose of fun, but basically, they sound kinda natural with the potential for a great scene and holography.
The bass is recessed a little, subbas is nicely playing in the background, it doesn’t affect the rest. Kickbass is kinda reluctant, it feels like it would like to strike hard, but it can’t. It’s like a fake battle between two brothers. Overall, it is fast and exact, could have been quite deeper and richer.
The midrange doesn’t provide much life in it. It is pretty empty in my opinion, much air between the sound sources. It is detailed, a little harsh, but also not involving at all.
Treble steps in front sometimes, but in a kind way, it is not harassing like in Monolith M1060, but there’s still a lot of details which aren’t sharp, I think I can say it is one of the better treble I’ve heard around 250$.
The soundstage is very big, but I don’t like the way how it’s recreated. Imaging is quite weird. It is kinda deluded to me, based on very thin sound sources that aren’t set far away from each other. It was an odd feeling for me, but I know there are some people who love this playstyle.
Summary
I have mixed feelings about Sivga Phoenix. I can’t say if they’re bad or good, they’re specific. They’re natural, with delicate V signature, they are really well made, but are not comfortable. Scene and holography are weird, you have to decide on your own if it’s good either it’s bad. The huge merit is they are really easy-to-drive.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
Sound quality
Rating: 7.5 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Price
Rating: 8 out of 10.
Packaging
Sivga comes in a very aesthetic box with two cases and a cable. The first case is a high quality leather case for headphones, alcantra-lined inside, the second one is linen, for carrying the cable.
Cable
The cable is braided with some nice to touch material, and is two meters long. It is terminated with a 3,5mm jack which is closed in a small case and has a spring on the beginning, so it shouldn’t break. At the end of the cable, we have two 2,5mm mono jacks, so it’s easy to buy an aftermarket balanced one. Unfortunately, there is a microphone effect here which is really annoying, but it occurs only on the section from the splitter to the headphones.
Build quality
Phoenix is made very well. Wooden cups, metal grills and headband are made of metal and leather. It all feels premium, made as several times more expensive headphones. I have nothing to attach to.
Comfort
Sadly, comfort isn’t on such a high level as the quality of the workmanship. They’re too small for big heads. I feel like they’re trying to scrunch up my head. Pads are too soft and thin, my ears are touching the cover of the driver. Also, wearing glasses is a bad idea here, they’re too tight for that. Definitely the worst point of the whole product.
Sound
It is hard to describe Sivga Phoenix in two words. Everything is close and far away at the same time, depends on the performer they can hide or expose the vocals, even if their voice sounds similar. They are also kinda flat, but I don’t mean neutral, they just are not juicy as for example Fidelio X2HR, but not boring and correct as AD900x. Something in between. Matching the source is really important there, e.g. with Little Dot MK IV they were bad, boring and lazy in holography reproduction. They don’t need much power, so only a well-matched DAC is needed. Personally, I would prefer something with a dose of fun, but basically, they sound kinda natural with the potential for a great scene and holography.
The bass is recessed a little, subbas is nicely playing in the background, it doesn’t affect the rest. Kickbass is kinda reluctant, it feels like it would like to strike hard, but it can’t. It’s like a fake battle between two brothers. Overall, it is fast and exact, could have been quite deeper and richer.
The midrange doesn’t provide much life in it. It is pretty empty in my opinion, much air between the sound sources. It is detailed, a little harsh, but also not involving at all.
Treble steps in front sometimes, but in a kind way, it is not harassing like in Monolith M1060, but there’s still a lot of details which aren’t sharp, I think I can say it is one of the better treble I’ve heard around 250$.
The soundstage is very big, but I don’t like the way how it’s recreated. Imaging is quite weird. It is kinda deluded to me, based on very thin sound sources that aren’t set far away from each other. It was an odd feeling for me, but I know there are some people who love this playstyle.
Summary
I have mixed feelings about Sivga Phoenix. I can’t say if they’re bad or good, they’re specific. They’re natural, with delicate V signature, they are really well made, but are not comfortable. Scene and holography are weird, you have to decide on your own if it’s good either it’s bad. The huge merit is they are really easy-to-drive.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
- Headphones – Fidelio X2HR, Audio-Technica AD900X, Monoprice Monolith M1060, Takstar HF-580
- Source – DX3 Pro, D50s, Hip-Dac, Little Dot MK IV, iBasso DX160, iFi IDSD Micro Black Label
voja
I can agree it was leaning to the aggressive part - but envious? Wasn't.
I have to remind you that there is no such ting as objectively "quality" anything. Sound preference is subjective, but what you will notice is that many will agree that the bass on Sivga Phoenix is clean, fast, deep, and has more than enough quantity.
It's unfortunate you took my comment personal and got offended by it. I'm not here to argue
I have to remind you that there is no such ting as objectively "quality" anything. Sound preference is subjective, but what you will notice is that many will agree that the bass on Sivga Phoenix is clean, fast, deep, and has more than enough quantity.
It's unfortunate you took my comment personal and got offended by it. I'm not here to argue
X1787X
I have a big head. Like 9 out of 10 guys would have a smaller head than me. Do you think these will fit me?
LittleDot MK IV is a tube headphone amplifier that can also work as a preamplifier. It is priced at 499$.
Sound quality
8.5/10
Build quality
9/10
Price
9.5/10
Packaging
The Little Dot comes in a standard, brown box where you can find our amp, standard RCA cables and a power cord. It is a nice gesture, but I instantly changed interconnects for aftermarket ones.
Build quality
MK IV is pretty light for its dimensions, only 3,5kg but still handcrafting remains on a high level. The whole device is really solid, rubber feet are easily holding Little Dot in the selected place, but moving without pulling up can leave some traces on the table.
The potentiometer is working smoothly, with sufficient resistance, but it is not completely quiet, there is audible noise. I think it can be fixed simply with oiling.
Efficiency
Honestly, I don't know if there are some headphones that MK IV won't drive properly, except some beasts like Kennerton Odin. All it needs is synergy, so take a look at the paragraph below and you will know if it's an amplifier for you.
Sound
Little Dot MK IV is a very interesting tube amplifier when it comes to the sound. It is delicately warmed, very great detailed and gently softened, there's no sharpness, no sibilances. Pure analog sound which is IMO really comfy to listen to.
The bass is slightly warmed up, might be slowed down for some, though I’d say it’s very fluid, raises up with a delicate manner and so falls down, without any slug. I loved it with Michael Kiwanuka on my Fyne F500, that's a really great preamp for them
The midrange is again slightly warmed, with very juicy... basically everything, it is all calm and full of life in one second. Honestly, I haven't heard anything which sounded bad.
Treble is the most recessed part of the frequency range, it is really smooth and kind. I wish it could be more detailed and a little brighter.
I really love the possibilities of Little Dot MK IV to project the soundstage. It is really high, wide and deep. Usually, the main topic is kinda close, moved delicately to the front, when the rest of the sound can go really far away and surprise the listener with it. Imaging is awesome, every direction and distance is precisely formed. Because of that MK IV is also a perfect companion for gaming!
Summary
Little Dot MK IV is a very surprising amplifier, I really thought it will be worse. I felt in love with it, thanks to the soundstage and this analog sound. It can easily drive most headphones available on the market. But remember, it is a totally different playstyle than THX amps, so if they were too boring, cruel and bright that may be the amp for you. Definitely recommended for this sound signature fans.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as accompanying equipment:
Remember to visit us at ear-fidelity.com!
Sound quality
8.5/10
Build quality
9/10
Price
9.5/10
Packaging
The Little Dot comes in a standard, brown box where you can find our amp, standard RCA cables and a power cord. It is a nice gesture, but I instantly changed interconnects for aftermarket ones.
Build quality
MK IV is pretty light for its dimensions, only 3,5kg but still handcrafting remains on a high level. The whole device is really solid, rubber feet are easily holding Little Dot in the selected place, but moving without pulling up can leave some traces on the table.
The potentiometer is working smoothly, with sufficient resistance, but it is not completely quiet, there is audible noise. I think it can be fixed simply with oiling.
Efficiency
Honestly, I don't know if there are some headphones that MK IV won't drive properly, except some beasts like Kennerton Odin. All it needs is synergy, so take a look at the paragraph below and you will know if it's an amplifier for you.
Sound
Little Dot MK IV is a very interesting tube amplifier when it comes to the sound. It is delicately warmed, very great detailed and gently softened, there's no sharpness, no sibilances. Pure analog sound which is IMO really comfy to listen to.
The bass is slightly warmed up, might be slowed down for some, though I’d say it’s very fluid, raises up with a delicate manner and so falls down, without any slug. I loved it with Michael Kiwanuka on my Fyne F500, that's a really great preamp for them
The midrange is again slightly warmed, with very juicy... basically everything, it is all calm and full of life in one second. Honestly, I haven't heard anything which sounded bad.
Treble is the most recessed part of the frequency range, it is really smooth and kind. I wish it could be more detailed and a little brighter.
I really love the possibilities of Little Dot MK IV to project the soundstage. It is really high, wide and deep. Usually, the main topic is kinda close, moved delicately to the front, when the rest of the sound can go really far away and surprise the listener with it. Imaging is awesome, every direction and distance is precisely formed. Because of that MK IV is also a perfect companion for gaming!
Summary
Little Dot MK IV is a very surprising amplifier, I really thought it will be worse. I felt in love with it, thanks to the soundstage and this analog sound. It can easily drive most headphones available on the market. But remember, it is a totally different playstyle than THX amps, so if they were too boring, cruel and bright that may be the amp for you. Definitely recommended for this sound signature fans.
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as accompanying equipment:
- Headphones– Philips Fidelio X2HR, Sennheiser HD598, Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro, Sivga Phoenix, Monolith 1570, Audeze LCD-3
- DACs and AMPs– SMSL SP200, Topping DX3 Pro, Topping D50s, SMSL M500, iFi iCAN Pro
Remember to visit us at ear-fidelity.com!
Shozy Form1.1
Shozy Form1.1 is a mid-end model with one dynamic and one balanced armature driver. It is priced at 75USD. I did order it randomly, and I definitely do not regret it.
Sound quality
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 7.5 out of 10.
Price
Rating: 9.5 out of 10.
Packaging
In the package, you will find a huge case with Shozy sign on top of it. It can easily fit two pairs of earphones with three cables and for example FiiO BTR5. Quality is great, slightly better than Bqeyz Case. A pity there is no soft case, it could have been more useful.
There are also three types of tips, each in S/M/L sizes, normal, bi-flanged, and foam tips.
Cable
The cable is braided using a synthetic material that is not pleasant to the touch in my opinion. Plastic standoffs are resilient, they will fit different ears easily. The sound quality of the cable is good though. Splitter and jack connector are made of metal and carbon, but 0.78mm connectors are made only of metal. The whole cable gets tangled easily, but it’s simple to untie.
Build quality
Shozy Form1.1 is composed of acrylic, 3D printed shells which are pretty small. The material is really pleasant to the touch, it does not irritate the ears, even after long hours of listening. The outer part is covered in glitter which shimmers in different colors, but only in really strong lightning. They are polished to a high gloss, resulting in being pretty easy to scratch.
Comfort
For me, these are the most comfortable earphones I have ever used. They are very small, slips perfectly to the ear. They never fell out and never let me feel uncomfortable. Each earphone is very light (3.9g), so there are no problems with cables without standoffs.
Honestly, these are the first IEM’s where I can lie on my side.
Sound
In overall, Shozy Form1.1 sounds natural with boosted bass. The sound signature isn't really smooth, which results in a great texture throughout the whole frequency response.
Bass is powerful and fast. Especially mid and higher bass, sub-bass is a bit withdrawn, but it is still perceptible. It is slightly insulated, but still natural. Overally, it’s pretty punchy, but it is also balanced (there is no harshness or muddiness).
The kickbass has a tendency to slam pretty hard, the head starts bobbing instantly.
The midrange was not made for smoothness fans, Shozy again shows they made a wonderful job on details and texture. Higher male vocals, like Shawn Mendes, are a little distant. Sometimes I am missing some more anchor points, like a bigger punch when it shows up.
The treble has a lot of detail again, but there are no sibilances at all. When I changed the cable for **** silver-plated cable top end became shinier, it was pleasantly blinky. On the stock cable, it does not come at the front, it is just correct, maybe a little too harsh sometimes. There is also an annoying peak at 8KHz which can disturb when listening to EDM.
The soundstage has a medium width with very good positioning and separation (especially on a better cable). All sources of the sound are placed close to each other, but the overall imaging is spot on. Height does not exist, it is going only in narrow space around the listener.
Summary
Shozy did an excellent job creating the Form1.1.
They’re made for people who are looking for high detailed earphones with natural sound and high quality bass. They deliver very good sound quality, are well made with good materials and have great accessories, except the cable. Think about investing in an aftermarket cable, especially if you can use a balanced output.
For me it is the best choice in this price range, if you have listened to Queen of Audio Vesper and it was not detailed enough, that might be the IEM for you. Recommended
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
Shozy Form1.1 is a mid-end model with one dynamic and one balanced armature driver. It is priced at 75USD. I did order it randomly, and I definitely do not regret it.
Sound quality
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Build quality
Rating: 7.5 out of 10.
Price
Rating: 9.5 out of 10.
Packaging
In the package, you will find a huge case with Shozy sign on top of it. It can easily fit two pairs of earphones with three cables and for example FiiO BTR5. Quality is great, slightly better than Bqeyz Case. A pity there is no soft case, it could have been more useful.
There are also three types of tips, each in S/M/L sizes, normal, bi-flanged, and foam tips.
Cable
The cable is braided using a synthetic material that is not pleasant to the touch in my opinion. Plastic standoffs are resilient, they will fit different ears easily. The sound quality of the cable is good though. Splitter and jack connector are made of metal and carbon, but 0.78mm connectors are made only of metal. The whole cable gets tangled easily, but it’s simple to untie.
Build quality
Shozy Form1.1 is composed of acrylic, 3D printed shells which are pretty small. The material is really pleasant to the touch, it does not irritate the ears, even after long hours of listening. The outer part is covered in glitter which shimmers in different colors, but only in really strong lightning. They are polished to a high gloss, resulting in being pretty easy to scratch.
Comfort
For me, these are the most comfortable earphones I have ever used. They are very small, slips perfectly to the ear. They never fell out and never let me feel uncomfortable. Each earphone is very light (3.9g), so there are no problems with cables without standoffs.
Honestly, these are the first IEM’s where I can lie on my side.
Sound
In overall, Shozy Form1.1 sounds natural with boosted bass. The sound signature isn't really smooth, which results in a great texture throughout the whole frequency response.
Bass is powerful and fast. Especially mid and higher bass, sub-bass is a bit withdrawn, but it is still perceptible. It is slightly insulated, but still natural. Overally, it’s pretty punchy, but it is also balanced (there is no harshness or muddiness).
The kickbass has a tendency to slam pretty hard, the head starts bobbing instantly.
The midrange was not made for smoothness fans, Shozy again shows they made a wonderful job on details and texture. Higher male vocals, like Shawn Mendes, are a little distant. Sometimes I am missing some more anchor points, like a bigger punch when it shows up.
The treble has a lot of detail again, but there are no sibilances at all. When I changed the cable for **** silver-plated cable top end became shinier, it was pleasantly blinky. On the stock cable, it does not come at the front, it is just correct, maybe a little too harsh sometimes. There is also an annoying peak at 8KHz which can disturb when listening to EDM.
The soundstage has a medium width with very good positioning and separation (especially on a better cable). All sources of the sound are placed close to each other, but the overall imaging is spot on. Height does not exist, it is going only in narrow space around the listener.
Summary
Shozy did an excellent job creating the Form1.1.
They’re made for people who are looking for high detailed earphones with natural sound and high quality bass. They deliver very good sound quality, are well made with good materials and have great accessories, except the cable. Think about investing in an aftermarket cable, especially if you can use a balanced output.
For me it is the best choice in this price range, if you have listened to Queen of Audio Vesper and it was not detailed enough, that might be the IEM for you. Recommended
Gear used during this review for the sake of comparison and as an accompanying equipment:
- IEM – FiiO FH1s, QoA Vesper, QoA Idun, FiiO F9 Pro,
- Sources– Astell&Kern SR25, Fiio M11, iBasso DX160, Topping DX3 Pro, iFi Zen DAC, FiiO BTR5
