Great review, I like your style.

Nice. Sounds like the latest firmware upgrade brought the sound up a full level!
Looking forward to the USB/DAC function.

wow what a nice review, thank you very much Pinky

Firmware v1.4 was a full step up from the previous. With v1.5 there was no change I could detect. Perhaps it's leveling out now.

Good review. I agree that forgetting our previous biases is really easy with the X7, since some of us bought or tried even more expensive and highly regarded DAPs. I guess it's really hard to get past how on earth can a USD650 player beat other DAPs double or even more the price, SQ-wise (esp my previous favorites Plenue P1 and NW ZX2).

I really enjoyed your review, Pinky. Auditory imagery is your forte. But I feel the need for a shower.