Cowon s9 FLAC or Sony x series 320kbps

for portable, i think you would be fine with 320 kbs aac files. thats what i use and they sound great.

I agree, but I think either would sound fantastic w/320kbps LAME or AAC files.

I personally pick Sony X. However, I mostly tell my friends to get a Cowon for its vast EQ. If you are not sure between FLAC and 320k at this moment, "that little difference on sound quality" shouldn't mean much to you.

Just test it on the computer if you have a decent setup there. I couldn't care less on the move with portable gear, personally. 

Quote:

Originally Posted by High_Q 

What do you guys think is better quality sound?  Do you think S9's FLAC capability is an upgrade from 320kbs sound outputted by Sony X series? 

I'll answer by saying that the difference between FLAC and 320kbs mp3 or AAC is much less than the difference sound signature-wise between the sony X and S9. Thus it becomes quite insignificant which audio format is used and more about what kind of sound you like. the sony is warm, natural and musical, the s9 more energetic and digital sounding.Nevertheless, it's quite important what headphones you'll be pairing either DAPs with.
 

+1 for Cowon S9, as far as EQs go, It can't be beat.