I suspect price isn't the issue with the lack of response, but the fact that the i10 is relatively new.   For buds I'd think the i10 puts out sufficient power. Do the highs and lows sound muted, like the buds are not getting enough power?   I like COWON products, at least the iAudio 7...

No experience with the Audio-Technica ATH-M50S headphones, sorry.   I use my headphones at work, akin to library use, and during walks, with at home use a minimal. I settled on Sennheiser HD-25 headphones and Alessandro MS1 headphones. Each of these has its merits with sufficient sound...

I have a mini3 assembled by Rockhopper. Nothing against the quality of the sound or construction, but I am really annoyed by the short runtime between charging.   My favorite in production amp is the XM4 with the 8620 opamp, with the lithium battery charge kit. However, I notice that your EQ...

At this juncture, based on your comments, I still recommend the XM4 with 8620 and, though I have yet to hear it, the JDS with bass boost. These appear to be the lower cost standard battery options at the moment. Well, there is the fred-fred stuff as well as that guy from Lithuania I read good...

That looks interesting.   Any info as to price and anyone done a comparison review? Company website or a seller?   .    

What is your source? What phones are you using? Do you need the DAC feature?   I generally recommend the Practical Devices XM4 with the 8620 opamp and recharge kit to my friends as a beginner amp. It seems to work well with a variety of phones/sources. I like it, but it is a bit pricey.  ...

I use MS1's with my Iaudio DAPs and an old Headstage Lyrix and an Practical Devices MX4. These amps have a bass boost feature that I find helps the MS1's a bit.   I'd recommend waiting to see if one of these or a similar amp shows up on the secondary market.   If in a "rush", the JDS Lab...

Not sure why you think it seems most of the portable headphone amps are best used with IEM's or are specifically made for IEMs.   There isn't any "best" portable (or stationary, for that matter) amp for "cans".   Not sure what you're criteria was for the list of amps you made, though I...

Is that one of those phones that uses a mini-USB to headphone adapter?   Be that as it may, the article seems to indicate that as soon as there is some resistance to the output, sound issues develope.     

Knowing the source also helps as some sources have EQ while others don't.    

+1 on the Practical Devices XM-4. Get it with the AD8620 opamp and rechargeable battery.   Or, maybe, look for a secondary market Headstage Total Lyrix Pro.   I have found both of those amps enjoyable with Iaudio 7/9 source players  and HD25/MS1 headphones.   BTW - I dislike the...

Interesting discussion as it touches on many of the recommendations I give co-workers.   As to headphones, I like the Senn HD-25 and Alessandro MS-1 for portable and work use. I rarely feel I'm being cheated in any area of the listening experience with these. HD-25 for rock and such, the...

What is your source?   I use an iAudio 7 or 9 as a source and use Practical Devices XM-4 as well as old mSeed Spirit and HeadPhonia amps with HD25 headphones.   I still think the XM-4 is a deal with the rechargeable battery and the optional op-amp. Pushes your budget a bit, though.  ...

I use an Iaudio 7 and MS1 'phones (close to the Grado 80, I believe) with a couple different amps. I favor the XM4 because of the bass boost (though the 7 can be adjusted for more bass by itself). I feel it has been good money spent. I splurged on the battery and charger. I have recently...

Everytime I read a review, I want one. But the price stops that want but quick. Appreciate the review, though. Nice to see the iQube lives up to the gaining reputation.