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Yes, another "which would be better" threads... - Page 2

post #16 of 18
4/1/11 at 5:41pm
http://aloaudio.com/cypher-labs-algorhythm-solo-black-pre-order.html

make it 3. I could do this all day and keep pulling up different products. The fact of the matter is that ipod is (to me) not that great in reproducing audio at all. Dont get me wrong, the DAC inside is made by wolfson and is quite respectable, but the frequencies start dropping around 10khz under load and result in a very "airy" sound (once again, to me). I'm not saying I have the best setup or anything (nexus one smartphone) but if I had the money for a different portable audio solution, the ipod would not be it.

Keep in mind that I'm refering to the ipod video. The ipod touch didnt sound that bad to me, though I was also only ever able to listen to it (before it got stolen) via 30 dollar creative ep-630's, which are rather attrocious earbuds compared to my monster turbines.

EDIT: first generation touch also had the same DAC in it as the 5/5.5g video, but i think it changed on the ipod touch 2g. I know the latest iphone has a great DAC and that the ipod touch has the same one.
Edited by shrimants - 4/1/11 at 5:50pm
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Gear mentioned in this thread:

FiiO E5 Headphone Amplifier
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post #17 of 18
4/1/11 at 9:22pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shrimants View Post

http://aloaudio.com/cypher-labs-algorhythm-solo-black-pre-order.html

make it 3. I could do this all day and keep pulling up different products. The fact of the matter is that ipod is (to me) not that great in reproducing audio at all. Dont get me wrong, the DAC inside is made by wolfson and is quite respectable, but the frequencies start dropping around 10khz under load and result in a very "airy" sound (once again, to me). I'm not saying I have the best setup or anything (nexus one smartphone) but if I had the money for a different portable audio solution, the ipod would not be it.

Keep in mind that I'm refering to the ipod video. The ipod touch didnt sound that bad to me, though I was also only ever able to listen to it (before it got stolen) via 30 dollar creative ep-630's, which are rather attrocious earbuds compared to my monster turbines.

EDIT: first generation touch also had the same DAC in it as the 5/5.5g video, but i think it changed on the ipod touch 2g. I know the latest iphone has a great DAC and that the ipod touch has the same one.


the solo was the one that i originally mentioned.... so its back to two.  but thats not the point.  op already said that he wanted a portable setup and either one of those would make it less portable.  

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post #18 of 18
4/12/11 at 11:56am
Thread Starter 
Thought I'd update this post after purchasing the FiiO E5 amp and LOD adapter-
I currently have a pair of Shure E5c earphones that I keep going back to,although I hope to replace them (soon?) with the SleekAudio SA7s.

In running the comparisons, I ensured that volume levels were consistent between the two configurations (w/amp and w/o)

I don't claim that this is by any means a thorough or scientific comparison, however the difference was pretty dramatic. As the iPod mini (gen 1) that I was using is generally regarded as possessing the worst amplifier of the family, I figured it would be a good test of the FiiO and I was right. 100$ better? No - although the $20 I spent on the two pieces was well worth it IMHO. The music was more detailed, less harsh, had more punch and depth, and genuinely sounded better.

Considering my own limited requirements, (portability/low cost) I'm highly satisfied - thanks for the constructive dialogue and assistance here - it was much appreciated!
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