Thank you!

I have the budget for either but not both.   Source is Fiio X5 + JDS C5.   I'm looking for soundstage, isolation, neutral sound, and a full spectrum from subbass to highs.   I currently own HD600 and ATH M50. Since I got the HD600, the only thing I use the M50s for are EDM - house. They...

Nevermind...   http://www.fiio.com.cn/products/index.aspx?ID=100000035273127&MenuID=105026015

Does the iPod Classic headphone-out go into the line-in on the amp? Is that a clean signal?   I see a lot of people using dock connectors, but I don't know of any dock-mini cables...   Sorry, I'm a noob.

Does the X5 Need an E12 amp for CIEMs like JH16 or UM Miracle?

Is it best to use an amp w/ a Fiio X5 + CIEM?

Okay - The Focal Chorus 717v's look awesome!   Is that Onkyo powerful enough to drive them? It's 80w, but the Speakers list 40-200 watts.   Is the Onkyo underpowered for that setup?   Sorry, I really am a newb.

Thanks!   Yes, a sub would be pretty important!

I may be biting off more than I can chew here, or just asking a question that's too ambiguous...   What would YOU put in it?   For $1000, what do you think the best receiver/amp + speakers (passive) do you think is the best bang for the buck?

Starting with nothing but an empty room, ~12x14, tile floors, wood walls (thinnish) with large thin windows (can cover with thick drapes for deadening/absorption)      for $1000 what would you put in it?   Opera, Classical, and a little EDM.   If you need more info, please ask.

Quote:     So, how did the EF-5 compare to the O2?

I've got some replies on the EF-5 so now I'm looking for some information on the Objective2 + ODAC + HE-500       Anyone using the HE-500 w/ 02+ODAC that can reach out and let me know if it's got enough power, and how it sounds?

That might be too steep of a combo for me...   What about the JDS Objective2 ODAC?   schiit bifrost sure is nice though!

Thanks!   What DAC are you using with your Hifiman EF-5 ?

Too obvious?   No love?