Hi friends!

After quite a long period, we return to the story of the most interesting new products in portable audio, and we have the most wonderful reason for this. Today our guests are our old friends: experimentators-modernists, virtuosos of the earphon engineering - FIR AUDIO brand.
Their recent flagship Xenon 6 IEM/CIEM made a lot of noise among audiophiles and professional musicians, captivating everyone both with its extraordinary approach to technical implementation, the amount of patented know-how, and the amazing sound of the model. The headphones turned out, without exaggeration, to be gorgeous. But there were also those who, despite all their love for customizing the flagship’s sound, wanted to add something and change it a little. Including bringing a bit of air, speed and expression from the younger, no less popular model Krypton 5 into the deep, mysterious and charming sound of the XE6. This is how, I believe, the idea of creating the hero of today’s review was born.

Radon 6 can be called a variation on the Xenon 6 theme, but with a completely different sound setup. Despite the similar configuration of elements, I mean the number of drivers, and the use of the same unique technologies, the end result has changed, absorbing the best features of both the KR5 and XE6.
Unfortunately, I never had a chance to listen to the KR5's, but one thing I can say for sure: having compared both six-driver flagships, I could not give preference to any one of these models. The RN6, like my beloved XE6, has everything to make you fall madly in love with this model.

Like all of the brand's IEM/CIEMs, the Radon 6 features a hybrid design. There are six emitters of three types on board: one dynamic (DD), four armature (BA) and one electrostatic (ESTAT). In addition, there is a replaceable Atom-X module and a unique design implemented according to the Tubeless Design principle - patented FIR Audio technology, which involves the abandonment of acoustic tubes and the open design of the drivers/emitters themselves, as well as KINETIC BASS - which you cannot hear, but you feel it! As a result, not only the acoustic design of the case, but also the very structure of the internal components have been carefully worked out in the earphones.

Well, it’s time to finish with the protracted introductory speech and proceed directly to getting to know today’s guest.






Text: Alexey Kashirskey aka Hans Barbarossa


Specifications
Type: in-ear (IEM/CIEM)
Construction: hybrid
6 drivers per IEM/CIEM:
1x 10mm Kinetic Bass Dynamic Driver
1x OpenDriver Balanced Armature Driver for bass
2x OpenDriver Balanced Armature Driver for mids
1x OpenDriver Balanced Armature Driver for highs (with Sound Reflector)
1x OpenDriver Electrostatic Driver for ultra highs
Technology: Tubeless design, Atom Venting, Kinetic BASS, Open Acoustics, Rigid Technologies etc.
4 interchangeable Atom-X modules included
Freq. Range: 20-20kHz
Impedance: 28ohms
Cable: detachable - 1.2m/1.6m, connectors (2pin), jack-4,4мм




Music without limits: individuality or universalism

Initially, Radon 6 were released in a limited edition and exclusively in a universal IEM case, which is why there was serious unrest in the audiophile community. But now, before us, this model is already in the CIEM version, so now both music industry professionals and simply sound aesthetes have the opportunity to choose between individuality and universalism, ordering the RN6 either in a custom or universal version.

Well, for those who have not yet encountered CIEM, I can assure you that the procedure for ordering custom earphpnes is not at all difficult. You need to go to firaudio.com, register, go to the “Designer” menu, select the desired model, its design (appearance, connectors, cable length) and pay for the purchase. Then you go to the hearing center, make impressions of your ears there and send them to the manufacturer. After that, you look forward to the arrival of your exclusive CIEM.

In our case, the RN6 model is made in a custom design (based on an my impressions). And now it’s definitely time to move on to getting acquainted with the new product.


Appearance, kit, technology and ergonomics
On the outer wrapper, in addition to the FIR AUDIO logo in the upper left corner, there is a graphic design of headphones and three round icons indicating the technologies used in the model: KINETIC BASS, ATOM VENTING, OPEN ACOUSTICS.

The sides of the wrapper took on the brand logo and the inscription indicating that the headphones belong to the new line, “to New Frontiers”. Detailed technical specifications are indicated on the back of the package.





We remove the printed wrapper and find a black box, where we again encounter the FIR Audio logo in the form of bunny ears, applied in gold embossing, from which sparkling sun rays scatter in all directions.

In the box we find the RN6 themselves inlaid in a foam base with an already installed replacement cable (2pin/4.4 mm Pentacon), a black metal puck case designed for storing and carrying the earphones, instructions and a round colored patch-sticker “FIR Audio Space Force” .





Three pairs (silver, black and gold) of replaceable Atom-X modules neatly fit inside the case, and another pair - red - is already installed in the CIEM. Next, we take out a brush to care for the sound pipes.

Overall, the set is definitely five stars!

When choosing the appearance of my CIEMs, I settled on a glossy black shell, which is made of acrylic, and a similar gold-plated faceplate, with bunny ears on the right bezel and the model name "RN6" on the left. It turned out very beautiful, in my opinion.
On the faceplate, through the transparent varnish, we see a mesmerizing picture: in the resinous, rebellious sky, fragments and grains of a golden comet scattered, as if after a cosmic catastrophe. The beauty is incredible! This is not just a utilitarian device, but a miniature work of art!

The shell itself is made flawlessly, with every curve, every turn and bulge following the shape of my ear with surgical precision. Sound insulation is average, no worse or better than most CIEMs. The cable is supposed to be worn exclusively behind the ear.






At the bottom of the outer panel there is a replaceable Atom-X module. ATOM (Air Transfering Open Module) venting is a tiny metal cylinder valve that reduces the sound pressure exerted on the eardrum, thereby protecting hearing. It relieves the air pocket that forms between the earphone and the eardrum, and also acts as an acoustic filter, which serves to fine-tune the sound of in-ear monitors.

It is appropriate to recall here that the RN6 uses tubeless technology “Tubeless Design”. That is, the design does not contain acoustic tubes or separate chambers for drivers.







The sound pipe was covered with a removable metal mesh, protecting the headphones from moisture and sulfur. Another know-how of the company is used here - Rigid Snap Screen. Now you don’t need to unscrew the body to manipulate the protective mesh; just take tweezers, loosen and remove the pressure ring, then remove it and clean or replace the mesh. Although, I would still contact the manufacturer in such cases.
Next to the sound pipes is a round port of an open dynamic driver. This is an opening protected by a grille that transmits low-frequency signals directly to the cartilage of your ear. The same KINETIC BASS that you don't hear, but you feel!

A little higher, closer to the 2pin connector, you can find another small hole, which is connected to the fastening of this connector. RIGID Technologies is another patented technology that, according to FIR Audio, provides exceptional reliability, durability and ease of service for in-ear monitors.
“The most durable 2-Pin connection on the market, rated for 1,000 connections without issue. Fits any 2-Pin standard. Featuring a revolutionary quadrant socket design that prevents the socket from getting loose,” assures the manufacturer.






The included 26x8 AWG cable is made from pure silver and copper and is sleek and attractive. It is extremely light, elastic and high quality. Connectors 2-pin, straight jack plug, with balanced TRRS 4.4 mm connection. The splitter is made in the same style. The cable length is 1.2 meters. When ordering, you can choose other connectors and connectors, length, and also order a regular 3.5mm jack.

Like its brother XE6, the Radon 6 model has a hybrid design and is built on six emitters: one dynamic (DD 10mm), four open-type reinforcement (Open BA Driver) and one open electrostatic driver (Open Electrostatic Driver).
A speaker with “kinetic bass” is responsible for vibrations in the lowest part of the low-frequency register, one BA is responsible for the bass, its two brothers work out the middle, another armature is responsible for high frequencies and ESTAT is for ultra-high frequencies.






Well, FIR AUDIO, once again, turned out to be excellent CIEMs in all respects. But the most interesting thing, as you might guess, is still ahead of us: we move on to sound analysis. And this is, without a doubt, the most intriguing part of our review.


Phantasmagoria of sound: atom'ic tuning and life-giving neutrality (Sound Impressions)
Before listening, the CIEM were burn-in for 70-80 hours.
Sound equipment: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, Lotoo paw Gold, iBasso DX240, DX300, iBasso 220 MAX, QLS QA-361, iFI iDSD Diablo, iFi Gold BAR & iFi xDSD Gryphon.

With all devices, the RN6s sounded great, and their “voice” varied slightly depending on the sound source and the Atom-X modules used.


It is worth noting that replacing Atom-X modules significantly affects the sound character of the earphones:
Red - makes the sound open, fast, analytical and more expressive due to a slight accent in the upper register.
Black - the most neutral with good detail, with a little added weight in the lower register. It has a similar style to the red module, but has a less vibrant sound signature.
Silver - neutral with a slight added low end and deeper bass.
Gold - perhaps the most bassy with a slight accent in the upper register.







With all of the above modules, the Atom-X RN6 sounds great. But in my opinion, it's worth taking some time to determine which "atom" is best for you. Well, in the case of the universal (IEM) version of RN6, replaceable tips will have a certain impact on the sound too. Personally, after playing with these multi-colored modules for a couple of days, I opted for black, in my opinion, the most neutral Atom-X. With this in mind, we will conduct a general analysis of the sound.







The sound of Radon 6 can be described as well-balanced, smooth, with an excellent display of the emotional component, development of micro- and macro-nuances, excellent speed characteristics and amazing melody. The musical canvas is depicted in an unusually lively, bold, rich and contrasting manner, with excellent transmission of sound timbres and scrupulous elaboration of the details of the composition. This is a slight W-shape, presented in a neutral form.

RN6 create a fairly spacious and extremely detailed picture with an almost perfect depiction of the width and proportionate depth of virtual space. The precision of the sound of all timbres, coupled with a clean, neutral presentation with a slight touch of emotional coloring, amazes the ear from the first notes, creating a real sound phantasmagoria, dissolving us in the world of musical harmony.








Unlike its brother Xenon 6, which literally hypnotizes with its serious, deep, atmospheric, magnetic manner, RN6 sound more open, intelligible and balanced, showing a spreading stereo panorama, paying less attention to the depth of the image space, working more in width. In general, the Radons sound more clear, lively and emotional than the XE6. It's important to note that there is no winner here, as these models are complementary rather than competitors.

Radon 6 are able to amaze listeners of any background with their temperament, clear articulation, high resolution and wide dynamic range. Neutral, with a slight coloration at the edges of the frequency range, presentation, clarity, excellent speed characteristics - all this creates an extraordinary spirituality of audio images and completely dissolves consciousness in the sound pouring from the earphones. The audio canvas is drawn with contrast and clarity, where every stroke, every image is clearly visible.








The low-frequency range is presented tightly and clearly. The bass is fast, textured, with good texture development, biting, tight impact and excellent control. The sub-bass region flows smoothly and harmoniously into the mid-bass, which, in turn, vitally complements the mid-bass, filling it with depth, warmth and bodily substance.
A clear clap, shock vibrations - everything is transmitted and felt clearly, accurately and smoothly, without hum or encroachment on other registers. Well, a dynamic driver with KINETIC BASS technology allows you not only to hear the power of low frequencies, but also to feel it, to feel these tremors of the musical spheres.


Mids are neutral, smooth, with excellent texture reproduction and excellent resolution. Not a single detail will escape the listener.
The emotional component of the composition is conveyed in an extremely naturalistic manner. String instruments and wind instruments sound crisp and clear, guitar plucks are conveyed meticulously, vocal parts are filled with life, and the pianist’s nimble fingers delicately scatter over the keys - everything is beautiful, relaxed and with the right touch of expression. The timbre, vibration of a voice or the trembling of a string are conveyed authentically and deeply. Vocals sound slightly expressive, smooth and natural.
This is a well-balanced and at the same time sensual performance, smooth and spacious, where all elements of the composition are presented with unusual clarity and complexity. The positioning of tools in space is clearly calibrated and realistic.


High frequencies sound drawn-out, refined, intelligible, with good articulation, transmission of aftertones and enviable correctness. It's spread out, spacious, smooth and comfortable to serve. There is an elegant and light accent in this register that adds air to the compositions being listened to, but it is done competently and accurately. There is no excessive brightness here, but there is excellent refinement of this range and a natural, extremely musical sound without excessive harshness or distortion.







The Radon 6 handles any style of music without any problems. They play classical music, instrumental music, jazz, electronic music, rock, and brutal genres in an extremely interesting way.


Orchestra, touch: conclusions and finances
FIR Audio Radon 6 are extraordinary earphones that in both their versions (CIEM/IEM) are sources of music of the highest class! These in-ear monitors have their own charm and sophisticated flavor and will certainly find many admirers among the most demanding connoisseurs. It has everything: a balanced, clear and genuine sound that evokes a storm of emotions, the possibility of tuning, the use of the most advanced technologies, an original design, incredible ergonomics and a rich set.
Of course, the price of such a “delicacy” is also extremely far from ordinary. You can order Radon 6 in both custom and universal versions on the official website firaudio.com for $3,299.
Yes, the amount is very, very impressive, but the reality is that now this is exactly how much the sound costs, from which you lose peace and sleep, and even in such a stunning performance.

And if you have the opportunity to fork out for this magnificence, then I would recommend the FIR Radon 6 for purchase without the slightest hesitation.

Hi friends!

It seems to me that miniaturized DAC/headphone amplifiers are the fastest growing industry in portable audio. We will listen and appreciate another confirmation of this today, especially since the beloved brand from the Celestial Empire, iBasso Audio, is back in action.

We have to admit that audio dongles have become so popular for a number of good reasons: extremely compact size and weight allows you to take such a device anywhere and anytime, easy connection to any mobile gadget and PC, lack of its own battery (so there is no battery wear and no need to constantly monitor for the level of its charge), often a nice design, and most importantly - a very high-quality sound.
In my opinion, there are plenty of arguments for such a device to be, if not the main one, then at least the second one - an audio companion that steadfastly goes with you through life.

At one time, we reviewed one of the most popular DAC / AMP from iBasso - DC03, built on the CS43131 chip. And now the company has pleased its fans with the release of an updated version of DC03 with the prefix "PRO", improved from all sides. But let's analyze all the details in detail in our review.
Simultaneously, iBasso released a cute and clever digital OTG connection cable. It has USB type-C / USB type-C connectors and received the index CB18. We will also mention it below.

If you missed it, then just in case I will inform you that we have already told you about the first-born of the audio dongle line: DC01, DC02, DC03, as well as DC05 and "Batman" DC06. But here we have a new hero, a refined and refined professional, in an updated design, with a neutral, pure, like a mountain stream, genuine sound.





Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)


Specifications
DAC: CS43131*2 Dual DACs.
THD+N: -111dB(32Ω load), -114dB(300Ω load).
Output Level: 2Vrms(300Ω), 1.77Vrms(32Ω).
Frequency response: 20Hz-40kHz.
Noise floor: <0.9u.
SNR:127dB.
Output impedance: <0.12Ω.
Output Power: 98mW@32Ω.
Supported Decoding: 32-Bit/384kHz PCM and Native DSD256.
Weight: 10.5g.
Dimensions: 49.4x21x8mm.


Appearance and kit

Our PRO-DAC/AMP is carefully packaged in a small transparent box. He looks at us affably through the plastic, and his resume is placed on a cardboard insert around him: model name, “profession” - 3.5 mm single-ended USB DAC & AMP, brand logo and golden squares indicating Hi-Res support, PCM 32/384, DSD 256x. MQA decoding, as I understand it, the device does not support. Detailed specifications are listed on the back.
Inside, in addition to the gadget, we find a USB type-C / USB type-C connecting cable, an adapter from type-C to type-A and instructions, which in combination is a warranty card.





From another similar box, we immediately remove the audiophile USB type-C / USB type-C OTG cable - iBasso CB18. This handsome man is not included in the DC03 PRO package and must be purchased separately.
The iBasso CB18 is specifically designed to interface with the DC03 PRO USB DAC/Amplifier. The high purity core material provides high quality digital signal transmission with low internal resistance. Eight-strand insulated conductors, woven from 6N silver-plated monocrystalline copper, in an elastic braid. The cable is made by hand.

Connector contacts with 24-carat 5 µm gold plating. Connector housings are made of stainless steel. OTG configuration on both sides. The cable is not used to charge devices. The price for the CB18 is $39.






Back to DC03 PRO. Its oblong body (49.4x21x8 mm, weight 10.5 grams) is made of aluminum alloy, and the back and front sides are covered with glossy black glass. Personally, the design of our today's guest reminds me of a beautiful keychain flashlight from some Swiss manufacturer, which is usually hung on a key ring. This cute DAC/Amplifier will easily fit in that little jeans pocket called the "watch pocket".

Above, on a black glass surface, the model of the device is displayed in silver and its outstanding abilities are indicated: iBasso DC03 PRO 32/384kHz, DSD 256x. Not without the mandatory status of the golden sticker "Hi-Res Audio". Slightly to the right is a strip of LED, which tells us that the device is working properly, and also signals the frequency of the audio files being played: red - playback is stopped, blue - DSD, green - PCM. On the opposite side are quality certificates and information about the manufacturer and the country of origin.





As far as I know, the newcomer comes in silver, black and blue. We have, as you can see, the last option.

On one of the ends there are two round volume buttons (+/-) with a pleasant click and smooth pressing. The top edge has taken over the connector for connecting a 3.5 mm TRS connector, the bottom one has a USB type-C digital input. The DC03 PRO has a detachable cable.







To start working DC03 PRO with your Android gadget, you just need to connect it using the supplied wire or CB18 cable - everything happens in Plug & Play mode. Now we connect the headphones, adjust the volume for comfortable listening and - voila - we are already enjoying our favorite music. Well, owners of Apple devices will have to buy a USB-C / Lightning cord. To connect the device to a PC or laptop, the kit includes a USB type-C / type-A adapter.

To correctly adjust the volume, change the digital filter, control the channel balance, gain (Gain) and output power, you should download the proprietary updated iBasso UAC application either from the Google Play Market / App Store (I believe that the program has been added to the "apple" store), or apk -file from the manufacturer's website (for Android devices). Also on the iBasso website, you can take a special USB driver "DC-series" for ASIO output on Windows devices and activate it in the settings of the foobar2000 program.




The device is powered by a smartphone / tablet battery, but it does not suffer from “gluttony”, so you should not worry about increased battery discharge on your phone. Well, in the case of a PC and a laptop, there is nothing to worry about at all.

Of the distinguishing features of the DC03 PRO from its predecessors, I would like to note that during operation it practically does not heat up. In my use case, it was a little warm, about the temperature of my palm, or a little more.





Well, the design, the exceptional build quality and the technical potential of the device hint to us that the next part of the review will be even more interesting, so we immediately move on to the sound impressions.


Sound Impressions

iBasso DC03 PRO is built on two CS43131 DAC chips from Cirrus Logic using a miniature NDK femtosecond oscillator.

This description looked extremely promising, so for listening I prepared an extremely serious selection from my collection of IEM/Headphones: 64 AUDIO A12t, Vision Ears VE8, VE7, InEar PP8, FIR Audio M5 and XE6, Softears RSV, Phonon 4400 & Beyerdynamic dt 250 (250 ohm ).
Digital signal sources: Huawei P20 Pro smartphone (+UAPP), xDuoo X10t II portable digital transport and Dell XPS 15 laptop.





With all IEM & Headphones, the device played perfectly, no genre deviations were noticed.
Background noise and distortion, even when using the DC03 PRO with low-resistance, high-sensitivity in-channel IEM/CIEM, is not a given. Absolute silence, black background and smooth sound reproduction.

Let me emphasize right away that I evaluated the sound of the iBasso DC03 PRO taking into account its size and price. Of course, such a device cannot compete with high-end HiFi players and DACs, but it can easily compete with entry-level and mid-level audio devices.





DC03 PRO has a delicate, slightly warm, well-balanced, comfortable sound, with a well-defined tonal balance, no noise and no distortion.
I would describe the sound of the device as well balanced, smooth, with accurate, collected low-frequency processing, neutral and very melodic mids, as well as an accurate, clean and slightly shy high-frequency range. Because of these masterfully placed accents, the sound is not perceived as boring, despite its craving for "monitor sound". On the contrary, there is an extremely natural display of the emotional part.

This device delivers the material in a solid, melodic and balanced manner, masterfully, with a slight hint of warmth, good detail and high-quality low-frequency processing.
The DC03 PRO simply bribed me with its smooth and unobtrusive manner without any distortions in one or another frequency response area. How easy, clean, precise and melodic at the same time!

The virtual sound stage is quite spacious, it harmoniously and proportionately builds both in width and in depth. Sound sources are accurately placed in space.
The device is remarkably good at conveying the sensual component of the composition, beautifully, with a share of academicism, conveying vocals, piano and string instruments.





Bass parts are played quite dynamically, with decent pressure and good control. They are practiced cleanly and tactfully, collected and quickly, without interrupting the rest of the frequency range. The mid-bass area is presented correctly, in a neutral-warm form, which allows us to talk about a comfortable, plastic and very musical manner. There is an accurate clear blow, and a relief, and decent speed characteristics, and a good texture transfer, taking into account the class of the device. For such sizes of dac/amp - this is more than a good result.


The midrange is delivered cleanly, distinctly and smoothly, with good detail and decent resolution. Sincerity and naturalness are at the forefront here, and this gives an impressive result in the form of incredible melody. How natural stringed instruments sound, where each pluck and touch of the string is clearly defined. And the vocal parts sound lively, smooth and expressive.
Mids achieves the balance I value so much between refined emotionality and neutral manner. Any musical genre will sound as comfortable, detailed, natural and very melodic as possible.


High frequencies do not irritate the ear with excessive harshness, they are transmitted smoothly, very accurately, cleanly and legibly, in a neutral manner. Not too many, not too few, just as many as you need. There is no roughness in them, everything is served smoothly and very comfortable.
In general, the Highs have a good resolution, they are served tactfully, adding contrast and light airiness to the overall picture. For such a capricious register, here, surprisingly, everything is very good.





It is worth highlighting another remarkable quality of iBasso DC03 PRO: it does not add anything superfluous to the sound and allows the headphones to show their voice. Only really high-quality audio sources can boast of such a skill. It should be noted the complete absence of dirt, noise and any distortion in the sound.
Another significant point worth mentioning is genre versatility. DC03 PRO effortlessly copes with all styles: classical music, various instrumental genres, new wave, synth-pop, punk, art rock, hmr - there is no allergy to any of them. A very valuable quality, especially for such a miniature device.




The DC03 PRO reminds me a bit of the sound of my favorite iFI Go Bar Gold. The difference is that the Englishman has a little more physicality in his manner of sounding, higher resolution, more high-frequency range, unstoppable power and three-dimensional visualization of sounds in space. But this is not surprising, given the size, weight and cost of the "ingot". However, DC03 PRO, when working with very sensitive IEMs, even wins in some respects. It is absolutely silent, which gives it some advantage over the "gold bar" from iFI. And in the case of the Go Bar, you have to turn to iEMatch switching, which slightly reduces the dynamic range.

Lotoo PAW S1 also produces a fairly smooth and neutral sound, but in my opinion, DC03 PRO beats it by a small margin in terms of intelligibility, better bass control, and in general, sounds more academic and correct.
Of the design advantages on the side of the PAW S1, in addition to TRS, there is a balanced TRRS output and a small monochrome (128x32) screen.

If we push the foreheads of DC06 vs DC03 PRO, then we will see two completely different concepts of sound. "Batman" (DC06) has a thicker, more massive delivery, with a slight emphasis on the edges of the frequency range, with a slight V-shaped manner. But the newcomer is neutral and delicate in his manner, he reproduces the audio material more smoothly, cleanly and accurately. Yes, DC06 sounds more grown-up, but in terms of tonal balance, for me personally, DC03 PRO is closer, which, however, is already a matter of taste. Of the design differences on the DC06 side, there is a balanced output, but at the same time, more weight and a higher price. DC03 PRO, in turn, has volume control buttons, heats up less, has a more compact body and a more affordable price tag.




Well, when compared with its progenitor DC03, the newcomer definitely wins in everything. There's more power, a cleaner, smoother and more neutral sound delivery, a detachable cable and the ability to control the volume with buttons, and at the same time, a nice price.

Yes, it is also worth remembering the updated iBasso UAC program, specially tailored for DC03 PRO, with the ability to control gain, switch digital filters and adjust channel balance.





Conclusion

iBasso DC03 PRO has every chance to achieve wide recognition and even more - people's love! He will not empty anyone's wallet and at the same time is ready at any moment and in any situation to give the listener beautiful music in crystal clear performance, without falsehood, with inspiration and soul.
Such a capable tiny device simply cannot but be liked. It is cute, comfortable, compact and, most importantly, for its size has a "mature", neutral, balanced and clean sound.
The DC03 PRO is sized to fit in your trouser or shirt pocket and go for a walk, as well as take it with you for a run or a trip - yes, anywhere. And the development of modern streaming services (Tidal, Spotify, Deezer, etc.) makes these audiodongles an ideal addition to a smartphone, tablet or laptop.

Well, the price makes the DC03 PRO virtually invulnerable to competitors. This dongle can be purchased for only $69. I responsibly declare that it is almost impossible to find a more favorable rate for converting money into high-quality sound.

Hi friends!

We haven’t seen you since spring, but we returned after a forced vacation with two cool new products at once. A little over a year ago, we met the flagship DX300 DAP from iBasso Audio, and now its successor with the DX320 index was born, which is just as beautiful in appearance, but two completely new “hearts” are beating in its chest: a pair of digital-analog chips from Japanese brand ROHM.
Yes, while some companies discontinue their products due to global shortages of audio components, iBasso is finding ways to keep improving their products no matter the difficulties. Naturally, microcircuits, no matter how wonderful and cool they are, do not “sing” by themselves, competent technical implementation of the components is required here. But looking ahead, I’ll say that iBasso engineers once again brilliantly coped with the task set for them, and the DX320 turned out to be, without exaggeration, a chic DAP. This also applies to the new amplifier modules: AMP 11 MK2s (included with DAP) and tube AMP13.

We have never hidden our love for iBasso developments and we are not going to do it now. The brand's slogan "In pursuit of perfection" accurately reflects the zeal and perseverance with which the company approaches the development of its products. And now, against the backdrop of wild competition in the market and the aforementioned problems in the industry, the consistently high level of iBasso devices is especially impressive! But let's move on to the acquaintance with our today's guests.



Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)







Specifications
DAC chips: 2 × ROHM MUS-IC BD34301EKV
CPU: Snapdragon 660 14nm 8-core soc
Operating memory & storage: 6GB LPDDR4x RAM with 128GB storage
Frequency response:
Balanced out: 10hz-60khz,
Single ended out: 10hz-40khz
Output power (AMP11 MK2S)
Balanced out: 1200mw@32Ω/168mw@300Ω
Single ended out: 380mw@32Ω/40mw@300Ω
Maximum output level balanced out: 7.1vrms, single-ended out: 3.5vrms
THD +N: -110db(300r load), -99db(32r load)
Dynamic range & signal-to-noise ratio 122dB
Size: 162mm x 77mm x 17mm
Weight: 310g
AMP13:
Tubes: KORG Nutube 6P1
Outputs 2x Jack 3.5mm
Output buffer Toshiba 2SK209 field effect transistors
Single-ended out low noise output: 2.5V
Single-ended out maximized output: 4.1V
Max output @32ohm load: 234mW




Appearance and kit / DX320

DX320, as befits the status of a cool DAP, is packed to last. The first is a hard gray jacket, which, like a chameleon, shimmers with mother-of-pearl silver. The name of the model and its title are located on it: Reference DAP, and at the very bottom the manufacturer is modestly indicated. Next, we take out a large blue box with a black triangular iBasso logo in the center. Everything here is refined and concise, I like it.







We open the lid of the box and begin to study the contents. In addition to the DX320, a whole dowry fit inside: a set of three cables (coaxial, USB type-C and another short cable for the burn-in device), screen protectors, a stylish dark green leather case and mandatory warranty documents and instructions. As always with iBasso, the equipment is the most complete.






Let's take a closer look at the DX320. It looks solid (162 mm x 77 mm x 17 mm) and thoroughbred (body material - aluminum alloy). The exterior of the device largely repeats the design of its predecessor. It looks like a top-end smartphone, and a silver wheel on the side adds gloss and aristocracy to it. Such a gentleman gadget will be appreciated by aesthetes, of which I am sure there are many among audiophiles. The 320 is available in two colors: black and blue.







Compared to its predecessor, the DX320 has become noticeably lighter (205 versus 300 grams), and its appearance has become more finished. This is noticeable in the details: a more elegant execution of the side faces, a smoother rotation of the volume wheel with longitudinal side notches and a hollow in the center of this regulator, which now clearly fits under the thumb. Yes, and as an on / off button, this wheel has a smoother ride when pressed. Thanks to all this, the 320 is more comfortable in the hand and causes a more pleasant tactile sensation. As you understand, the ergonomics of the device is beyond praise.







The entire front panel is occupied by a touch screen that impresses with its characteristics (6.5 "IPS, 2340x1080 px), with good responsiveness and excellent color reproduction. Not every modern smartphone can boast of such a display! Above the screen there is an oblong LED indicator that changes color depending on of the audio format being played or lights up while the device is operating/charging.

The rear panel is bluish-gray with rounded edges, made of plastic, on it, in the center, the name of the model “DX320” is proudly placed, and below there is a small window through which, when the replaceable AMP13 amplifier module is connected, two green “eyes” are lit - amplifier tubes. Under the window you can find information about the brand, country of origin and quality standards badges.








On the right, on a slightly beveled end, there is the already mentioned wheel for adjusting the volume and turning the device on/off. Three control keys lined up next to it: forward, start / pause, back. There was also a place for our favorite “Hi-Res Audio” sticker. On the left side there is a slot for microSD in case the internal (128 GB) memory of the device is not enough.

The top side got a digital coaxial S / PDIF output and a type-C 3.1 connector that serves to charge the device and connect to a PC. By the way, the device supports QC 3.0, PD 3.0, which allows you to quickly recharge it, in about 2.5-3 hours. Below is the very new AMP-11 MK2s replacement amplifying module with three headphone audio outputs (combined with the linear “LO”): 4.4 mm (Pentacon) balanced, 2.5 mm balanced and 3.5 mm (SE stereo).

For all kinds of wireless manipulations, Wi-Fi 802.11b /g/n/ac (2.4GHz / 5GHz) 2 × 2 MIMO 5G and Bluetooth 5.0 with support for LDAC and aptX are on board. And when connected via USB type-C to a desktop PC or laptop, the player can also act as an external DAC/sound card.







Unlike the DX300 with a digital-to-analog part (Cirrus Logic CS43198), our reviewed one is built on two new DAC chips from ROHM - MUS-IC bd34352ekv (one for each channel), which expands the possibilities of implementing a fully balanced output. The analog part, as I mentioned earlier, is the new AMP11 MK2s amplifier module, based on the AMP8, using updated components, including premium electrolytes and exclusive film capacitors designed specifically for iBasso. This amplifier module boasts an output power of 1200 mW into 32 ohms.

iBasso's own FPGA-Master matrix is responsible for processing the digital part and jitter suppression.







The device is equipped CPU 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 SoC, 6 GB of LPDDR 4x RAM, which, in conjunction with optimized Android 11, gives excellent results!
Two independent lithium-polymer batteries are responsible for powering the device: one (3.8V 4000mAh) is responsible for the digital part of the device, the second (3.8V 2000mAh) - for the analog one. The discharge is not synchronous, the indication of each section is displayed at the top of the display. One "joint" charge cycle, on average, is enough for about 10 hours of operation with the ability to quickly charge (Quick Charge). Well, as always, the type of connected headphones, the format of the files being listened to and the volume level will have a noticeable effect on the "survivability" of the player.

Yes, iBasso DX320 was a success! It is impeccably made, looks great, stuffed with modern hardware and has an outstanding technical implementation that even the most expensive ultradaps can envy.


Software and control

Android 11 and its own Mango OS are responsible for the "intellectual" abilities of the device.
Installing apps on the DX320 can be done with APKPure, so any Android app can be found and downloaded by yourself in minutes.

In "three hundred and twenty", as in its predecessor, there is a dual boot, which allows you to choose between Android and an independent virtual Mango player, which has acquired a new stylish interface and even more convenient control.
If you want, in addition to listening to music, access to the Internet, all kinds of programs and streaming services - load Android. If you want a clean audio player - choose Mango OS.
The software is updated both online (the DX320 itself finds and installs it when connected to Wi-Fi), and through the manufacturer's website, from where you can download proprietary software to a memory card and install it on the device from there. This is familiar to us from the DX200/220/300/MAX.

Even a child will cope with navigation: swipe across the screen, move the curtains, press with your finger on what you are looking for - everything is simple and familiar, just like in smartphones. Well, if you wish, you can start and switch tracks with the side buttons.

It is also worth mentioning that the DX320 is already quite well optimized out of the box, and the manufacturer promises to regularly improve its software. By the way, the device has just seen the light, and three updates have already been released on it.
Among other things, the player has graphic and parametric (PMEQ) equalizers and two digital filters: sharp roll-off and slow roll-off.

And in general, using the DX320 is a pleasure.



APM13 unboxing

Specs
DAP compatibility: iBasso DX320/DX300
Two 6th generation Korg tubes (KORG Nutube 6P1)
Headphone outputs: 3.5mm low noise (2.5Vrms) and 3.5mm high output (4.1Vrms)
Using Toshiba 2SK209 FETs as Nutube signal output buffer.


The AMP13 is an amplifier stage in modular form, a board of unique design using 6th generation KORG Nutube 6P1 vacuum tubes (two pieces) designed by Korg together with another Japanese company, Noritake Itron. Replacing such a board allows you to upgrade your DAP yourself.






We met a similar scheme in the AMP9 module designed for the DX220 / DX200, and now iBasso's developers have been able to translate it into a new design compatible with third-series audio players.







The AMP13 comes in a pearl gray cardboard box with the iBasso Audio logo on the top. Under the cover of this dust jacket is a black box also with an embossed brand logo. Inside it is a whole scattering of useful things: a hard zippered case, similar to a small corrugated peli case, for the module, an additional transparent silicone case for the DX320 player, a screwdriver that will come in handy soon, spare screws, as well as instructions and a warranty card. Inside the plastic case, in a plastic bag, we find our AMP13 amplifier.






Made by iBasso AMP13 in nude style: the amplifier board is completely open. On one side it has a docking connector, on the other - an external panel with two 3.5 mm TRS headphone outputs: low noise (2.5 Vrms) and maximum output power (4.1 Vrms). Before installing the module in the DAP, you can slowly examine it: square "eyes" of KORG Nutube 6P1 electronic tubes, black textolite and device circuitry. The board was made at the highest level - engineering beauty!





Replacing amplifying modules is quick and easy. You need to turn off the DAP, unscrew the two screws located at the edges of the module, and pull the plug-in board towards you by prying it with something like a guitar pick or inserting your headphone connector into the jack, and also gently pull towards you. After removing, I recommend carefully folding the unused module into the same plastic box with a zipper, so as not to inadvertently damage the board.
Then we carry out all the simple manipulations from the first part of the operation in reverse order. We take our AMP13 and join it, inserting it into the grooves and pushing it forward to the vacant seat. Now we twist the two screws back with a screwdriver. Voila, everything is ready, you can turn on the player and connect the headphones.

So, we are all set to move on to the most important thing - listening and testing!



Sound Impressions

For our guest, I prepared a damn dozen IEMs/headphones: 64 AUDIO A12t, FIR XE6, Vision Ears VE8, Vision Ears VE7, VE EVE20, InEar PP8, iBasso IT07, Softears RS10, Softears Cerberus, Beyerdynamic DT250/250 ohm, Phonon SMB -02, Phonon 4400 and HEDD HEDDphone ONE.

Before analyzing the sound, the DX320 burn-in was about 50-70 hours, which, in my opinion, had a beneficial effect on the final formation of its "voice".

Also, at the time of writing the review, the latest software was installed on the device - firmware 2.02.834.

A few recommendations from the editors of Audio-PH. If you have installed the latest update (at the time of writing this review, it is fw. 2.02.834), then:
1) Do a factory reset.
2) Reboot the device 5-7 times (one by one, reboot device).
3) It is advisable to let the device burn-in for about 50 hours.

Let me emphasize right away that DAP did an excellent job with both low-resistance sensitive IEM / CIEM and high-resistance full-size headphone models - no noise or any other artifacts were noticed.

The iBasso DX320 with AMP11 MK2s delivers a clean, smooth, comfortable and highly refined sound with excellent tonal balance and no distortion. The new amplifier module handled both low-impedance sensitive multi-driver BA/Hybrid IEMs and high-impedance full-size dynamic driver headphone models. I was a little surprised how the device worked well with the rather "tight", very demanding HEDD HEDDphone ONE. Of course, it could not reveal the full potential of HEDDphone ONE, this requires powerful stationary equipment, but, nevertheless, even at medium volume, it allowed you to enjoy music quite comfortably. An excellent result for a portable device!

This DAP linearly and flawlessly builds all sound sources in the virtual space, delicately outlining each instrument. This is a completely neutral manner of sound production, in which the DX320 + AMP11 MK2s duo, without imposing any taste colors, allows your headphones to sound, revealing their potential, showing their sound character, and also paying more attention to the quality of the mastering of the audio material you listen to. This, in my opinion, is the highest reference reproduction, since it allows you to both adequately evaluate the sound character of the IEM / headphones you are testing, and fully enjoy listening to your favorite music.

Therefore, when analyzing the sound of the DX320, we mostly describe the nature of the sound used with it in a pair of headphones, not forgetting, of course, the contribution of the amplifier module connected to it.







For example, in tandem with Vision Ears VE8, InEar ProPhile 8 or Softears RS10, the player produces a reference reference sound: extraordinarily smooth, which tactfully lays out the palette of sounds in a "monitor" form, accurately and correctly, without any frequency amplitude distortions.
Connecting the FIR XE6 CIEM adds depth and dimension to the sound, warmth and studio-analogue charm, with a slight accent in the lower register.







I really liked the connection of the DX320 with the VE EVE20 and VE7, where the manner of sounding becomes unusually plastic, incredibly harmonious and melodious, served in a comfortable neutral form.
In such a sound, you want to completely dissolve and enjoy your favorite music for hours on end. Just you and the melody, one on one.







The union of DX320 with 64 audio A12t, in turn, adds dynamism, slightly focuses attention on the edges of the frequency range, giving the overall sound drive, emotions and the width of an imaginary space.

Connecting the AMP12 module to the DX320, without changing the overall nature of the “voice” of the device, adds to the overall sound of impressiveness, speed and clarity in working out micro and macro nuances. The musical canvas is drawn widely, vividly, in relief, saturated and more contrasting. This amp has quite a lot of power, more than the AMP11 MK2s, and when switching to it, if you are using IEMs, I would recommend setting the Gain to “Low” to begin with, for comfortable volume control.

The AMP13, when compared to its modular cousins, shows a solid, embossed and warm character. The sound becomes extremely melodious, colorful, plastic and saturated, acquiring a slightly darkened background and a special unforgettable charm that is difficult to express with any definitions. The lower register is filled with a smooth, thick and velvety substance, the beat is dense and rolling. The bass, in turn, is not as fast and biting as in the case of the AMP11 MK2s and AMP12, but it is rich in timbre, plastic, embossed and harmonious. The AMP13 is excellent at conveying timbres and reverbs, as well as displaying the depth of an imaginary space. There is also commendable dynamics, excellent texture transfer and charming mannerism, served in a warm-tube, beautiful "analogue" form. In my opinion, it is perfect for playing classical music, instrumental, jazz and old school rock. For modern brutal music styles, in my opinion, AMP13 is a little less suitable. Although, here, as always, a matter of taste ..

It is worth noting that when connecting high-sensitivity, low-impedance IEMs to an output with maximum output power, some background noise may occur. This is especially noticeable in the pauses between songs. Therefore, I would recommend connecting in-ear monitors to a low noise output (2.5 Vrms). But high-impedance headphones, on the contrary, should be connected to the output with the maximum output power (4.1 Vrms). The developers from iBasso have carefully considered this important point, for which special thanks to them.



Let's sum up the sound results based on a bunch of DX320 + AMP11 MK2s (perhaps the most versatile of all amplifier modules)

Lows - accurate, tangible, with a clearly distinguishable force of impact, with a relief, collected and well-articulated energetic bass. Impressive dynamics, and the transfer of contrast, and the depth of space. An excellent combination of quantity and quality, as well as an impeccable balance.

Mids are smooth, harmonious, natural, with accurate textures and good resolution. Here, each sound has its own mass, body and relief. The mid-range register is presented in detail and harmoniously, with a wide dynamic range, neutral and at the same time very melodic. There is nothing to complain about here, everything is impeccable, as is the case with the lower case.

Highs - clean and crisp. There are no complaints about the quantity and quality of this register. They are moderately restrained and charming, without the slightest hint of dirt or distortion. It is a neutral, smooth, precise and informative manner, well-drawn, presented in a graceful and comfortable manner.

Weaknesses in terms of genre preferences were not found in the DX320. The device perfectly copes with all the musical styles offered to it: classical music, instrumental, jazz, electronics, rock and all kinds of more brutal genres. And for enthusiasts who want to customize the sound of the DX320 to their taste, add personality and make it more unique, there are replaceable AMP modules.



Conclusion

The DX320 is a fully finished and balanced throughout DAP with a reference sound that allows you to open up 100% to almost any IEM and headphones. This is an amazing portable device, in which everything is perfect: appearance, innards and musical "character". In my opinion, the new creation from iBasso Audio should be a hit in 2022, because it has everything to conquer even the most demanding audiophile.
In addition to these advantages, the DX320 is ready to work with streaming services and can act as a sound card connected to a PC. Well, the new AMP13, with its unusually harmonious and plastic manner of sound production, is just a chic gift for fans of iBasso developments.

It remains only to inform about the prices. The suggested retail price for the DX320 at the time of writing is $1599, while the AMP13 will cost around $269. Personally, I believe that every dollar of this amount is more than fulfilled by the above devices, and I recommend the DX320 and APM13 for purchase without the slightest hesitation.

Hi friends!

In spite of everything, we continue to sow the reasonable, kind and eternal, namely, to talk about the beautiful sound. And in this we will be helped today by another creation from a brand beloved by many from the Celestial Empire, iBasso Audio.

Towards the very end of last year, we got acquainted with the wonderful DX240 DAP, released for the 15th anniversary of the company. And now iBasso has prepared a new gift for its fans, presenting an updated version of its, perhaps, the most popular replacement amplifier AMP8, designed for the DX240.
And if for some reason you are not yet familiar with the AMP series from iBasso, then let me introduce it: this is a line of interchangeable amp modules that allow you to upgrade your audio player yourself.

In short, the AMP8 MK2 is a brilliantly executed attempt to take even more out of a very good DAP!
I will talk about the sound of the AMP8 MK2 for a long time and admiringly in the review itself, and now I will note that the engineers were able to implement two audio outputs in the module at once, which allows us to put an end to the almost Shakespearean question “Balance or not balance”.

And now the screwdrivers for battle, we proceed directly to the acquaintance with the AMP8 MK2.







Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)



Specifications
Audio player compatibility: iBasso DX240
Headphone outputs: 4.4 mm, balanced (Pentaconn); 3.5mm stereo.
Output 4.4mm (balance):
Max output level: 6.2Vrms
Output power: 980mW @ 32Ω
128mW @ 300Ω
Frequency response: 10Hz - 45kHz (±0.3dB)
SNR: 125dB
Dynamic range: 125dB
THD+N: -114dB @ no load
-113dB @ 300Ω
-101dB @ 32Ω
Crosstalk: -122dB
Output impedance: 0.55Ω

3.5mm stereo headphone output:
Max output level: 3.1Vrms
Output power: 281mW @ 32Ω
32mW @ 300Ω
Frequency response: 10Hz - 45kHz (±0.3dB)
SNR: 122dB
Dynamic range: 122dB
THD+N: -110dB @ no load
-109dB @ 300Ω
-98dB @ 32Ω
Crosstalk: -117dB
Output impedance: 0.32Ω


Appearance and kit

The AMP8 MK2 comes in a minimalist black cardboard box, wrapped in white ribbon with the brand's logo printed on it. Such aristocratic restraint looks extremely impressive!

Inside, in addition to the amplifier itself, there is a screwdriver that will come in handy soon, a couple of spare screws, installation instructions and a warranty card.






The amp module was made in nude-style: the board is completely open to our eager eyes. On the one hand, we see a docking connector, on the other, there is an external panel with two headphone outputs: a balanced (4.4 mm Pentaconn) and a classic mini-jack (3.5 mm).

Before installing it in the player, it is impossible not to admire the black textolite and the circuitry of the device: small parts, microcircuits and capacitors. You don't have to be a radio amateur to see at what highest level the board is made.







The AMP8 MK2 is a fully discrete circuit using low VCE transistors and ERO film capacitors. Among other things, the new amplifier impresses with its power ratings: output voltage of 3.1 V (3.5 mm) and 6.2 V (4.4 mm), at +/- 8 V and an output current of 2000 mA.

For the new module, you need to update the player software to firmware V1.02. You can download it yourself from the manufacturer's website, unpack the archive, upload it to the player (on a memory card or internal memory), and then enter the player's settings and select "local update". The second method is much easier: just connect to the iBasso Audio server and update via Wi-Fi.







Amplifier replacement is quick and easy. You need to turn off the DAP, unscrew the two screws located at the edges of the module, and pull the plug-in board towards you by prying it with something like a guitar pick, or inserting your headphone connector into the jack, and also gently pull towards you. After removing, I recommend that the unused amp module be carefully folded into a box so as not to inadvertently damage the board.





Then we carry out all the simple manipulations from the first part of the operation in reverse order. We take our AMP8 MK2 and join it, inserting it into the grooves and sliding it forward into place of its predecessor. Now we twist the two screws back with a screwdriver. Voila, you're done, you can turn on the DX240 and plug in your headphones. I suggest that you do so immediately.


Sound Impressions

I think, before starting to analyze the sound of the new module, we need to dwell on the slightly changed “handwriting” of the DX240 after updating the firmware to version V1.02. This slight change mainly affected the high-frequency range (a small area in the region, approximately 1k). For example, the sound of the standard AMP1 MK3 amplifier has become a little more neutral. Otherwise, the “voice” of the device has not changed. And in general, perhaps this is only my subjective assessment, and others will not hear anything like that. But in any case, without the latest firmware, the correct operation of the new AMP8 MK2 is impossible.

For testing we used: Beyerdynamic DT 250 / 250 ohm, Vision Ears VE8, VE7, FIR Audio Xenon6, 64 Audio A12t, iBasso IT07 & FIR VxV (2.5mm jack/4.4mm adapter).

As always, I strongly recommend that you do not neglect the recommendations to "burn-in" a new amplifier module, since this simple procedure significantly affects the final sound picture. In my case, before writing a review, the device worked for about 90-100 hours.

I must say right away that no background noise and pickups were noticed. But noticeable increased power, dynamics and increased resolution, with better channel separation.
The DX240 + AMP8 MK2 handled both low-impedance sensitive IEM/CIEMs and high-impedance full-size headphones perfectly.





From the very first minutes of listening, the DX240+AMP8 MK2 fascinates with increased dynamics, elaboration of plans, tonal balance and amazing musicality. This is a dynamic and massive layer of sound, in which a well-balanced manner, drive and sophisticated melody, embodied in a lively and organic form, harmoniously coexist.

Here you can guess the similarities with his older brother in the face of the DX220 MAX, although, of course, the “Mad Max” sounds even more mature and richer, drawing a more spreading stereo panorama with an extremely accurate display of sounds in space. But here it is important to clarify that I consider the DX220 MAX one of the best, and perhaps even the best DAP. And when by no means a flagship DAP, by replacing the amplifying module, approaches quite close to such a height - it's very cool! It is also appropriate to recall here that MAX with its separate power supply (analogue and digital parts) and two batteries can hardly be called a portable device, but here a DX240 device that fits in a pocket produces a about similar sound.





With the new amplifier, the DX240 even more accurately builds sound sources in virtual space, delicately describing each instrument, naturally displaying every shade of the sound palette, whether it be voice vibration, pizzicato or sliding along the strings - everything is heard as clearly and reliably as possible.

I would characterize the sound of the DX240+AMP8 MK2 as well balanced, vigorous and extremely dynamic, with excellent processing of micro and macro nuances, good detail and extraordinary musicality.
Excellent speed characteristics, impressive impact density, fast attack and amazing dynamics, scrupulous display of string parts and vocals - this combination naturally makes you go crazy!

AMP8 MK2 lays out the sound palette more contrast, thicker, layer by layer, building a multi-level sound structure. Greater drive paired with light expression is achieved here due to small accents added at the edges of the frequency range and better dynamics. It is this small color, coupled with the increased resolution, that gives the overall sound a “masculine” character.

This is a cheerful, precise and at the same time beautiful manner of sound presentation. At the same time, the general style of the DX240 remains recognizable, becoming only more mature and energetic.





Low frequencies are processed expressively, accurately, with a powerful, tight and perceptible impact and fast bass that does not encroach on the rest of the frequency range. The bass is agile, well structured and punchy. Lows have excellent texture transfer and energy, drawing the depth of the musical canvas and charging the listener with their incredible drive. Bass parts sound precise and honed, delicately outlining every sound nuance. Working out loud and quiet sounds, rise and fall, speed, attack, strike accuracy - everything is on top here.

Mids are even, smooth, natural, with a little bit of expression. Any sound here is endowed with its bodily shell. The presentation of the midrange register is both thick and detailed. Any vocal tremolo or instrumental passage is transmitted naturally and deeply, with drive and excellent transmission of the emotional part. Male and female vocal parts are displayed in relief, accurately and naturally. It is also worth noting the good detail and careful visualization of sound images in space.

Highs are reproduced clearly and harmoniously, in some places they go on a par with the entire frequency response, in some places they beautifully and unobtrusively seek to draw attention to themselves, giving the sound airiness and positive. This is a high-quality, comfortable and sweet-voiced manner of sounding. The register is transmitted cleanly, technically, accurately and in detail, without excessive sharpness and distortion. And the existing delicate accent in this part of the range gives the sound a contrast and a bit of expression, and, in any case, it never turns into a problem, but sounds like a chased and clean “spark” against the overall well-balanced background of the picture. I would call it a "taste" moment, which, with a probability of 99%, will be liked by everyone without exception.





The DX240+AMP8 MK2 delivers a three-dimensional stereo panorama, harmoniously and proportionately arranging the virtual space both in width and depth. The overall musical canvas emerges as a whole, in contrast, with an accurate and natural transmission of sound timbres and a slight emotional coloring.

In terms of music genre preferences, the new amplifier module is ready for anything: it interestingly plays both classical music, instrumental, jazz, electronic, rock, and brutal genres. Like any good device, the DX240 + AMP8 MK2 can handle everything.





Conclusion

The new AMP8 MK2 amplifier module turned out to be more than good (the main thing is not to forget its good “burn-in”), and the already stylish and modern DX240 DAP has become even more attractive with its main “asset” - sound!

iBasso Audio once again brilliantly proved that the audiophile "budget" sector is not at all a Procrustean bed where you have to give up something valuable for an affordable price tag, but a place to embody your skills and demonstrate them to a large audience.
In this case, just by replacing the AMP8 MK2 amplifier module, we got a significant boost in the sound of the DX240 audio player.

The suggested retail price for the AMP8 MK2 is $219 at the time of writing. If you already have a DX240 or are planning to buy one, then I strongly advise you to purchase this amp module, it will definitely impress you.

Hi friends!

In these troubled days, when the reality around us has become so fragile and defenseless, we offer, at least for the time of reading this article, to be transported to the world of perfect sound, where you can find peace and joy.

Today we have an appointment with the American company FIR Audio, whose creativity (that's right!) always arouses my admiration. Following the highly popular "M" series and VxV IEM, the brand has introduced its new premium line of in-ear monitors FRONTIER SERIES, which includes three models: NE4 (Neon 4), KR5 (Krypton 5) and XE6 ( Xenon 6). We will take a closer look at the latter.

All the three novelties listed above use the latest proprietary developments, namely: KINETIC BASS, ATOM VENTING, OPEN ACOUSTICS, RIGID TECHNOLOGIES, and TUBELESS DESIGN. I will talk about these know-hows in more detail in the review itself. In general, in my opinion, FIR Audio is one of the most technologically advanced and promising companies in portable sound. These guys never cease to amaze me. They do not throw big words, but work hard, they definitely go to the goal and achieve amazing results, and they do it extraordinary.

Like all FIR brand IEM/CIEMs, Xenon 6 has a hybrid design: here, as you might guess from the name of the model, there are six drivers of three types on board. In addition, there is also a replaceable Atom-X module, as well as a unique design implemented according to the Tubeless Design principle - the patented FIR Audio technology, which implies the rejection of acoustic tubes and the open design of the drivers themselves. As a result, not only the acoustic design of the case, but also the very structure of the internal components of the in-ear monitors, has been worked out with precision.

I already wrote about the M4, M5 and VxV models earlier, now it's the turn of the novelty.

Well, it's time for us to get directly acquainted with the new technological miracle, the flagship in CIEM performance, the amazing Xenon 6!






Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)


Specifications
Type: in-ear
Construction: hybrid
6 drivers per IEM/CIEM:
1x 10mm Kinetic Bass Dynamic Driver
1x OpenDriver Balanced Armature Driver for bass
2x OpenDriver Balanced Armature Driver for mids
1x OpenDriver Balanced Armature Driver for highs (with Sound Reflector)
1x OpenDriver Electrostatic Driver for ultra highs
Technology: Tubeless design, Atom Venting, Kinetic BASS, Open Acoustics, Rigid Technologies etc.
4 interchangeable Atom-X modules included
Freq. Range: 20-20kHz
Impedance: 28ohms
Cable: detachable - 1.2m/1.6m, connectors (2pin), jack-3.5mm



Design and sound without limits: CIEM individuality or UIEM versatility

Before starting the review itself, it should be noted that FIR Audio in-ear monitors can be ordered both in universal (IEM) and custom (CIEM) versions - the choice is up to the buyer.
Well, for those who have not yet encountered CIEM, I can assure you that the procedure for ordering a CIEM version is not difficult at all. You need to go to the site firaudio.com, register, go to the "Designer" menu, select the desired model, its design (appearance, connectors, cable length) and pay for the purchase. Then you go to the hearing center, make your impressions / imprints there and send them to the manufacturer. After that, look forward to the arrival of your exclusive in-ear monitors.

In our case, the XE6 model is made in CIEM version. And now it's time to go directly to the acquaintance with this technological six-driver miracle!

Appearance, kit, technology and ergonomics

For anyone who has ever listened to any FIR Audio in-ear monitors, the company's logo immediately gives the command to goosebumps to start running through the body in anticipation. And now, having cast the first glance at the box in which Xenon 6 are, I saw these perky bunny ears and immediately wanted to quickly unpack everything and immediately start testing. But in our business, there is no hurry, so let's still consider the packaging.






In addition to the logo on the front of the box, we see a graphic image of the XE6, which, like a space satellite, soar among the stars. In the lower right corner, there are three round icons representing the technologies used in the model: KINETIC BASS, ATOM VENTING and OPEN ACOUSTICS. And this is only part of the know-how.

The side of the box have adopted the golden sticker "XE6", the brand logo and the inscription indicating that the headphones belong to the new line "to New Frontiers". Detailed specifications are listed on the back of the package.






We remove the printing wrapper and find a black box, where we again encounter the FIR Audio logo in the form of rabbit ears, applied with gold embossing, from which sparkling sun rays scatter in all directions. And then my goosebumps began to dance the cancan!

We open the box and find what we are looking for: CIEM encrusted in a foam base with a replaceable cable (2pin / 3.5 mm) already installed, a cool leather puck case designed for storing and carrying in-ear monitors (in the CIEM version it also has the name of the happy XE6 owner engraved ), instructions and a round colored FIR Audio Space Force sticker. Yes, with these headphones you fly into space! But this is already a spoiler, back to inspection.






Three pairs (silver, gold and red) of Atom-X plug-in modules fit neatly inside the case, and another pair - black - is already installed in the CIEM. Next, we take out a brush to care for the sound pipes.

In general, the set is five-star, it has everything and a little more.

The CIEM acrylic shell in Matte Black is impeccably executed. This is a first-class performance, where every curve, every turn and bulge perfectly follows the shape of my auricle and ear canal - surgical precision! The design with its impeccability resembles the perfection of Michelangelo's sculptures. The shell itself is small and weighs almost nothing. This is perhaps one of the lightest CIEMs I know of. And the tactile sensations and ergonomics are simply incomparable!







Sound isolation is average, no worse and no better than most in-ear headphones. However, Xenon are not intended for the bustle of a big city, music in this quality should be enjoyed, fenced off from everyday frailty. Well, if you still want to take the headphones with you to the street or to ground public transport, then listening there will be quite comfortable. But for the subway, I suppose this may not be enough.

The CIEM is intended to be worn exclusively behind the ear.

When choosing the look of my CIEMs, I settled on a black matte shell and a similar faceplate with bunny ears (well, you're not surprised, really) on the left front panel, the model name "XE6" on the right. It turned out, as for me, just amazing: cute and very stylish - I personally am very close to this approach to design.





At the bottom of the faceplate panel fit a replaceable Atom-X module. ATOM (Air Transfering Open Module) venting is a miniature metal cylinder valve that reduces the sound pressure exerted on the eardrum, thereby protecting hearing. It bleeds the airlock that forms between the sound pipe and the eardrum, and also acts as an acoustic filter, which serves to fine-tune the sound of in-ear monitors.

It is appropriate to recall here that the XE6 uses "Tubeless Design" technology. There are no acoustic tubes and separate chambers for drivers in the design.






The sound pipe was covered by a removable metal mesh that protects the IEM/CIEM from moisture and sulfur. Another know-how of the brand is applied here - Rigid Snap Screen. Now you do not need to break the shell to manipulate the protective mesh, just take the tweezers, loosen and remove the clamping ring, then remove and clean or replace the mesh. Although I would still contact the manufacturer in case of a replacement.

Next to the sound pipe is a round port of an open dynamic driver. This is a grill-protected opening that transmits low-frequency signals directly to your ear cartilage. The same KINETIC BASS that you don't hear, but feel!






A little higher, closer to the 2pin connector, you can find another miniature hole, which is connected with the fastening of this connector. RIGID Technologies is a proprietary technology that FIR Audio claims provides exceptional reliability, durability and serviceability for in-ear monitors.

"The most durable 2-Pin connection on the market, rated for 1,000 connections without issue. Fits any 2-Pin standard. Featuring a revolutionary quadrant socket design that prevents the socket from getting loose."






The 26x8 Awg Satin Black twisted cable is made from pure copper and has the catchy name "Scorpion-C Wire". It is extremely light, elastic, nice and high quality, 2-pin connectors, jack L-shaped TRS 3.5 mm similar to Oyaide, the splitter is made in the same style. The cable length is 1.2 meters. When ordering, you can choose other connectors and connectors, cable length, as well as order a balanced connection 2.5 / 4.4mm.





As I mentioned, the XE6 has a hybrid circuit and is built around six drivers: one DD 10mm, four Open BA Driver and one Open Electrostatic Driver.
The "kinetic bass" speaker is responsible for the vibrations in the lowest part of the low-frequency register, one BA is responsible for the bass, its two brothers work out the mids, another BA - high frequencies and ESTAT - ultra-high frequencies.





Xenon 6 technologies are stuffed to capacity. Well, you can sing roulades to design. Before us is a masterpiece, no less! Let's find out why all these technologies were crammed into such a beautiful body. Let's move on to sound analysis.



Sound Impressions

Before listening, the headphones were burn-in for 70-80 hours.
Sound equipment: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, Lotoo paw Gold, iBasso DX240,DX300, iBasso 220 MAX, QLS QA-361, iFI iDSD Diablo & iFi xDSD Gryphon.

With all devices, the XE6s sounded great, and their “voice” varied slightly depending on the sound source and the Atom-X modules used.






The sound of Xenon 6 can be described as perfectly balanced, noble, served in neutral-warm tones, with a slightly accentuated area in the lower register, absolutely natural mid-range, and high-frequency ranges.
This is an unusually smooth, polished and harmonious manner of sound extraction, served in an unusually comfortable, correct, studio-analogue form, with a warm "tube" tint. The tonal balance of the headphones is set up extremely competently in an analog manner.

FIR XE6 perfectly convey the volume and depth of an imaginary space: giving out a massive and organic picture with amazing elaboration of timbres and reverbs, convexly outlining the details of the composition, paying more attention to macro dynamics than micro contrast.
This is an unusually lively, dynamic and "ecological" manner. It's amazing how naturalistic Xenon 6 manages to convey the atmosphere of the songs being played!

Even some top models of full-size headphones did not dream of such a sound.
And of course, here we hear only the perfect coherence of the drivers and the complete absence of phase distortion.





The sound character, as you already know, can be tuned a little to your taste with the help of replaceable Atom-X modules. When ordering the CIEM version of the in-ear monitors, an option with a built-in, non-replaceable module is also available. And models of the Frontier series in the UIEM version come with ATOM XS modules.
Let's deal with the classification of modules:
silver - perhaps the most neutral,
black - neutral with a slight addition of low frequencies and deeper bass,
gold - the most bass with a slight accent in the upper register,
red - makes the sound a little more expressive due to a slight accent on the upper middle.

I opted for a black and silver Atom-X, although I think all options are beautiful in their own way.





The XE6s show a wide dynamic range and amazingly capture the volume of an imaginary space, with a sweeping stereo panorama and precise localization of apparent sound sources in space, where every musical instrument and every note played is precisely in its place. These CIEMs build a wide soundstage with amazing depth of virtual space. This is a massive soundscape, rendered in a smooth, neutral, velvety manner with a stark black background and embossed display of audio images in space.

Xenon 6 is able to impress the listener with its temperament, clear articulation, high resolution and extraordinary tonal accuracy.





The low-frequency range is gently boosted, which brings massiveness and depth to the sound and lays a solid foundation for the Mids. The blow is thick, precise and dense, going deep down. The bass is elastic, textured, with good speed. Despite its neutral-warm manner, the bass succeeds everywhere and flawlessly intertwines in the middle register, darkening the background and filling the listening compositions with a clear rhythmic basis, contrast and timbre variety. A clear clap, impact vibrations - everything is transmitted and felt clearly, accurately and smoothly, without hum and encroachment on other registers.
Well, the dynamic driver with KINETIC BASS allows you not only to hear the power of low frequencies, but also to feel them, to feel these vibrations that get under your skin! And no hint of mumbling, only the accuracy of timbres combined with excellent balance.
Where a beautiful and imposing manner is needed, Xenon 6 can gently roll with a pleasant, thick and velvety, charming bass. Well, if there is mass and pressure in the track you are listening to, then hold on: from the very depths of sound, a low-frequency earthquake will fall on you, and even with the presence effect in the form of kinetic bass energy.


Mids are smooth, natural, timbre rich and textured, delivered in a neutral manner. Here, every musical image or sound is clothed in flesh. This is a well-balanced and unusually harmonious performance, where all the elements of the composition are presented naturally, smoothly, large and multifaceted, with amazing accuracy and informativeness. The presentation of the mid-frequency register is simultaneously solid, plastic and extremely detailed. Power and delicacy, emotions and monitoring, drive and academic manners are wonderfully combined here. Every timbre, every vibration of the voice or trembling of the string is transmitted authentically and deeply. The vocal parts do not excite the ear with sharp bursts and do not upset the failures, everything is unusually smooth, natural and unconstrained. This is a well-balanced and at the same time sensitive performance, where all the elements of the composition are presented with extraordinary accuracy, large and multifaceted. It is worth noting the amazing transfer of the volume of imaginary space.


High frequencies are reproduced unusually clean, clear, smooth and harmonious. Their quantity and quality of working off raises no objections. The register is transmitted clearly, without excessive harshness and distortion, without drawing excessive attention to itself, in a completely neutral manner. Highs harmoniously contribute to the overall work, without whims and self-will, they give themselves up for the sake of harmony and balance of the entire frequency range.
Working out the upper register, every sound, nuance, whether it's touching a hi-hat or a cymbal, ringing a bell, everything sounds so clean and accurate that it deserves, in my opinion, the epithet "reference"! Special thanks to FIR Audio for such a polished study of the high-frequency range!






With any musical genre XE6 cope without problems. They reproduce both classical music, instrumental, jazz, electronics, rock, and brutal genres with extraordinary interest.


Conclusion

FIR Audio XE6 - an unprecedented model of in-ear monitors! Thanks to such extraordinary developments, for many years my interest in testing portable Hi-Fi, and in this case, real Hi-End, has not faded away.
Before us is TOTAL CIEM, which audiophiles around the world will dream of and which the audio industry will measure up to. I will say more, in order to create such a masterpiece, not enough talented engineering, you also need a visionary gift. XE6 actually get to the very edge of the studied universe of sound and look beyond it!

Of course, such a technological sound "rocket" sent into musical space has a corresponding cost. You can order Xenon, both in CIEM and UIEM versions, on the official website firaudio.com for $3899. The price tag, of course, frightens with the number of numbers in it, but for the most notorious admirers of the highest category of sound, I recommend without the slightest hesitation to make every effort to purchase the FIR Audio Xenon 6.

Hi friends!

In these difficult times, we will continue to talk about what we are interested in and what we love. We think it's right.

Today we have a heading "Modestly, but with taste", which is loved by many. Lately we have seen a lot of musical "audio dongle" from the most respected brands: Lotoo, iBasso, and xDuoo has already dropped in with his miniature firstborn - Link. However, the current guest xDuoo Link2 BAL stands out among all these worthy gentlemen in that it has two outputs on board, one of which is balanced, as well as the ability to shake even extremely tight headphones!

Link2 BAL easily breaks the stereotypes about compromise DAC/amplifiers for mobile gadgets. This device was able to surprise and fascinate me, and I am sure that it can evoke similar emotions in any audiophile. But let's deal with everything in order.








Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)


Specifications
DAC Chip: CS43131 x2.
Input port: USB Type-C.
Output port: SE 3.5mm and BAL 4.4mm.
Output power 3.5mm: 125mW@32Ω.
Output power 4.4mm: 270mW@32Ω.
Frequency response: 20Hz+20kHz (±0.5dB).
THD+N output 3.5mm: 0.001% @ 1kHz.
THD+N output 4.$mm: 0.0007% @ 1kHz.
SNR output 3.5mm: 123dB.
SNR output 4.4mm: 123dB.
Crosstalk output 3.5mm: >= 77dB.
Crosstalk output 4.4mm: >= 120dB.
Support sample rate: PCM: 16-32Bit/44.1-384kHz, DSD: DSD64-256.
Weight: 28g.
Size: 63x23.5x13mm.


Appearance and kit

The xDuoo LINK2 Bal comes in a nice blue-orange box with the model name, business name "Mobile Partner" and a yellow "Hi-Res audio" badge on the front. Beneath the printed cover is a white box with the brand's silver logo "embedded" into the circuit board.









Inside we find a “fat” kit: the gadget itself, two short connecting cables (USB type-C / USB type-C and USB-C / Lightning), an adapter from type-C to type-A and a warranty card with user instructions.

Outwardly, LINK2 Bal resembles a miniature MP3 player (it's hard to believe, but 20 years ago it was the pinnacle of mobile audiophilia). The seamless rectangular case (63 x 23.5 x 13 mm, 28 grams) in graphite color with rounded edges is made of anodized aluminum. The front and back panels are elegantly covered with two glossy 2.5D Glass plates. On the top, the brand logo and the name of the model are displayed in silver, on the bottom - quality certificates, the website address and a message about the country of origin.








The bottom end has placed on itself two headphone jacks: a balanced 4.4 mm Pentaconn and a regular 3.5 mm. At the top end there is a type-C connector, through which a “connection” with a smartphone takes place.

There are three buttons on the right side of the device: a round red one is responsible for turning on the device (it also pauses the track being played when pressed briefly, and when pressed twice it must switch the track forward), followed by a volume rocker (+/-) divided into two keys.








On the opposite side are two UAC 1.0/2.0 switches. UAC of the first version will be convenient for connecting various game consoles, the second one will be suitable for everything else, followed by the "Gain" (normal/turbo) toggle switch. The device is quite powerful, so I recommend initially choosing the “normal” position.








The LINK2 Bal does not have a battery, as it is powered without problems from a sound source: a smartphone or a computer. The device does not require the installation of special drivers and in Plug & Play mode immediately starts to "be friends" with devices on any OS (Android, iOS, Windows or macOS). Personally, when connecting LINK2 Bal to my Huawei P20 Pro phone, I use the USB Audio Player PRO (UAPP) software player and Hiby Music, and when listening from a laptop, I used foobar 2000.









The device is built on two CS43131 chips from Cirrus Logic, working in pairs. The chips are designed for low power consumption, so LINK2 Bal is not gluttonous. At the same time, its power is 125 mW / 32Ω in single-sided mode, and the balance outputs 270 mW / 32Ω, which makes it easy to cope with any in-ear and most full-size headphones.

The functionality of this baby is impressive without any reservations. Here we add high-quality assembly, stylish design and extremely outstanding technical capabilities. And now it's time to figure out what exactly in terms of sound xDuoo LINK2 BAL can offer us.


Sound Impressions

We used: 64 AUDIO A12t, Vision Ears VE8, VE7, InEar PP8 и InEar PMX, FIR Audio M5 и M4, Softears RS10, Phonon 4400 & Beyerdynamic dt 250 (250 ohm).
Digital Signal Sources: Huawei P20 Pro smartphone and ASUS Zephyrus M16 laptop.

With all the headphones/IEMs, the device played more than adequately, without experiencing any difficulties with the variety of musical genres offered to it.








But before I move on to a detailed story about the sound of our today's guest, it is necessary to make an important clarification about the specifics of using the device itself. Volume control in the device is carried out digitally and works correctly only with smartphones, tablets and PCs. In other cases, for example, when connected to digital transport (I had xDuoo X10t II), Link2 cannot control the level of the output signal, as a result of which, without showing the necessary caution in this case, you can damage the headphones connected to it and even get problems with hearing.
Even some top players and stationary devices can envy the power of this small device, therefore, when connecting Link2, first check the volume level and the possibility of adjusting it, and only then, after making sure that everything is in order, connect your headphones to it. Well, the sound quality, as well as the work with the widest range of headphones, Link2 will not disappoint you, rest assured.







The sound of xDuoo Link 2 can be described as well-balanced, smooth, massive, without pronounced peaks and dips, excessive aggression, distortion, and any obvious predominance and accents in one or another frequency response area. The musical picture is drawn in a neutral-warm manner, harmoniously, with a proportionate rendering of micro- and macro-nuances, with a little more emphasis on macro-dynamics.

The device draws a rather sprawling stereo panorama, correctly building the virtual sound scene both in width and in depth. It's amazing how great it turns out for such a crumb!








The Link 2 Bal has a good tonal balance and a slightly warm tone, which is achieved through a slightly accentuated, imposing midbass.
Despite the neutral character, the device is good at conveying the emotional component of the composition. Whether it's vocal parts or string picking, everything sounds rich, large and lively, detailed and quite naturalistic. In such a comfortable, pleasant musical atmosphere, you involuntarily find yourself in the very center of musical events and follow the changing compositions further and further.







The bass is delivered thickly, massively, without encroaching on the middle, in a thick, rounded and slightly softened form. He just lacks speed and biting, but at the same time he cannot be called slow. A slight smoothing of attacks only adds charm and musicality to the overall sound. In general, low frequencies are distinguished by a good rendering of the depth of virtual space, moderate massiveness and fairly accurate texture reproduction. The beat is thick and tight, yet not hard, it is delivered in a lively, "analogue" manner.

The mids is flat, smooth, distinct, with good detail, good resolution and even tonal balance. It is delivered smoothly, cleanly, wonderfully musical and natural. Stringed instruments sound very naturalistic, where each pinch and touch of the strings is clearly outlined. Vocal parts sound lively and moderately expressive. There is a drive here, and a game with contrasts, and good detail - and all this without unnecessary embellishments. In general, it turns out an exquisite cocktail of neutrality and emotions.

High frequencies are clear and concise. They are moderately energetic, a little restrained and at the same time clean and charming. This is an accurate, accurate and fairly comfortable manner. Quantitatively, for my taste, exactly as much as needed. This register is transmitted quite correctly, clearly, without excessive sharpness and obvious distortions. There is a gloss and charm here, but there is also a degree of simplification, which is completely acceptable for this ultra-compact format, and even in this price category. Highs obediently and efficiently contribute to the overall work, exactly matching the game of the entire frequency range.







xDuoo Link 2 is not capricious at all to a wide variety of genres of music. He skillfully handles both instrumental music, jazz, electronics, rock music, and brutal genres. The rest is up to the choice of headphones.

Conclusion

I definitely liked the new gadget from xDuoo. He does not try to jump above his head, but within the limits set for him, he shows himself perfectly, demonstrating an excellent tonal balance, and the power he gives out is generally something amazing! Link 2 Bal is a real little hero who can compete with much more solid and expensive devices and look more than worthy in this "fight"!

This nimble and skillful DAC/amp is the perfect addition to any smartphone, tablet or laptop. At the time of writing, the suggested retail price for the xDuoo Link 2 Bal was $149. If you are a quality sound lover and use streaming services (Tidal, Deezer, Spotify, etc.) or, like me, listen to music offline the old fashioned way - Link 2 Bal is designed to give you a lot of positive emotions, as it already did me.

"You go to my head
With a smile that makes my temperature rise
Like a summer with a thousand Julys
You intoxicate my soul with your eyes.."
Billie Holiday


Hi friends!

In fact, I really want to limit this review to the epigraph that you just read. These heartfelt lines from Billie Holiday's "You Go To My Head" basically have everything I would like to say about the incredible HEDDphone ONE headphones that stole my peace and sleep and now will never go out of my head. The only thing, for the utmost accuracy, I would replace a couple of letters in the lyrics of this song: "You go to my HEDD". However, I understand that such brevity will seem too much to many, so there will still be a full review, don't worry.

So, our guest is HEDD Audio company from Germany with their first model of full-size headphones HEDDphone ONE! And for me this acquaintance was, without exaggeration, a revelation. As a great connoisseur of high-quality music, I have long broken the “fence” in my head between the concepts of Hi-Fi, Hi-END and PRO AUDIO. For all these terms apply to the distribution of audio equipment: for listeners, audiophiles and for musicians / sound engineers. For me, there are only two concepts: bad sound and good. And today we'll talk about excellent sound, sound in the highest degree!

HEDDphone ONE can satisfy both the true connoisseur of sound and the professional. Since its release in 2020, these headphones have made a lot of noise in the audiophile environment and have received a bunch of awards from the world's most prestigious audio publications. And no wonder, ONE is the first full-size headphones based on an AMT (Air Motion Transformer) driver that reproduces the entire frequency range!

Here it would be appropriate to conduct a brief digression into the history of the HEDD Audio brand, which appeared in Berlin in 2015. Heinz Electrodynamic Design (HEDD) was founded by physicist Klaus Heinz and his son, musicologist Dr. Frederik Knop. "HEDD products demonstrate what can be achieved today both in audio quality and control versatility. We believe that we have set a new benchmark in the industry and beyond." - Klaus Heinz, Founder of HEDD Audio says.
As a student of the famous Oskar Heil who invented the Air Motion Transformer (AMT), Klaus Heinz improved on the original Heil AMT design, making it more compact, reliable and efficient.

To understand Klaus Heinz's big contribution to the audio industry, suffice it to say that he is the founder of Adam Audio, which has made a name for itself by creating studio speakers and monitors used by top recording studios. And of course, at the moment, his new company HEDD Audio is making a big contribution to the world of sound. HEDD’s mission has been to build products aiming for complete accuracy and outstanding signal fidelity in Germany, that can accommodate a diverse range of sounds and eclectic spectrum of musical tastes. Judging by the HEDDphone ONE headphones, the company copes with its mission brilliantly! Well, now the promised review of "You go to my HEDD".





I will try to translate my Russian review into English

Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)
audio-ph.ru


Specifications
Design: open-back over-ear headphone
Driver: AMT with full-range VVT® technology
Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 40 kHz
Efficiency: 87 dB SPL at 1 mW
Impedance: 42 Ω flat
Connection: symmetric 4-pin mini-XLR
Weight: 718 g



Appearance, kit and ergonomics

A large black box with excellent printing, in which the headphones are placed, by its very appearance promises us a meeting with even more wonderful content. On the front side, a stylish brand logo is located on top, a highly artistic photo of the headphones is in the center, and the “Made in Germany” marking is indicated below.





We remove the printing wrapper and take out the box-folio with the designation of the model in the center. Inside we find the headphones themselves, carefully placed in a protective foam base, and another small black package with a detachable cable and Velcro strap. Here we also find a beautiful insert, on the one hand a drawing that exactly repeats the cover of the package, on the other - a detailed description of the headphones and their technical characteristics.









And it seems that there is nothing special in all this, but at the same time you get real pleasure from unpacking, and also there is an understanding that you have a first-class product in front of you.







Let's extend this pleasure and admire the headphones themselves. Silver cups (once again I note the open acoustic design of the headphones), headband attachment elements and retractable headband arms are made of aluminum and upholstered in soft, extremely comfortable eco-leather.

The outer side of the cups is securely covered with a black metal mesh, and under it you can see an AMT emitter: a longitudinal grille through which the same yellow harmonica peeps out. Below are mini XLR connectors for cable connection.








Rectangular-shaped ear pads, voluminous and unusually soft, simply airy, are made of artificial leather with perforations throughout the inner surface. They are quite easy to remove, which allows you to replace them in case of wear.

Thanks to the ergonomic design and the softness of the ear cushions, the headphones sit quite comfortably on the head, despite their weight (718 grams). The design as a whole is quite comfortable, with a slight adjustment in headband height and limited rotation of the ear cups.

Yes, some users consider HEDDphone ONE quite heavy, but for my part I did not experience any discomfort. I will say this, I also met noticeably less weighty headphones in which I could not sit for more than an hour. And here, as for me, there is a competent balancing, and you just need to conveniently position the structure on your head. If the position is chosen correctly, then the head will be cozy and warm, you don’t even want to take off the headphones once again.







The quality of materials and assembly is beyond praise: everything is fitted extremely accurately and clearly, without backlash and gaps.

The headphones are equipped with a solid detachable branded HEDD cable made of pure copper, dressed in a black fabric braid. Jack 6.3 mm on one side, a pair of mini XLR "REAN" on the other, the length is 2.2 meters. The connectors are quite common, and you can easily choose another option for the headphones if you want. This cable did not cause any problems for me.







As we mentioned earlier, the HEDDphone ONE has an in-house developed emitter inside. Engineers led by Klaus Heinz have managed to turn the AMT tweeter into a full-range ribbon driver.

AMT is an electrodynamic transducer developed by Oskar Heil. The folded diaphragm (accordion) of the tweeter allows you to move air at a much higher speed than conventional speaker voice coils, planar and electrostatic systems. The diaphragm expels air four times faster during "breathing", which contributes to accurate and detailed reproduction of the sound signal without delay.







If you wish, you can easily find a more detailed description of this technology and its advantages on the Internet. Well, it's time for us to sum up the intermediate results.

The remarkable external and outstanding internal content of HEDDphone ONE deserves, in my opinion, five plus, but the most interesting, of course, is ahead!


Sound Impressions

Before listening, the headphones were burn-in for 70 hours.
Sound equipment: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, QLS DA9.1 Melokin, iFi iDSD Diablo, Lotoo paw Gold, QLS QA-361, iBasso DX300 & iBasso DX220 MAX+ iFi ZEN Can.

I want to warn you right away that HEDDphone ONE are quite demanding on the path and amplification and, therefore, show themselves in all their glory only with a good powerful device. But, nevertheless, the headphones played quite adequately with all the listed sound sources. With the exception of the iBasso DX220 MAX, which had connected to the iFi ZEN Can amplifier.







Using the site reference-audio-analyzer.pro, I made a comparison graph comparing the measurements of HEDDphone ONE with my Beyerdynamic DT 250/250 ohm and Hifiman HE-4. The overall picture of the frequency response of these three models is quite similar, if you do not take into account some minor differences, and it immediately becomes clear why I liked HEDDphone ONE so much. I could add here a comparison with another of my favorites - Hifiman HE-6, but I think there is no particular need for this, because their tonal balance is similar to HE-4.





Despite the fact that the tonal balance of the above models of headphones is some similar, the sound manner is still different. Moreover, it seems to me that HEDDphone ONE has absorbed all the best, both from the dynamic DT 250/250 and from the isodynamic HE-4/HE-6, and in this "competition" they are the absolute winner!


From the very first minutes of listening, ONE demonstrates amazing smoothness, informativeness and extraordinary naturalness of sound. This is an absolutely neutral, lively and very comfortable manner of sound delivery. Here, no register dominates the other, the entire frequency range is played out measuredly, cleanly and at the same time unusually expressive.

It is also worth noting the wide dynamic range, excellent speed characteristics and commensurate work with both macrodynamics and microcontrast.
HEDDphone ONE doesn't try to make it too small, sticking out all the "beads" of the composition, but they present the whole picture, lively and at the same time very carefully, correctly and accurately lay out the palette of sounds. And the headphones work out the dynamics (attacks and decays) simply at the highest level!







The audio canvas is drawn widely, with contrast, with excellent timbre reproduction and elaboration of all the details of the composition. Headphones are able to convey all the richness of sound coloring and reverberations in an unusually naturalistic way.

HEDDphone ONE impresses with excellent resolution and a fairly spreading stereo panorama with precise localization of apparent sound sources in space, where every musical instrument and every note played is exactly in its place. Here, every sound, its movement, as well as the force of impact, are clearly distinguishable. The breath of sound is felt, the way the air, together with the sound wave, moves, creating a unique feeling of realism.

When listening to music, the effect of immersion is created such that sometimes it seems that you can touch this or that musical instrument and even the sound itself flowing from the instrument. Musical images line up so picturesquely, as if in a hyperrealist painting, realistically and thoroughly, with an amazing transfer of volume.








This sound, like the nectar of the gods of Olympus, flows into the listener, fills him with a noble plastic substance and becomes one with him. This is a very comfortable, delicate and unusually lively manner of sounding, unlike anything else.

Such a style of sound presentation cannot be called dry or boring, not at all, on the contrary, it has a charming engaging power, harmonious and unusually melodic. This is supremely intelligent sounding!

The "sound stage" is spacious, it harmoniously and proportionately builds both in width and in depth.









Low frequencies are transmitted tightly, accurately and quickly, with good elaboration of textures and excellent articulation. There is a clear clap here, and a tight, biting beat, and a textured, articulated and agile bass. It is presented correctly, neutrally and quite correctly.
I will try, as an example, to convey my feelings from listening to Brian Bromberg's "Freedom jazz dance". The extremely accurate transmission of playing the bass guitar is simply amazing! You do not even hear the reproduced audio signal with your ears, but feel it, feeling the tension of the string, its beating against the pickup, plunging into the bewitching timbre variety and richness of overtones.
This is extremely accurate, fast and high-quality register transmission, combined with excellent balance.

The sub-bass region smoothly and harmoniously passes to the mid-bass, which, in turn, life-givingly complements the middle, filling it with depth and bodily substance.
It should be noted, however, that bassheads are likely to say that Lows is "not enough" for them. I will not enter into a correspondence discussion with them, but I will only emphasize that for me personally everything here is impeccable.


The mids are clean, smooth, rich in timbre, detailed and as natural as possible. This is a lively, beautiful and extremely reliable sound picture that harmoniously lines up before your eyes. Each sound, each instrument breathes, has its own weight, volume and texture. The positioning of tools in space is verified and realistic. Everything is in its place.

The delivery of the midrange register is smooth and completely neutral. The vocal parts do not excite the ear with sharp bursts and do not upset the failures, they are pure, natural and unconstrained. The emotional component of the composition is wonderfully conveyed. Guitar riffs smoothly cut through the air, keyboards richly saturate the timbre palette - everything is beautiful, relaxed and with the proper shade of expression. A truly live sound, and the thoroughness of its drawing is simply amazing! The presence effect is overwhelming.


High frequencies are reproduced remarkably cleanly, smoothly, clearly and harmoniously with good extension and precise attenuation. Quantitatively, they are not many and not few - more is not needed. The register is transmitted quite distinctly, comfortably, without excessive sharpness and distortion. He diligently contributes to the overall work, exactly matching the entire sound canvas.
Pure harmony and nothing more. Such extreme naturalness, accuracy and diligence for such a capricious register is worth a lot. There is no excessive brightness here, but there is an excellent development of this range and an unusually natural sound without harshness and distortion. You can immediately hear that the AMT driver is working!

In fact, the sound of HEDDphone ONE does not want to be divided into separate frequency ranges, it is so coherent, proportionate and harmonious.








In terms of genre preferences, ONE confidently show their universalism. In my opinion, they play quite interestingly both instrumental music, jazz, electronics, rock, and brutal genres.

And now, when I held on to the last and tried to still test, and not uncontrollably admire, I can finally say frankly: in my opinion, HEDDphone ONE is one of the best headphones in the world! Applause, turning into a long and stormy ovation, HEDD Audio for such a creation!
HEDDphone ONE receives five stars and "Audio-Ph Recommended" status. And mind you, despite a bunch of great headphones and audio gadgets that go through our testing, we give out stars very infrequently.


Conclusion

Not only did HEDD Audio hit the target right from the first shot, but, using sports terminology, set a new record that other manufacturers should now be guided by. HEDDphone ONE is a real masterpiece without any reservations, top-class headphones designed not just for listening to music, but for admiring and living this very music, getting deep and powerful experiences of an almost sacred order.

If I try to calm the poetic delights and return to the path of analytical prose, then everything is perfect with HEDDphone ONE: superbly balanced, clear and genuine sound that causes a storm of emotions, excellent design, the highest build quality (hand-assembled in Germany) and good ergonomics. Without a doubt, these headphones will be one of the most revered in the field of PRO Audio, as well as among audiophiles - true connoisseurs of high-quality sound.

At the time of writing, the suggested retail price for HEDDphone ONE is €1479. What can I say, if the price tag was € 2500, I would still recommend forking out for such an exquisite and high-quality sound.

Bonjour mes amis!

How long have I wanted to speak French for a long time and now I found an excuse. I am pleased to report that I have received a terrific guest from France, who, like a true Gascon, is hot, cool in temper and impeccable in manners.
Yes, it finally happened: the EarSonics brand, which I respect, presented a new IEM ONYX model!

Moreover, ONYX is a unique product even for such masters as EarSonics. The company set itself an extremely ambitious goal - to create a very high-end IEM at an unprecedented price, and brilliantly coped with this task!

Moreover, a special website has been created for ONYX direct sales without any intermediaries, and since February 8, these IEMs are already available for ordering there.
ONYX has a similar design to the Blade and Stark models we reviewed earlier, a hybrid design but with four emitters: (1DD / 3BA). And the sound setting, as it should be, is different from its predecessors.

Let me take a short excursion into the glorious history of EarSonics, in case one of our readers is not familiar with it. ES engineers were at the origins of the creation of IEM based on BA drivers. It was they, along with brands such as Westone, Shure and UE, who were the first to manufacture inear monitors and CIEMs based on 2, 3, 4 or more armature drivers / receivers.
My acquaintance with the products of this brand began quite a long time ago, about twelve years ago, when I had the opportunity to listen to their models SM2 and SM3. A little later, I used SM64, SM2-IFI, EarSonics Velvet, S-EM6 V2, then Blade and Stark.

As in the case of earlier IEM models, the company's engineers approached the development of ONYX with all responsibility, and the sound of the new earphones turned out, in my opinion and hearing, truly amazing. Therefore, we uncork a bottle of Burgundy and begin our acquaintance with our perky Frenchman.







Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)


Specifications
Sensibility: 122 dB/mW
Frequency response: 10 Hz-20 kHz
DCR: 16, 5 ohms
Drivers (4): 1 DD dynamic, 3 BA drivers with 3-way HQ impedance corrector crossover



Appearance, kit and ergonomics

The black cardboard briquette in which the headphones are placed is minimalistic. On its front side, the name of the ONYX model is large, and the EarSonics logo modestly perched there in the lower right corner. That's all, no pompous self-presentations, because we are here to hear something special, and not look at pictures.







We open the box and take out all the contents from it: our IEMs with a detachable silver-white cable already attached to them, four pairs of silicone tips (2 double-flange and 2 standard single-flange), two pairs of Comply foam tips of different sizes, a solid hard case with a zipper, a brush for cleaning the sound pipes and a warranty card with instructions. The kit is extensive, but, as practice has shown, the assortment of tips could be increased.









It is believed that onyx is a mineral with strong masculine energy and healing properties, and among the ancient Greeks, Aztecs and India it was a stone that helped the leaders boldly go towards their goals. Whether this is true or fiction - I don’t presume to judge, but the above qualities can definitely be attributed to the hero of today's review. He has both an impressive "masculine" appearance and an expressive "male" voice.

The case of ONYX, like that of its brothers Stark and Blade, is completely made of metal. As far as I know, the designers used anodized zinc and magnesium. The textured black and matte IEM shell on top, with a faceplate, looks like the contours of intergalactic alien ships from old sci-fi films. And the inner side of the case with three textured transverse lines, emphasizing the curve of the shell, resembles the banded structure characteristic of onyx.

In general, the construction of ONYX, Stark and Blade is similar, the difference is only in color and, possibly, in the alloy used. For my taste, ONYX looks more strict and impressive due to the black coating, but otherwise everything is similar.







On the outer front panel, in the very center, among the graceful stepped forms, there is a convex logo of the "ES" brand. There is a sound pipe on the front, which smoothly passes to the inner part of the case, the shape of which resembles a custom shell with textured transverse lines.

On top is a 2pin connector for connecting a cable. On the back of the earphones we find two oblong compensation slots designed for the correct acoustic design of the dynamic radiator, and just below you can see a screw fastening the two halves of this intricate art object.








Inside the metal structure is a 3D acrylic core, specially designed for the IEM ES hybrid line, with four drivers: 1 dynamic driver handles Lows, two BAs are responsible for Mids, and another 1BA reproduces high frequencies.

A separate chamber is allocated for each set of drivers, which allowed engineers to carefully adjust the sound of each of the emitters. And the new impedance crossover-corrector created by EarSonics, combined with EVS and FUSION technologies, allows IEM to sound without any phase distortion, clearly, accurately and at the same time extremely musical.

The tactile sensations when touching the ONYX are amazing. These earphones are truly a work of art! It can be seen that the developers did not save on materials and, more importantly, in addition to the concentrate of engineering thought embodied in complex schemes and precise details, they put their soul into their brainchild.

The assembly, in my opinion, is flawless, which is not surprising, because the headphones are handmade in France!









Despite the tangible weight that is felt when you hold the IEM in the palm of your hand, ONYX sits easily and comfortably in your ears. Seriously, during a long walk, for some time I even forgot that two black musical weights were traveling around the city with me.

Wearing an IEM, as you probably already understood, is supposed to be behind the ear.






The four-core "HI-RES 4C Silver" cable is braided, it is extremely light, soft and elastic. Connector TRS 3.5mm L-shaped with gold, 2pin connectors that allow you to easily pick up another wire with the same connectors to these IEMs, if necessary. The cable is good in every way, so I see no reason to change it to another one. The only reason, in my opinion, is the transition from a 3.5 mm connector to the now popular balanced connection of 2.5 or 4.4 mm.







This is where I propose to finish our acquaintance with the exterior and technical side of our ONYX and insert them into the ears, which, believe me, have already been waiting for this moment.


Sound impressions

Before using ONYX were burn-in for 70-80 hours.

Listening was conducted with: MyST (NOS) DAC/AMP 1866OCU V.2, Lotoo paw Gold, iBasso DX240, DX300 и DX220 MAX, QLS QA-361, iFi xDSD Gryphon, HIP-DAC2, Go Blu & iFi iDSD Diablo.

With all the listed audio devices, EarSonics ONYX played flawlessly.






As always, and this time especially strongly, I recommend taking the time to both burn-in and select tips, since both of these simple procedures significantly affect the final sound picture.

I can't help but share my experience of finding the right tips for these IEMs. For example, using medium double-flange silicone tips, I got an unusually rich, expressive sound, with amazing reproduction of timbres and reverbs in the lower register, excellent dynamics and slight accentuation of the high-frequency range. Sometimes, when listening to rhythmic compositions, an illusion is created that the headphone case vibrates from beats to the beat, synchronously with the movement of the diffuser, dynamic driver. And this, I want to tell you, is impressive. But at the same time, the sound pipe is not deep in the ear canal, and the earphone body protrudes a little from my auricle. Although my ears are quite "capacious".

Then, after a lot of experimentation, I found three-flange silicone tips in a drawer with a slightly elongated stem and an outlet that matches the diameter of the ONYX sound pipe, and I managed to achieve a deep fit in the ear, flush.
As a result, I got a slightly more balanced sound, losing some of the texture of the lower register, but gaining an overall smoother frequency response and more restrained high frequencies. A similar result is shown by the complete Comply foam tips.

Well, speaking even more broadly, then, of course, the impact on the final sound result when choosing tips will also depend on the individual structural features of your ear. In any case, this is only a "tuning", in which the main character of the ONYX sound remains unchanged. And the sound is in any case, without exaggeration, excellent.








The sound of the Earsonics ONYX is well balanced, massive, dynamic, extraordinarily rich and very melodic, with a neatly dominant low-frequency range, well-textured, tight and nimble bass, amazingly detailed scenic Mids and a clean, slightly sparkling high-frequency range. This is an unusually beautiful and harmonious manner. I understand that for many my maxim will now sound unexpected, but ONYX seemed to open an audio portal to me in the golden age of Hi-Fi, recalling the sound of the legendary Otto SX-P1 speakers.

The frequency response of Earsonics ONYX sounds like a smooth W-shaped wave, where one register harmoniously flows into another. The result is boundless drive, bubbling emotions and uniform interweaving of one frequency range with another. These IEMs show a wide dynamic range and amazing volume reproduction, with a wide stereo panorama and precise localization of apparent sound sources in space, where every musical instrument and every note played is exactly in its place.








The ONYX's sound is grown-up, rich in timbres, comfortable, with a darkened background and charming melody. Such a contrasting, picturesque and energetic manner has a disarming effect on the listener, who, from the very first bars of his favorite compositions, is thrown into a seething musical stream. You dive into this bottomless pool without hesitation, because real audio treasures are waiting for you there.

These earphones build a wide sound stage with amazing depth of virtual space. It's a massive soundscape, rendered in a smooth, velvety manner with black backgrounds, embossed, 3D audio imaging, and amazing detail. The ideal consistency of the drivers and the complete absence of phase distortion are striking. Here reigns the law of harmony of sound.









The lower register is worked out accurately, with a dense, massive and rolling impact, elastic, timbre-rich, textured and agile bass, which boasts excellent articulation and good speed characteristics.

The embossed bass parts sound thick and rich, very dynamic, they roll over the whole body, bitingly and crushingly outlining the rhythmic basis of the composition, filling the middle with depth and lively, weighty substance. The peals of the beats of the drum set scatter like booming artillery shots, accurately conveying the force of the blow. At the same time, it should be taken into account that the low-frequency range is moderately forced and its processing takes quality rather than quantity. The dynamic driver here is configured very sensibly!


Mids is clean, velvety, with a slight smooth and "delicious" color in the mid/high junction area, which makes the vocal parts sound especially expressive. Musical images are drawn magnificently, beautifully and gracefully. String instruments sound fine and beautiful, the resonance of strings with a guitar deck, wind instruments and openwork piano tunes - everything is transmitted lively and harmoniously. Earphones contrast and harmoniously lay out the palette of sounds, accurately and proportionately working with macrodynamics and macrocontrast.
Power, emotions, drive and academic manners are perfectly combined here. Each timbre, voice vibration or string trembling is transmitted extremely naturally, richly and deeply.
Listening pleasure is extraordinary. This is a noble, well-balanced and at the same time emotional performance, where all the elements of the composition are presented in an unusually smooth, informative, precise and multifaceted manner.


High frequencies sound clear and legible, refined, with good articulation and enviable correctness. Here there is a slight accent in the form of a light unobtrusive spark, but in general the register is transmitted quite clearly and distinctly, without excessive sharpness and distortion.
In this case, Highs add contrast, expression and fresh air to the overall sound.
I think that many people will like this approach to sound processing.








Needless to say, with such outstanding skills, Earsonics ONYX can easily cope with jazz, instrumental and classical music, electronics, rock, new wave, and various brutal genres.


Conclusion

Usually I talk about the price of a product at the very, very end, but today I will allow myself to break the usual pattern. The fact is that during the testing of ONYX, I still did not know what price tag the company would put on them, and based on the results of the auditions, I expected that the cost would gravitate towards the bar of 1000 €. However, ONYX can be purchased from the earsonics.com online store for 490 €, and this, my friends, is just a gift for true audiophiles! Considering all the outstanding features of the IEM model, I can definitely say that this is a win-win deal for those who want to hear their favorite music in amazing sound.

ONYX is an amazing IEM model with a truly European flavor, dynamic, well-balanced, harmonious and extraordinarily beautiful sound. Separately, it should be noted the highest performance (manual assembly in France) and impeccable design. Without a doubt, the new product from Earsonics will be revered and loved by audiophiles and music lovers.

Hi friends!

It just so happened that my last reviews on audio-ph were devoted to devices that, due to their cost, did not fall into the “budget and interesting” category, beloved by many. But this time we have prepared just such a gadget for you.

Almost immediately after the anniversary edition of the iBasso DX240 DAP, another device from this wonderful brand, the DC05, arrived at our office, which became a significant update to the line of "audio dongle", compact DAC/ amplifiers.

We have already talked about DC01, DC02 and last year's hit - DC03. And today we have a "five-star" newcomer, who follows in the footsteps of the "two" and "three" because it has a standard 3.5 mm stereo output on board. I think that in the near future we should also expect a similar device from iBasso, but with a balanced 4.4 mm output, which will continue the DC01 and DC04 models. But that's just my guess for now.
The main circuitry difference between generations lies in the change of the main components, DAC chips. Instead of 4493EQ from Asahi Kasei Microdevices (used in DC01 and DC02) and CS43131 Cirrus Logic (DC03 and DC04), two Saber ES9219Cs are used inside DC05. How this affected the voice of the "five", I will tell in detail in this review.

Let's go ahead immediately - following the wonderful melody coming from iBasso DC05!








Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa / audio-ph.ru)



Specifications
Dual ES9219C DAC chips
Self-developed Quad DAC+ Technology
Time Domain Jitter Eliminator
Hyper Stream III architecture
MQA 16X Decoding
Supports 32-Bit/384kHz PCM decoding
Supports native DSD256 decoding
THD+N: <0.00056%
Output voltage: 2V RMS (300Ω load), 1.73Vrms (32Ω load)
Output power: 140mW@16Ω, 93mW@32Ω
Frequency Response: 20 Hz-40 kHz
Dynamic range: 121dB
SNR: 121dB
Output Impedance: <0.5Ω
Weight: 9grams
Length: 105mm
Interface: Type-C


Appearance and kit

The device is packed modestly, but tastefully. Through the transparent plastic of the box, the DC05 itself peeps out, and all the necessary information is placed on the cardboard tab around it: the brand logo, a message about the support of the MQA format, the model name and the "profession" - Hi-Res DAC Cable Adapter. Detailed specifications are listed on the back.








Inside, in addition to DC05, we find a USB adapter from type-C to type-A for connecting the device to a PC or laptop.

The appearance of the DC05 retains the retro motives already familiar to us from its predecessors. For seasoned fans of good sound, it will surely remind you of the remote control for Walkman CD players from the 90s. At the same time, the design of the “five” cannot be called outdated: conciseness and elegance are served here in one bottle.







The newcomer is available in both green and black. We have, as you probably already saw in the photos, the second color option.

The metal case has very modest (120 x 15 x 9 mm) dimensions, and weighs only 9 grams. But the inscription on the outside again reminds of the device's extraordinary abilities: 32bit/384kHz DSD256x.
Not without the obligatory status of the golden Hi-Res Audio sticker.








On one of the ends there is an output for connecting a 3.5 mm TRS connector. In the same place, a little lower, a tiny blue LED signals us that the DC05 is working properly. A short “tail” comes out from the opposite side - a four-wire silver-white pigtail of a cable, consisting of silver-plated copper. It ends with a type-C connector, native to many phones and other mobile units. Well, with the help of the adapter already included in the kit, a connection is made with a laptop or a stationary PC.

Connecting the DC05 to anything is easy enough, but let me once again give you a couple of tips. To correctly adjust the volume on Android, you should download the proprietary iBasso UAC application either from the Google Play Market or the apk file from the manufacturer's website. I recommend adding Hiby Music software as partners to it. Everything is clear, understandable and regulated by default without problems. On the iBasso website, you can also take a special USB driver "DC-series" for ASIO output on Windows devices and activate it in the settings of the foobar2000 program.

Yes, before I forget, I recommend updating the firmware for DC05, which is also posted on ibasso.com. Moreover, this can be done in a matter of minutes, and the instructions for this are attached in the archive with the update file.









The device is powered by a smartphone / tablet battery, but it does not suffer from “gluttony”, so you should not worry about increased battery discharge on your phone. Well, in the case of a PC and a laptop, there is nothing to worry about at all.
Heating, as in the case of DC03, our hero is not strong, so you will not experience any discomfort.

Well, the DC05 has been thoroughly examined by us from all sides, we also figured out the software nuances, now let's move on to sound impressions.


Sound Impressions

As I mentioned above, the DC05 is based on two SABER ES9219C DAC chips from ESS Technology. The new heart, in addition to the expected impact on the audio signature, added more "athletics" to our hero. Now the output voltage is 2Vrms/300Ω under load), 1.73Vrms (32Ω under load), and the output power is 140mW/16Ω, 93mW/32Ω. Pretty serious parameters for such a baby!

We used: 64 AUDIO A12t, FIR Audio M5 и M4, Vision Ears VE8, VE7 и EVE20, InEar PP8 и ProMission X, iBasso IT07, Softears RSV & Phonon 4400.
With all the Headphones/IEM, the DC05 performed well with no issues with the power and variety of music genres on offer.








Despite its diminutiveness, the "five" gives out a rather adult sound, laying out the palette of sounds cleanly and accurately, in a neutral-melodic manner.










The lower register is delivered extremely accurately and energetically, with good articulation and good depth elaboration. And let the bass not indulge us with tonal diversity, but it is well assembled, accurate and has decent speed characteristics. For an XS size device, this is an amazing result! Midbass development takes not so much quantity as quality, demonstrating a good transfer of textures and vigor. This is a neutral, cheerful and comfortable manner with a good rhythmic basis.

Mids are smooth, bouncy and contrasting, with a commendable transfer of the emotional component of the composition. It is reproduced accurately, melodicly, with a little bit of expression, but without sharp peaks that strain the ear. The vocals impress with their temperament, while the piano and string instruments sound smooth, clean, comfortable and picturesque. This is a melodic and rather detailed manner of sound, presented in a neutral form.

The high-frequency range is slightly accentuated, but at the same time it is served quite comfortably and does not draw too much attention to itself. In this case, the high frequencies add some width, expression and fresh air to the sound. They do not try to impress the listener with refined manners and refined overtones, but at the same time they are transmitted quite cleanly, distinctly, without harshness and obvious simplification.


In general, I would describe this sound as neutral and unusually melodic. At the same time, there are no significant shortcomings that could prevent you from enjoying music in the DC05. In my opinion, this approach to setting up the sound will appeal to many.







In terms of genre preferences, iBasso DC05 is not capricious at all. He is interesting, with his refined emotional "color", plays both instrumental music, jazz, electronics, and rock.

Finally, let's compare the "five" with their brothers in the "audio dongles" line from iBasso. The DC02 sounds a bit similar in the midrange and treble, but has a more rounded, warmer tone in the lower register. The DC03's delivery is a little more dense, picturesque, with flesh-filled audio images and a slightly darkened background, expressed in a light V-shaped manner. Personally, I like the newcomer the DC05 the most. On the one hand, it gravitates towards a neutral manner, on the other hand, it sounds very melodious and exciting. However, this is more a matter of taste, and each of the listed devices has its own interesting style.








Conclusion

The question "how to fit a big sound into a tiny trinket" is the most non-trivial, and its successful practical solution invariably causes me childish amazement. However, in the case of the "five" pleases not only the flawless implementation of this difficult task, but also the evolutionary development of engineering, which is consistently traced in mini-devices created by iBasso.
The DC05 is a rare example of how design engineers put all their energy into pushing the boundaries of audio performance without trying to lure the customer with unnecessary and pointless "cosmetic" changes. "Five" outwardly does not differ in any way from its predecessors, however, when listening, it immediately becomes clear what a great and painstaking work has been done.

Needless to say, the rampant development of streaming services (Tidal, Spotify, Deezer, etc.) makes these audio dongles an ideal addition to a smartphone or laptop.
At the time of writing the review, the recommended retail price for the iBasso DC05 was about $69. And this is one of the most affordable options to get your entry ticket to the world of high-quality sound.

Hi friends!
The New Year holidays have flown by, but I want to share with you my review, I posted on my site in April 2021. Moreover, my admiration for using this audio device has only grown stronger.
I will have to shorten my review a little when translating from Russian into English, but I hope that I will be able to convey all the main information and my emotions to you in this form.

So, see the scarlet glow flooding the sky, listen to the menacing thunder - the iFi iDSD Diablo appears on the scene!







Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa / audio-ph.ru)


Specifications
DAC chips: 2 x Texas Instruments Burr-Brown DSD1793 (Bit-Perfect Burr Brown DSD, DXD, PCM)
Digital Inputs USB 3.0 type A (USB 2.0 compatible)
SPDIF 3.5mm Coaxial or Optical
Formats supported DSD512 / 256 /128 /64
Octa/Quad/Double/Single Speed DSD
DXD Double or Single Speed 768/705.6/384/352.8kHz
PCM 768/705.6/384/352.8/192/176.4/ 96/88.2/48/44.1kHz
Frequency Response 10Hz – 80kHz +/- 3db
SNR Balanced -120db / SE -114db
Dynamic Range Balanced – 120db / SE 114db
THD + N Balanced 0.002% / Se 0.001%
Headphone Max Output Balanced 19.2V 4,980mW @32 ohms / 12.6 V 611mW @ 600 ohms
SE 8.8V 2,417mW @ 32 ohms / 9.6V 153mW @600 ohms
Fixed Audio Output 4.4 Balanced
Power Consumption Turbo 12w / Normal 5w / Eco 2w
Charging via USB type C BC V1.2 up to 1900mA
Ipower 12v adapter included
Battery Lithium Polymer 4800mAH
Dimensions 166x72x25mm / 6.5”x2.8”x1.0”
Weight 330g / 0.73lbs





Appearance and kit

The device comes in a presentable white box, the upper part of which is a printing wrapper. On its front side is our stunning scarlet "devil", above it is the logo of the "iFi" brand, below the model name with a sticker reporting full support for the progressive MQA format, as well as a detailed list of device features: USB DAC Headamp, Octa-speed DSD512 / PCM 32bit/768kHz, MQ/Fully balanced 4.4mm output. If this is not enough for someone, then a complete list of characteristics can be found on the back of the package. Everything, as always, with iFi is stylish, strict, concise and neat.





With lust, we open the box and take out the iDSD Diablo from it, and with it all the necessary accessories: iFi iPower power adapter with an adapter to USB type-C, a blue 3.0 type-A male/female cable for connecting the device to a PC, a short connecting cable type-A / type-C, interconnect cable for balanced iFi 4.4mm / XLR connection to an active speaker system or amplifier with appropriate connectors, 6.3 / 3.5mm adapters and 3.5mm optical. And all this goodness lies in an excellent branded iFi iTraveller bag for carrying the device (it costs $49 separately).






It turns out that the set is five-star, "All inclusive", you don't even know what else to want. There is everything and even more! But let's not dwell on this for a long time, but go directly to the acquaintance with our ward.

Oh, how hard it is to resist the pleasure of describing our "audio devil", because the level of delight that it causes is really comparable to the emotions of getting to know the legendary Lamborghini Diablo. What is this if not a sports car in portable audio?! The seamless case of red color with rounded side edges, as well as the front and rear panels, is made of metal. The build quality does not cause the slightest criticism: everything is fitted tightly, without gaps and backlashes. The device is 166mm long, 72mm wide, 25mm high and weighs 330 grams.





On the front panel of the iDSD Diablo there are 6.3 mm (SE) and balanced (Pentacon) 4.4 mm headphone outputs, a three-position “gain” switch (Ecco / Normal / Turbo), an indicator that signals us on or off device, as well as the sampling rate of the playback format is displayed here in different colors:
Yellow: PCM44/48/88/96kHz
Cyan: PCM176/192/352kHz
White: PCM768kHz
Magenta: DSD64/DSD128/OFS
Red: DSD256/DSD512
Green: MQA
Blue: MQA Studio





The volume control completes the whole thing with an extremely smooth ride, which, in combination, is also an on / off toggle switch for the device.

On the rear panel we find an S / PDIF input (combined coaxial / optical), a balanced (4.4 mm) line output, an input for a USB type-C charger and a digital USB input for connecting the device to a PC or smartphone (Android requires an OTG adapter /for iOS Lightning Audio).

On the underside of the device, in the corners, there are four round silicone feet.





When connecting the device to a computer, it is recommended to go to the manufacturer's website and install the appropriate USB audio (ASIO) driver. The driver downloads and installs quickly. After installing the driver, an icon with the iFi brand logo appears in the tray and the system automatically finds the iDSD Diablo. If you, like me, use the foobar 2000 software player, go to preference / output and select the device we need from the list.

My scenario for using the device is as follows: xDuoo x10t II digital transport via S/PDIF (optical, coaxial), Huawei p20 pro smartphone (USB) using the UAPP or Hiby Music software player (when additional volume adjustment is needed), PC via USB with foobar2000 player (Asio iFi driver). In all cases listed, there were no problems. Everything is fast and clear.
Well, now there is also a wonderful opportunity to output an analog signal through a balanced connection to active studio monitors or an amplifier using the supplied 4.4 mm/XLR cable. Predecessors, in the face of micro iDSD, iDSD BL and Signature, for their part, offer a standard line output in the form of a 2-RCA connection. But, perhaps, for most users, this method will be even more convenient.






The heart of the iDSD Diablo is Burr-Brown's "True Native" DAC chip, which the company uses extensively in its devices. Two DSD1793 chips are installed here in a special "interleaved" configuration - this allows the use of four pairs of differential signals (two pairs per channel), which reduces the noise floor, improves channel separation and increases the DAC's ability to accurately, accurately and dynamically transmit the audio material being listened to.

In general, there are a lot of interesting technical innovations in the device, if you wish, you can read about them on the manufacturer's website, and it's time for us to move on to the main part of our review, to the innermost essence of this red dac/amp - its incomparable sound!


Sound Impressions

Before listening, the device was burn-in for approximately 100 hours.

The following IEMs/Headphones were used for listening: Beyerdynamic DT250/250, Hifiman HE-4, Phonon SMB-02, Phonon 4400, Softears RS10 и RSV, FIR Audio M5, VxV и M4, 64 AUDIO A12t и A18, Jomo HAKA, Vision Ears VE8, EVE20 и VE4.2, InEar ProMission X & ProPhile 8.







Listening took place mainly through the 6.3/3.5 mm output, with the exception of the IEM FIR VxV model, which was connected to both the regular 6.3/3.5 mm and the balanced output.
Digital signal sources: Asus vivobook pro laptop via QED Performance USB Graphite + iPurifier 3 cable, Huawei P20 Pro smartphone + USB Audio Player PRO, xDuoo X10t II portable digital transport.

iFi iDSD Diablo perfectly coped with low-impedance sensitive in-ear headphones, high-impedance full-size models, and easily rocked the rather "tight" planar Hifiman HE-4. No noise or distortion was noticed, the gain was mainly used in the modes: Ecco/Normal.






When connecting sensitive low-resistance IEM/CIEM to the Diablo, be extremely vigilant. Even in Ecco mode, after turning on the device, keep the volume control in the zero position and add the level as carefully as possible, literally millimeter by millimeter. Most IEM/CIEM need only 2-5 millimeters of rotation, then the signal will be redundant.

And a few more recommendations. At home, when connecting the device to a PC, additionally adjust the volume with a software player. On a smartphone/tablet, use, for example, HiBy Music (it has the ability to adjust the digital signal). Also a good option is to use a proprietary iFi iEMatch adapter (sold separately). This adapter automatically expands the use of this earpiece, allowing it to be paired with the most sensitive in-ear headphones, adding two more levels of “Gain” signal adjustment to it.

Well, now, finally, we go directly to listening.






From the very first minutes of meeting Diablo demonstrates an extremely adult approach to sound production. In fact, this is the voice of a serious desktop or even a stationary audio device.

The device delivers the material accurately, massively, scrupulously, outlining every nuance of the composition being listened to, with amazing dynamics, detailing, excellent pressure and good separation of plans. Speed, attack, rise and fall of sound - everything here is at a very high level.
Every pinch, reverb, powerful and biting hit - iDSD Diablo works out as accurately and reliably as possible. The device also boasts a harmonious and proportionate study of micro and macro nuances, as well as a wide dynamic range. At the same time, the device does not "shrink", but transmits the audio material densely, richly, filling the sound images with a living, "bodily" substance.

This is a very well balanced, timbre rich, multifaceted and extremely naturalistic manner of sound delivery. Without exaggeration, this Diablo is damn good!






iFi iDSD Diablo does not embellish the audio material, but gives it the way it is: neutral, honest, wide and contrasty, allowing you to show your "voice" and open up in all its glory with almost any headphones, transmitting the sound extremely accurately and reliably. The device itself has a neutral sound with an almost linear frequency response.

There are no peaks or dips, as there is no sharpness and distortion. Everything is clear and to the point. Diablo, as a pleasant intelligent interlocutor, tells his story competently, with feeling, sensibly, with placement, with the right emotional intonation and correct gestures.

Overall, this is a clean, extremely dynamic, smooth and natural manner, delivered in a slightly warm, analog form.





Lows sound extremely accurate and powerful. If your headphones are able to "blow out" the fullness of the bottoms, then rest assured, Diablo will shock your ears with a powerful subbass response and accurate bass relief.
There is both a clear clap with a tight beat, and a powerful, agile bass. At the same time, the register is fed cleanly, smoothly, without excessive pumping and daubing. Monumental, accurate and reliable, with a well-defined impact force.
Drum rolls roll out on both sides of the listener, and the mid-bass area is delivered evenly, lively, quite correctly and reliably.


Mid frequencies are served distinctly, in detail, comfortably and unusually melodic. Musical images are drawn large, bold and tangible. The middle is plentiful and "venerable", without the slightest hint of falsity and distortion. This is a well-balanced, harmonious and at the same time emotional performance, where all the elements of the composition are presented with extraordinary accuracy, large and multifaceted, with amazing smoothness and informativeness.
String instruments, wind instruments and piano sound gracefully, unusually clean and expressive.
Every sound and audio image transmitted by the device is polished like sea pebbles. Vocal parts are transmitted unusually deep, noble and harmonious. Male and female voices are displayed in relief, dense and naturalistic. Here, every musical image is endowed with its tangible basis.


High frequencies do not excite the ear with excessive harshness, they are transmitted in a neutral manner - very accurately, in detail and legibly, with good articulation, and enviable correctness.
It is clean, smooth and comfortable. There is no excessive brightness here, but there is an excellent development of this register and a natural, extremely musical sound without sharpness and distortion.






In terms of sound, Diablo, as in the case of appearance, causes a wow effect, everything is so flawless, clear and to the point. He also has no weak points in terms of genre preferences. "Red audio-devil" can handle everything: classical music, instrumental, jazz, electronics, rock and all kinds of brutal genres.

Again, I can not resist the high syllable, because the sound of Diablo definitely deserves it. You want to dive into this musical river with clean and cool water made of harmonies and notes, splash there and then swim downstream towards the huge ocean, in which all the songs of the world pulsate!


Conclusion

iFi iDSD Diablo is an excellent audio device. Everything is wonderful in it: from a rich set, design, implementation of the technical part, to the main thing - sound.
It is a luxurious, complete, uncompromising device, harmonious and wonderfully balanced throughout. Such a pumped portable can be safely considered as a solution for a variety of tasks and support for various types of headphones, up to the most demanding models.

Well, about the cost of our today's hero. At the time of writing, the suggested retail price for the iFi iDSD Diablo was $999.00.
Sure, the price tag is a little sobering, but that's what high-end original sound is worth, whether we like it or not. Although, looking at the pricing of audio devices from other brands, such a price seems to be quite low.
In general, if you have the opportunity to fork out for a great sound, then I recommend the iFi iDSD Diablo without the slightest hesitation.

"High, high
What a feeling to fly
Over mountains and forests and seas
And to go anywhere that I please.."
ABBA - Eagle

Hi friends!

I am glad to inform you that today we are scheduled to meet with the new masterpiece of portable audio from the British brand iFi Audio!

In 2021, which we just had, iFi brought the world a range of absolutely amazing audio devices, updating already highly popular models with the release of HIP-DAC 2, micro iDSD Signature and the grandiose flagship of the iDSD line - Diablo, a line of PRO devices and ZEN-series, and also expanded its assortment with new products: Zen Stream (network player / streamer), desktop audio combine NEO iDSD and miniature masterpiece - GO blu.
And now there has been a landmark update to the xDSD line, which many audiophiles have been waiting for with awe - the brilliant Gryphon DAC / Headphone Amplifier! The Gryphon is a mythological winged creature with the body of a lion and the head of an eagle. Indeed, if you ride our flying beast from iFi you can soar to the most distant sonic heights! Flying high, high I'm a bird in the sky!

But before proceeding directly to the review, let me wholeheartedly congratulate everyone on the already come New Year, wish you good health, happiness and all kinds of blessings! And if Santa Claus has already given out his gifts, then the audio-ph editorial board is just starting to do it.

So let's flap our wings, take to the skies and fly into the realm of sound, "flying high, high like a bird in the sky" with xDSD Gryphon!






Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)


Specifications
DAC chip: Texas Instruments Burr-Brown DSD1793 (Bit-Perfect Burr Brown DSD, DXD, PCM)
Display: OLED / CyberSync (monochrome)
Formats: PCM / DXD 32 bit / 768 kHz and DSD512
Full support for MQA x16 up to 384 kHz
Digital filters: Standart, Bit-Perfect, GTO
Bluetooth: 5.1 (aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX LL, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC and SBC Codec)
Inputs: USB-C (Charging), USB-C (Data), S/PDIF, 4.4mm (Balanced), 3.5mm (Single-Ended)
Headphone Outputs: 3.5mm (S-Balanced), 4.4mm (Balanced)
3.5mm (<1 ohm) / 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced (<1 ohm)
3.5mm output power: 320mW @ 32Ω, 40mW @ 300Ω, 3.5V @ 600Ω
Output power 4.4 mm: 1000 mW at 32 ohms, 74 mW at 600 ohms, 6.7V at 600 ohms
iEMatch: Yes
Functions: Xbass + and Xspace +
Battery: Lithium-polymer 3600mAh
SNR: Balanced S-Bal (SE) <116dB (A) @ 0dBFS / S-Bal (SE) <115dB (A) @ 0dBFS
THD + N: <0.005% (1V @ 16Ω)
Dimensions: 123x75x19 mm
Weight: 215 gr.


Appearance and kit

xDSD Gryphon comes in a presentable white box, the top of which is a print wrap. Above is the brand logo, next to it there are already two golden stickers, Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio wireless, in the center is a photo of the device in all its glory, and below is the designation of the model and its type of activity: xDSD Gryphon - Ultra-Res portable DAC + Headphone amp.





A complete list of technical features and specifications can be found on the side and back of the package.
Next, put forward a boiled white box with silver letters "ifi". Everything, as always, with my beloved Britons - stylish, laconic, neat, but without the slightest hint of boring stiffness.

With trepidation, we open the box and extract all the contents from it: the xDSD Gryphon itself, three connecting cables (USB type-C / USB type-C, USB type-C / Lightning, USB type-C / type-A), then we take out the fabric case, an "iFi" sticker, instructions and a warranty card.





Well, now let's get down to admiring the device, without this, in the case of iFi creations, it is absolutely impossible.
Like its predecessor, the first xDSD, Gryphon received an original and striking appearance. It resembles an exquisite cigarette case or flask with longitudinal ribs. However, a number of key points have been improved here.

To begin with, the dimensions of the device have slightly increased (123 x 75 x 19 mm), its weight is 215 grams, the color is now silver-gray matte metallic, the material is aluminum. Looks Gryphon, I want to tell you, unusually beautiful, but in the hands it feels even better!





The upper part has taken over a nice oblong OLED screen, which displays all the necessary information about the format being played, connection, battery level and additional functions.

On the front panel of the device there are two headphone outputs (3.5 mm TRS and 4.4 mm Pentaconn TRRS balanced), two indicators that display the selected input and the frequency of the reproduced signal, and a round volume control with a small LED signaling the level in different colors signal. The regulator, in combination, is also a button, when pressed, the device turns on / off. Slightly to the right are two indicators of the XBass + (bass increase) and XSpace + (space expansion) modes, the button for switching these modes, which, when pressed for a long time, takes us to the function menu (all information is displayed on the screen): Selecting a digital filter - Standard / Bit-Perfect / Gto; Voice assistant; Adjust the brightness of the screen; Dual USB Type-C charging capability, and reset function. Next comes the button for switching inputs: USB / BT / SPDIF / Line-Out. She, when pressed for a long time, searches for devices for pairing via the Bluetooth protocol. All information is clearly displayed on the screen of the device.






On the rear panel there is a switch (Bass / Presence), a USB type-C connector for connecting a power adapter and charging the device (under it there is an LED indicating the battery charge level), digital inputs: USB type-C and S / PDIF, and also two analog line outputs: balanced 4.4mm (BAL) and 3.5mm (SE).

The bottom side received a three-position iEMatch: switch (3.5mm / 4.4mm / Off) and four silicone feet placed at the corners of the device. The back side of the case, where the BT-receiver is located, is covered with plastic, as a result of this approach, there should be no problems with the wireless signal.






The build quality raises no objections, no backlashes and gaps. Everything is extremely reliable.
Separately, I would like to mention the chic volume control, reminiscent of a flask lid, with precise, "clacking" adjustment, an unusually smooth ride and a multi-colored LED.

The battery, when switching between different digital signal sources (USB / Coaxial / BT), on average, lasts about 8 hours. Charging time takes approximately 4 hours.
As I already mentioned, the battery charge level is shown on the screen, and is also highlighted by an LED on the back of the device (a handy thing, especially if you charge the device in the off mode):
Green:> 85%
Yellow: ≤ 85%
Red (flashing): ≤ 10%
The indicator flashes / lights up while the device is charging.

Now let's summarize what's new in the second version:
1) Informative OLED display.
2) 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced output (TRRS).
3) High power of the device.
4) Bluetooth 5.1 QCC 5100 / (codecs: aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX LL, LDAC, HWA, AAC and SBC).
5) Full support for MQA x16 up to 384 kHz.
6) Choice of digital filters: Standard, Bit-Perfect, GTO.
7) Improved work of functions: Xbass + and Xspace +.
8) iEMatch for 3.5mm / 4.4mm.
9) New volume control.
10) USB type-C charging and USB type-C digital input
11) Updated design.
12) Kit.

With such updates, Gryphon can honestly be considered a completely new product!
At the same time, we have not yet reached the main reason for which this review was written - the "voices" of our hero. And here, I want to inform you, the most impressive leap has occurred. But let's talk about this a little later.






When connecting the device to a computer via USB, it is recommended to go to the manufacturer's website and install the appropriate USB audio (ASIO) driver. The driver is downloaded and installed quickly. After installing the driver, an icon with the iFi brand logo appears in the tray and the system automatically finds the xDSD Gryphon. If you, like me, use the foobar 2000 software player, go to preference / output and select the device we need from the list. I also recommend updating the product software (firmware), which is also posted on the manufacturer's website in the "support" section. Personally, when I received the device, I fully charged it and immediately rolled the new firmware.

My scenario for using the device turned out to be the following: xDuoo x10t II digital transport via S / PDIF (optics, coaxial), Huawei p20 pro smartphone (USB) using the UAPP software player + Bluetooth (HWA) connection, Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 plus tablet - Bluetooth (LDAC), PC via USB with foobar2000 player (Asio iFi driver). In all these cases, no problems arose.

Well, we seem to have figured out the kit, appearance and functionality, now we raise our wings and fly forward to the sound heights!


Sound Impressions

The xDSD Gryphon's capabilities are impressive without any caveats, both for wired and wireless connections.
The device is built on a Texas Instruments Burr-Brown DSD1793 DAC chip.
Before listening, the device was burn-in for about 70-80 hours.

We used: Beyerdynamic DT250/250, Phonon SMB-02, Phonon 4400, Softears RS10 & RSV, FIR Audio M5 & VxV, 64 AUDIO A12t & A18, Vision Ears VE8, EVE20 & VE4.2, InEar ProMission X & ProPhile 8.
Mostly the 3.5mm output was used, with the exception of the IEM FIR VxV which was connected to the 4.4mm balanced output.
The device played very well with all IEM / CIEM / Headphones, no genre deviations were noticed.

Digital signal sources: Dell XPS laptop, Huawei P20 Pro smartphone + USB Audio Player PRO, Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 plus (BT), xDuoo X10t II portable digital transport.





Let's start with impressions when using USB and S / PDIF connections.
In fact, it is quite difficult to describe the sound of the device, which is almost impossible to find fault with.

From the very first minutes of listening, the device takes a rather serious approach to sound production, demonstrating excellent dynamics, practicing attacks, separating instruments, as well as working out plans, with a stunning transfer of the volume of an imaginary space. This is a neutral, well-balanced and unusually melodic manner of conveying the material.





The device transmits well the timbre component, the development of quiet and loud sounds, reverberations, as well as macrodynamics with a moderate, sensitive display of micro-contrast.
Gryphon does not try to push forward all the smallest details of the composition, he does it delicately, correctly outlining the volume of virtual space, portraying audio images harmoniously and proportionally, in a balanced and extremely naturalistic way.

In terms of the "level of competence", so to speak, the sound of xDSD Gryphon gravitates to what the flagship iFi shows us - iDSD Diablo, but in terms of sound habits, their handwriting, their manners are still different.

Where the older brother strikes with scale, conveying the width of an imaginary soundstage and his analytical manner of presenting material, Gryphon, with a slightly restrained rendering of the width of space, takes depth, conveying volume and macrodynamics. That is, switching from iDSD Diablo to xDSD Gryphon is not perceived as a transition from a higher quality sound source to a lower quality one. Rather, it is like comparing two exemplary audio systems with partially similar and at the same time different manner of sound delivery, realized in different acoustic conditions.






And, of course, it is worth noting here the fact that the scenario of using the iFi iDSD Diablo with sensitive IEM/CIEM is very doubtful, since it has excess power for this. Whereas xDSD Gryphon is ideal for such purposes.

In general, I will say this, if you need a sound source that can cope with a wide range of headphones, including even planar full-size models, and for all its portability can be a good replacement for a stationary system, then you probably won't find a better iDSD Diablo. And if you need portability in a more compact size, with a flexible use case and the ability to work with both sensitive in-ear IEMs and high-impedance full-size headphones (we do not take planar models into account, here you need to look towards the older brother - Diablo), then the choice Gryphon would be the best solution in my opinion. Well, do not forget that there is still the possibility of receiving a digital signal over the air (Bluetooth), which is perfectly implemented, which the older brother does not have.

Ok Ok, let's go back directly to the description of the sound of our hero, otherwise I got carried away a little by comparisons.






The sound of the xDSD Gryphon is thoroughbred, smooth and clean, with a bodily filling of sound images. The device has a wide dynamic range, excellent speed characteristics, excellent tonal balance and amazing musicality. This is a living layer of sound, in which a plastic, neutral, well-balanced manner and refined melody coexist harmoniously.


Frequency amplitude

The low-frequency range is worked out precisely and bitingly, striking the ear with a clear pop and a tight, powerful blow. The bass is fast, prominent, dense and well-assembled, maintains the atmosphere with its dynamic manner, keeps the rhythm clearly and fills the middle with a dense velvety substance. The drums are extremely accurate, like artillery volleys, shoot their blows, scattering on both sides of the listener, and the parts of the bass guitar, cellos and double bass are transmitted unusually deep, lively and dynamically. The strength of each individual blow is clearly discernible. The register is transmitted cheerfully and harmoniously, powerfully and with the proper pressure!


Mids are distinct, smooth, natural, rich in timbre and texture. Here, every musical instrument and audio image is conveyed accurately and vividly. It is a well-balanced, pliable and multidimensional picture, with striking contrast and wide dynamic range, where every sound or instrument and every note played is clearly in its place in space. Stringed instruments, pipes and pianos - everything sounds pure, noble and harmonious. Male and female voices are displayed in relief, dense and naturalistic. There are no bright peaks or dips, everything is clear and to the point. This is a neutral, unusually dynamic, melodious, detailed and at the same time comfortable manner, presented in a melodic form.


High frequencies cleanly and clearly work out their own, correctly adding gloss and charm to the listening compositions. There are not many and not a few of them, just as much as needed. They are moderately restrained, there is not the slightest hint of friability or distortion in them. Everything is as honest, accurate and natural as possible. xDSD Gryphon transmits this register extremely competently, gracefully and multifaceted, smooth and informative, with good articulation, which completes the overall frequency harmony. Qualitative development of this range and nothing more. How I like it!





In terms of preference for musical genres, no weak points were found in the iFi xDSD Gryphon. He perfectly copes with everything: classical music, instrumental, jazz, electronics, old school rock and all kinds of brutal music styles.

Signal transmission via Bluetooth protocol.
When switching to a wireless connection, the sound of the device remains at a sufficiently high level, which is truly surprising. This is still the same manner as through the wires, but a little denser, with a little warmth and a greater depiction of the depth of the imaginary space.
Yes, the audio canvas loses a little in the transmission of micro-contrast, but at the same time it adds plasticity in relief, giving audio images more convex, and in general it becomes more musical. An amazing result. To be honest, I have never heard such sound quality when using various devices via Bluetooth. Although, it would seem, only recently I was very surprised by the capabilities of the iFi Go Blu baby, which I am not parting with now, but here the iFi engineers went further, making the sound even more serious.





Conclusion

xDSD Gryphon is, without exaggeration, an amazing machine! Everything is perfect in it: from design, implementation of the technical part, to the main thing - sound. It is a completely complete device in all respects, harmonious and balanced in everything. Without a doubt, the xDSD Gryphon will become one of the most revered and beloved portable tsapoi among audiophiles and music lovers.
I warn you that very loud words will be heard further, but this is my fully balanced opinion. So, I believe that at the moment in the world you can hardly find something better, given such functionality, sound quality and price. Although, of course, don't forget about the excellent Diablo! But here, when choosing, you need to proceed from the needs and scenario of using the devices.

At the time of writing, the MSRP for the iFi xDSD Gryphon was $599. Without a shadow of a doubt, I highly recommend this portable audio combine for your purchase.

Hi friends!

A festive mood is in the air, and not only the rapidly approaching New Year is to blame for this. After long adventures, our editorial office finally received a special gift that we have been waiting for!

Today we will get acquainted with a wonderful new product from everyone's beloved iBasso Audio. This year, to celebrate its 15th anniversary, the company released without exaggeration the iconic DAP DX240, which, in fact, became a logical continuation of the popular DX220 model. This compact device has managed to incorporate all the advanced developments from the flagship DX220 MAX, DX300 and DX300 MAX! The novelty is also notable for the fact that it is compatible with replaceable amplifier modules of its predecessor.

The DX240 turned out to be more than a worthy successor of its noble family. But before proceeding directly to acquaintance with him, I would like to conduct a small excursion into the history of the brand.

IBasso Audio started out with the production of portable amplifiers and DACs. In 2012, she introduced the DAP DX100, which has won the hearts of audiophiles and music lovers around the world. Later, the younger models saw the light: DX50, DX90, DX80. And then the flagship DX200 appeared, which, among other things, was notable for the possibility of replacing the amplifier modules. This hereditary trait was passed on to such models as DX150, DX220, DX300 and the hero of our today's review - DX240. It is also worth remembering the hits in the entry and middle segment - the iBasso DX120, DX160 and of course the unsurpassed DX220 MAX. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the new limited edition DX300 MAX, but I am sure that this is one of the pinnacles of modern sound engineering.

Well, in today's concert, a new talent from iBasso, talented and sophisticated, Prince of Charm - DX240 will be the soloist!






Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)



Specifications
OS: Android 9.0
CPU: Qualcomm 660
RAM: 4Gb
Storage: 64Gb + micro-SD
DAC: 1x ES9038PRO
Sample rate: PCM: 8Hz – 768kHz (8/16/24/32bits) native – DSD64/128/256/512
System clock: Full synchronization technology with TXCO PPL + FPGA Master
Outputs: 3.5mm headphone out/line-out / 2.5mm TRRS balanced headphone output
Input: USB Type-C
Screen: 5.0″ 1920×1080 IPS Screen
Micro SD: SDHC / SDXC (single slot)
USB DAC: yes
WiFi: 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz support
DNLA + APK support
Bluetooth support: SBC, aptX, LDAC, AAC – BT5.0
Duplex Bluetooth: the player can emit and receive music
Battery: 4400mAh Li-Polymer
Quick Charge: yes (QC 3.0 / PD2.0 / MTK)
Battery life: 13h in single-ended, 12h in balanced
Charging time: around 1h30
Size: 126mm x 70.5mm x 18.7mm
Weight: 240g (270g with the silicone case)

2.5mm Headphone out
Output level: 6.2Vrms (max)
Output Power: 878mW@32ohms, 128mW@300ohm
SNR/Dynamic Range: 125 dB / 125dB
Crosstalk: – 119dB
Output impedance: 0.57 ohms
THD+N: -119dB
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 40kHz

3.5mm Headphone out
Output level: 3.1Vrms (max)
Output Power: 281mW@32ohms, 32mW@300ohm
SNR/Dynamic Range: 123 dB / 122dB
Crosstalk: – 117dB
Output impedance: 0.38 ohms
THD+N: -110dB
Frequency Response: 10Hz – 40kHz


Appearance and kit

The DX240 is packed in a nice compound box. The first is a hard, glossy cover, which, like a chameleon, shimmers with a pearlescent silver color. It shows the model of the device and its profession - Reference DAP, below is the brand logo.





Next is the green box, in which, in addition to the DX240, there was a whole scattering of accessories: screen protectors, a coaxial cable, a USB type-C / type-A cable for connecting to a power adapter and synchronizing with a PC, a burn-in cable , transparent silicone bumper cover and mandatory warranty instructions.
As always, iBasso has the most complete package.





Separately, you can purchase a chic branded leather case and a set of external panels for docking the DX240 with previously released amplifier modules.
Re-profiling an amplifier module is not difficult: you need to select the required external panel in accordance with the outputs of your amplifier, unscrew the amplifier board from the old case and screw it to the new panel.






But back to our acquaintance with the DAP itself. Its frame is made of aluminum alloy, and externally it is similar to its counterparts DX220 and DX160, however, a number of key points have been improved here.
To begin with, the DX240 has become more compact than its predecessor (126 mm x 70.5 mm x 18.7 mm) and is practically close in size to the DX160. And its weight is 240 grams. Beautiful touch-screen from Sharp with a 5.0 ″ IPS matrix covers the entire front panel. The display boasts Full HD resolution, rich color reproduction and good sensor response.

The back surface of the apparatus is of a rounded arcuate shape. It is made of matte, tactilely pleasant plastic and shimmers with a gray-black gradient, and the model index "DX240" flaunts in the center. This design solution looks just amazing.






The DX240 is available in both green and black. We have, as you probably already understood, the second color option.
On the right, at the end, there is a wheel recessed into the body for adjusting the volume with a smooth ride. It is also, in combination, is the on / off button of the device. Next to him are three control keys lined up: forward, start / pause, back. There was also a place for the golden “Hi-Res Audio” sticker.
On the left side there is a microSD slot. The volume of the device's own memory is 64 GB.






The top edge got type-C connectors (for charging and synchronizing with a PC) and S / PDIF (for digital signal output). At the bottom there are AMP1 MK3 amplifier connectors: 3.5 mm linear, 3.5 mm TRS and 2.5 mm TRRS for balanced headphone connection.






For communication with the outside world by air, the player is equipped with wireless modules: dual-band WiFi (4 GHz / 5 GHz) and Bluetooth 5.0 with support for SBC, aptX, LDAC, AAC codecs.
When connected via USB Type-C to a desktop or laptop, the DX240 can also act as an external DAC / sound card.

The device is built on the Saber 9028PRO DAC chip from ESS Technology. For the analog part, as I mentioned earlier, the new amplifier module AMP1 MK3 is responsible.
For processing the digital part and suppressing jitter, the FPGA-Master matrix of its own design iBasso is responsible.
Responsible for the computing part is Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 (SD660) paired with 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM.
One charge cycle of the 4400 mAh battery will last about 11-12 hours of operation. But here everything will depend on the headphones connected, the files being listened to and the volume level. The battery also has a fast charge function: (QC 3.0 / PD2.0 / MTK).





So, before us is a perfectly assembled device: no laxity, everything is clear, monolithic and tactilely pleasant. Its design and ergonomics are beyond praise, and the materials from which it is made further emphasize its originality. Therefore, it is a pleasure to use the device.


Menu

Android 9.0 and its own Mango OS are responsible for the "intellectual" abilities of the device.
Installation of apps here can be done using APKPure, so that any program for Android can be found and downloaded by yourself in a matter of minutes.
The DX240, like its cousins DX220 and DX300, has a dual boot, which allows you to choose between the Android OS and an independent virtual Mango player that has a stylish interface and easy control.
If you want, in addition to listening to music, Internet access, all kinds of programs and streaming services - Android. If you want a clean audio player, choose Mango OS.




Updating the software occurs both online (the DX240 finds and installs it by itself when connected to Wi-Fi), and through the manufacturer's website, from where you can download the firmware to a memory card and install it on the device from there. This is familiar to us from 220 / MAX / 300.
With navigation, everything is simple and familiar, like with smartphones on Android: swipe across the screen, pull the curtains, poke your finger at what you are looking for. Well, if you wish, you can start and switch tracks using the side buttons.
It is worth mentioning that the DX240 is already well optimized out of the box, and the manufacturer promises to regularly improve its software. By the way, the player has recently been released, the update is already out!

Like its predecessors, the DX240 has seven digital filters and a parametric equalizer (PMEQ), which allows you to fine-tune the sound to your taste.

Well, we have figured out the external and internal contents of the device, let's finally talk about the main advantage of the newcomer - about the sound!



Sound

We used: 64 AUDIO A12t, FIR Audio M5, Vision Ears VE8, Vision Ears VE7, InEar PP8, iBasso IT07, Beyerdynamic DT250 / 250 ohm and Phonon 4400.

Before analyzing the sound, the player burned-in for about 100 hours, which, in my opinion, had a very beneficial effect on the final formation of its "voice".
I note right away that the device coped well with both low-impedance sensitive IEM/CIEM and high-impedance full-size models Headphones - noise and distortion were not noticed anywhere.






DX240 sounds balanced, energetic, with drive and amazing melody. He so competently and scrupulously places accents at the edges of the frequency range that the overall sound becomes more contrasting and lively, saturated with notes of positive, and the audio images are filled with volume. This is the case when a pedantic approach gives simply amazing results. The manner of sound production is comfortable and rhythmic, smooth and voluminous, and most importantly - very exciting and "thoroughbred".

The hallmark of the DX240's audio signature is its amazing dynamics. There is a crisp clap, a tight hit with a clearly distinguishable impact force, and a rounded, agile bass with a charming rhythmic pattern.

The device, despite the rather dense manner of sound presentation, builds a stereo panorama very accurately and in a contrasting manner, very accurately indicating the localization of sound sources in space, placing greater emphasis on macrodynamics, but at the same time not forgetting to sensitively indicate all the small nuances of the composition.






At the same time, the sound is not at all a monitor sound, it has an excellent transfer of the emotional part, with its own "pattern" and character. It focuses mostly on the midrange, with light, warmth, emphasis in the midbass area and smooth, neat and graceful high-frequency emphasis delivered in a comfortable manner. In such a blissful and enchanting atmosphere, you want to dive without looking back and enjoy your favorite music for hours, not thinking about the time.

The virtual soundstage is medium in size, it harmoniously and proportionally builds up, both in depth, height, and width, strikingly conveying the volume of an imaginary space.

Frequency amplitude

The bass is tight, rounded, punchy, energetic and well controlled. There is a tight, accurate shot, terrain, and good speed. He clearly sets the rhythm with his energetic manner, filling the middle with a dense velvety substance. The subbass area is served smoothly, complementing the low-frequency register with depth, and the midbass, in turn, is neatly forced, detailed, rhythmic and unusually dynamic.
The lows and low mids in the DX240 are adorable! The lows perfectly work out their own, darkening the general background and beautifully fill the middle with an organic warm substance, giving it velvety, physicality and naturalness.

Mids are smooth, natural, rich in timbre and texture, and therefore every musical instrument and image is endowed with a bodily basis. It is an extremely naturalistic, convex and pliable manner, with striking contrast and wide dynamic range. Vocal parts and strings - everything sounds cheerful, rich, lively and naturalistic. Mids are sweet, comfortable and silky. Here extraordinary melody enters into a perfect symbiosis with exciting dynamics.

High frequencies are reproduced cleanly, clearly and harmoniously. They are moderately energetic, laconic and charming. This is a precise and comfortable manner with a light, unobtrusive "spark" that slightly tints the overall sound, followed by an early decay. Yes, there are no baroque, refined after-sounds inherent in the old brothers, but at the same time, the DX240 transmits this register quite clearly and accurately, without excessive aggression and artifacts.





In fact, the sound of the DX240 does not want to be divided into separate frequency ranges at all, so it is presented as a whole, euphonious and noble, as a single harmonious audio array.

The DX240 does a great job with a variety of music genres: classical, instrumental, jazz, electronic, rock and all sorts of brutal genres. Everything plays out engaging and extremely interesting.

DX240 vs DX220 MAX
In character, sound style and family ties, so to speak, the DX240 gravitates more towards the manners of the DX220 Max than to the DX220 and DX300. From the common features of these two models, one can note the amazing dynamics, speed, density, precision of impact and extraordinary melody. Although, of course, this is a rather conditional comparison, and the sound of these devices is clearly different. In general, in all honesty, I confess that the DX220 Max is my favorite in the DAP world.

Max, in addition to a larger imaginary space, better conveys micro-contrast, and as a true gourmet knows how to "savor" small details. The DX240 does this very nicely too, but nevertheless delivers the audio material more convexly, musically, with an emphasis on macro dynamics.
Well, and, perhaps, the main difference is playing out high frequencies. The DX220 Max handles this challenging range in a more refined, drawn-out, analytical manner. While the beginner passes the high-frequency register more concisely, accurately, with a slight simplification in the form of a distinct "spark" and an earlier falloff. There are no refined manners, layering and extended after-sounds, but there is a clear and precise working out of the treble, served in a comfortable form.

But seriously, it would be strange to expect a great similarity of devices with such a difference in size and price. The DX220 Max is hardly portable at all. It is large, weighty, and sounds to match its size - as seriously as possible. DX240 is just a crumb against its background, but at the same time it also has an amazing "voice"!
I also note that individual preferences in sound and headphones connected to these devices also play a significant role.





DX240 vs DX300
Let me remind you that the DX300 has a very deep, hypnotic, multi-layered, "bohemian" style, with a wide and unusually deep virtual soundstage.
The three hundredth sounds more measured. The lower register is shifted towards the subbass, while the DX240 works out the midbass area better.

DX240 in this comparison is more lively, driving, rhythmic, fast and dynamic. In addition, in my opinion, it is more versatile in terms of style preferences in music. Yes, the newcomer's soundstage is not as “all-encompassing” as that of the older brothers, but he perfectly conveys volume, harmoniously building an imaginary space in width, depth and height, albeit a little more compact.
From the DX300, our today's hero received an extraordinary musicality that literally envelops the listener, impeccably polished smoothness and bohemian manners. The best inheritance from the previous generation is hard to come up with.







Conclusion

When we talk about iBasso products, it is almost impossible to keep the intrigue. Any development of the company is something special, and this case is no exception.
DX240 is a stylish, modern, convenient in all respects device with an outstanding implementation of the technical part, functional hardware and a gorgeous screen. The versatility and unusually interesting harmonious sound of this multimedia DAP will be highly appreciated by both novice music lovers and the most demanding audiophiles.
Bravo, iBasso, bravissimo!

It remains only to name one important number. The player's suggested retail price at the time of writing was $ 949. I believe that every dollar of this amount iBasso DX240 works out completely!

Hi friends!

Autumn reigns supreme in the city, and the trees turn yellow every day. Well, we have our own "ginger" in our editorial office - an updated version of the USB-DAC / AMP Hip-DAC with the index "2" from the British brand iFi audio.

It must be said that his predecessor gained wide fame among music lovers around the world and won a lot of awards in the most prestigious audio publications for his outstanding abilities.
And so, when I took our current ginger hero out of the box and put it next to the green predecessor, they formed a single harmonious color picture, becoming a wonderful artistic and musical display of how autumn repaints the city outside our windows.

However, let's put aside the romantic mood and return to our "hippies". I'll run ahead and say right away that the newcomer has hardly changed in appearance, but at the same time he began to sing even more interesting. Read all the important details in the review itself, to which let's immediately move on.







Specifications
DAC chip: Burr Brown True Native DSD1793
The XMOS 16-Core chip
Formats supported:
DSD 256/128/64, Quad/Double/Single-Speed
PCM 384/352.8/192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1kHz
DXD 384/352.8kHz
MQA 384/352.8kHz
Digital Inputs USB 3.0 Type 'A' (USB2.0 compatible)
Headphone Outputs:
Balanced 4.4mm
S-Balanced (S-E) 3.5mm
Power Output (@1% THD):
Balanced 400mW@32Ω; 6.3V@600Ω
S-Balanced (S-E) 280mW@32Ω; 3.2V@600Ω
Power System:
Charging via USB-C, BC V1.2 compliant up to 1000mA charging current and 6.3 volts
Power (max): <2W idle, 4W max
Dimensions:
102 x 70 x 14mm
4.0" x 2.8" x 0.6"
Weight: 125g (0.28 lbs)


Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)



Appearance and kit

A neat white box with the iFi logo, in which the device rests, in addition to the obligatory golden square of Hi-Res Audio in such cases, also has a sticker with five stars from the editorial office "What Hi-Fi?" There is also a photo of our current hero and his occupation: Hip DAC2 portable dac / headphone amp. Detailed specifications can be found on the side and back of the package.







We eagerly open the box and extract all the contents from it: Hip-DAC 2 in a new color appearance, a blue USB cable for connecting to a PC and two black short wires for transferring data to the device from a digital signal source and for recharging from a power adapter or PowerBank. The latter, it seems to me, could have been a little more authentic, but oh well. For this purpose, you can use a cable and a power adapter from a smartphone. A manual and a warranty card complete the standard kit.









The company has also released an elegant case that is compatible with both the first and second version of the Hip-DAC, which is sold separately. It is made in the colors "Dove gray", the material is eco-suede.









Well, now let's get down to admiring, without this, in the case of iFi products, it will not work. Like its predecessor, the Hip-DAC 2 looks like an exquisite flask, which an English aristocrat must take with him on a hunt in cold weather in order to sip from it from time to time and feel how cognac aged for many years in barrels fills the whole body with warmth. Believe me, our musical "flask" has the same beneficial effect on the listener.

Hip-DAC 2 rectangular (12 cm x 7 cm x 1.4 cm) with smooth rounded sides, material - aluminum. Matte Sunset Orange with a black iFI logo in the center. Well, we expect the popularity of this color to grow in the fashion world. I tell you exactly, because the Hip-DAC of the first version set the tone in the entire fashion industry with its OXIDIZE color last year!









On the front of the HipDAC2 are two silver named buttons: PowerMatch for boost and XBass for bass boost. When switched on, they are illuminated with white LEDs. In the middle there is a round volume control, similar to a flask lid, thereby completing the image. It is followed by two headphone outputs: 4.4 mm balanced (Pentacon) and 3.5 mm regular stereo / SE balanced. The ribbed "lid" - a twist around the circumference also changes the backlight depending on the audio format and the frequency of the transmitted signal:

Yellow: PCM 44.1 / 48kHz
White: PCM 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 / 352.8 / 384kHz
Cyan: DSD 64/128
Red: DSD 256
Green: MQA
Blue: MQA Studio
Magenta: Original Sample Rate * (* MQB)









The rear panel has a USB type-A input for connecting to a PC or smartphone. To work with Apple devices, you will additionally need a Lightning Audio cable, but for Android adherents, everything is already included. Here, a little to the right, there is a place for a USB type-C connector, which is responsible for charging the device. Under it is a LED indicator that signals to us about the battery charge level:

White: > 75%
Green: > 25%
Red: > 10%
Red flashing: ≤ 10%
If there is no light, then the electricity in the device has run out or it is turned off / fully charged.

The battery capacity is 2200 mAh, and according to the manufacturer, depending on the connected headphones and the files being played, the Hip-DAC 2 can work for about 8 hours on a single charge. In my experience of use, it turned out that way: about 7-8 hours is pretty good for such a kid.









Now let's see what's new in the second version besides the colors:
New low-jitter GMT oscillator
New 16-core XMOS chip with full MQA support
Supports formats up to: PCM384 and DSD256
Outputs: 4.4mm balanced (Pentacon) and 3.5mm normal stereo / (added) SE balanced


In general, I get the impression that in addition to the above innovations, the iFi audio engineers also made some changes to the circuitry of the device, since the Hip-DAC 2 sounds a little more interesting than its predecessor. But let's talk about this in the next part of our review.


So, forward to the sound experience!



Sound Impressions

iFi Hip DAC 2 uses Burr-Brown DSD1793 DAC chip with True Native architecture.

The circuit includes a number of high quality components carefully selected to work in the audio context, including a dedicated iFi OV op amp, TDK C0G ceramic premium capacitors, a precision low noise power supply from Texas Instruments, and an analog volume control.


The following IEM/CIEM/Headphones were used for listening / testing:
Vision Ears VE8/VE7/VE4.2, SoftEars RSV/RS10, InEar ProMission X/PP8, FIR Audio M5, 64 Audio A12t, PHONON 4400 & Beyerdynamic DT 250/250ohm.


Digital signal sources: xDuoo X10t II digital transport, Huawei p20 pro smartphone (USB Audio Player PRO), Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 plus, ASUS VivoBook Pro laptop and PC.
The device played very well with all the headphones/IEM, no genre deviations were noticed.







The sound difference between the first and second version of the Hip-DAC is not striking, but, nevertheless, it is distinguishable in direct comparison and manifests itself in nuances.

If the device of the first version delivers sound massively, deeply, together and very musically, then a beginner, with a similar manner, pays more attention to small details, speed and practicing attacks. But overall, the tonal balance of both audio units remains similar.








The blow is powerful, with a crisp clap. Bass parts are worked out more precisely and bitingly, in a massive, but at the same time neutral manner. The focus here is on the midrange. This register is transmitted cleanly, in detail, with proper expression. I would say that Mids in the second version took a slightly more analytical manner in comparison with the melodious rendering of this register in the predecessor. The high-frequency range is worked out a little cleaner and more accurately, but again, this becomes especially noticeable when listening to some paired compositions and in certain Headphones / IEMs.

The sound of Hip-DAC 2 can be described as well-balanced, clean, with excellent transmission of the emotional component, solid attack training, display of micro and macro nuances, excellent speed characteristics and amazing musicality. The musical canvas is drawn with extraordinary vividness, relief, richness and contrast, in a neutral manner.

From the very first minutes of listening, this device impresses with a decent resolution and a rather sprawling stereo panorama, with precise localization of apparent sound sources in space, where each musical instrument is clearly in its place.

This is a sweet-voiced manner of sound with a wide dynamic range, excellent technicality and a light, emotional color. All material Hip-DAC 2 delivers quite reliably, thoroughly and very musically. There is both drive, and pressure, and a light unforgettable charm.









Bass parts sound accurate, energetic, with enviable articulation and a good depiction of depth. They are well built, weighty and have excellent speed characteristics.

The midbass area is served tightly and accurately, in a neutral key, which allows us to speak of a comfortable, plastic and very melodic manner. The beat is precise and biting, it sounds massive, dynamic, with the correct phrasing and proper volume, without encroaching on the mids.


The mids are clean, smooth and intelligible, with good detail, decent resolution and even tonal balance. The emotional component of the composition is conveyed in an extremely naturalistic way. Stringed instruments and winds sound chiseled and clean, guitar riffs cut through the air, vocal parts excite the ear and are so impressive that sometimes it takes their breath away, and piano overflows catch the soul with their skillful and graceful manner: everything is beautiful, at ease and with a proper shade of expression. The positioning of the instruments in space is clearly verified and realistic.


High frequencies are transmitted accurately, in detail and legibly, with good articulation, and enviable correctness. In general, they have a good resolution, are served comfortably and lingeringly, adding contrast and airiness to the overall picture, do not excite the ear and contribute to long-term listening to music.









I will also note the ability to add bass using the Xbass function. This option works correctly here.



Conclusion

As is the case with its green predecessor, there is absolutely nothing to criticize the iFi Hip-DAC 2 for, the newcomer deserves only praise.

The device immediately captivates with its clean, interesting and mature sound, looks stunning, and its compact size allows you to take it with you wherever you go.

Well, the development of streaming services such as Tidal, Spotify, Deezer and others makes this DAC/AMP the perfect companion for your smartphone, tablet or laptop. So, if you are looking for a reliable and convenient audio partner for your gadget, then purchasing the Hip-DAC 2, in my opinion, is the perfect choice.

The cost of the novelty is also pleasing. At the time of writing, the iFi Hip-DAC 2 has a suggested retail price of approximately $ 189. Considering all the advantages of the device, I recommend Hip-DAC 2 for purchase without the slightest hesitation.

Hi Friends!

Summer is coming to an end, and we have ripened a harvest of audio freshening for our joy. Today we will get acquainted with another interesting device from the beloved brand from the Middle Kingdom - iBasso Audio.

I think you remember how we rejoiced in the spring of the amazing Hi-Fi DAP iBasso DX300, which impressed with its stuffing (Snapdragon 660 processor, 6 GB LPDDR4 RAM, gorgeous screen, four flagship DAC chips from Cirrus Logic - CS43198 and FPGA-Master matrix) and opportunities. Not so long ago, iBasso released an AMP12 module for its flagship, built on a fully balanced circuit.

IBasso has been engaged in replaceable amplifiers since 2017. Then, with the release of the DX200 DAP model, the company became one of the first in the world to apply such an extraordinary approach to player construction. Soon the line of such amplifier modules grew to impressive sizes: AMP1, AMP2, AMP3, AMP4, AMP5, AMP6, AMP7, AMP8, AMP1 MK2 and AMP9. At the same time, they were compatible with several DAP iBasso at once: DX150, DX200 and DX220.

The release of the new flagship, the aforementioned "three hundred", required a rethinking of the concept and a technical upgrade of the amplifying modules for it, so I was looking forward to expanding the upgraded version of the AMP-series, and now I waited!

For true audiophiles, the value of such an accessory can hardly be overestimated, but let's talk about everything in order.





Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)


Specifications
Output Specifications (Headphone Output):
Output interface: 4.4mm Balanced
Maximum output level: 8.3Vrms
Frequency response: 10Hz-45kHz(+/-0.9dB)
THD+N: -113dB(No Load), -112dB(300 ohm load), -107dB(32 ohm load)
Dynamic range: 126dB
Signal to noise ratio: 126dB
Crosstalk: -115dB
Line-Out Specifications:
Maximum output level: 4.1Vrms
THD+N: -116dB(No load)
Dynamic range: 128dB
Signal to noise ratio: 128dB
Cross talk: -102dB



Appearance and kit

So the AMP12 is an amplifier stage in modular form, a board that you can replace allows you to upgrade your DX300 DAP yourself.

The amplifier comes in a stylish gray cardboard box with the iBasso Audio logo on the top. Under the cover of this dust jacket is a black box also with an embossed brand logo. Inside it is a whole scattering of useful accessories: a hard case with a zipper, similar to a small corrugated peli case, for the module, an additional black case for the DX300 DAP made of genuine leather, a screwdriver that will be useful to us soon, spare screws, as well as instructions and a warranty card. Inside the plastic case we find our amplifier AMP12.






The iBasso AMP12 is made in nude style: the amplifier board is completely open, on one side it has a docking connector, on the other - an external panel with two balanced outputs: for headphones (HO) and line (LO). Before installing the module in the player, you can admire the black textolite and circuitry of the device: small parts, microcircuits and capacitors. In fact, the board is made at the highest level - beauty!







The AMP12 is a fully discrete balanced circuit operating in class A. Both headphone and line outputs here have 4.4mm Pentacon connectors.





Replacing modules is quick and easy. You need to turn off the player, unscrew the two screws located at the edges of the module, and pull the replaceable board towards you, prying it with something like a guitar pick or inserting the connector of your headphones into the jack, and just as gently pull towards you. After removing it, I recommend carefully folding the unused module into the same plastic box with a zipper, so as not to accidentally damage the board.
Then we carry out all the simple manipulations from the first part of the operation in reverse order. We take our AMP12 and join it, inserting it into the grooves and pushing it forward, in place of its predecessor. Now we tighten the two screws with a screwdriver. Voila, everything is ready, you can turn on the player and connect headphones / IEMs.







Are you ready to move on to the audio experience? Agree, let's start listening to iBasso DX300 with AMP12.


Sound Impressions

For listening we used iBasso IT07 and FIR VxV IEMs (2.5 mm jack / 4.4 mm adapter).

The sound of iBasso AMP12 I will carry out in the context of comparison with the "classic" duo DX300 + AMP11.
I must say right away that background noise and interference were not noticed. On the other hand, a slightly increased power and increased resolution are immediately noticeable, with more emphasis on micro contrast and better channel separation.





The sound of the DX300 + AMP12 I would describe as well balanced, clean, with an excellent transfer of the emotional component, clear working out of micro and macro nuances, excellent speed characteristics and meticulous rendering of small details of the composition. The musical canvas is drawn in an unusually wide, lively, relief, rich and contrasting manner.

The AMP11, on the other hand, delivers a smoother, warmer, "analog" tone, with a greater emphasis on macro contrast, better depth reproduction, a slightly more imposing low-register style and charming musicality.
The AMP12 does all the work in a more technical way, with a touch of analyticity, with precise and biting elaboration of bass lines and a longer high-frequency range.

In general, the character of the DX300 sound remains recognizable, since the digital part of the player, of course, does not change, but at the same time the transition from one modular board to another is similar to switching between different stationary amplifiers connected to the same DAC. This is a change from an unusually comfortable, charming, enveloping manner (AMP11), to a more open, technical, detailed and emotional sound (AMP12).






Low frequencies are processed tightly, quickly, with good articulation, elaboration of textures and excellent control. There is a crisp, precise pop, a tight, biting punch, and textured nimble bass. There is not even a hint of hum and booming, only a harmonious combination of quantity and quality, plus an excellent balance. The area of the sabbass is presented linearly, while the midbass is neatly forced, it vivifyingly complements the middle, filling it with “body” and a clear rhythmic basis. AMP11, on the other hand, digs deeper into the lowest register, emphasizing the subbass area and linearly serving the lower mids.


The mids are neutral, clear and smooth, with excellent texture reproduction and excellent resolution. Not a single detail here escapes the listener.
The emotional component of the composition is conveyed in an extremely naturalistic way. Strings, saxophone, keyboards and especially vocals sound chiseled and clean. This is an unusually realistic, smooth, spacious and very melodic manner, with "savoring" all the smallest details of the composition. The positioning of the instruments in space is flawlessly calibrated and realistic.
The DX300 paired with the AMP12 demonstrates excellent detail and striking visualization of sound images in space, and the AMP11 wins in the mid-range with a richer reproduction of the timbre palette.


High frequencies sound long, sophisticated, intelligible, with good articulation, transmission of overtones and enviable correctness. It is an unfolded, spacious, smooth and comfortable feed at the same time. There is an elegant and light color in this register, adding width and air to the listening compositions, but it is presented extremely competently and accurately. There is no excessive brightness, but there is an excellent working out of this range and a natural, extremely musical sound without harshness and distortion.
If we again compare the manner of the two brothers-amps, the AMP11 conveys the upper register more weighty, smoother, more balanced and a little shy, in a charming manner.





I would also like to note the genre versatility of the new amplifier. He plays very interestingly both classical music, instrumental, jazz, electronica, rock, and heavy brutal genres. Although the predecessor also perfectly coped with all musical styles, but presented them in a slightly different way and, in my opinion, the AMP12 is still more versatile due to its better technicality.

In fact, in this comparison, it is difficult to choose a clear winner, since the choice in this case concerns more individual sound preferences. In my opinion, both amplifiers do an excellent job with the tasks assigned to them. Personally, since the owners of iBasso DX300 already have AMP11 / AMP11 MK2 in the kit, I highly recommend AMP12 for purchase - rest assured, it will definitely not disappoint you.


Conclusion

The AMP12 module will be a perfect match for the AMP11 / AMP11 MK2, and its chic sounding does not give a chance for nagging and criticism.
If you want to add more variety to the sound of your DX300, add even more power, technicality, precision and analytical sound to your sound, and of course, if you want a fully balanced amplifier with a separate balanced line output - the AMP12 is the right choice for you!

Well, about the price. At the time of writing, the iBasso AMP12 has a suggested retail price of $ 229. For this fully justified, in my opinion, the amount the buyer will receive not only the most technically capable amplifier module, but also a good set, and an excellent mood that goes along with it. Listen to your favorite music and enjoy it!

Hi friends!
It's no secret that in the audiophile sphere, not all, even respected, brands are able to make decent headphones / iem for little money, and these models, as we know, are always in demand. To our common happiness, the ranks of such IEMs were joined by the development from iBasso.

Previously, this company from the Middle Kingdom has already worked in the "accessible sector". We remember well the IEM models - IT01, IT01S and the relatively recent "agent with two zeros" IT00. Well, their new IEMs with the IT01X index have every chance of becoming one of the main "democratic" hits of the year. These earphones turned out to be amazingly interesting and at the same time very inexpensive.

I have never hidden that I have had strong sympathy for iBasso products for a long time, and IT01X is another job of the company's engineers, which is difficult to treat impartially. These guys never stand in one place, but are constantly developing, improving, breaking stereotypes and only going forward. And the desire to make quality sound affordable is worthy of exceptional respect. But I, perhaps, will save compliments for the review itself, let's get acquainted with the "little pleasures" from iBasso.

Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)


Specifications
Type: in-ear
Driver: 1DD 10mm / Double-sided Beryllium-plated Diaphragm dynamic driver
Frequency response: 10Hz-40kHz
Sensitivity: 108±2dB
Impedance: 16 Ohm
Noise attenuation: -26dB
THD:<1%(at 1kHz/1mW)
Plug size: 3.5mm TRS gold-plated
Cable length: 1.2m
Weight: 7g without cable


Appearance, kit and ergonomics

IBasso developments are always not only about music, but also about emotions. In this case, everything from packaging instills joy and summer mood. The first to meet us is a bright dust jacket, made in variegated violet-yellow shades. On its front side there is a model index, a clarification that we have "Audiophile In-ear Monitors", a brand logo and a "Hi-Res Audio" sticker. Detailed specifications are shown on the back of the package.





Beneath the beautiful cover is a juicy, bright yellow box embossed with the brand's logo. Inside this "solar brick" we find the IT01X itself, a round case with the inscription iBasso Audio, detailed instructions and a warranty card. But this is only the beginning of our research. We open the "washer" -case and find there a nice replaceable cable, a rich set of tips for every taste, size and color (2 pairs of foam and 12 pairs of silicone tips) and a spare pair of replaceable metal filters to protect sound pipes.






IT01X is available in three color options: black, blue and red. As you can see from the photos, we have the last option.





IT01X looks elegant and very interesting. Small and lightweight, oval-teardrop-shaped cases are made of glossy plastic. The outer side is occupied by an iridescent purple front panel with a silvery lettering - the motto of the company "In Tune"! Wearing is implied behind the ear.






These IEMs are extremely comfortable, and the fit in the ear is wonderful. I will say more: these are, perhaps, one of the most convenient IEMs that I have come across. For ergonomics, they get a solid A from me. Therefore, you can listen to your favorite music in them for as long as you like, the IT01X have it.

On the inside, in addition to the metal sound pipe, there are two compensation holes, which contribute to the better performance of the dynamic driver. The model name and the “L / R” mark are applied next to it. Above is the MMCX connector for connecting the cable.






Filters-mesh on metal sound pipes IEM, twisted, they do not affect the sound, but they reliably protect against moisture, earwax and dust from getting inside. It is simple and quick to change them: unscrew, change the grid, put in place.






Inside each of the IEMs, there is one 10mm dynamic driver with a double-sided beryllium-coated membrane. This design gives the diaphragm the required degree of rigidity and low distortion. In addition, the principle of a Helmholtz resonator is applied here with internal acoustic chambers made of brass, which should also ensure low distortion. I must say, for the budget IEM model, such a technological implementation is very impressive.





Nice braided cable made from monocrystalline copper with silver plated. It is silvery white in color, very resilient, with MMCX connectors, a silvery splitter with a slider and a 3.5mm straight jack plug in the same style.
The connectors are common, and you can easily pick up another cable for the IEM if you want. However, this cable is quite good, and I see no reason to change it.






As I announced at the beginning, the kit, design, ergonomics and workmanship of the IT01X evoke extremely positive emotions. Everything here is saturated with great mood, from the colorful box, IEM design to the original sound. We will talk about this further.


Sound

Listening (audio testing) was conducted on: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, Lotoo PAW Gold, iBasso DX300, iBasso DX220 MAX, QLS QA-361, HIP-DAC & iFI iDSD Diablo.

The earbuds were initially burned in for 70 hours. The IT01X played well with all audio devices.
I recommend that you take a responsible approach to the process of choosing tips, as they make a noticeable contribution to the creation of a sound picture.






I would describe the sound of the IT01X as balanced, clean, with a well-developed low-frequency range, dense and accurate impact, smooth, emotional middle, as well as a clean and slightly sparkling high-frequency range.

There is an elegant afterburner in the lower register and a neat emphasis ("spark") that falls on the high frequencies. This accent is made so delicately that it does not cause the slightest discomfort. This adds a bit of air, light expression and makes the sound more picturesque. As a result, the overall frequency response takes on a light U-shape.







It is a well-balanced and extremely expressive manner of delivering sound, with a body-filled audio image in the mid-range, a light velvet background added by low frequencies, as well as a precise, unobtrusive and clean high-frequency range.






The bass is tight, biting, tight and nimble, with good control, articulation, accurate kick and good texture. It powerfully and rollingly fills the virtual stage with mass, darkening the general background, adding contrast to the overall audio picture and reliably keeping the rhythmic basis of the composition in check. The blow is focused and fairly accurate.
Working out the midbass takes not so much quantity as quality, demonstrating good texture transfer and enviable energy.


Mids are smooth, with a decent transfer of the emotional component of the composition. The mid-frequency range is delivered smoothly and musically, without sharp peaks that straining the ear. Vocal parts sound temperamental, pianos and strings are reproduced cleanly, accurately and picturesquely. This is a raised, natural and melodic manner of presenting the sound.
Musical images are conveyed in a contrasting and easy manner, with due expression. This is a rather comfortable and sweet-voiced manner. For their price point, these IEMs have a pretty decent resolution. It is also worth noting the overall smoothness, good detail and harmonious work with micro and macro contrast.


The high-frequency register is slightly highlighted, the main emphasis is at about 8kHz, but at the same time it is served quite comfortably and does not tend to draw attention to itself. In this case, the high frequencies add a bit of breadth, brilliance and freshness to the sound.
Highs are reproduced clearly, lingeringly and euphonious. Here, perhaps, there is everything you need for such a difficult and capricious register: good resolution, elegant color and playful "speck" that adorns the general musical palette. It is an attractive and correct manner, well articulated, delivered in a light, graceful and comfortable manner.







In terms of genre preferences, iBasso IT01X are not too capricious. They are interesting, with their graceful "color", play both instrumental music, jazz, electronics, and rock.


The bottom line

Lows - balanced, biting, comfortable, with a tight tight kick and harmonious bass.

Mids are smooth, detailed, with a good transfer of the emotional part, decent resolution, without sharp peaks and distortions, comfortable and naturalistic.

Highs are precise, beautiful and delicate. They are served comfortably, clearly, cleanly, but slightly simplified. The cheerful "sparkle" does not interfere with the register in any way, but only gives it charm.






Conclusion

If you look at these IEMs from the sky-high heights of Hi-End, then, of course, one could find fault with the minor flaws that this model has. But such snobbery is completely inappropriate here - we have IEM "budget segment" in front of us, which, on the contrary, deserve only praise.
The IT01X is cute, stylish, lightweight and extremely comfortable. Their beautiful and original sound is just a godsend for beginner music lovers and a great option for even the most demanding audiophiles as a second IEM that you can take with you for a walk or a sports jog.

And a special thank you to iBasso for its humanity, because their "little pleasures" are affordable for almost everyone. On the manufacturer's website, IT01X costs only $ 119. Considering the good kit, great design, build quality, ergonomics and, most importantly, more than decent sound, I consider this proposal one of the best in its category.

O heaven, let me be beautiful,
To the earth that comes down from above,
And radiant and impassive,
And all-encompassing as thou art.

D. Merezhkovsky


Hi Friends!

It is so difficult for me to translate these poetic lines, we lose rhyme, but I hope that I was able to convey the meaning of the verse to you.
I do not know how the poet of the Silver Age Merezhkovsky could describe our today's guest so accurately, but the fact remains - the lines that open our review ideally characterize both the appearance and musical style of the new flagship headphones from iBasso. Perhaps the whole thing is in the noosphere - the thinking shell around the Earth, but I will not say this.

Yes, I finally got the IEM IT07 model, with which I was so looking forward to meeting! These wonderful in-ear monitors are built in a hybrid scheme and each have seven drivers on board. They also have the ability to tune the sound using acoustic filters.

It's no secret that every new iBasso development is a remarkable event for me personally, because getting to know any creation of this company is always an interesting and exciting activity. Needless to say, this time too, my expectations were fully justified? These IEMs not only allow you to deeply enjoy the music you listen to, but also bring romance and poetry to life!

And before I start writing poetry instead of writing a review, let's immediately get down to the heavenly IT07.






Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)

Specifications
Type: in-ear / hybrid
Drivers (7): 1 (10mm High Magnetic Flux Dynamic Driver) + (6 Knowles BA Drivers)
Impedance: 16Ohm.
Frequency range: 5Hz-40kHz.
Sensitivity: 108dB/mW.
THD+N:<1%.
Noise isolation: -30dB.
2.5mm-3.5mm connector included in the package.



Appearance, kit and ergonomics

The "Seven's" arrived in an elegant black leather-wrapped box with the "iBasso Audio" logo embossed on the lid, which is in a cardboard box.






We open the lid of the magic box and extract all the contents from it: a metal case-washer with an IT07 IEM inside, a removable cable with an adapter (2.5 mm / 3.5 mm), 12 pairs (one more is already installed on the headphones) silicone tips , two pairs of foam tips, a metal plate with three pairs of acoustic filters (black, silver, gold) and mandatory warranty documents. Wow, how much is there! Without hesitation, we put five plus for the set.







We take out IT07 ourselves and start admiring it. The azure mother-of-pearl polymer cases are handcrafted, polished to perfection and look extraordinarily beautiful. You hold in the palm of your hand these two pieces of the spring sky with floating whitish clouds and you forget where you are and why you even got these IEMs. How romantic and poetic IT07 looks!






The iBasso slogan "InTune" shimmers on the faceplate. On the inside of the shell, there is a metal sound tube with a wind-up acoustic filter, which also protects the IEM from moisture and sulfur. Slightly below there are two compensation holes, on top - a gold-plated connector for connecting the MMCX cable.









IT07 is quite lightweight and extremely ergonomic, you can wear them for as long as you like without discomfort. It is expected to be worn behind the ear.
Inside each IEM fit one (DD) 10mm Tesla coil driver, six (BA knowles) drivers, and a 4-way crossover.
Sound insulation is above average, and if you choose the right tips, you can stay tete-a-tete with your favorite music and not be distracted by the hustle and bustle of the outside world.








The 4-core braided cable is made of high quality silver litz wire. It is silver-colored, braided, very elastic, with MMCX connectors, a 2.5 mm TRRS balanced jack and an adapter to 3.5 mm TRS, all in the same style.








Well, a few words about filters:
Silver - neutral with a slight high-frequency accent
Black - emphasizes the lower and midrange
Gold - for those who like to highlight low frequencies





And since we have already started talking about the sound features of the IT07, it's time to move on to the next section of the review.



Sound impressions

Listening (audio testing) was conducted on: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, iFi iDSD Diablo, Lotoo paw Gold, iBasso 220 MAX, iBasso DX300, QLS QA-361 & iFi HIP DAC.
Most of the time testing was done with silver (gray) filters.

My regular readers, probably, have already learned the next passage by heart, but in this case, it is better to no overlook it: I recommend that you take a responsible approach to the process of selecting tips, since they make a noticeable contribution to the creation of a sound picture.
With all devices, the "seven's" played excellently, their voice slightly changed depending on the sound source.





I would describe the sound of iBasso IT07 as tending to neutral, with a good transfer of the emotional component, high resolution, a well-boosted section in the low-frequency register, smooth, detailed and extremely musical, melodious mids and slightly sparkling high-frequency range. All material is presented reliably, thoroughly and utterly melodic.







IT07s deliver a balanced, dense and euphonious sound, with a harmonious display of micro and macro contrast.
The musical canvas is drawn widely, in detail, with good separation of instruments, a clear transfer of textures, timbres and a scrupulous display of small nuances of the composition.
It is a dynamic and proportionate manner, where the drawn audio images, exquisitely intertwining, but not interfering with each other, line up in a sophisticated soundscape. iBasso IT07 has excellent stereo panorama and good resolution, presenting compositions legibly, smoothly, broadly and musically.








The beat is precise, deep, going to the very bottom, the bass parts are worked out richly, richly, bitingly and distinctly. The dynamic driver is well tuned and therefore capable of a lot. He easily cools our ears with crisp pops and solid, tight "pump". The bass is textured, rounded and agile, filling the middle with warmth and lively bodily substance. There is not even a hint of hum and bubbling, but there is a clear working out of the lower range, which most tactfully contributes to the overall tonality.
Accuracy and intelligibility, relief and comfort - working out the midbass takes not so much quantity as quality and reliability, demonstrating an excellent transfer of textures and energy. And if you wish, you can add or subtract Lows, for this we have acoustic filters.


The mids are smooth, detailed, comfortable and melodic. Here, no detail escapes the listener. Musical images are drawn large, convex and tangible. The middle is extremely expressive and is not spoiled by sharp annoying peaks and any distortions. IT07 gorgeously convey the emotional component of the composition. They easily captivate the listener with their melodic manner and do not let go until the very end of listening to the composition.
Vocal parts are conveyed purely and emotionally, and strings sound rich and realistic. The timbres and reverberations are very good: natural, musical, deep and bewitching. I would call this presentation of sound solid, melodic, extremely smooth and detailed at the same time.


High frequencies are reproduced clearly and harmoniously. There is a slight accent here, around 7-8 kHz, but it is presented quite correctly and does not in any way refer to annoying factors. Highs add a bit of breadth, expression and fresh air to the overall sound. They do not try to amaze the listener with refined manners and refined after-sounds, but at the same time they are conveyed quite cleanly and beautifully, intelligibly and competently, legibly, without excessive harshness and obvious simplification. This is an expanded, rather spacious and beautiful presentation.






Well, do not forget that we can always tune the sound to our taste using acoustic filters.






In terms of genre preferences, iBasso IT07 are not whimsical at all: they play very interestingly both classical music, instrumental, jazz, electronics, rock, and brutal genres.


Conclusion

In my opinion, the engineers of the iBasso company once again coped with their task brilliantly, making the IT07 a delight for both ears and eyes. Impressive sound, housed in an elegant body, is the key to the success that this model no doubt awaits.
These IEMs turned out to be interesting in everything: chic design, ergonomics, good kit and, most importantly, good sound with its captivating charm and graceful flavor. Such an audio signature, in my opinion, should be of interest to an extremely wide range of listeners.

IT07 is clearly the flagship model of IEM without discounts or reservations. These are the IEMs that will adorn any audiophile collection and delight even the most ambitious high-quality sound lovers.
The MSRP for the seven's from iBasso is $899. Considering all the above listed advantages of the model, I consider this cost quite acceptable and highly recommend IT07 for purchase.

Hi friends!

Discovering new names is an exciting activity, especially when you get to know it yourself and acquaint others with something really interesting, one might say - amazing. Today I will tell you about the awesome CERBERUS hybrid flagship from SoftEars!

Not so long ago, we reviewed two models IEM of this brand from the Middle Kingdom from the Reference Sound line, namely the ten-driver RS10 and five-driver RSV, which, in my opinion, are simply beautiful.

CERBERUS, on the other hand, is built on seven emitters / drivers, including electrostatic ones, which initially aroused increased interest. But we'll talk more about EST in the review itself. Now I will note that these headphones aroused the strongest emotions in me. Here I heard the philosophy of clean, neutral, competently tuned sound, already familiar from other SoftEars models, but embodied in an unusually melodic manner, focused exclusively on contemplating musical images and getting maximum pleasure from listening to the sound. Moreover, it seems to me that CERBERUS is several years ahead of the general vector of development of portable high-end audio, it is so good.


Well, and a little digression into the history of Softears. The company was founded in 2017 in China and worked exclusively for the domestic market. For 2018, the brand will announce its flagships IEM RS10 and Cerberus. This was followed by the TURII model built on a dynamic emitter, followed by the five RSV drivers.

Due to its focus exclusively on the domestic market of the Celestial Empire, the company was little known on the international market until recently. Fortunately, now the brand is confidently gaining momentum and decided to push the boundaries of its presence, and this, believe me, is great news for all lovers of great sound.


We have finished with the opening speech and it is time to unchain our beast. But do not be alarmed: he will not bite anyone, and an English gentleman will envy his impeccable manners. This Cerberus is a formidable, sometimes gloomy, but a truly mystical creature of rare beauty.






Text by Alexey Kashirskey aka Hans Barbarossa


Specifications
Type: in-ear / IEM / hybrid
7 drivers: 1 (DD), 4 (BA), 2 (EST-Sonion) + 3-way crossover.
Frequency Response Range: 10-80000Hz
Sensitivity: 104dB / 100mV @ 1kHz
Impedance: 5Ω @ 1kHz (± 15%)
Detachable cable: 1.2 m, 2pin (0.78mm) / jack 3.5 mm - straight




Appearance kit and ergonomics

CERBERUS is packaged in a small dark green box with an embossed gold Softears logo on one side. Inside the cardboard cube we find a respectable cover-washer of the same color with an embossed brand logo, a metal business card-warranty card (this is what I call a serious approach to my product), an instruction booklet and a bag with three pairs of silicone tips of different sizes (S / M / L).







Opening the leather case, we find the IEMs themselves, carefully placed in two soft pouches, a detachable cable and a branded microfiber napkin. Everything is beautiful and stylish, you will not find fault.
As we can see, the kit contains everything you need that you might ever need to use these IEMs.








SoftEars CERBERUS looks extremely attractive. It was medium in size, extremely comfortable and extremely cute, the material was medical resin.
And, of course, a unique design: either amber melted in a hot flame, or golden sand from ancient treasuries - the sun streams spread over the ebony. CERBERUS immediately attracts the eye, and its mesmerizing patterns are a source of true aesthetic pleasure!

On the outside of the IEM, the black faceplate was located, matching the entire body, through which the fire ran and left behind two golden traces. The silver Softears logo was also placed right there.
On the inner side of the body there is a sound pipe with four outlets, one of which is covered with an acoustic filter. In the upper part there are connectors for a cable plug with 2pin (0.78 mm) and a small compensation hole covered with an acoustic filter. I believe that it is intended for the correct setting of the dynamic emitter.
Inside each of the headphones fit seven drivers: 1 (DD), 4 (BA), 2 (EST), as well as a three-way crossover.









Here, it is worth mentioning that in CERBERUS, as in the IEM RS10 model, one more, additional passive driver is used.
The IEM is expected to be worn behind the ear. Soundproofing is average, so in too noisy places, such as the metro, I suppose you shouldn't count on complete comfort when listening to music. Otherwise, everything is pretty decent.

Silver-white cable, extremely lightweight and flexible, with soft silicone earhooks. Cable length is 1.2m, connectors are 2pin (0.78mm) / jack 3.5mm. If you wish, you can replace the cable with any other with 2pin connectors, although personally to me it seems very attractive and effective.






Well, according to the results of the first part of the review, SoftEars CERBERUS deserve only praise. But the most important thing, as you understand, is only ahead of us: we are moving on to the analysis of sound.


Sound Impressions

Listening (audio testing) was conducted on: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, iFi iDSD Diablo, Lotoo paw Gold, iBasso 220 MAX, iBasso DX300 & QLS QA-361.
With all audio devices CERBERUS played at a very high level, their "voice" changed slightly depending on the sound source.

Once again, I urge everyone to responsibly approach the process of selecting tips, as they make a noticeable contribution to the creation of a sound picture.






The sound of SoftEars CERBERUS is clear, smooth, perfectly balanced, without sharp peaks and dips. This is an almost linear frequency response with a subtle elegant accent in the lowest register. There is both a restrained manner and a slightly darkened, soft background.
As if in the night sky, as if woven from velvet, myriads of bright sparks sparkle, which, gathering in constellations, skillfully dance in front of the listener. You do not just listen to music, but you begin to see beautiful sounds and their intricacies in your head.

CERBERUS perfectly build a stereo panorama, have high resolution and good detail, playing compositions in a measured, graceful, wide and very musical way.
The sound is delivered smoothly, legibly and unusually melodic. This is at the same time neutral, slightly dark, clean and beautiful manner of presenting the sound.
These IEMs exhibit excellent dynamic range and stunning volume reproduction with precise localization of apparent sound sources in space.






Musical compositions are presented at the same time seriously, strictly, precisely, smoothly, tenderly and sweetly. This is an amazing interweaving of analog and digital sound with incredible beauty - a real Hi-End!
In general, CERBERUS, as I mentioned above, were clearly ahead of their time. Other companies are just beginning to show substantive interest in electrostatic (EST) drivers from Sonion, and SoftEars already thoroughly studied this issue and competently applied them in its development several years ago. In my opinion, this is one of the best EST implementations at the moment.
What is perhaps missing here is the violence in the form of pressure and drive. They are certainly present, but in a rather modest form. Our Cerberus does not use claws and fangs, if he strikes, then only with a strong, but fluffy paw. And this is done intentionally, because this is how the elegance and beauty of sound is achieved in this case.

Well, for other purposes, the brand has a line of in-ear monitors "Reference Sound" RS10 and RSV, as well as a dynamic model Turii. I can't say about Turii, I am familiar with these IEMs only by hearsay, but in general, the hand of a master is recognized in the family of SoftEars in-ear monitors. Despite the different sound character from each other, in all IEM models of the company there is a clearly verified tonal balance, super-competent IEM tuning and a complete absence of distortion. Yes, these guys from Softears are virtuosos, what else to look for! But let's get back to the CERBERUS sound analysis.







The bass for the dynamic driver is quite tight and nimble, with good control, accurate kick, clear articulation and high-quality elaboration of textures. Here, as I mentioned earlier, there is a barely noticeable accented area in the sub bass area. It is worth noting how smoothly Lows move to the mid-frequency range, merging with the neighboring register and complementing it with depth, rhythmic base and warm living substance. The midbass area is served linearly and is almost level with the mids.

Mids are smooth, smooth, natural and charming. Here, every musical image is endowed with a bodily basis. This is an extremely melodic and holographic manner, where all sounds and instruments are in their right place. The compositions are presented smoothly, balanced and beautifully, in a neutral-soft manner. CERBERUS demonstrates good detail and amazing visualization of sound images where no detail escapes the listener. It is a balanced and moderately emotional performance. The sound canvas is drawn harmoniously, informatively and reliably, with a spreading stereo panorama.

The high frequencies are reproduced in an unusually clear, crisp, euphonic and completely comfortable manner. Here you can hear the impeccable operation of the EST driver. Highs clearly and accurately hit the target, wonderfully, like stardust, shimmering, scrupulously draw the micro-contrast. It turns out beautifully, unobtrusively and charming. Quantitatively, there are not many of them, for my taste, more is not needed. The register is transmitted clearly enough, cleanly, smoothly, without sharpness and distortion. Highs harmoniously contribute to the overall operation, precisely matching the play of the entire frequency range. Pure harmony and nothing more.






In terms of genre preferences, in my opinion, SoftEars CERBERUS have a fairly wide coverage: they play interestingly both classical music, instrumental, jazz, and electronics or rock. In principle, things are not bad with brutal styles either, but, in my opinion, there may not be enough mass and pressure here, CERBERUS is too elegant for such musical forms.


Conclusion

SoftEars CERBERUS is an amazing model of in-ear monitors. This IEM are beautifully designed and deliver truly amazing sound, and this is definitely a winning combination that fans of melodic and modern Hi-End sound should fully appreciate. Softears engineers are extremely commendable, and their products receive the utmost scrutiny. I sincerely hope that Softears will take a prominent place in the portable audio market, they deserve it!

Well, about the price, which is also impressive. The RRP for the SoftEars CERBERUS model is $ 2,099. Yes, the money is big, but that is how much the sound costs, which excites and captivates, makes you dream and sends you on magical journeys.
In general, if you have the opportunity to fork out for a great sound, then I recommend CERBERUS for purchase without the slightest hesitation. Listen and get high!

Vision Ears VE7: a poetic masterpiece

Hi friends!
I propose to hold our meeting today under the motto "Measure seven times, listen once." Such a humorous treatment of the well-known proverb "Measure seven times, cut once", of course, is not accidental - our guest is an awesome novelty from Vision Ears, VE7 IEM.

Yes, we all were waiting for the release of the next annual IEM model with the EVE index (Exclusive Vision Ears), but the German company decided to make a "knight's move" and presented its completely new development. The VE7 model, as you might guess, is built on 7 BA drivers (I will describe in detail the roles in this septet directly in the review); the design also uses a five-way crossover.

It is also worth noting that since 2020, Vision Ears has made it possible to purchase its in-ear monitors in both custom (CIEM) and universal (IEM) versions. And this is a great event for audiophiles and music lovers all over the world! If earlier not everyone was comfortable ordering CIEM for an individual ear impression, now there is complete freedom of choice.

Well, for those who, perhaps, do not fully understand the status of the company we are talking about today, here is a short excursion into its history. Vision Ears is a well-known and highly respected developer from Cologne in the professional and expert circles, who has been manufacturing high-quality in-ear monitors and hearing protection for many years. For me personally, Vision Ears has an almost cult status and indisputable authority, their CIEM / IEM occupies a special place in my hierarchy of portable sound. Therefore, I rejoice like a child with the release of each new model of their in-Ear monitors, and German engineers tirelessly justify my reverent attitude towards them, amazing me time after time with their creations.


The main merit of VE7, however, is not in technological bells and whistles, but, as always with Vision Ears, in the magic of sound. So, accio, wingardium leviosa, alohomora, ridiculus - the magic begins!




Text by Alexey Kashirskey aka Hans Barbarossa


Specifications
5-way system.
Driver count 7
2 x Bass – 2 x Low-Mids – 1 x Mid – 1 x Mid-High – 1x Superhigh.
Sensitivity: 116dB SPL (at 1mW)
Impedance: 12Ω (at 1KHz)
Enclosure material Acrylic


Appearance kit and ergonomics

The VE7 packaging immediately sets us up in an extremely positive way, since the traditional black cardboard box is additionally wrapped in aesthetic purple parchment, on which a round badge-sticker with the brand's logo flaunts.




We unfold our charm, flip the lid of the box and begin to explore the contents. Inside we find a heavy metal "washer", a 6.3 / 3.5 mm adapter, a bottle of IEM care product and a soft cloth for the same purpose, a sound guides cleaner, an envelope with instructions and a warranty card, a capsule for moisture absorption. We unscrew the round "box" and extract the main wealth from it - the VE7 itself with a replaceable cable, as well as a bag with four pairs of SpinFit silicone tips of different sizes (S / SM / M / L).

Yes, the kit, as expected from Vision Ears, is exceptional: there is absolutely everything for use, care and safe storage of the IEM. Let's go further.







So we got to VE7 IEM. The transparent blue shell is made entirely of acrylic. Through it, you can clearly see all the inner content: BA drivers, wires and acoustic design. There is not a single air bubble in this solid mass, everything is smooth and clean, you will not find fault with it. The form of the universal version of IEM resembles the custom version - (CIEM). Indeed, the ergonomics are what you need here, you just need to choose the right tips size. In my case, the complete SpinFit tips of the SM size fit perfectly.

It is appropriate to remind here that the VE7 model, however, like any other from the arsenal of the Vision Ears brand, can be ordered both in a universal (IEM) version and in a custom (CIEM) individual design.







On the outside of the IEM, there are faceplates of indescribable beauty. When you look at this, you can experience Stendhal's syndrome, which once in Florence became literally sick from an overabundance of beauty. Imagine, red-hot drops of fiery mother-of-pearl lava fell on the ultramarine valley! The sight, I tell you, is mesmerizing. It is a design masterpiece that you can admire for hours.

In the very center there is the IEM model name - "VE7", engraved in silver jewelry. The top is all varnished and perfectly sanded.

On the inside of the shell, there is a sound guide with three outlets, to which acoustic tubes are connected. In the upper part there are connectors for a cable plug with 2pin (0.78mm).








Seven BA drivers fit inside each IEM: two are responsible for low frequencies (Bass), the same number are responsible for the lower middle (Low-Mids), one is responsible for the middle (Mids), another is responsible for working out the upper middle (Mid-High) and a separate the driver works out the highest frequencies (Superhigh).

The VE7 IEM is expected to be worn behind the ear. Soundproofing is at a fairly high level, which allows you to enjoy listening to your favorite songs even in noisy city transport.






The cable is interchangeable, black, made by braiding, extraordinarily light, soft and elastic. The cable has a Velcro strap for twisting it. TRS 3.5 mm jack straight, gold-plated, 2pin connectors, which allow you to easily pick up another cable with the same connectors for the headphones, if necessary.





The appearance of these IEMs, like the equipment, is 5+. Well, who would doubt that Vision Ears will have it differently, I certainly will not. Now it's time to move on to the main course, the awesome sound of VE7.



Sound impressions

Listening (audio testing) was conducted on: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, iFi iDSD Diablo, Lotoo paw Gold, iBasso 220 MAX, iBasso DX300, QLS QA-361 & iFi HIP DAC.

With all devices VE7 played at a very high level, their "voice" slightly changed depending on the sound source.


And again, I recommend that you take a responsible approach to the process of selecting tips. This is really important because it has a significant impact on the creation of the sound image.





In terms of tonal balance, I would describe the sound of the VE7 as very well balanced, tending towards neutral, with amazing musicality.

VE7s give out the most "adult" and full-bodied sound, which has all the necessary audiophile qualities and properties.

These IEMs deliver sound material in a solid, beautiful, massive and contrasting manner, with accurate and completely natural reproduction of timbres, in a neutral warm and rich manner.





Low-frequency register and volume.
The exact transfer of the volume of imaginary space is at the top of the table here. Moreover, it is achieved not by increasing the number of "lows", as is the case with some manufacturers, but due to the quality of the depth and width of the imaginary scene. That is, figuratively speaking, exquisite champagne in our glass splashes gracefully and plays in the light, but not a single drop from this glass will fall on the costume and thereby spoil the overall impression.
Honestly, if I didn’t know the technical configuration, I would have decided that (DD) and (BA) drivers work in a pair, and even unusually harmoniously. And from how filigreely "sewn together" Bass and lower mids, you are simply stunned: how is it even possible to create, cool! I think that, as always, there was a secret ingredient of Vision Ears. Magic, and nothing more.

Blow -
The practice of claps and blows is precise and extremely naturalistic. There is also the accuracy with good speed of the BA driver, as well as the rolling and mass with a warm, rounded manner inherent in the DD driver. That is, here it is - an impulse, a blow with an accurate hit, and then a roll with vibration flies at us, outlining the space and wrapping the listener with warmth. Awesome!

I also liked the speed of working out sound. No, this is not a racetrack, along which a mad sports car rushes, cutting the headwind and swallowing kilometers, this is an exciting ride on horseback. You look at the beach line receding into the distance, on which the evening sun throws its oblique rays, and then you spur your zealous horse, become one with him and rush there, beyond the visible bend of the coast, and the darkening sea splashes on the side. How do you like this trip? For me personally, this harmony with the outside world is very close.

But back to specifics. The lower mid area is served quite smoothly and coherently, in a neutral-warm manner. The perfect consistency of the drivers and the complete absence of phase distortion are striking.





The mid-range register is worked out cleanly, smoothly, evenly and unusually melodic. Here we again return to the excellent transfer of the volume of imaginary space, excellent detail and simply amazing transfer of timbres. This is a layered, detailed, rich, full of "body", sustained tonally, an unusually beautiful manner of sound transmission.
Strings creep through the body, the saxophone and piano sound smoothly and extremely naturalistic, and the vocal parts are full-bodied, as if alive, soar in front of you, causing the desire to touch their imaginary images. This is a real miracle: the sound picture, harmoniously spreading out before your gaze, pulsates with a living and attractive substance.

It is also worth noting the harmonious development of macrodynamics in combination with the perfect rendering of micro-contrast.





Treble is another killer trump card of the VE7. They are crystal clear, precise and drawn out. There is a slight accent here, giving the overall sound a gloss and extraordinary charm. This is a barely noticeable color, filling the general audio picture with fresh air, as if brought from such a distant and alluring New Caledonia. Such a high-quality and accurate lift adds analyticity, and we fully enjoy the beauty and purity of the sound.
Another excellent quality of this register is that this crystal freshness does not distract attention at all when listening to the composition. This is what I call masterly work! Thank you Vision Ears.

The virtual soundstage is quite spacious, more than average, it lines up harmoniously and proportionally both in width and depth.






VE7s can handle any genre of music with ease. They play well both instrumental music, jazz, electronica, rock, and brutal genres.

Although, frankly, such a dry statement is completely inappropriate when describing VE7. Their sound is something sacred. It reminds us of the true beauty of life, the boundlessness of the spirit and the naturalness of nature. In these headphones you not only listen to music, but find yourself inside an amazing sound performance, where the instruments-actors are alive and clothed in flesh, slender, but not fragile, strict and poetic.
This is a delightful natural beauty, without a hint of makeup and retouching, like Liv Ullman and Bibi Andersson in Bergman's "Persona" or Margarita Terekhova in Tarkovsky's "Mirror".


Conclusion

VE7 are amazing IEMs with their own musical flavor. There is everything here: neutrality and naturalness, unforgettable charm and genuine beauty with graceful lines. This sound allows you to enjoy your favorite music over and over again, experiencing thrill and excitement over and over again.
Vision Ears has once again created a masterpiece: a flawless device with a beautiful exterior and a harmonious, well-balanced, mature sound rich in musical timbres.
Separately, it should be noted the highest performance with impeccable assembly (Made in Germany), stunning design, good ergonomics and a rich set. There is no doubt that this novelty from Vision Ears will become one of the most revered and beloved models among audiophiles and music lovers around the world.
It remains only to say about the price of this pleasure. You can buy VE7 on the official website vision-ears.de for 1.850 €. In my opinion, the price tag is quite adequate for a sound of this level.

All in all, if you have the opportunity to shell out for exquisite and high-end sound invested in a beautiful design, then I highly recommend the Vision Ears VE7 to purchase.

iBasso DX300: Floating over the abyss

Hi friends!

I'll start with an important question: are you ready to dive into the bottomless ocean? Scary, I agree. And if not alone, but with a reliable partner? It is with such a partner in deep-sea voyages in the sound abyss that I want to introduce you.

Today we have a brand new creation from iBasso, the DAP designed to take the flagship pedestal of 2021 - the DX300!

Last summer we told you in detail about the uncompromising-sounding "Mad Max" DX220 MAX, but that device, let's say, is only conditionally portable, and it was released in a limited edition. Our current hero, although he is a kind of ideological continuation of his "MAXimally stuffed" brother, but, nevertheless, was created to take the place of his predecessor in the person of iBasso DX220.

The device inherited a number of remarkable features from its relatives: from the DX220 MAX - two separate batteries (for the CPU and DAC, and the amplifying part), and from the DX150, DX200 and DX220 - the ability to replace the amplification modules (but the old amplifiers are not compatible with the DX300). The rest of the specs are also impressive: a Snapdragon 660 processor, 6 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, a gorgeous screen, four flagship DAC chips from Cirrus Logic - CS43198 and an FPGA-Master matrix.

Let me remind you that iBasso began its journey with the production of portable amplifiers and DACs. And in 2012, she introduced the DX100 audio player, which won the hearts of music lovers around the world. Later, younger models appeared: DX50, DX90, DX80. And then the flagship DX200 appeared, which, among other things, was notable for the possibility of replacing the amplifier modules. This hereditary trait was passed on to such models as DX150, DX200, DX220 and the hero of our today's review - DX300. Also worth remembering are the recent hits - the iBasso DX120, DX160 and of course the unsurpassed DX220 MAX.

It's time to finish the opening remarks, I will just say as a starting point that the new DX300 is a philosopher and esthete in the world of portable sound, which not only makes the listener enjoy music, but also makes him think about the eternal. But let's talk about everything in order.

Text: Alexey Kashirskey (aka Hans Barbarossa)



Specifications

OS: Android 9.0 & Mango OS

DAC chip: 4 × Cirrus Logic CS43198

Removable amplifier: AMP-11

Body Material: aluminum alloy

Headphone outputs: (PO) 4.4mm (Pentacon) BAL, 2,5mm BAL, 3.5мм SE; (LO/PO combined 2,5 мм / 3,5 мм / 4,4 мм)

Digital Outputs: 3.5mm S / PDIF Coaxial

CPU: Snapdragon 660

RAM: 6GB LPDDR4

ROM: 128 GB

Card support: MicroSD

Wi-Fi: 802.11b / g / n / ac (2,4 ГГц / 5 ГГц) 2 × 2 MIMO 5G WiFi

Bluetooth 5.0

USB: USB Type-C

Audio format: MQA, APE, FLAC, WAV, WMA, ACC, ALAC, ISO, M3U, M3U8

Battery: 4000 mAh 3.8V lithium ion polymer battery + 2000 mAh 3.8V lithium ion polymer battery

Charging time: about 3 hours

Playing time: up to 14 hours

Size: about 162 mm * 77 mm * 17 mm

Weight: about 300 grams









Appearance and kit

The DX300 ships in an exquisite two-piece gray box. The first is a hard dust jacket, which, like a chameleon, shimmers with a pearlescent silver color. It contains the name of the device model with an explanation of the contents of "Reference DAP" and a little below the modest name of the manufacturer's brand. Stylish and laconic, I like it.
A large blue box with a black triangular iBasso logo in the center slides out of it.









In addition to the DX300, this box contains a whole "dowry": screen protectors, a coaxial cable, a nice USB type-C cable, a burn-in cable, a stylish blue leather case and mandatory warranty instructions.
As always with iBasso, the package is complete and impeccable.






The DX300 looks pretty impressive (162 mm x 77 mm x 17 mm, weight 300 g) and extremely beautiful. It looks like a chic smartphone, and a graceful gilded wheel on the side adds gloss and aristocracy to it. Such an exquisite gadget, I am sure, would be highly appreciated by the Sun King Louis XIV, famous for his refined taste.
Compared to its predecessors, the DX300 has grown in height, but next to the DX220 MAX it looks much narrower. And in terms of weight, I can tell you, these 0.3 kg are practically not felt in the hand. The ergonomics of the device are beyond praise, and the excellent design further emphasizes its originality. Body material - aluminum alloy. The DX300 is available in two colors: black and blue.








The entire front panel is occupied by a touch screen, impressive in its characteristics (IPS, 6.5 ", 2340x1080 px), with good responsiveness and excellent color reproduction. Not every modern phone can boast of such a display! Above the screen is an oblong LED indicator that changes color depending on from the audio format being played or illuminated while the device is operating / charging.

The back panel in pearlescent gray with rounded edges is made of plastic with a logo triangle and model designation in the center.








On the right, at the slightly beveled end, the already mentioned wheel for adjusting the volume flaunts, with a pleasant smooth ride. It is also the on / off button for the device. Three control keys lined up next to him: forward, start / pause, back. There was also a place for the “Hi-Res Audio” sticker.

On the left side there is a slot for microSD in case the internal (128 GB) memory of the device is not enough.
The top edge got a digital coaxial S / PDIF output and a Type-C connector for charging the device and connecting to a PC.

Below is the same new replaceable amplifier module AMP-11 with three audio outputs for headphones (combined with linear "LO"): 4.4 mm (Pentacon) balanced, 2.5 mm balanced and 3.5 mm (SE).








For all kinds of wireless manipulations on board there are Wi-Fi 802.11b / g / n / ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz) 2 × 2 MIMO 5G and Bluetooth 5.0 with LDAC and aptX support.

And when connected via USB type-C to a desktop or laptop, the player can also act as an external DAC / sound card.

Unlike its predecessors with a digital-to-analog part (2 × ESS Saber 9028PRO), the DX300 is built on four Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips (two for each channel), which expands the possibilities of implementing a fully balanced output. For the analog part, as I mentioned earlier, the new amplifier module AMP11 is responsible, implemented on the basis of AMP8, but with the use of updated components and an output power of 1240 mW at a load of 32 ohms.
For digital processing and jitter suppression, iBasso's own FPGA-Master matrix is responsible.







And this device also has an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 SoC, 6 GB of LPDDR 4x RAM and 128 ROM, which in conjunction with the optimized Android 9.0 gives excellent results!
Two independent lithium-polymer batteries are responsible for powering the DX300: one (3.8V 4000mAh) powers the digital part of the device, the second (3.8V 2000mAh) - the analog one. Discharging is not synchronous, the indication of each section is displayed in the upper part of the display. One "joint" charge cycle is enough for about 13-14 hours of operation with the option of fast charging (Quick Charge). Well, as always, the type of headphones connected, the format of the audio files and the volume level will have a noticeable effect on the "survivability" of the player.

Summing up this part of the review, we can safely say that the iBasso DX300 was a success: it is impeccably made, looks great, stuffed with modern hardware and has an outstanding technical implementation that even the most expensive ultra players can envy. In general, using the player is a pleasure.



Software and control

Android 9.0 and its own Mango OS are responsible for the "intellectual" abilities of the device.
The DX300 can be installed using APKPure, so any Android program can be found and downloaded on your own in minutes.

The DX300, like its cousins, the DX220 MAX and DX220, has a dual boot, which allows you to choose between Android and the independent virtual Mango player, which has a new stylish interface and even more convenient control.
If you want, in addition to music, access to the Internet, all kinds of programs and streaming services - use Android. If you want a clean audio player, choose Mango OS.
The software update occurs both online (the DX300 finds and installs it by itself when connected to Wi-Fi), and through the manufacturer's website, from where you can download the firmware to a memory card and install it on the device from there. We are familiar with this from the DX200 / 220 / MAX.

A child will also cope with navigation: we swipe across the screen, move the curtains, press with a finger on what we are looking for - everything is simple and familiar, just like in smartphones. Well, if you wish, you can also start and switch audio tracks with the side buttons.
It is worth mentioning that the DX300 is already well optimized out of the box, and the manufacturer promises to regularly improve its software.

So, the player already has a graphic parametric (PMEQ) equalizer and five digital filters: (D1) Fast roll-0ff, (D2) Short delay slow roll-off, (D3) Short delay fast roll-off, (D4) Slow roll -off and (D5) NOS. The last one (NOS) - I personally liked the most.

We have figured out the external and internal content of this player, here everything is fine with the DX300. This is where the most exciting part of our review begins. Forward to an unforgettable audio experience!



Sound

For the most complete and reliable acquaintance with such an expected and dear guest, I used the "gold reserve" from my collection of Headphones / IEM / CIEM: 64 AUDIO A18 and A12t, Vision Ears VE8, VE4.2 and EVE20, InEar PP8, SD-2 and InEar PMX, FIR Audio M5, M4 and VxV, Softears RS10, Beyerdynamic DT250 / 250, Phonon 4400 and Phonon SMB-02.

Before analyzing the sound, the DX300 worked for about 50-70 hours, which, in my opinion, had a beneficial effect on the final formation of its "voice".
I note right away that the device coped well with both low-impedance sensitive headphones and high-impedance full-size models - no noise or distortion was noticed.








The sound of the DX300 can be described as well-balanced, atmospheric, smooth, extraordinary melodic, with excellent dynamics and elaboration of plans, as well as stunning reproduction of the depth and breadth of an imaginary space.
This is a fairly neutral style with good detail, an absolutely black background, served in a thick and plastic form, with amazing musicality. The DX300, like a brush in the hands of a talented artist, delicately applies layer by layer to the canvas the entire palette of sounds, clearly placing audio images in their places, so skillfully and vividly that the final audio strip is extremely melodic and embossed.








The device produces a well-balanced sound, with harmonious development of macro- and micro-nuances, an elegantly forced section in the subbass area, a smooth and extremely melodious mid-range register with a slight euphonious "color" in the upper midrange, as well as a clear, graceful and slightly shy high-frequency range. This is an almost flat frequency response, where, despite the accents, the main stage action takes place in the mid-frequency range.

This approach to sound design is not often found, and it must be said, it is impressive! You seem to be splashing serenely in the middle of a calm and friendly ocean, but its black abyss of depth, which is guessed under you, evokes in you an alarming sense of existential inevitability.








If, for example, a different sound leads to a rapid heartbeat and the injection of adrenaline into the bloodstream, then the DX300, on the contrary, calms, hypnotizes and makes the heart stop, confronting the listener with the fact that everything is finite. It is simultaneously a bewitching calmness and a state of anxiety, acceptance of inevitability and frightening serenity - a kind of musical ocean of Samsara. This sound is not just utterly atmospheric, it has a kind of magnetism, as I was personally convinced.

I would like to delight in enjoying my favorite music for hours, to get bogged down in it, not thinking about time. This is an extremely picturesque, multilevel, melodic, thick and mesmerizing manner. She wraps the listener like a velvet blanket, conveying the melody smoothly, comfortably and harmoniously, smoothly and at the same time playfully.

If you try to summarize the sound of the DX300, then the main features of its character will be: smoothness, wide dynamic range, excellent tonal balance, rich timbre reproduction, excellent depth and breadth of an imaginary soundstage, harmonious reproduction of micro and macro contrast, as well as extraordinary musicality.








Let's go over the frequency amplitude in more detail

Sub-bass vibrations and roar amaze the ear with their power and intelligibility. This causes a slight chill of anxiety and internal resonance in the body. The bass is thick, dense, textured and at the same time quite fast, despite its neutral-warm manner. He keeps up everywhere and flawlessly weaves into the mid-range register, darkening the background and filling the listened compositions with timbre variety. Here the fade-in and fade-out of sound is perfectly worked out, and the sound palette is also richly laid out. Everything is beautiful and dynamic.

The mids is smooth, velvety, rich in timbre and textured. Here, every musical image is endowed with a bodily basis. It is an extraordinarily beautiful, well-balanced and melodic manner, with striking contrast and every detail of the composition, where every instrument and every note played is in its place in space. The register is served thickly and at the same time in detail. The timbres and reverberations are conveyed in a picturesque, precise and versatile manner. Male and female vocals are slightly emphasized, they are displayed in relief, dense and naturalistic. It is a comfortable, viscous and textured manner, without harshness or distortion.

High frequencies are clear and concise, they are delivered cleanly and neatly. There is no abundance of "air" or refined after-sounds, but there is a correct working out of small nuances. The register is transmitted accurately and distinctly, without sharpness and distortion. The quantity, as well as the quality of working out Highs, I personally have no complaints. This is an unusually authentic and maximally correct manner, with good articulation, served in a light, graceful and comfortable manner.







Conclusion

Amazing and somewhat unique DAP! Stylish, modern, comfortable in all respects, with an outstanding implementation of the technical part, functional hardware and a gorgeous screen. This is both a universal multimedia device, ready to work with all streaming services, and an excellent audio player with an unusually interesting and mesmerizing sound.
Bravo iBasso, standing ovation!

In my opinion, the DX300 is good at everything, and simply does not give a chance for nagging and criticism.

It remains only to inform about the cost of this pleasure. The DX300 has a suggested retail price of $ 1199 at the time of writing. Yes, it's not cheap, but that's how much premium sound costs, whether we like it or not.
I recommend iBasso DX300 for purchase without the slightest hesitation - it's worth it.

Hi friends!

As promised, after a short break, we return to the story about extremely interesting in-ear monitors from the Softears brand.

Earlier we have already fruitfully discussed the "big brother", a 10-driver, rather expensive and flagship IEM model - RS10. Now the time has come to prove himself to his younger relative: a more accessible fellow with a beautiful mesmerizing voice, graceful RSV. "V" is not a letter, but the Roman "five", indicating the number of drivers on board each of the IEMs.

However, the reduction in the number of drivers, in comparison with the "big brother", in this case, did not affect the sound quality in any way. Yes, manners have changed, there is more "warmth" and musicality, but the concept of an honest and genuine sound has remained unchanged.


I will allow myself to make a small excursion into the history of Softears, in case one of our readers is not familiar with it yet. The company was founded in 2017 in China and worked exclusively for the domestic market. By 2018, the brand is announcing two very serious IEM models - the RS10 and the Cerberus. These are two flagships: the first is built on 10 (BA) drivers, the second is a hybrid: 1DD + 4BA + 2EST (electrostatic). Then, quite recently, the TURII model built on 1DD followed, and now, as they say, in the heat of the heat, their novelty has seen the light, the hero of today's review - absolutely incomparable five-driver (5BA) - RSV.

Due to its focus exclusively on the domestic market of the Celestial Empire, the company until recently was little known in the international market. Fortunately, now the brand is confidently gaining momentum and decided to push the boundaries of its presence, and this, believe me, is great news for all lovers of great sound.


Well, let's finish with the introductory word and go directly to the review.

Peer into the night sky and listen, today we are witnessing the sacred dance of the five planets. On stage - Reference Sound Five!






Text by Alexey Kashirskey aka Hans Barbarossa



Specifications

Driver Configuration: 5 Balanced Armatures
Shell: 3D Printed from Imported Medical Resin
Technology: flat impedance / linear phase
Sensitivity: 125db/1VRMS @1kHz
Impedance: 8Ω @1kHz (±15%)
Frequency Range: 5Hz - 40kHz (1/4’ Free Field, -3dB)
Effective Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (IEC-60318-4)
THD+IMD @94dB: <1% @1kHz
Cable Connection: 2-Pin 0.78mm




Appearance kit and ergonomics

The IEM are packed in a neat cardboard box in the form of a black "book". On its cover, in the very center, a "V" is inscribed, meaning, as we have already figured out, not a vendetta at all (hello Guy Fawkes), but a peaceful number five, on top of which the model name "RSV" is applied in a silvery font with a clarifying decoding "Reference Sound Five ". On the edge of the package, there is a nice Softears logo and a protective sticker seal.






We open our "tome" and extract all the contents from it: a black case-washer with an embossed brand logo on the lid, a silver metal business card, a warranty card, an instruction booklet, two sets of silicone and foam tips of different sizes (S / M / L) and a brush for cleaning the sound pipes.








Inside the round case (wow, that heady smell of genuine leather again) neatly fit the RSVs themselves, carefully placed in two soft pouches, as well as a detachable cable and a branded microfiber cloth.









As we can see, the kit contains everything you need that you might ever need to use these IEMs. So let's take care of them.

RSV looks just awesome! On the faceplate, through transparent varnish, we see a mesmerizing picture: as if Gustav Klimt sent sparkling gold leaf petals to waltz with his brush into the black rebellious sky, painted by Van Gogh. Before us is not just beautiful IEMs, but in fact a small work of art!



On the right IEM, at the bottom of the panel, there is the Softears logo embossed in silver, on the left, in the same place, - the name of the model "RSV".








IEM black cast glossy shell made using 3D printing, material - premium medical resin. With all its appearance and convenience, it resembles an acrylic shell of CIEM monitors, made from an individual ear cast.

On the inside of the case, there is a sound tube with three outlets, in one of which you can see an acoustic filter-damper. In the upper part, in the recess, there are connectors for a cable plug with 2pin (0.78 mm).

Convenient shell shape allows you to wear RSV, provided the tips are correctly selected, for as long as you like without discomfort. Wearing is expected behind the ear.








In addition to the five BA drivers, one 3-way crossover is placed inside each of the headphones. RSV also employs “Flat impedance” technology, which allows these IEMs to maintain their frequency response regardless of the output impedance of the amplifier / sound source.


The black cable is braided, cute and elastic, with soft silicone earhooks. Its length is 1.2 meters, connectors are 2pin / jack 3.5 mm. If you wish, you can replace the cable with any other with the appropriate connectors, although personally I find it very attractive and suitable.



Well, according to the results of the first part of the review, RSV confidently get five points. Excellent design, rich package and pleasant appearance are all worthy of praise. Well done Softears!





However, the most important thing, as you know, is still ahead of us: we are moving on to the analysis of sound.

And this is the most exciting part of our review.




Sound

Listening (audio testing) was conducted on: MyST DAC 1866OCU V.2, QLS DA9.1 Melokin, Lotoo paw Gold, iBasso 220 MAX, QLS QA-361, iFi HIP DAC, xDSD & iFI iDSD Diablo.

With all of the audio devices the RSV performed well enough, their "voice" varied slightly depending on the sound source.

I will not tire of repeating this mantra over and over again: I strongly recommend that you take a responsible approach to the process of selecting tips, as they make a noticeable contribution to the creation of a sound picture.








It should be noted that Softears, as in the case of the older model - RS10, once again demonstrated a responsible and thoughtful way of setting up their IEMs.

From the very first minutes of listening, RSVs demonstrate an extremely serious approach to “making music”.

I would describe the sound of Softears RSV as well-balanced, comfortable, with excellent working out of micro- and macro-nuances (a slight bias towards macro contrast), a slightly forced section in the low-frequency register, a charming round, "tube" bass, smooth, rich and detailed mids, and also a clean, crisp and slightly shy high-frequency range.


In principle, the relationship with the older 10-driver model is guessed here, but the "habits" are still different. If the RS10 is knocked down, unleashing sound rushes on the listener and resolutely injecting musical adrenaline right into the heart, then the RSV, on the contrary, enchants us with a warm evening breeze that envelops from head to toe and whirls in a dance, filling the body with universal harmony. But this is not at all lifeless dead calm. Where power and thrust are required, RSVs can throw a powerful hook that will twitch your head. For all its charm, it is a very powerful, smooth, beautiful, spacious and at the same time well-balanced manner of sound.






In addition, the hero of our today's review is more gentle with the recording quality than his older brother RS10, presenting audio material in a more balanced, voluminous and melodic manner.

However, the philosophy of honest, truthful and "immaculate" sound - Hear the Truth - is present in both models.

RSVs have a well balanced, noble and extremely melodic sound. This is a smooth manner with a bodily filling of sound images, a slightly warm background, moderately expressive, with a good rhythmic base.

The compositions are presented smoothly, balanced, in a neutral manner, with a slight "color" in the lower register. This is similar to the character of a good studio monitor, interspersed with charm in the form of light expression, smooth as velvet, moderately emotional and melodic sound processing.







The low-frequency range delivers a tight and precise punch, the charming, rounded bass fills the smooth, flowing, detailed mids with depth and warm bodily substance. The high frequencies, in turn, rising steadily from the middle, precisely, consistently and unmistakably complete the overall audio band. As a result, everything sounds right, smooth and beautiful.

The imaginary space is larger than average, it is harmoniously and proportionally lined up both in width and in depth. RSV works especially well in working out the depth of the "soundstage".


A separate topic is RSV's ability to squeeze the maximum out of any genre. Headphones do an excellent job with everything: classical music, instrumental, jazz, new wave, rock and various brutal genres.

Also worth noting is the amazing smoothness, information content and lack of joints in the sound of RSV.








The blow is quite powerful, going to the very bottom. The bass is thick, tight, measured and well controlled. Here there is precise massive cotton, and relief, and "tasty" warm color, and good speed characteristics. The lower register harmoniously cooperate with the mid-frequency range, without overlapping it in any way, but only competently filling it with depth and living weighty substance. They beautifully and unobtrusively create a light velvety background and add mass to the overall sound.
This manner resembles the work of a dynamic radiator, with a dense, embossed and rounded sound: thus, a "warm tube".


Mids are smooth, natural, rich in timbre and texture. Here, any musical image is clearly tangible. The manner in which the midrange is presented is both thick and delicate. It is extremely detailed and naturalistic. Every timbre, every vibration of a voice or string is transmitted accurately and deeply. It is organic, well balanced, smooth and comfortable. Vocal parts and strings sound natural, rich, pure and melodious, and musical images are drawn large and multifaceted. It perfectly combines power, multiplied by emotions, and dry monitoring, drive and academic manners.


The high frequencies are clear and concise. Their quantity, as well as the quality of working off, do not cause any complaints to me personally. The register is transmitted quite cleanly and clearly, without sharpness and distortion.

It is unobtrusive, precise and as correct as possible, with good articulation, delivered in a light, graceful and comfortable manner. There is no abundance of "air" or refined after-sounds, but there is a correct working out of small nuances, without excessive aggression and annoying moments. Highs harmoniously contribute to the common cause of the entire frequency range, without whims and arbitrariness.






Conclusion

Softears RSV is a model that can charm and, in some places, beat on the spot. She, like the best representatives of the aristocracy, is modest, but not simple-minded, has a sense of tact and a delicate innate taste. And the ability to combine in oneself both the monitor and the "musical" manner is simply mesmerizing.

These IEMs have amazing looks, good build quality, good ergonomics, rich package and great sound. Once again I would like to praise the Softears engineers for the work done and sincerely wish the company a speedy and widespread recognition in the audiophile's world. And directly RSV, in my opinion, deserve the closest attention from lovers of high-quality sound.

Well, about the price. The RSV has a suggested retail price of $ 729. Considering all the indisputable advantages of Softears RSV: sound, rich package, build quality, design and ergonomics - I find this price quite adequate. Well, on my own behalf, in the end, I will add that these IEMs will definitely not disappoint you.


And as an afterword, I will allow myself my lyrical summary about Softears headphones, they deserve it, believe me.
RS10 - is an intellectual musician with a conservatory education, a daring careerist and a womanizer, in search of the perfect sound, straightforward, honest and ambitious. Very cool and expensive model - not for everyone.
RSV - is an experienced musician or sound engineer, bohemian, self-confident, sedate, well-versed in his business, who knows the "taste of wine". A professional who has found his own sound and knows how to recognize and enjoy all its nuances. An affordable model that will appeal to many - from demanding audiophiles to gourmet music lovers.