Preface

Hello again, hope you're all well in these uncertain times. I would like to thank Kevin from Signature Systems for giving me the opportunity to review the Musicbook Source. This is only my 4th component review, so bear with me and don’t forget to compare my thoughts with other reviews for a more rounded view.

Recently I’ve looked at the Matrix Audio Element i, Burson Audio Playmate and iFi Zen dac, a comparison video of which can be found on my YouTube Channel. And currently I have a pro DSD. Along with my Pi + HPA2C. Unfortunately I don’t have a power amplifier to test with speakers but do have an assortment of IEMs, Headphones and an audio interface to provide some comparative measurements.

Video

Along with my written review, I’ll soon be posting my video review.

Summary

Now for those of you who want to see just the major points please find them below, for more detailed thoughts please continue on.

Highlights:

• Beautifully machined seamless aluminum chassis.
• High quality materials and finish.
• CD Drive Support. Apple USB SuperDrive matches nicely.
• Strong Wireless and Ethernet support.
• Internal low noise power supply (Multi Voltage)
• Qobuz, Tidal, Spotify, Radio and Roon Capable
• OLED display, bonded to glass (Good for viewing angles - like a phone)
• Rich in connectivity
• DSD upsampling
• Dual Mono Digital-to-analog convertors (DACs) - AKM4493
• Class A Headphone Amplifier

Cons:

• Poor Android App
• Recessed WPS button
• No included remote
• Presentation
• Value
• Low headphone output power when compared

What's in the Box

When you receive the Musicbook Source it will come in a rather large box, with a printed sleeve. I would rather this be a printed box, as these sleeves are easy to damage and annoying to take off. The box adornes alot of marketing on the sides.

Opening the box up you will see the unit surrounded by high density foam. Which appears to provide a good deal of protection for shipping. Along with another box for included accessories. This includes a basic multi language manual, power cable, flat ethernet and an optical adapter. No remote is included unfortunately, though it’s mostly controlled from the app. Previous models did include an IR remote and looking at the front panel it appears there is a receiver. Also no usb cable for a host computer. The focus is clearly on the App and streaming support.



The Lindemann Musicbook Source is well packaged but lacks a premium unboxing experience. I would like to see a bit more focus on this such as a more detailed manual/product book, design and included accessories.

Build, Design and IO

Milled from a single block of aluminum the unibody chassis is a thing of beauty, subtle curves and leading lines giving a distinct industrial design. You could be mistaken for thinking this is the new Mac Mini. And so the product should fit in with other devices and the Apple USB super drive is a nice addition for CD playback. Materials and design are amongst the best I have seen but I was a little disappointed to find some sharp and rough edges, along with some albeit very small tooling marks. However this is rather nitpicking and difficult to spot. Measuring the weight, it comes in at just over 2.5Kg and so should not be a problem for any shelf or cabinet.

There's only the 1 control input that being the multifunction rotary encoder, it's of great quality and throughout my use I saw no mis-steps. Bonded to the front glass is a monochrome OLED display. I like this alot, it's got adjustable brightness and superb viewing angles. No panel gaps here. I just wish manufacturers would display more information and use the screen space more effectively. On a streamer I want to see current track information, source and volume at one glance not open an app.




Moving onto the inputs and outputs, at the back of the unit we see a plethora of ports with not much space to spare. We have 3 analog inputs, including the one phono input with a ground plug for turntables. The unit does not have any functionality to record and save to USB for digitizing your collection in case you were wondering. The built in phono preamp supports Moving Magnet cartridges. For analog outputs we have unbalanced and balanced variable outputs in the form of standard RCAs and XLR connections. Both can be used at the same time.

For digital inputs we have SPDIF optical and coax, this is the only input you can use for connecting to directly a computer. Previous models did include a USB interface and controller for this functionality. This limits you to using the USB for dsf/dsd playback. I have not tested but would doubt due to copy protection and firmware of the drive used that SACD playback over a USB Optical Drive would work. There’s no mqa decoder either so don't expect to play UHQ-CDs either.

View attachment p4.jpg

Testing the playback from my Kingston datatraveler 16GB USB drive. I transferred across a SACD ISO (Disk Image) and also some DSF files. Opening the application and navigating to the appropriate folders, I was successful at playing DSFs but not the disk image. So for native DSD you could have them stored locally to the device, likewise common PCM formats.




Now for the network and streaming inputs, here we have a 100MB/s Ethernet though dated it's important to realise this is more than enough for audio streaming. We also have wireless connectivity which is paired using WPS. I did find the recessed button annoying and pointless having to find a suitable pin to push it in with. There's also bluetooth for a simpler but less reliable connection. The unit is quick to connect on startup and stores the settings, likewise the volume and last selected input.

And lastly we have a sight to behold, a standard IEC plug for it's internal low noise multi voltage power supply, making full use of the internal space and not wasting the opportunity.

Measurements

As a first attempt at doing some basic measurements, I’ve produced some graphs using ARTA and my Audient Evo 4 interface. I used a 64K FFT, Hann Window, averaged for 16 cycles and level matched the devices. Obviously this is no audio precision analyzer.

Lindemann :



iFi Pro DSD Solid State Mode :



So according to my measurements we see the Lindemann has a lower THD+N, but the performance of the iFi is more linear across the range. However, at these levels this should all be inaudible anyway. For those interested, yes the iFi THD+N did increase (worse) when used in tube hybrid and tube modes.

Sound and Comparisons



The Lindemann Musicbook Source is the close second best dac I have heard, the best still remains the Matrix Audio Element i. However for particular users it may remain the better choice.

It's sound signature is for the most part neutral, with slightly rolled off high frequencies taking the edge off harsher tracks and presenting a relaxing experience. Minimal distortion and high dynamic range brings out the smaller details. Testing with sensitive IEMs the noise floor is very minimal. This is a high performance DAC but not class leading, as unfortunately there's a lot of good competition from the likes of Mytek and Matrix Audio. The DSD upsampling does not retrieve anymore detail over the PCM modes but did futher the experience, with a percieved widening of sound on certain tracks and increasing dynamic range. The effect would be more prevalent on loud speakers and could work well with vinyls compressed dynamic range.

Compared to the iFi Pro DSD, I much prefer the sound from the Lindemann. The iFi lacks the same level of detail retrieval and can sound veiled. However one advantage for the iFi is it's many different modes to present different experiences which may pair better with particular headphones and speakers.

DLNA Streaming, App and Roon

I know some users will be interested in DLNA streaming or Roon integration. DLNA streaming provides an additional way to stream music to the device. Such as from a Windows computer or Linux machine without the app. On Android I once again used BubbleUPnP, the process is very simple: just download the app login to the supported services and you will see the device, since it acts as a DLNA renderer.

This worked a treat, finding and recognising the Lindemann very quickly and providing an alternative to the unpolished android application. I then wondered would Qobuz work with the experimental feature for DLNA? No, it only acts as a renderer and you need a controller in the loop I believe. There's no airplay support unfortunately. The device can act as a Roon endpoint and is 'roon ready' again with this you would require a dedicated controller/server.




With regards to the Lindemann application, using the android variant I was less than impressed. Upon initial setup I was confused as all inputs had broken names (unsupported characters) and the UI does not make this easy to understand and determine which input you are trying to rename. The UI is very dated and looks like a template. However to give credit where credit is due, it is very functional and at least they have taken the time to develop the application.

Final Remarks and Value

Overall I am very impressed with the Musicbook Source from Lindemann. It offers an excellent feature set and highly respectable performance. For users with an interest in both digital streaming and analog playback this should be worth considering as an all in one solution. The phono pre-amp, design and build are the unique selling points.

However it is let down in some aspects of it's presentation such as the application and packaging. And in terms of its competitors it does not offer very good value unless the phono preamp and design are important factors to your purchase decision.

Preface

Hi again, I would like to Thank Cao, Matrix Audio and Kevin from Signature Systems for giving me the opportunity to review the Element i. But before anything I want to mention something that took me aback.

It’s easy to get caught up online and become detached, following Matrix Audio reaching out to me china began suffering with the coronavirus and so they unfortunately have been impacted. So I want to wish them all the best and hope they all stay safe.

Video

Along with my written review, please find a video review. Hopefully this is useful to someone.



Summary

For those of you who want to see just the major points please find them below, for more detailed thoughts please continue on.

Highlights:

• Class Leading DAC, highly detailed but most discernible in the bass.
• Premium build and materials
• Venting, stays cool and consumes a max of 20W.
• Multiple Power Modes, Remote Control and Software Control.
• Low output impedance (0.6Ohms) and very low noise headphone amplifier. Sounds great at all volumes.
• Lossless streaming over the network and from attached usb storage devices.
• Range of Digital Inputs and Analog Outputs.
• Neutral frequency response, uncoloured sound from file to output.
• Output controls and filter adjustments.

Cons:

• Wireless connection strength.
• Lower than competitors for headphone output power.
• App Crashes, No Qobuz support yet.
• Top lines of text can become hidden even at acute angles.

What's in the Box

So let's go over what's included in the box and how the product is presented when delivered to your door. A neat black cardboard box, printed with a pattern and some minor branding. Not splashed in marketing nonsense.




Moving on inside. We see the product is protected by some reasonably dense foam, that's cut to fit and gives everything a place. You will see we get a colour matching remote by coincendence as this is the same remote included with the silver Element M and Element X. Included is a USB cable and the external wall wart style switch mode power supply that's multi voltage and comes with changeable plugs. Not my favourite type here, prefer internal power supplies with standard IEC connections and usable servicable fuses. But these are pretty common place. The power supply is upgradable to a linear power if that interest you.



Build, Design and IO

Fit and finish of product is very good and it's clear it's a premium product. An aluminum build including the remote. The screen is glass and not plastic. Volume pot/dial is very smooth and notched, so you feel every increment. Does not slip like my Burson Playmate. There's venting across the sides of the device, allowing hot air to escape. The devices sports a stealth like appearance following industrial design trends, a silver accent line stripes across the top of the device and 4 isolating feet hold it up.

My only complaint with the build was at certain angles the very top line of text can become difficult to see due to the display being slightly recessed behind it's window.

The Inputs and outputs of the device are plentiful, with balanced XLRs and RCAs. A range of digital inputs including I²S and so you have the option to use an external interface for USB or optical that outputs an I²S connection through HDMI. There's 2 USB hosts slots for allowing you to connect up two storage devices, once you connect them the app starts indexing the files you have on those drives and makes them searchable along with cover art. This process was super quick and easy. In the video I show the app and setting this up, check the timestamps for it's location.



Sound and Comparisons

So far my experience of DACs and headphone amplifiers has always been combo devices, I started off with a Sabaj DA3 about 2 years ago. This always sounded a bit shrill and did not have the power to boot. In the beginning I had a lot of problems with the XMOS usb interface, this has been improved upon but still makes it way into products with them including the Element I. Though over USB element I has been the most seamless yet and does not crap out when changing between PCM and DSD audio.

I then went to a Matrix Audio HPA-2C which warmed up the sound signature and smoothed everything out, well it rolled of the high frequencies really. But on sensitive IEMs was rather noisy and did not pair well due to the high output impedance but still sounds great on my headphones and provides a more relaxed listening experience. I recently got to try and review the Burson Playmate which fixed my power complaints with the previous ESS dac the DA3, it provides a flat frequency response with the option to roll off those high frequencies through the menu's. Using this really depends on the headphones as well.

Now trying out the Element i, it's the definitely the best I've heard so far. There's a noticable increase in detail which I found most discernible in the bass. The noise floor is minimal and so should pair well with sensitive IEMs. The output power is reasonable but not class leading here but it's dac is.

Final Remarks

I've really enjoyed using the Element i. The sound is superbly detailed and the feature set is great. When you look into it's nearest competitors you will see for the price point the Element i is offering more than most. I think the Mytek Brooklyn bridge is the nearest, which features the same DAC and similar capabilities but at 3 times the cost.

One thing I liked was not feeling tied to a computer when wanting to listen to music, I placed the device nearer to my bed than computer and so could adopt a more relaxed position but still listen in high fidelity. Though it was annoying when the app crashed, but for the most part it's reliable and being able to power it up or down through said app is convenient.

DLNA Streaming and Roon

I know some users will be interested in DLNA streaming or Roon integration. DLNA streaming provides a workaround to playback from services like Qobuz without using the App. On android I used BubbleUPnP, the process is very simple just download the app login to the supported services and you will see the device, since it acts a DLNA renderer. On apple you can also use Air Play. You could also setup a DLNA server on a dedicated computer and create a more besoke setup. So with these protocols supported it enables Element i to be able to operate as a Roon end.

Key Features and Specification

For those of you really only interested in the specification and key features, please see a list of the key features and specifcations of the device below.

9028 Pro DAC

• Balanced XLR Line outputs (4.0VRMS) fixed or variable for use with active monitors or headamp with independent volume control.
• SNR: >=127dB
• Class leading dacs, implementation and measurements. Only surpassed by more matrix audio models or very expensive/unavailable equipment.
• DSD512/PCM 768 over IIS
• Jitter Eliminator and DPLL.
• PCM and DSD signal filters

XMOS XU208 USB Interface

• DSD256 and PCM384 over usb.
• XU216 only found on element X, XU208 very prevalent in industry.

Freescale i.MX6 series dual-core ARM

• Powerful dual core SoC handles day to day running of the amplifier.
• Enables lossless wifi streaming, roon endpoint and integration with a range of music services. MA app facilitates interaction and easy setup.
• Playback from USB storage, does indexing.

Headphone Amplifier

• Single Ended output only, however for headphones use the only benefit of balanced output is to deliver more power. Advantages of balanced cables are negligible for headphones due to cable length and load.
• SNR: >=111dB (Above Average below latest offerings from Geshelli, Schiit and THX.)
• 1.3W @ 32Ohms Above Average power output, below latest offerings.
• 0.6Ohm output impedance, class leading suitable for use with high sensitivity IEMs such as campfire audio.
• Built from discrete components.

Power Supply

• Multi Voltage External Switch Mode Power Supply outputting 12V
• Element M upgrades this and features an internal linear power supply.

Included Remote and App

• Included Aluminum Remote with all buttons mapped correctly. Mobile app as alternative control and ability to add music sources/services.

Oled Display

• Clear oled display, fits the whole window and is centered. Displays useful information such as source, connection, sample rate, levels and filters. Can't display track information.

Preface

I would like to start by stating this is my first headphone review and I have just released a video review that hopefully complements my written review. But I understand not everyone will be interested in a video and instead want to see read one



Summary

For those you who want to see just the major points please find them below, for more detailed thoughts please continue on.

Highlights:

• Excellent detail retrieval.
• Spring loaded cans insure a good seal/fit.
• Open feel (not sound).
• Mid forward, low bass presence.
• Easy listening, no treble fatigue.
• Good Materials and Unique Design.

Cons:

• Poor cable and Micrphonics
• Detail can ruin the experience for some tracks.
• Lacking Mid Bass/Lower Tones and Vocals, almost veiled here.
• Can get warm and pressure build up over longer listening sessions.

What's in the Box

Let's get started by what you see when you first recieve the Focal Elegia. Initially you will see a display box adorning the Focal name and product name. Apart from that it's rather minimal and not covered in marketing nonsense like some competitors.

Opening up the box we find a rather nice form fitting case with enough room for a small DAP or portable DAC, the quality of the case is very high and reminds you that the Elegia is a premium headphone. There's also the included cable (more on that later), screw on 3.5mm to 6.5mm and the usual product information.

Build and Comfort

The Majority of the external part of the ear cups are matte plastic with one gloss accent ring on a faux chamfer, there is of course the Focal logo which is metal and laser cut making the headphone ported. It does not leak sound much out of this if you were wondering and I've stood immediatley next to my brother who listened at a much greater level than myself when I let him try, I could barely hear anything and so these are more than suitable for office environments in that respect.

I would like to see the outer ring of the ear cup be made of alluminum and perhaps colour matched to the yokes. The rest of the ear cup I'm happy with being plastic.

The headband is mostly leather and has a reasonable range of adjustment, the underside is a grey fabric sort of suede like. The same is found oddly in the inside of the ear cups as well. In would prefer this to be black for concerns over wear or discolouring over time.

Moving onto the aforementioned cable, the included cable is a nice material with solid connectors. Two 3.5mm mini jacks for your stereo pair. Terminating in a 3.5mm which you can of course use the included screw on adapter with. However is very and I mean very sensitive to microphonics, slightest touch or rub of your shirt and you will hear it. It's also pretty short at 1m in length which maybe a concern for some users. It does straighten out but is very stiff and can have a mind of it's own.

The earpads are soft and a nice material, I would like to try leather but as another user mentioned pads are expensive. Here in the UK even dekonis are about £70 ($91). I have noted though over longer listening sessions can get a little warm though not enough to bother me yet. Your mileage may vary.

Likewise they exhibit a high clamping force that's great for fit and staying planted/sealed on your head but pressure can build up and become a little fatigueing.

Sound

Immense detail, can pick up pops and clicks that you maybe did not want to hear. Compressed music can begin to sound lacking and I found these benefitted from lossless CD quality or higher. But when presented with well recorded track they do shine and I appreciated the step up in detail over my previous headphones, the last of which being Hifiman HE5se.

Low impedance and high sensitivity means these are easy to drive for portables, do scale with better gear and can highlight the differences between equipment well. Resolving more details when used with my Burson Audio Playmate over HPA-2C.

Airy, but seal well. Ported at the back allows audio still to come in from surrounding environment. Does not feel closed in and boomy. Presents an intermit soundstage but wider than most closed I have listened to and more open sounding.

Some tracks where the artist has a lower voice can feel lacking or if there is a mix with heavy presence of mid bass, separation can be lacking. But as we approach the mid range they get boosted. Low bass is really impressive say below 80Hz and almost feels like a subwoofer at times when a track has a good kick to it. No sparkly highs here but treble is still present and feels neutral in it’s response, this makes long listening sessions easy as I have been known to suffer from treble fatigue.

Final Remarks

Overall I am very impressed with the sound of the Focal Elegia, especially for a closed back headphone. I wanted a high performance closed headphone as I seldom used my open backs due to noise leak and worry about disturbing anyone.

It's clear that the Focal Elegia, is a well designed headphone with alot of thought gone into it. But it's not without it's shortcomings and perhaps those are the prices we pay for opting for closed back designs.

Also for those interest, there is a whitepaper on the focal elegia and Stellia that goes into great detail. Please find here.

I hope this useful to someone, any questions please feel free to ask.