iMod Nano (56k warning)

I had my 4 Gig Nano undergo Red Wine Audio's iMod, where the line-out is taken directly from the DAC chip. This bypasses a bunch of parts, cables, etc., making for a very clean output. It eliminates the need for a line out adaptor, such as a pocketdoc; makes for a smaller overall solution

I've been burning in the new Black Gate caps for a few days, but all initial indicators are that this modification is scary good. Last night, I was using it as a source (using Apple Lossless) to drive an Ear+ HD and Grado PS-1s (Zu Pivot with female collar as IC). No direct comparisons (yet) to my Apogee Mini-DAC, but this little source seems to be able to hold its own against many a higher-end source (IMHO, of course). It's not at all digital sounding; surprisingly analog sounding for that matter. Again, my impressions are preliminary, but I could not be more pleased with the results.

My version uses the optional "Pigtail" out where an incision is made in the side of the Nano and the line out is feed through with the coupling caps in line before the mini plug. The pigtail itself is still in a prototype stage (done quickly before the Denver show), meaning that it is completely unfinished. I'll post some before and after pics, but awaiting the Ray Samuels Hornet before any final, final cable dressing. This source and the Hornet promises to be a kick-butt little package.

If I understand correctly, the normal Nano mod will be to use the headphone jack as a new dedicated line out, with the coupling caps built into an interconnect cable. Having experienced the mod firsthand, I'd have no qualms about using the headphone out as a dedicated line out. This would be ultra clean looking.

Case closed, with 2X-S:


With the KSC-35s


Cable redressed, with some old cans I had lying around…. 8~)

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Final Fantasy

Here are some shots of the iMod Nano on top of the Hornet, finally. Seems it's taken forever but it was so worth the wait. I lucked out and made the pigtail the exact length needed to center the Nano atop the Hornet. Sweet!

I'll be messing with ways to mount the Nano on the amp but must type that my portable system, with the HF-1, modified KSC-35s, and of course the outstanding Sensaphonics 2X-S is finally near completion. I'm a happy boy and really have to thank Head-Fi folks for steering me down the right (but financially challenging) path. Knowing what I know now with all the gear I have here, I'd do it all over again exactly the same way.







Mo info: http://www.redwineaudio.com/iMod.html

Nice….

I guess the words prototype, temporary, first pics, or anything signifying an initial trail or fitting period is lost on what has become the cynical and competitively sarcastic mindset of this forum, especially as of late.

The *goal* is atop a Hornet, with clean connectivity; secure invisible mounting; no huge case except for transport, and no rubber bands.

Not one comment or question about the sound quality or potential. This used to be an audio forum. One of us are members of and/or posting in the wrong forum I guess.

NVM