I was able to get to the factory reset option and hit yes on the first try, but then it just powered off and not even getting to cayin splash screen or recovery via power+volume up anymore.

My n5iis doesn't even charge anymore... good stuff. It goes to cayin splash screen and never fully powers up. Plugging in wall outlet, battery pack, or via USB on a PC does not charge the device... rip $469

drag down from the top of the screen so the tidal controls display.

Agreed, but something had to change. Colors had the exact same setup not too long ago and did not have any issues from what I remember? He was using the N5ii+massdrop iem+Ares 2.5 cable, but I don't think there should be a difference with the cable from my testing. If anything, N5iiS should...

I have the same issue with my massdrop+ iems(10ohms) which are very sensitive as well. I've noticed running it in audio priority mode reduces it more, but when streaming it's really noticeable. I also have a 3.5 TRRS cable I use through a 2.5 TRRS adapter with the same issue. I don't have this...

Ah, it does not. Random Question: Any reason why you got rid of massdrop+ iems? Sounds amazing with the N5iis!

Awesome, I've always wondered this. Have you ever tried running Tidal through UAPP on the N5ii? It supports MQA now.