HIDIZS S9 PRO PLUS: MARTHA
- Added by Zerstorer_GOhren
- Create date
Inclusions in the box:
Dongle itself
Type C to C Cable
Type C to A Adapter
2 Hi-Res Stickers
Hidizs Warranty Card
The Martha does not have the typical ESS implementation. Instead of being neutral-bright or a bright piece, this is more of a warm-neutral dongle with a slight boost in subbass, slightly forward vocals and smooth treble. The bass has a prominent presentation. There is a subtle subbass improvement with the "rumbling" being slightly more identifiable. It is fast and punchy, but without being too dark. Additionally, it has a well-laid robust and organic bass response. It is a solid choice for those wishing for that deep, rumbly male vocal(for example, that of Geoff Castelluci).
The mids have a more forward presentation. It is nicely detailed with a thicker and more refined texture. It has that "lush" sort of presentation for vocals, giving the notes therein a heavier yet still vibrant presentation. Lastly, there is clarity without being aggressive.
The treble region is resolving as well, with a slightly smoother presentation. It is not harsh. There is a "smooth extension" in just the right amount(at least in my standards). It is well-defined, has great control, and has a good amount of "air". Futhermore, it has a controlled presentation giving the user a sense of listening to a clean, crisp and transparent sound.
Comparisons:
VS DC03 Pro: Martha has better bass presentation and more forward mids. It also has a warmer tonality overall, while the DC03 Pro has a more airy treble presentation with it being identifiably brighter than the Martha.
Additional Notes:
In my opinion, this dongle is for those who want a warm-neutral and lush presentation, wishing for a slightly tamer treble(yep, imo not for trebleheads) without loosing details.
Just a note that contrary to the specs on "paper" where it doesn't have that much output power, I have fair reason to believe that the 138mW for SE and 180mW for Balanced is a very conservative approximation of how much power it can dish out. Thank you for spending time reading my review of the S9 Pro Plus Martha, have a good day.
Used: Poco M3 Pro 5G with the S9 Pro Plus Martha
Music App used: UAPP and HiBy Music Player(no equalizer used for both)
Songs/Tracks heavily used(in alphabetical order):
214-Rivermaya(16bit/44.1kHz)
A Homesick Song from the Frontier-Zhang Yongyan(24bit/96kHz)
Again & Again-Plastic Memories(24bit/48kHz)
Akatsuki no Requiem-Linked Horizon(16bit/44.1kHz)
Akuma no Ko-Ai Higuchi(16bt/44.1kHz)
Beat It-Michael Jackson(24bit/96kHz)
Black Sand-Tiny Island(DSD 1bit/2.8MHz)
Blurred Lines-Robin Thicke(16bit/44.1kHz)
Caesura of Despair-Irys(24bit/48kHz)
Deniere Danse-Indila(16bit/44.1kHz)
Down with the Sickness-Disturbed(24bit/96kHz)
Hall of Fame-The Script(24bit/44.1kHz)
Hero's Come Back-nobodyknows+(16bit/44.1kHz)
I Love You Too Much-Diego Luna(16bit/44.1kHz)
In da Club-50 Cent(16bit/44.1kHz)
King-Lauren Aquilina(16bit/44.1kHz)
King Chu dons His Armor-Zhang Hong Yan(24bit/96kHz)
Limbo-Freddie Dredd(16bit/44.1kHz)
Rainbow-South Border(16bit/44.1kHz)
Raining in Manila-Lola Amour(24bit/96kHz)
Additional Tracks:
A Fool for You – Carmen Gomes(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
Ashokan Farewell – John R. Burr & Mads Tolling(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
Carmen: Suite-Intermezzo – Musicus Orchestra(24bt/192kHz)
Dash-Naomi Shirai(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)'
Entr'acte-Mai Fukui(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
Falling Snowflakes Dotting the Verdant Trees(24bit/176.4kHz)
Meu Amor me du um Lenco(24bit/96kHz)
Ploca Plantor – Out of Time and Country(24bit/176.4kHz)
Prune Flowers(24bit/176.4kHz)
Short People – Newman(DSD 1bit/5.6MHz)
Trace of Grace – Michel Gochard, Swallow, Murgia, Paccoud, Helstoffer(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
For those curious, here is the non-afiliated link:
https://www.hidizs.net/products/hidizs-s9-pro-plus-martha-hifi-balanced-dongle-dac
The dongle is currently priced at $89(US) or roughly ₱5000.
Dongle itself
Type C to C Cable
Type C to A Adapter
2 Hi-Res Stickers
Hidizs Warranty Card
The Martha does not have the typical ESS implementation. Instead of being neutral-bright or a bright piece, this is more of a warm-neutral dongle with a slight boost in subbass, slightly forward vocals and smooth treble. The bass has a prominent presentation. There is a subtle subbass improvement with the "rumbling" being slightly more identifiable. It is fast and punchy, but without being too dark. Additionally, it has a well-laid robust and organic bass response. It is a solid choice for those wishing for that deep, rumbly male vocal(for example, that of Geoff Castelluci).
The mids have a more forward presentation. It is nicely detailed with a thicker and more refined texture. It has that "lush" sort of presentation for vocals, giving the notes therein a heavier yet still vibrant presentation. Lastly, there is clarity without being aggressive.
The treble region is resolving as well, with a slightly smoother presentation. It is not harsh. There is a "smooth extension" in just the right amount(at least in my standards). It is well-defined, has great control, and has a good amount of "air". Futhermore, it has a controlled presentation giving the user a sense of listening to a clean, crisp and transparent sound.
Comparisons:
VS DC03 Pro: Martha has better bass presentation and more forward mids. It also has a warmer tonality overall, while the DC03 Pro has a more airy treble presentation with it being identifiably brighter than the Martha.
Additional Notes:
In my opinion, this dongle is for those who want a warm-neutral and lush presentation, wishing for a slightly tamer treble(yep, imo not for trebleheads) without loosing details.
Just a note that contrary to the specs on "paper" where it doesn't have that much output power, I have fair reason to believe that the 138mW for SE and 180mW for Balanced is a very conservative approximation of how much power it can dish out. Thank you for spending time reading my review of the S9 Pro Plus Martha, have a good day.
Used: Poco M3 Pro 5G with the S9 Pro Plus Martha
Music App used: UAPP and HiBy Music Player(no equalizer used for both)
Songs/Tracks heavily used(in alphabetical order):
214-Rivermaya(16bit/44.1kHz)
A Homesick Song from the Frontier-Zhang Yongyan(24bit/96kHz)
Again & Again-Plastic Memories(24bit/48kHz)
Akatsuki no Requiem-Linked Horizon(16bit/44.1kHz)
Akuma no Ko-Ai Higuchi(16bt/44.1kHz)
Beat It-Michael Jackson(24bit/96kHz)
Black Sand-Tiny Island(DSD 1bit/2.8MHz)
Blurred Lines-Robin Thicke(16bit/44.1kHz)
Caesura of Despair-Irys(24bit/48kHz)
Deniere Danse-Indila(16bit/44.1kHz)
Down with the Sickness-Disturbed(24bit/96kHz)
Hall of Fame-The Script(24bit/44.1kHz)
Hero's Come Back-nobodyknows+(16bit/44.1kHz)
I Love You Too Much-Diego Luna(16bit/44.1kHz)
In da Club-50 Cent(16bit/44.1kHz)
King-Lauren Aquilina(16bit/44.1kHz)
King Chu dons His Armor-Zhang Hong Yan(24bit/96kHz)
Limbo-Freddie Dredd(16bit/44.1kHz)
Rainbow-South Border(16bit/44.1kHz)
Raining in Manila-Lola Amour(24bit/96kHz)
Additional Tracks:
A Fool for You – Carmen Gomes(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
Ashokan Farewell – John R. Burr & Mads Tolling(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
Carmen: Suite-Intermezzo – Musicus Orchestra(24bt/192kHz)
Dash-Naomi Shirai(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)'
Entr'acte-Mai Fukui(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
Falling Snowflakes Dotting the Verdant Trees(24bit/176.4kHz)
Meu Amor me du um Lenco(24bit/96kHz)
Ploca Plantor – Out of Time and Country(24bit/176.4kHz)
Prune Flowers(24bit/176.4kHz)
Short People – Newman(DSD 1bit/5.6MHz)
Trace of Grace – Michel Gochard, Swallow, Murgia, Paccoud, Helstoffer(DSD 1bit/11.2MHz)
For those curious, here is the non-afiliated link:
https://www.hidizs.net/products/hidizs-s9-pro-plus-martha-hifi-balanced-dongle-dac
The dongle is currently priced at $89(US) or roughly ₱5000.
Attachments
HIDIZS S9 PRO+ MARTHA
[ES9038Q2M][139$ USD]
S9 PRO + Technical Buff = S9 PRO PLUS? And Martha is back?
[MY PERSONAL HEAD-FI GRADING]
1 ★ - Appalling! please avoid this!
2 ★★ Subpar offering, there are better options out there!
3 ★★★ Decent with some caveats! Not a bad pick!
4 ★★★★ Not perfect but solid choice ! This should be in your shortlist. A nice addition to your collection.
5 ★★★★★ One the best in class! You should go right ahead & buy one! A must have!
SOUND IMPRESSIONS & USER EXPERIENCE:
[SOUND QUALITY 7/10 VALUE: 4/10] [NEUTRAL-BRIGHT]
▓▒░ SOUND-SIGNATURE ░▒▓
- Neutral bright with a sub-bass boost. Quite cold in tonality. It gives off an intimate presentation with the bass, mids and treble having nigh equal forwardness within the tri-frequency band.
▓▒░ BASS/LOW-END ░▒▓
- It's got a fast, clean, tight response with a sub-bass oriented character. The overall bassline has this cold and analytical demeanour to its approach.
- The well-extended sub-bass offers great presence and texture. The sub-bass kick is punchy while rumbling effect has good amount of pressure and sustain. The ambience level is decent to keep things atmospheric but the elements of reverb and echo are not well defined.
- Sadly, the mid-bass is on the lean side. There is not much emphasis here. The attack is soft and not much depth to the hits. And in terms of warmth or body it is quite lacking. The ghetto bass replay is bouncy enough with zero bleed onto the lower mid-range.
▓▒░ MID-RANGE /VOCAL ░▒▓
- Overall, the mid-range/vocals are rather forward in the mix. The vocal reproduction has good clarity and transparency at the expends of fullness and richness. The lower harmonics just don’t provide enough warmth and body to the lower mid-range. Hence, there is a hint of dryness on vocal transient, especially on male vocal.
- It just lacks a touch of sweetness and euphony on vocal replay as it sounds more analytical than musical. And the lack of reverb overtone on vocals doesn’t help either. Some of would deem its mid-range to be abit flat or soulless, void of emotion. And it couldn’t be further than the truth. The coldness of the bassline and the brightness of the treble really put a toll on the tonality of its mid-range.
- The same true can be said with its instrument replay, they sound crisp but lacking note-weight and not very dynamic. Having said that, despite its monitoring nature, there hasn’t been any grain or harshness issue is heard.
▓▒░ TREBLE/HIGHS ░▒▓
- Regardless of filter-mode you’re in, the treble is on the bright side but not in the best possible manner. It is not piercing or peaky by any means. There is a good amount of crisp to the notes but they sound rather dry and flat with a hint of metallic edge. It can sound almost shrill or brittle depending on gears. Hence, affecting the naturalness of timbre. There is not much weight to the notes.
- The dynamic can sound quite compressed here as everything just sounds equally loud. The transient could use with a wider range of attack. Constant hi-hats and cymbal crush are more to the fore and tends to linger a little too long which can cause fatigue. While synthetic noise such as electronics, the zinging or shimmering will not have the most satisfying replay.
- The dryness is really something else to appoint that it dries my eardrum. Even on a dark set like my EJ07 or EST112 (loan), I am struggling to listen to them for a longer period of time which is not a very good sign. The bassline is largely responsible for this as there is not enough warmth & moisture to counter balance the brightness and the dryness of the highs.
- At the very least, the clarity and transparency is there to backed it up. The air extension is adequate which gives a nice sense of openness to the stage. There is no unwanted resonance with almost zero issue with sibilance.
- The treble overall sounds very clean. It’s got none of those grains, haze, distortion or any sort of dirty noise which is great. Sure, it’s got its strength but that “dryness” I mentioned earlier is not going to work in everyone’s favor. Those treble sensitive folks and timbre-heads might want to take note.
✧ ════ •TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE• ════ ✧
- The SOUND-FIELD is quite wide, giving an out of ears experience. From an intimate perspective, it’s offer good depth and adequate head-room.
- In terms of IMAGING PROWESS. It’s quite competent. Instrument positioning is sharp and accurate while transition of sound between channel is smooth and clean.
- It’s SEPARATION & LAYERING process is quite competent and it is mostly consistent. Doesn’t seem to struggle all that much on a chaotic passage. Due to the treble being abit hazy, the background is not the blackest. But its forgivable.
- DETAIL-HANDLING, be it macro or micro are well done. I don’t find it to be that inferior versus its competitors.
- As for the DYNAMICS, it’s a mix-bag. Depending on your playlist it can either be compressed or expand. Most of the time, it’s offers good balance between being energetic and laid-back.
- The TONE AND TIMBRE proved to be the S9PRO+ Achilles’ heels in its pursuit of chasing higher fidelity. One of the biggest let-downs is that constant dryness issue. The other thing is the note-weight is abit lacking. And the reverb overtones are not well received thanks to the quick decay and release. All that add up took a huge toll on its musicality. In other words, the sound it produces is not very pleasant.
- The device is WELL BUILT. It is small, light and seems durable.
- The DRIVING POWER is average at best. The AMP on both SE and BAL is more than enough for most IEMs but might struggle on more demanding headphones. The power delivery is HISS-FREE with abit of CLIPPING NOISE when changing tracks.
- Unfortunately the POWER-DRAW is not that efficient. It is quite power hungry. But it is not detrimental.
- As for HEAT-MANAGEMENT is very good. It is not that hot on longer usage.
- Speaking of FEATURES, it does not offer an independent volume control. The increment of volume per steps is not many but it is not that powerful so, it is more than usable. The gain is fixed, as I don’t see any gain-switch on user’s manual. Thankfully, it does provide a 6-ways of digital filters which gives a very subtle change to your music. Its very easy to operate. Not a bad feature.
- As for SYNERGY, it is best to pair the S9PRO+ with a warm and less technical gears. Due to it’s sound profile, it is not a very versatile DAC.
- For 139USD retailed, it is not very well priced. There are much better offerings for half the PRICE. But it does go on sales quite often for around 89USD.
~ HEAD-2-HEAD : IN-DEPTH COMPARISON ~
VS TANCHJIM SPACE [DUAL-CS43131] x BAT AUDIO OTG
[SOUND QUALITY 8/10 VALUE: 8/10] [NEUTRAL-BRIGHT]
"My nearly 1 year old Tanchjim SPACE OTG connectors has gone loose. Hence, I’m using an aftermarket OTG during the test which may alter the sound by 5% at best."
● They both went for a neutral-bright tuning with minimal sound colouration. But the SPACE has a hint of organic touch that makes its sounds more natural.
● The low-end of the S9PRO+ has a greater presence overall. One of the major differences is the SPACE will have a slight mid-bass biased while the S9PRO+ is a more sub-bass oriented. As a result, the sub-bass punch, rumble and grumble has higher pressure and texture. The SPACE mid-bass on the other hand has more meat. It has better extension and hits deeper with longer, more precise decay. The SPACE bassline offers more natural response which prove to have positive effects on its upper harmonics.
● The SPACE will come across as the more mid-centric of the two. The bass and treble elements took a slight step back giving the mids/vocal more room. However, it doesn’t sound as intimate as the S9PRO+. And the vocals on the S9PRO+ has slightly better transparency as well. The voice just carries more nuances. However, the reproduction of vocals on SPACE has more solid fundamental grounds. It carries more body and weight without losing much clarity. It sounds sweeter and more soulful by comparison. It managed to strike the right balance between euphony and clarity which makes it sounds the more natural of the two. Instrument-replay such as strings, guitar, piano and flute seems to have equally good performance.
● The SPACE treble response is certainly bright but perhaps not as bright or dry or as forward as the S9PRO+. The treble response is much more pleasant with the SPACE. In actuality, the treble of the SPACE has slightly more sparkle up top but for some reason it doesn’t dry up your eardrums like the S9PRO+ did. Constant hi-hats and cymbals aren’t as fatiguing with a more precise decay. While electronic zing has a nicer ring to them. Treble sensitive folks will have a better experience with the SPACE. It just has the right balance of bite, edge and crispiness without being too aggressive or soft which can make a treble lover rejoice. And this effect is pretty much consistent across all gears I’ve tried including their very own Hidizs MP145. I find the SPACE’s treble to be well defined yet refine.
As for technical performance:
● The SPACE sounds less intimate; not as wide but offers more depth and head-room in return.
● The blacker background of the S9PRO+ helps in giving it’s separated elements a clearer cut. Giving the S9PRO+ a slight advantage on separation and layering.
● Imaging/instrument placement is slightly sharper with the S9PRO+.
● MICRO-DETAIL with go to the S9PRO by a slight margin, as for DYNAMIC-RANGE, they trade blows.
● One thing that the SPACE does way better than the S9PRO is when it comes to TONE & TIMBRE. Other it’s denser note-weight, it is better at retrieving those elements of reverb on vocal and instrument. It’s got a believable transient attack with more precise decay and better level of sustain. Hence the notes often sound more complete from end to end with the SPACE.
● Next to the S9PRO+, the SPACE is more versatile when it comes to SYNERGY. Still, it is best to pair with warmer, darker gears.
● The SPACE has greater DRIVING POWER with better POWER/VOLUME MANAGEMENT. It’s got gain-switch and independent volume control unlike the S9PRO+.
● The SPACE seems to be more efficient on power-draw but slightly heavier and hotter upon usage.
● The SPACE cost only 89.99 USD retailed. It is nearly 40% cheaper which presents great value vs the S9PRO+ (139USD).
With my money, I’ll still go with the Tanchjim SPACE, it may not be as technical as the S9PRO+ but it does a lot of things more correctly. The more natural timbre of the SPACE is what gravitates me towards it more than S9PRO+
◤FINAL THOUGHTS◢
The Hidizs S9PRO+ then is by no means a terrible dongle. Unfortunately, on the pursuit of chasing higher fidelity, its started to lose sight of what is important which is the naturalness of tone and timbre. It does not need to achieve a 10/10 score on timbral accuracy, it only needs to sound natural enough to our ears. And it didn’t quite do that well. Sure, Hi-RES sound will definitely impress you on short-blast but on longer sessions, the naturalness of tone and timbre will play a bigger role. Once you notice that off-timbre, you just cannot go unnoticed. I find it quite hard to recommend to people especially with that 139$USD price-tag. Even on a 50% discount, it’s hard for me to vouch. I recently reviewed the COLORFLY CDA M1P, I do prefer that quite abit. Preference aside, I’m sorry Hidizs, you have to do better than this. Competitions are tough these days!
========================================================================
【SOURCE & GEARS】
● Huawei P20 PRO [Phone][ App- Foobar2000]
● IEMS USED FOR ASSESSMENT :
- Letshouer EJ07 x Hakugei Skyrim x Spinfit CP155 (M)
- Dunu EST112 x StarPicker Uranus Super Fusion x Spinfit CP100 (M)
- Tanchjim PRISM x Hakugei Rapheal 2023 x Spinfit CP100 (M)
- 7hz Timeless x Kinera Leyding x Spinfit CP100 (M)
- Hidiz MP145 + Rose-Gold Nozzle x No-Brand 2 Flange.
========================================================================
1982 Chicago – Hard to say I'm sorry. ★
2003 NARUTO Original Soundtrack I – Wakiagaru Toushi ★
2008 K.will (케이윌) – 소원 (Great King Sejong OST Part.1)
2009 Maksim – Exodus
2010 Ichiban Ushiro no Daimaou (OST) – Kokoro no Oku De Ha
2014 Grabbitz – Here with you now. ★
2014 BoA – MASAYUME CHASING
2014 Hyolyn – 안녕 Good bye ★
2015 KOKIA – I Found You ★
2015 K MISSING KINGS (OST) - New Kings
2016 K RETURN OF KINGS (OST) - Return of Kings
2016 K RETURN OF KINGS (OST) - If you die.
2017 Berry Goodman – Zutto (ずっと) ★
2017 SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:mizuki – ViEW
2017 Namie Amuro – Hope
2019 K SEVEN STORIES (OST) - In Pursuit Of
2019 K SEVEN STORIES (OST) - Lost Small World
2019 Blade & Soul (OST) – Half-Moon Lake
2019 CAROLE & TUESDAY VOCAL COLLECTION Vol.1 – Light a Fire ★
2020 Paradox Live Opening Show (1st E.P) – BAE – BaNG!!! ★
2020 Paradox Live Opening Show (1st E.P) – cozmez – Where They At ★
2020 倖田來未 (Kumi Koda) – GET NAKED (Kiyoshi Sugo Remix)
2020 倖田來未 (Kumi Koda) – again (MATZ Remix)
2020 premiere fleurs – プリンシパル
2020 Love Live! Nijigasaki – 朝香果林 (Karin Asaka) – VIVID WORLD ★
2020 Fujii Kaze – へでもねーよ”／Hedemo Ne-YoSeishun Sick
2020 King Gnu – 三文小説 ／Sanmon Shosetsu ★
2021 OWV – Fifth Season ★
2021 加藤 ミリヤ (Miliyah) feat. Yoshida Brothers – この夢が醒めるまで ★
2021 Aoi Teshima – ただいま★
2021 Official髭男dism – Cry Baby
2021 Chanmin BIJIN 美人 – Morning Mood
2021 門脇更紗 (Sarasa Kadowaki) – きれいだ
2021 Mirei Touyama – 美忘録
2021 SELECTION PROJECT Vol.1 – Only one yell -天沢灯ソロver.- ★
2022 Belle (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) – Million Miles Away (ENG vers.)
2022 rei (E-girls) – Dark Hero.
2022 rei (E-girls) – IDNY
2022 I can fly (Special Edition) – Bleecker Chrome - You will shine ★
2022 I can fly (Special Edition) – YOSHIKI EZAKI x Bleecker Chrome - UP ★
2022 BEAST TAMER (OST) – じんわり感じている幸せ
2022 Ado – 会いたくて
2022 Ado – 踊
2023 La prière – Sweet Dreams ★
2023 Bungou Stray Dogs 4th Season ED – Luck Life – しるし★
2023 Genjitsu no Yohane – Far far away
2023 Genjitsu no Yohane – Hey, dear my friends
2023 UMAMUSUME PRETTY DERBY - Hat on your Head!
2023 Anna – 花のように (Hana no You ni)
2023 riria. – 貴方の側に (Anata no Soba ni)
2024 Dungeon Meshi OP – BUMP OF CHICKEN – Sleep Walking Orchestra ★
2024 Sasaki and Peeps OP – MADKID – FLY
2024 Burn the Witch #0.8 Theme Song – NIL – PROVE
★ Main-Test-Tracks/ A glimpse of what listen to 90% of the of time.
Do take my words for what it’s worth. Afterall, I am just one man. ╮(╯▽╰)╭
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING! HAVE A GOOD DAY WHEREVER YOU ARE! TAKE CARE!
Disclaimer:
- This is a loaner unit. Big thanks to the @ Hidizs Tour Malaysia (Facebook) for making this possible!
Non-Affiliate Link:
https://www.hidizs.net/
EXTRA PHOTOS
[ES9038Q2M][139$ USD]
S9 PRO + Technical Buff = S9 PRO PLUS? And Martha is back?
[MY PERSONAL HEAD-FI GRADING]
1 ★ - Appalling! please avoid this!
2 ★★ Subpar offering, there are better options out there!
3 ★★★ Decent with some caveats! Not a bad pick!
4 ★★★★ Not perfect but solid choice ! This should be in your shortlist. A nice addition to your collection.
5 ★★★★★ One the best in class! You should go right ahead & buy one! A must have!
HIDIZS S9 PRO+ MARTHA 3 ★★★
SOUND IMPRESSIONS & USER EXPERIENCE:
[SOUND QUALITY 7/10 VALUE: 4/10] [NEUTRAL-BRIGHT]
▓▒░ SOUND-SIGNATURE ░▒▓
- Neutral bright with a sub-bass boost. Quite cold in tonality. It gives off an intimate presentation with the bass, mids and treble having nigh equal forwardness within the tri-frequency band.
▓▒░ BASS/LOW-END ░▒▓
- It's got a fast, clean, tight response with a sub-bass oriented character. The overall bassline has this cold and analytical demeanour to its approach.
- The well-extended sub-bass offers great presence and texture. The sub-bass kick is punchy while rumbling effect has good amount of pressure and sustain. The ambience level is decent to keep things atmospheric but the elements of reverb and echo are not well defined.
- Sadly, the mid-bass is on the lean side. There is not much emphasis here. The attack is soft and not much depth to the hits. And in terms of warmth or body it is quite lacking. The ghetto bass replay is bouncy enough with zero bleed onto the lower mid-range.
▓▒░ MID-RANGE /VOCAL ░▒▓
- Overall, the mid-range/vocals are rather forward in the mix. The vocal reproduction has good clarity and transparency at the expends of fullness and richness. The lower harmonics just don’t provide enough warmth and body to the lower mid-range. Hence, there is a hint of dryness on vocal transient, especially on male vocal.
- It just lacks a touch of sweetness and euphony on vocal replay as it sounds more analytical than musical. And the lack of reverb overtone on vocals doesn’t help either. Some of would deem its mid-range to be abit flat or soulless, void of emotion. And it couldn’t be further than the truth. The coldness of the bassline and the brightness of the treble really put a toll on the tonality of its mid-range.
- The same true can be said with its instrument replay, they sound crisp but lacking note-weight and not very dynamic. Having said that, despite its monitoring nature, there hasn’t been any grain or harshness issue is heard.
▓▒░ TREBLE/HIGHS ░▒▓
- Regardless of filter-mode you’re in, the treble is on the bright side but not in the best possible manner. It is not piercing or peaky by any means. There is a good amount of crisp to the notes but they sound rather dry and flat with a hint of metallic edge. It can sound almost shrill or brittle depending on gears. Hence, affecting the naturalness of timbre. There is not much weight to the notes.
- The dynamic can sound quite compressed here as everything just sounds equally loud. The transient could use with a wider range of attack. Constant hi-hats and cymbal crush are more to the fore and tends to linger a little too long which can cause fatigue. While synthetic noise such as electronics, the zinging or shimmering will not have the most satisfying replay.
- The dryness is really something else to appoint that it dries my eardrum. Even on a dark set like my EJ07 or EST112 (loan), I am struggling to listen to them for a longer period of time which is not a very good sign. The bassline is largely responsible for this as there is not enough warmth & moisture to counter balance the brightness and the dryness of the highs.
- At the very least, the clarity and transparency is there to backed it up. The air extension is adequate which gives a nice sense of openness to the stage. There is no unwanted resonance with almost zero issue with sibilance.
- The treble overall sounds very clean. It’s got none of those grains, haze, distortion or any sort of dirty noise which is great. Sure, it’s got its strength but that “dryness” I mentioned earlier is not going to work in everyone’s favor. Those treble sensitive folks and timbre-heads might want to take note.
✧ ════ •TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE• ════ ✧
- The SOUND-FIELD is quite wide, giving an out of ears experience. From an intimate perspective, it’s offer good depth and adequate head-room.
- In terms of IMAGING PROWESS. It’s quite competent. Instrument positioning is sharp and accurate while transition of sound between channel is smooth and clean.
- It’s SEPARATION & LAYERING process is quite competent and it is mostly consistent. Doesn’t seem to struggle all that much on a chaotic passage. Due to the treble being abit hazy, the background is not the blackest. But its forgivable.
- DETAIL-HANDLING, be it macro or micro are well done. I don’t find it to be that inferior versus its competitors.
- As for the DYNAMICS, it’s a mix-bag. Depending on your playlist it can either be compressed or expand. Most of the time, it’s offers good balance between being energetic and laid-back.
- The TONE AND TIMBRE proved to be the S9PRO+ Achilles’ heels in its pursuit of chasing higher fidelity. One of the biggest let-downs is that constant dryness issue. The other thing is the note-weight is abit lacking. And the reverb overtones are not well received thanks to the quick decay and release. All that add up took a huge toll on its musicality. In other words, the sound it produces is not very pleasant.
- The device is WELL BUILT. It is small, light and seems durable.
- The DRIVING POWER is average at best. The AMP on both SE and BAL is more than enough for most IEMs but might struggle on more demanding headphones. The power delivery is HISS-FREE with abit of CLIPPING NOISE when changing tracks.
- Unfortunately the POWER-DRAW is not that efficient. It is quite power hungry. But it is not detrimental.
- As for HEAT-MANAGEMENT is very good. It is not that hot on longer usage.
- Speaking of FEATURES, it does not offer an independent volume control. The increment of volume per steps is not many but it is not that powerful so, it is more than usable. The gain is fixed, as I don’t see any gain-switch on user’s manual. Thankfully, it does provide a 6-ways of digital filters which gives a very subtle change to your music. Its very easy to operate. Not a bad feature.
- As for SYNERGY, it is best to pair the S9PRO+ with a warm and less technical gears. Due to it’s sound profile, it is not a very versatile DAC.
- For 139USD retailed, it is not very well priced. There are much better offerings for half the PRICE. But it does go on sales quite often for around 89USD.
~ HEAD-2-HEAD : IN-DEPTH COMPARISON ~
VS TANCHJIM SPACE [DUAL-CS43131] x BAT AUDIO OTG
[SOUND QUALITY 8/10 VALUE: 8/10] [NEUTRAL-BRIGHT]
"My nearly 1 year old Tanchjim SPACE OTG connectors has gone loose. Hence, I’m using an aftermarket OTG during the test which may alter the sound by 5% at best."
● They both went for a neutral-bright tuning with minimal sound colouration. But the SPACE has a hint of organic touch that makes its sounds more natural.
● The low-end of the S9PRO+ has a greater presence overall. One of the major differences is the SPACE will have a slight mid-bass biased while the S9PRO+ is a more sub-bass oriented. As a result, the sub-bass punch, rumble and grumble has higher pressure and texture. The SPACE mid-bass on the other hand has more meat. It has better extension and hits deeper with longer, more precise decay. The SPACE bassline offers more natural response which prove to have positive effects on its upper harmonics.
● The SPACE will come across as the more mid-centric of the two. The bass and treble elements took a slight step back giving the mids/vocal more room. However, it doesn’t sound as intimate as the S9PRO+. And the vocals on the S9PRO+ has slightly better transparency as well. The voice just carries more nuances. However, the reproduction of vocals on SPACE has more solid fundamental grounds. It carries more body and weight without losing much clarity. It sounds sweeter and more soulful by comparison. It managed to strike the right balance between euphony and clarity which makes it sounds the more natural of the two. Instrument-replay such as strings, guitar, piano and flute seems to have equally good performance.
● The SPACE treble response is certainly bright but perhaps not as bright or dry or as forward as the S9PRO+. The treble response is much more pleasant with the SPACE. In actuality, the treble of the SPACE has slightly more sparkle up top but for some reason it doesn’t dry up your eardrums like the S9PRO+ did. Constant hi-hats and cymbals aren’t as fatiguing with a more precise decay. While electronic zing has a nicer ring to them. Treble sensitive folks will have a better experience with the SPACE. It just has the right balance of bite, edge and crispiness without being too aggressive or soft which can make a treble lover rejoice. And this effect is pretty much consistent across all gears I’ve tried including their very own Hidizs MP145. I find the SPACE’s treble to be well defined yet refine.
As for technical performance:
● The SPACE sounds less intimate; not as wide but offers more depth and head-room in return.
● The blacker background of the S9PRO+ helps in giving it’s separated elements a clearer cut. Giving the S9PRO+ a slight advantage on separation and layering.
● Imaging/instrument placement is slightly sharper with the S9PRO+.
● MICRO-DETAIL with go to the S9PRO by a slight margin, as for DYNAMIC-RANGE, they trade blows.
● One thing that the SPACE does way better than the S9PRO is when it comes to TONE & TIMBRE. Other it’s denser note-weight, it is better at retrieving those elements of reverb on vocal and instrument. It’s got a believable transient attack with more precise decay and better level of sustain. Hence the notes often sound more complete from end to end with the SPACE.
● Next to the S9PRO+, the SPACE is more versatile when it comes to SYNERGY. Still, it is best to pair with warmer, darker gears.
● The SPACE has greater DRIVING POWER with better POWER/VOLUME MANAGEMENT. It’s got gain-switch and independent volume control unlike the S9PRO+.
● The SPACE seems to be more efficient on power-draw but slightly heavier and hotter upon usage.
● The SPACE cost only 89.99 USD retailed. It is nearly 40% cheaper which presents great value vs the S9PRO+ (139USD).
With my money, I’ll still go with the Tanchjim SPACE, it may not be as technical as the S9PRO+ but it does a lot of things more correctly. The more natural timbre of the SPACE is what gravitates me towards it more than S9PRO+
◤FINAL THOUGHTS◢
The Hidizs S9PRO+ then is by no means a terrible dongle. Unfortunately, on the pursuit of chasing higher fidelity, its started to lose sight of what is important which is the naturalness of tone and timbre. It does not need to achieve a 10/10 score on timbral accuracy, it only needs to sound natural enough to our ears. And it didn’t quite do that well. Sure, Hi-RES sound will definitely impress you on short-blast but on longer sessions, the naturalness of tone and timbre will play a bigger role. Once you notice that off-timbre, you just cannot go unnoticed. I find it quite hard to recommend to people especially with that 139$USD price-tag. Even on a 50% discount, it’s hard for me to vouch. I recently reviewed the COLORFLY CDA M1P, I do prefer that quite abit. Preference aside, I’m sorry Hidizs, you have to do better than this. Competitions are tough these days!
========================================================================
【SOURCE & GEARS】
● Native FLAC Files [44.1Khz 16bits-96Khz 24bits]
● Foobar2000 [ROG Laptop] [Ugreen USB C Adapter]● Huawei P20 PRO [Phone][ App- Foobar2000]
● IEMS USED FOR ASSESSMENT :
- Letshouer EJ07 x Hakugei Skyrim x Spinfit CP155 (M)
- Dunu EST112 x StarPicker Uranus Super Fusion x Spinfit CP100 (M)
- Tanchjim PRISM x Hakugei Rapheal 2023 x Spinfit CP100 (M)
- 7hz Timeless x Kinera Leyding x Spinfit CP100 (M)
- Hidiz MP145 + Rose-Gold Nozzle x No-Brand 2 Flange.
========================================================================
【PLAYLIST／TEST-TRACKS】
1977 Fleetwood Mac - Dreams ★1982 Chicago – Hard to say I'm sorry. ★
2003 NARUTO Original Soundtrack I – Wakiagaru Toushi ★
2008 K.will (케이윌) – 소원 (Great King Sejong OST Part.1)
2009 Maksim – Exodus
2010 Ichiban Ushiro no Daimaou (OST) – Kokoro no Oku De Ha
2014 Grabbitz – Here with you now. ★
2014 BoA – MASAYUME CHASING
2014 Hyolyn – 안녕 Good bye ★
2015 KOKIA – I Found You ★
2015 K MISSING KINGS (OST) - New Kings
2016 K RETURN OF KINGS (OST) - Return of Kings
2016 K RETURN OF KINGS (OST) - If you die.
2017 Berry Goodman – Zutto (ずっと) ★
2017 SawanoHiroyuki[nZk]:mizuki – ViEW
2017 Namie Amuro – Hope
2019 K SEVEN STORIES (OST) - In Pursuit Of
2019 K SEVEN STORIES (OST) - Lost Small World
2019 Blade & Soul (OST) – Half-Moon Lake
2019 CAROLE & TUESDAY VOCAL COLLECTION Vol.1 – Light a Fire ★
2020 Paradox Live Opening Show (1st E.P) – BAE – BaNG!!! ★
2020 Paradox Live Opening Show (1st E.P) – cozmez – Where They At ★
2020 倖田來未 (Kumi Koda) – GET NAKED (Kiyoshi Sugo Remix)
2020 倖田來未 (Kumi Koda) – again (MATZ Remix)
2020 premiere fleurs – プリンシパル
2020 Love Live! Nijigasaki – 朝香果林 (Karin Asaka) – VIVID WORLD ★
2020 Fujii Kaze – へでもねーよ”／Hedemo Ne-YoSeishun Sick
2020 King Gnu – 三文小説 ／Sanmon Shosetsu ★
2021 OWV – Fifth Season ★
2021 加藤 ミリヤ (Miliyah) feat. Yoshida Brothers – この夢が醒めるまで ★
2021 Aoi Teshima – ただいま★
2021 Official髭男dism – Cry Baby
2021 Chanmin BIJIN 美人 – Morning Mood
2021 門脇更紗 (Sarasa Kadowaki) – きれいだ
2021 Mirei Touyama – 美忘録
2021 SELECTION PROJECT Vol.1 – Only one yell -天沢灯ソロver.- ★
2022 Belle (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) – Million Miles Away (ENG vers.)
2022 rei (E-girls) – Dark Hero.
2022 rei (E-girls) – IDNY
2022 I can fly (Special Edition) – Bleecker Chrome - You will shine ★
2022 I can fly (Special Edition) – YOSHIKI EZAKI x Bleecker Chrome - UP ★
2022 BEAST TAMER (OST) – じんわり感じている幸せ
2022 Ado – 会いたくて
2022 Ado – 踊
2023 La prière – Sweet Dreams ★
2023 Bungou Stray Dogs 4th Season ED – Luck Life – しるし★
2023 Genjitsu no Yohane – Far far away
2023 Genjitsu no Yohane – Hey, dear my friends
2023 UMAMUSUME PRETTY DERBY - Hat on your Head!
2023 Anna – 花のように (Hana no You ni)
2023 riria. – 貴方の側に (Anata no Soba ni)
2024 Dungeon Meshi OP – BUMP OF CHICKEN – Sleep Walking Orchestra ★
2024 Sasaki and Peeps OP – MADKID – FLY
2024 Burn the Witch #0.8 Theme Song – NIL – PROVE
★ Main-Test-Tracks/ A glimpse of what listen to 90% of the of time.
Do take my words for what it’s worth. Afterall, I am just one man. ╮(╯▽╰)╭
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING! HAVE A GOOD DAY WHEREVER YOU ARE! TAKE CARE!
Disclaimer:
- This is a loaner unit. Big thanks to the @ Hidizs Tour Malaysia (Facebook) for making this possible!
Non-Affiliate Link:
https://www.hidizs.net/
EXTRA PHOTOS
It’s been over a year since the release of the Hidizs S9 Pro, so it was high time for Hidizs to release a successor.
Enter the S9 Pro Plus, the latest dongle from Hidizs that neatly fills that gap for a “revision.” The older S9 Pro gets a decent price cut, and the even older S9 gets discontinued. So you get last year’s higher priced model for cheap, while those looking for the latest and the greatest have to spend a bit more.
Fair enough, I guess, but are the upgrades worth the extra bucks, or is it wiser to go for the cheaper, older model? Let’s find out.
This review originally appeared on Headphonesty. Hidizs sent out the unit for review.
Design and Build
The S9 Pro Plus goes for an aluminum and glass build, with glass on the top and bottom of the device. The design language is similar to Hidizs DAPs with the angular shape and sharp corners.These glass panels add to the dongle’s overall “premium” feel. However, I am worried about the glass shattering after a fall – something time shall tell.
A new addition is the volume buttons, which also aid in switching between filters. An RGB LED is hidden underneath the Hidizs logo to indicate the sample rate and selected filter. Sadly, the buttons wobble, which is an issue for me.
Finally, there are the ports. The type-C port is on one end of the S9 Pro Plus, while the other end houses the 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced ports. The 4.4mm port is another change from the S9 Pro, which has a (less common) 2.5mm port.
Handling
At 55×25×11mm and 17g, the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is very easy to carry around in my pocket. It also does not get noticeably warm during operation – so brownie points for that.Power consumption
Even when using the balanced output, the power consumption is not out of the ordinary for a dongle of this class. Hidizs has properly optimized the Sabre chipset.Controls
The two buttons are the only controls available on the S9 Pro Plus. During playback, they act as volume buttons. When the playback is stopped, simultaneously pressing both buttons changes between the available filters. The filters are as follows:
- Fast roll-off
- Linear-phase fast roll-off
- Minimum phase fast roll-off
- Slow roll-off
- Linear-phase slow roll-off
- Hybrid fast roll-off
App
Unfortunately, no app is available for the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, so further customization is out of the equation. I had to use a custom firmware updater by Hiby (a Windows application) for firmware upgrades.Under the Hood
The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus utilizes an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M chipset. This DAC chip is inherently balanced (with two differential DAC chips, one per channel), so it is a popular choice for manufacturers due to its relatively straightforward implementation.The amp section is not explained in the spec sheet of the S9 Pro Plus. We only get to know the output power for a 32 ohm load (138mW SE, 180mW balanced), and that’s about it.
There is also no dedicated line-out feature, albeit I suspect that by maxing out the volume on the hardware level, you should achieve 2Vrms and 4Vrms outputs, respectively, on the single-ended and balanced outputs.
How Does the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Sound?
I used the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus with a range of devices, including smartphones (Pixel 4 XL, Galaxy S23), tablets (Fire Max 11), and laptops (Apple M1 Macbook Pro, Microsoft Surface Laptop 4).Ideally, sources should be “transparent,” with no inherent coloration. Reality is far from perfection, though, so you’ll find that some sources can lean a bit warm while others may sound brighter. The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is mostly neutral in tone, with a slight hint of warmth, courtesy of rounded bass notes.
In terms of amplification ability, the majority of the IEMs are easily driven. Only when it comes to very tricky loads the S9 Pro Plus falters. For example, the Final E5000 (92 dB/mW @14 ohms, with lower sensitivity in the bass region) or the Tin P1 Plus (highly inefficient magnet array).
On the other end of the spectrum, with very low impedance and high sensitivity IEMs, such as the Campfire Audio Holocene (5 ohm impedance), background hiss is magnified if you push the volume up without music playing.
The prime problem, however, is the reduction of overall dynamic range, as the noise floor eats into the “quietest passages” of the music. For me, it was mostly a non-issue, as even the Holocene are well within the realm of “tolerable” in terms of background hiss.
If you are particularly sensitive to background hiss, something like the iFi IEMatch will come in handy, though it requires an additional purchase.
Lastly, I paired the S9 Pro Plus with high impedance loads (>150ohm) and planar magnetic headphones/IEMs. Planar magnetic drivers usually prefer high current, while high impedance dynamic drivers require high voltage swing.
There are better choices than the S9 Pro Plus for headphones like the Sennheiser HD 800S. The bass sounds noticeably less full, and lower mids are thinned out as a result. The Sennheiser HD 660S2 show similarly toned-down bass but do not suffer the midrange hollowness as much due to their elevated low end.
As for the planar devices, the Campfire Supermoon are driven well with adequate dynamics, while the Hifiman HE400se are not as punchy in the bass as on higher-powered desktop sources. The notorious Hifiman HE6se V2 (82 dB/mW @50ohm) are even less favorable in this regard, sounding lifeless and barely getting loud with the S9 Pro Plus maxed out.
So overall, if I have to summarize the amplification prowess of the S9 Pro Plus, it will be as follows:
- Low impedance (16-150ohms) and high sensitivity (>95dB/mW) loads are well driven.
- Very low impedance (<15ohms) and low sensitivity (<95dB/mW) loads are not ideally driven.
- High impedance and high sensitivity loads are moderately well driven.
- High impedance and very low sensitivity loads are a no-go.
Comparisons
Vs Moondrop Dawn 4.4
The Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is priced similarly but has some distinct differences.Firstly, the Dawn 4.4 has a fixed type-C cable. Secondly, there are no hardware buttons to control volume, etc. Finally, there is only one output (4.4mm balanced), so you’ll need a balanced cable for any headphones or IEMs you wish to power.
For all these omissions, what you get in return is class-leading output power and app support. The noise floor is also lower than the S9 Pro Plus.
Depending on the end-user’s needs, either of these dongles in the USD$50-$100 price range are great options. If you need absolute performance, the Dawn 4.4 is the ideal choice. The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is the better option for those requiring more flexibility.
Final Thoughts
The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is an overall upgrade over the last model. That much is certain.What’s not so immediately evident is the competition from the likes of Moondrop. The Dawn 4.4 measures just as well, while offering better output power and app support. The S9 Pro Plus has more usability perks, but the slightly weaker amp section holds it back.
That being said, the S9 Pro Plus is solid all around. Barring the wobbly volume buttons, everything worked as expected during my review period. It’s not too expensive, is well-built, and sounds good without being boring or sterile.
I wish the S9 Pro Plus stood above the rest in more aspects, but sometimes, simplicity is all you need, and this particular dongle nails that role.
"There is pleasure in the pathless woods, there is rapture in the lonely shore, there is society where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar; I love not Man the less, but Nature more."
~~George Gordon Byron, Lord Byron, English baron and an influential poet during the Romantic period.
Martha was the last surviving species of her kind. She was a passenger pigeon in captivity and these birds were supposedly endemic in North America but due to over-hunting and deforestation, their population became declining rapidly and the last known passenger pigeon in the wild was shot.
USB DAC/Amp dongles became a staple and a must have contraption for a portable audio enthusiast. HIDIZS was one of pioneers in the portable audio industry that released some of the best DAC/Amp dongles in the market like S3 Pro, S9, S9 PRO and XO. The release of the original S9 in 2020 was one of the pivotal moments of the portable audio industry that truly defines the mobile hi-fi experience at a reasonable price.
As I mentioned many times in some of my reviews regarding my grievances on the removal of headphone jacks on smartphones due to some initiative effort of a certain tech giant that up to this day, I don't have a respect on that company given that the founder was an avid audio enthusiast and a known audiophile. But everything that happens regarding this unfortunate decision has its own silver lining and some entrepreneurs in the portable audio industry take advantage of that opportunity and USB DAC/Amp dongles were one of the few innovations that were developed. (Yeah, yeah…Audioquest Dragonfly series were the first USB DAC/amp dongles but it was specifically used for laptop or PC application as far as I know and doing it with mobile phones is rather complicated and a bit of hassle as you need an adapter on it)
What I have here right now is the latest evolution of HIDIZS S9 series, The S9 PRO+ : Martha. The S9 PRO + is the follow up model of the previous flagship USB DAC/amp dongle, S9 PRO. The difference between the previous and the current generation of S9 PROs, the current one has key buttons for volume control and play/pause, implementation of some digital tuning filters, a more compact form factor and the ditching of 2.5mm balanced output to the more stable 4.4mm balanced output which is now the current standard.
On the physical aspect, S9 PRO + : Martha has a more compact size compared to some other DAC/amps in the current audio market. Its overall construction frame is made of aluminium alloy (probably a 2024 series) which are aviation-grade and are known to have a high tensile strength and also has excellent fatigue resistance properties for better durability. It underwent a CNC-milling process to ensure robustness yet lightweight build. It has some angular contours on its sides that reminds me of some hypercars and there's a HIDIZS logo RGB LED indicator for determining the digital tuning filter mode, sample rate and audio file format.
Here are the following corresponding colour coding:
SAMPLE RATE
■ GREEN - PCM 16-24 bit/ 44.1 - 96kHz, DoP 88.2kHz
■ BLUE - PCM 24-32 bit/ 192kHz, DoP 176.5kHz
■ RED - PCM 24-32 bit/ 384kHz, DoP 352.8kHz
■ WHITE - PCM 24-32 bit/ 768kHz, DoP 705.6kHz
■ YELLOW - DSD 64/128
■ PURPLE - DSD 256/512
DIGITAL TUNING FILTER EFFECTS
● GREEN/Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter) - Slightly forward vocals, extended high frequencies with reduced resonance.
● BLUE/Linear phase fast roll-off - Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound.
● YELLOW/Linear phase slow roll-off - Enriched harmonics, full low frequencies, and a natural reverb.
● PURPLE/Minimum phase fast roll-off - Balanced and moderate sound.
● WHITE/Minimum phase slow roll-off - Clean sound with a forward position.
● RED/Hybrid fast roll-off - Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail.
● N.A./ Brick wall - Excellent dynamics and strong presence.
The internal part of HIDIZS S9 PRO + uses similar components with its predecessor as it uses a flagship ESS DAC, The ES9038Q2M but HIDIZS claimed that they made some improvement on it like improving the SNR and a lower THD noise rating for better detail and accuracy of its sound reproduction. This gives a substantial upgrade over its predecessors when it comes to performance parameters. Aside from implementing a proven Hi-Fi DAC, it was also connected to HIDIZS latest generation of their audio processing circuitry architecture consisting of newer independent headphone amp, USB interface processor and POP sound cancelling for more accurate sound reproduction while retaining a natural, tidy and detailed sound. And another thing that I should mention, HIDIZS also implemented several digital tuning filter effects for more sonic ambient options and optimising the best possible effects of sound quality. On change its digital filter effects mode, press the two key button and check if there's a change of colour on its LED indicator. But to be honest, the changes of its tuning filter effects are rather marginal as if you can't hear some changes unless you do more meticulous critical listening which takes some time to figure out the subtle changes.
On its analogue output interfaces, it has the standard 3.5mm SE and a 4.4mm balanced which is quite a new implementation on a HIDIZS product. The 3.5 SE has maximum output of 130mW + 130mW, while the 4.4mm balanced output can reach up to 180mW + 180 mW which makes them quite powerful enough to power some of the hard to drive cans out there and all IEMs of any driver configuration and earbuds will be properly amplified. All the said output measurements are in the ideal load conditions of 32 Ohms.
The product packaging of HIDIZS S9 PRO + is rather minimalist and elementary as it includes some accessories just simply to cover the basics of its usage.
Here are the following contents inside of its packaging box:
■ HIDIZS S9 PRO + DONGLE
■ Detachable type-C to type-C short cable
■ USB type-A adapter
■ Hi-res sticker
■ Paperwork like Q.C stub and warranty card.
As for connectivity, This device is quite versatile in both software and hardware aspects. On the software side, this device works well on some of the most popular operating systems platforms like Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, iPadOS and iOS, and some applications and programs with USB Audio output support. Meanwhile on the hardware, this device can be used on smartphones with either Android or iPhone, laptops, tablets and desktop PC as long as they have type-C connector or USB type-A port.
In terms of tonality and sound quality, HIDIZS S9 PRO + has a balanced-neutral sound signature that deviates a bit compared to the previous generation of S9 Pro which was more energetic and a tad brighter sound.
IEMs and headphones that were used to test this device:
● BQEYZ WINTER
● BQEYZ WIND
● SEE AUDIO BRAVERY RED
● AFUL PERFORMER 8
● AFUL MAGICONE
● THIEAUDIO HYPE 2
● LETSHUOER EJ07M
● LETSHUOER EJ09
● KEFINE KLANAR
● KIWI EARS MELODY
● KINERA IDUN GOLDEN
● SENNHEISER HD600
● AUDIO TECHNICA M40X
LOWS/BASS:
It depends on tracks and also pairing with headphones and earphones, This device can deliver a tight to punchy bass response that is quite precise, fast and clean in which neutral bass should have.
On the sub-bass part, there's a mild presence of rumbling and reverberation enough to be generated from sub-bass-focused instruments like low tone bass guitars, drum machines and synthesisers. Mid-bass has an ample texture and depth to give an enough heft on some note weight on some instruments and male vocals. This dongle will be able to deliver a raspy and resonant sound on bass guitars, a precise, sustaining and thudding bass kick drums and a sufficient deep resonance and intensity on bass-baritone vocals.
MIDRANGE:
The midrange presentation on this device delivers a neutral, transparent, with just enough warmth to give a balanced texture and tidy to give a sufficient lush, rich and natural sound on vocals and instruments.
Both male and female vocals have fairly texture on its note weight as male vocals have an ample density, depth and volume for baritones up to countertenor while female vocals will able to project an articulate and clear voices with its lush, tender and silky sound whether it is a contralto, mezzo-sopranos or soprano.
The instruments here sound very lucid while maintaining an organic sound with their distinctive tonality and tonal colour. Strings like guitars and violins have enough bright, crisp and vibrant sound, while brass instruments like horns, trumpets and trombones have velvety, full and intense sound respectively. On woodwind instruments, concert flutes have ethereal and airy sound, while piccolos have brilliant and graceful sound and then on clarinets and saxophones, they have a sombre to brilliant sound depending on note registers. Percussives like snares, toms, field drums and kettledrums, snares have clear and sharp sound, toms and field drums have resonant, sonorous and venerable sound, and then kettledrums have deep and rumbling sound. Pianos seems to sound very natural and its tone are quite even and balanced with good warmth and sufficient bright sound.
HIGHS/TREBLE:
The treble quality that this device was able to gauge a well-refined treble response as they have an enough brightness on the upper-mids up to presence part to give a well-precise and articulate attack of percussives and rhythm instruments, a well-rendered vocal definition on vocals and crisper and delineated sound. Its airy extension is commendable as it is quite well-extended with a good sparkle on its harmonics.
In some instruments, cymbals have a crisp and shimmering sound, hi-hats have shortened buzzing and sizzling sound, celestas have a bell-like and gleaming sound and glockenspiels have lustrous and shimmering sound.
OVERALL TECHNICALITIES:
HIDIZS S9 PRO + is capable of projecting a wide sound field with a good height ceiling and immersive depth on its sound/speaker stage. It is also quite competent in its separation capabilities as it is able to separate and each element has its spacing to be determined while its finesse layering is well-organised and pretty articulate in a sonic canvas.
It has a fairly sharp micro-detail definition as I was able to hear some nuances and details like vocal ends, strumming, plucking and striking on instruments that were extracted from audio tracks.
PEER COMPARISONS:
HIDIZS S9 PRO
■ This is the predecessor model of S9 PRO +, it has a longer frame and like its successor, it also has a colour-coded LED sample rate but it didn't have advanced digital tuning filter effects. It uses an identical ESS DAC but the S9 PRO has a typical "Sabre glare" characteristic which I will explain later. There's no hardware key buttons for play/pause or volume level keys. It has a 2.5mm balanced output jack which is quite outdated for today's standard.
■ It has a balance-neutral sound profile with added brightness on it which some audio enthusiasts will recognise as a typical "Sabre glare" . Compared to the S9 PRO, This one has a tighter bass, more energetic yet dry midrange presentation and noticeable more shimmering and crisper treble response. Technicalities-wise, both devices have similar capabilities but due to its sound profile. S9 PRO has a bit more sharper micro-detail retrieval.
TRUTHEAR SHIO
■ TRUTHEAR's inaugural USB DAC dongle and unlike the S9 PROs family, it has a flagship-level dual Cirrus Logic DACs, CS43198 which has a bit more powerful output that can drive some planar cans. It has almost similar size with the S9 PRO but it has a faux-hardbound leather on its covering. It has 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm S.E. on its output interfaces. It has hardware key buttons for volume level, stop, play and gain mode.
■ As for tonality, SHIO has a warmish-neutral sound signature which makes it more musical and analogue-ish tuning. Compared to S9 PRO +, It has a similar punchiness on its bass response but it has texture on the mid-bass, it has a tad more textured and warmer midrange and less airy and sparkling treble response as it sounds a bit smoother and relaxed sounding. As for its technicalities, Both sets have similar performance like projecting a wider sounder, good layering and separation but it appears that SHIO has more solid macro-dynamics but less sharper micro-detail definition.
As I put a verdict on this product, HIDIZS proves that they are one of the audio companies that are willing to take some feedback from its customer base and try to implement some improvements of their next product releases. HIDIZZ S9 PRO+: MARTHA is definitely an improvement over the S9 PRO with more refined tuning and added more features on it to make this USB dongle DAC more appealing for today's standard and it delivers such performance when it comes to tonal and technical qualities.
HIDIZS S9 PRO+ : Martha is now available in HIDIZS official online store, you can check out its unaffiliated link below.
★★HIDIZS S9 PRO PLUS - OFFICIAL STORE★★
For more HIDIZS product reviews, just click the links below:
■ HIDIZS S9 PRO
■ HIDIZS XO
■ HIDIZS MS5
■ HIDIZS MS3
■ HIDIZS MP145
SPECIFICATION:
Some Tracks Tested: ( * = 16-bit FLAC, ** = 24-bit FLAC, *'* = MQA, '*' = DSD, *'= .WAV)
Alison Krauss -When You Say Nothing At All *
Jade Wiedlin - Blue Kiss**
Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks **
Mountain - Mississippi Queen *
Queen - Killer Queen **
Guns N' Roses - Patience *'*
Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven '*'
Sergio Mendes- Never Gonna Let You Go '*'
Pearl Jam - Daughter **
Roselia - Hidamari Rhodonite *
Assassin - Fight (To Stop The Tyranny)*
Celtic Frost- Visual Aggression *
New Order - Blue Monday *
The Corrs- What Can I do (unplugged version) *
Jimi Hendrix Experience - Voodoo Child *
The Madness- Buggy Trousers *
Metallica - Motorbreath **
Mariah Carey- Always Be My Baby *
Destiny's Child - Say My Name *
Malice Mizer- Au Revoir *
Mozart - Lacrimosa *
New York Philharmonic Orchestra - Dvorak- Symphony 9 " From the New World." *
Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold (Sting cover)*
Michael Jackson - Give In To Me *
Exciter - Violence and Force *
Diana Krall - Stop This World **
Debbie Gibson - Foolish Beat *'*
The Sisters of Mercy – Lucretia My Reflection**
Suzanne Vega – Luka **
Lauren Christy – Steep *
Ottoman Mehter - Hucum Marsi *
Diana Damrau - Mozart: Die Zauberflöte*
Type O Negative - Black No.1 *
Felix Ayo - Vivaldi: Presto **
Three Tenors - Nessum Dorma *
Mercyful Fate - Witches' Dance *
P.S.
I am not affiliated to HIDIZS nor receive monetary incentives and financial gains as they provide me a review unit for an exchange of factual and sincere feedback from yours truly.
Once again, I would like to send my gratitude to MS. ZOIE HELLO for providing this review unit. I truly appreciate her generosity and trust towards me and other reviewers.
Hidizs S9 Pro Plus - Martha
$79
First of all, I want to thank Hidizs for sending me this dongle in for review, rest assured, the content of this review is 100% my own personal opinion.
Just in case you want to purchase and support me at the same time, you can get the S9 Pro Plus Martha here: https://tinyurl.com/s9ppmartha(affiliated)
use code : LITTLENEZT or LITTLENEZT5OFF for extra discount
Unboxing
What you get inside the box :
Build Quality
Weighing only at 17g, it is very lightweight, but feels premium at the same time thanks to its glass and aluminum construction.
Mine is the blue color, it also has silver and black color options available.
Bottom side of the dongle, there is a type C connector.
At the right side you can find a volume button, that multifunction as a filter changing button when both button pressed at the same time.
Bad news :the S9 Pro Plus did not have independent volume control
Left side of the dongle is practically empty, space with an angled design.
Upper side, gone is the small and obsolete 2.5mm port, now Hidizs is also using a 4.4mm pentaconn balanced connector with the S9 Pro Plus Martha, FINALLY HIDIZS...
There is also standard 3.5mm port available for compatibility purposes.
Compatibility & Battery Consumption & Output Power
Tested on Mi 13T(Mediatek Dimensity 8200 Ultra) Poco F5 (Snapdragon 7 Gen 2), Asus Zenfone 10 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2), ROG Phone 7 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2), Galaxy S23 FE (Exynos 2200)
I do have some issues with the S9 Pro Plus Martha with my Snapdragon powered devices on “non exclusive USB mode”
It has a faint ticking sound, and I don't know if it's my device fault or the S9 Pro Plus Martha's fault or the firmware, but with a Mediatek or Exynos powered devices, the S9 Pro Plus Martha sounds normal without any issues at all on both exclusive and non exclusive USB mode.
Power consumption is somewhat efficient, it drains around 10 – 12% per hour using my Mi13T with screen on.
Output power is rated at
For headphone use, you can power the HD600 but don't expect to blow your eardrums out.
Sound
Tonality in general, the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is neutral with very good treble presentation.
With the stock filters anodizing fast roll-off, I found the S9 Pro Plus Martha to be a bit bland and too neutral with extremely fast decay sound and sounds somewhat too digital.
There are 7 filters available to choose from, for the sound part, I will describe it using the “Blue Filter” the linear phase slowroll-off because it sounds the most pleasing to my ears.
With the linear phase slow roll-off filter, the sound is somewhat much more richer more whole, more weight with extended decay / reverb so it sounds more natural / organic to my ears, not like fully digital analytical sounding of the stock filters.
The S9 Pro Plus Martha has that typical Hidizs analytical sound but now you can somewhat micro adjust the sound via the filters option.
Bass with the S9 Pro Plus Martha is rendered with proper weight, not lean or accented in any way.
With the “Blue Filter” overall bass sound is more whole and correct compared to the stock default filters.
Midrange is rendered with very good clarity, it sounds lively and forward, not laidback (for example like an R2R DAC) thankfully it never sounds too aggressive to my ears, But do keep in mind, the S9 Pro Plus Martha sound signature is somewhat demands your attention.
Treble here is rendered very good and resolving for a $79 USD DAC, it also has very good air and decay using the “Blue Filters”
The rendition of the sound is same like its midrange, it demands attention and very lively, “here, listen to this cymbal, crashes and hi hat !”
Technicality
The S9 Pro Plus Martha has a decent sized soundstage, not the most widest sounding dongle but not small either.
The imaging here is very good, it can render sounds with proper object but let me just put it this way : “What comes in, comes out” it does not lacking imaging capabilities but its also depends on what sets of IEMs / Headphones that you used with it.
Detail Retrieval for a $79 USD set is great, it has that “attention demanding sound rendition”, so details is somewhat served a little more forward for you to hear more easily.
Separation is average, it does not lacking but also not special at the same time.
Comparation
Truthear SHIO
More or less same price like the S9 Pro Plus Martha
SHIO has a more laidback presentation, and almost sounding like a low res Cayin RU7.
SHIO has more weight and accent on its bass and lower midrange, with more relaxed treble presentation that just sounds smooth and liquidy.
Technicality wise, Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Martha beats the SHIO on all aspects in cost of the more attention demanding sound presentation.
IF you're searching for a more laidback with weighty accented bass and lower midrange probably the SHIO is the one for you.
Plus side, SHIO has independent volume control.
Moondrop Dawn Pro
Cheaper option alternative to the S9 Pro Plus Martha
The Dawn Pro sounds a little bit like the S9 Pro Plus Martha, but more digital and thin sounding regardless of what filters you used.
The S9 Pro Plus Martha has more natural and organic decay compared to the Dawn Pro.
Technicality wise, the Dawn Pro is close to the S9 Pro Plus, I have to give an edge to the S9 Pro Plus Martha on the Imaging department, thanks to its more proper weight sound.
Plus side, the Moondrop Dawn Pro has a companion app and independent volume control for more intuitive fine tuning your volume.
Pairing
To be honest it depends on your personal taste and what you're trying to achieve.
The S9 Pro Plus pairs pretty well with Hidizs own MP145 Planar, it gives the MP145 sense of even more details without sounding harsh and it does improve the decay of the MP145 to be more natural.
Conclusion
Do I recommend the S9 Pro Plus Martha ?
It depends, what is your device you're gonna plug the S9 Pro Plus Martha to, and do you need an independent volume control or not.
If both criteria are passed then YES, I can recommend the S9 Pro Plus Martha to you.
It is one of the most detailed dongle for the price bracket and not only that, it also sounds very good and not digital sounding at all, in fact, the decay presentation of the S9 Pro Plus Martha is very satisfying for a $79USD dongle, it has very good layer of decay that you can enjoy with your IEMs and Headphones.
That's all from me for now,
thanks for reaching this far.
-littlenezt.
$79
First of all, I want to thank Hidizs for sending me this dongle in for review, rest assured, the content of this review is 100% my own personal opinion.
Just in case you want to purchase and support me at the same time, you can get the S9 Pro Plus Martha here: https://tinyurl.com/s9ppmartha(affiliated)
use code : LITTLENEZT or LITTLENEZT5OFF for extra discount
Unboxing
- Dongle
- C to C Cable
- Type C to A Adapter
- Hidizs paperworks
Build Quality
Weighing only at 17g, it is very lightweight, but feels premium at the same time thanks to its glass and aluminum construction.
Mine is the blue color, it also has silver and black color options available.
Bottom side of the dongle, there is a type C connector.
At the right side you can find a volume button, that multifunction as a filter changing button when both button pressed at the same time.
Bad news :the S9 Pro Plus did not have independent volume control
Left side of the dongle is practically empty, space with an angled design.
Upper side, gone is the small and obsolete 2.5mm port, now Hidizs is also using a 4.4mm pentaconn balanced connector with the S9 Pro Plus Martha, FINALLY HIDIZS...
There is also standard 3.5mm port available for compatibility purposes.
Compatibility & Battery Consumption & Output Power
Tested on Mi 13T(Mediatek Dimensity 8200 Ultra) Poco F5 (Snapdragon 7 Gen 2), Asus Zenfone 10 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2), ROG Phone 7 (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2), Galaxy S23 FE (Exynos 2200)
I do have some issues with the S9 Pro Plus Martha with my Snapdragon powered devices on “non exclusive USB mode”
It has a faint ticking sound, and I don't know if it's my device fault or the S9 Pro Plus Martha's fault or the firmware, but with a Mediatek or Exynos powered devices, the S9 Pro Plus Martha sounds normal without any issues at all on both exclusive and non exclusive USB mode.
Power consumption is somewhat efficient, it drains around 10 – 12% per hour using my Mi13T with screen on.
Output power is rated at
- Up to 138mW SE 3.5mm @32Ω
- Up to 180mW BAL 4.4mm @32Ω
For headphone use, you can power the HD600 but don't expect to blow your eardrums out.
Sound
Tonality in general, the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is neutral with very good treble presentation.
With the stock filters anodizing fast roll-off, I found the S9 Pro Plus Martha to be a bit bland and too neutral with extremely fast decay sound and sounds somewhat too digital.
There are 7 filters available to choose from, for the sound part, I will describe it using the “Blue Filter” the linear phase slowroll-off because it sounds the most pleasing to my ears.
With the linear phase slow roll-off filter, the sound is somewhat much more richer more whole, more weight with extended decay / reverb so it sounds more natural / organic to my ears, not like fully digital analytical sounding of the stock filters.
The S9 Pro Plus Martha has that typical Hidizs analytical sound but now you can somewhat micro adjust the sound via the filters option.
Bass with the S9 Pro Plus Martha is rendered with proper weight, not lean or accented in any way.
With the “Blue Filter” overall bass sound is more whole and correct compared to the stock default filters.
Midrange is rendered with very good clarity, it sounds lively and forward, not laidback (for example like an R2R DAC) thankfully it never sounds too aggressive to my ears, But do keep in mind, the S9 Pro Plus Martha sound signature is somewhat demands your attention.
Treble here is rendered very good and resolving for a $79 USD DAC, it also has very good air and decay using the “Blue Filters”
The rendition of the sound is same like its midrange, it demands attention and very lively, “here, listen to this cymbal, crashes and hi hat !”
Technicality
The S9 Pro Plus Martha has a decent sized soundstage, not the most widest sounding dongle but not small either.
The imaging here is very good, it can render sounds with proper object but let me just put it this way : “What comes in, comes out” it does not lacking imaging capabilities but its also depends on what sets of IEMs / Headphones that you used with it.
Detail Retrieval for a $79 USD set is great, it has that “attention demanding sound rendition”, so details is somewhat served a little more forward for you to hear more easily.
Separation is average, it does not lacking but also not special at the same time.
Comparation
Truthear SHIO
More or less same price like the S9 Pro Plus Martha
SHIO has a more laidback presentation, and almost sounding like a low res Cayin RU7.
SHIO has more weight and accent on its bass and lower midrange, with more relaxed treble presentation that just sounds smooth and liquidy.
Technicality wise, Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Martha beats the SHIO on all aspects in cost of the more attention demanding sound presentation.
IF you're searching for a more laidback with weighty accented bass and lower midrange probably the SHIO is the one for you.
Plus side, SHIO has independent volume control.
Moondrop Dawn Pro
Cheaper option alternative to the S9 Pro Plus Martha
The Dawn Pro sounds a little bit like the S9 Pro Plus Martha, but more digital and thin sounding regardless of what filters you used.
The S9 Pro Plus Martha has more natural and organic decay compared to the Dawn Pro.
Technicality wise, the Dawn Pro is close to the S9 Pro Plus, I have to give an edge to the S9 Pro Plus Martha on the Imaging department, thanks to its more proper weight sound.
Plus side, the Moondrop Dawn Pro has a companion app and independent volume control for more intuitive fine tuning your volume.
Pairing
To be honest it depends on your personal taste and what you're trying to achieve.
The S9 Pro Plus pairs pretty well with Hidizs own MP145 Planar, it gives the MP145 sense of even more details without sounding harsh and it does improve the decay of the MP145 to be more natural.
Conclusion
Do I recommend the S9 Pro Plus Martha ?
It depends, what is your device you're gonna plug the S9 Pro Plus Martha to, and do you need an independent volume control or not.
If both criteria are passed then YES, I can recommend the S9 Pro Plus Martha to you.
It is one of the most detailed dongle for the price bracket and not only that, it also sounds very good and not digital sounding at all, in fact, the decay presentation of the S9 Pro Plus Martha is very satisfying for a $79USD dongle, it has very good layer of decay that you can enjoy with your IEMs and Headphones.
That's all from me for now,
thanks for reaching this far.
-littlenezt.
Disclaimer:
I’m always grateful to Hidizs, who keeps contributing the most to my hobby. Thank you very much to Zoie for kindly sending me this Hidizs S9 Pro Plus for testing and review!
Though I’m still not as skilled as the most knowledgeable person you can find online, I’m starting to acquire an intriguing amount of Dac.
The review, as always, will be completely unbiased and uninfluenced.
I would like to remind you that I am just a person who enjoys trying out new items and listening to a lot of music; I am not an expert.
My opinions are obviously subjective.
Tech Specs:
- ES9038Q2M High Performance DAC Chip
- PCM Supports Up to 32bit/768kHz
- Native DSD Supports Up to 512
- Physical Buttons for Volume Control & 6 Filter Options
- 4.4mm Balanced & 3.5mm Single-ended Output
- 138mW+138mW@32Ω 3.5mm SE / 180mW+180mW@32Ω 4.4mm BAL
- Sampling Rate Indication RGB Lighting
- Compatible with all platforms: Windows/Mac OS/iPad OS/Android/iOS/Harmony OS
- Hi-Res Audio Certification
- Compatible with Windows/Android/Mac OS/iOS/iPad OS System
- Price for First 100 units $69.99, After that $79.99
- Special discount code at the end of the review
Packaging
The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus comes in a black and sturdy, well-made plastic box, quite simple and standard for Hidizs but perfect for transport and compact to keep costs down.
Once opened inside, we find the dac embedded, below we find the accessories:
- Type C to type C cable (a little bit short and stiff)
- Hi-res stickers
- Type C to USB
- Manual + warranty
Build quality/First impressions:
The build quality of Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is very reminiscent of Hidizs XO; the shape is the same, with a slightly more “aggressive” design. The frame is made of aluminum, while the two sides are made of transparent plastic. On the front, we find the Hidizs logo, which lights up based on the sample rate or the filter used. In the back, we find Martha’s specifications. Finally, we have the 3.5mm SE output and the 4.4mm balanced one, the first ever Dac from Hidizs to adopt them.
Finally, we also have the volume buttons, which at first glance look like two wheels, but they don’t rotate; they can only be pressed to lower or raise the volume; if pressed together, they change the filter. Personally, the feedback from the buttons does not give a feeling of extreme solidity. As for the Type C cable, it is a little short and very rigid.
Power:
Finally, with the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, we also have a little more power. We have 276mW@32Ω on 3.5mm SE and 360mW@32Ω on 4.4mm BAL, which are very respectable values achieved thanks to a double amplification chip.
By now, many of their headphones were offered with a 4.4mm termination, so it was right to also offer a DAC to pair with them. There’s definitely power on both ends; you can easily run any IEM or headphones on it. The MP145s pair perfectly, and you have all the power you need. The Letshourer S12Pro also runs perfectly. The Hifiman HE400SE reaches very interesting volumes if you consider that you are using a dongle.
The latest planar IEMs are very easy to drive even on SE output, such as the Kefine Klanar, which doesn’t even need 40% volume to reach excellent sound pressures.
Sound Signature:
By now, I have tried other DACs that mount the ESS9038Q2M, such as the F.Audio KS01 and EPZ Tp30, but also the old Hidizs S9 Pro.
I must point out that the volume is not independent, but I hope Hidizs also makes a firmware to be able to add it.
What stands out is a touch of warmth in the overall sound; in the first two mentioned, the sound is slightly brighter and perhaps even more neutral. I must say that I also liked the Hidizs implementation on S9 Pro, so I find it an added value.
6 Filters:
There are six filters that can be changed by pressing both buttons at the same time:
- Green Light: Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter): Vocals are slightly forward, and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance.
- Blue Light: Linear Phase Fast Roll-Off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound.
- Yellow Light: linear phase slow roll-off: enriched harmonics, full low frequencies, and natural reverb
- Purple Light: Minimum Phase Fast Roll-Off: Balanced and Moderate Sound
- White Light: Minimum phase slow roll-off: clean sound with a forward position.
- Red Light: Hybrid Fast Roll-Off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail
Theoretically, there should also have been a seventh filter, which unfortunately does not exist! In fact, the colors that the LED indicates are a maximum of 6, and consequently, the number of filters.
The difference in filters is honestly very difficult to hear, especially if you are not used to paying critical attention to what you are hearing. If you think that switching from one filter to another will upset your life, know that you will be disappointed. The changes are extremely delicate and require almost bat-like ears. I sincerely admit to you my difficulty hearing real changes, and therefore I would not recommend this DAC if your hope is to have six filters that completely change the sound.
Fast Comparison
vs EPZ TP30
The real rival for the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is the EPZ TP30. The similarity in size and even position of the outputs, buttons, and LEDs is remarkably suspicious. I could venture that they have a very similar or even the same motherboard, but it is the implementations that make the differences. Epz Tp30 has no filters, is slightly brighter and probably analitycal, the construction is massive, and it weighs at least 4 times the Hidizs Martha. Personally, they’re two excellent DACs, but the S9 Pro Plus is definitely lighter. The Epz Type C cable is definitely better.
vs Hidizs S9 Pro
Hidizs S9 Pro Plus has everything that was missing on the Pro version. Finally the 4.4mm balanced output and a few buttons that never hurt. Sure there’s some extra power, a nicer design and some extra features. The S9 Pro is currently priced at $50 on their site. A great price!
vs Hidizs XO
As the new model is out, I believe the Hidizs XO will become somewhat less noticeable. The XO is a great equipment, but even with its buttons, it doesn’t have many features. The lights aren’t a really useful feature, so if the price of the two models is the same, I think the more powerful one will be chosen. It gets much warmer than the other two Hidizs models.
vs F.Audio KS01
The F.Audio KS01 is the only DAC with the same chip priced under 50 USD. It is full of features and full of firmware to try, but only has a 3.5mm output with a decidedly interesting power considering the price. I have not encountered any problems, but some users have had background noises. I would like to point this out as it is a product with a suspiciously low cost and perhaps few quality controls. As for the sound, the sound is excellent and different from the crowd.
If, however, you are looking for DACs with a warm sound signature, then you can definitely save money and opt for dual Cirrus chips like the EPZ TP20 or Moondrop Dawn Pro.
Who do I recommend this DAC to?
The market is more saturated with dongles every day, which makes it hard to even choose! The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is certainly an excellent choice if you want to try a DAC that features an ESS chip. The sound is slightly corrected by Hidizs; in fact, from what I hear, it has a slightly warm tone compared to others.
The build quality is good, the body is light, and it works very well on different devices. In recent weeks, I have not had any kind of problem, either on Android or MacOS. If the price charged is between 80 and 90 USD, it will be an excellent DAC to take into consideration, especially if you purchase it in some bundle offered by Hidizs.
Where to buy:
Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Martha – HiFi Balanced Dongle DAC
Hidizs Official Site
Extra 5% discount using: PF5OFF
Introduction
Sometimes I think it's amazing how portable audio brands from China are able to bring so many products to market. So far this year I have reviewed the IEMS MS5, MS3, MP145 and MS1. And now Hidizs is back with a revision of their famous S9 Pro dongle. However, they have not been very imaginative with the name of the new model: Hidizs S9 Pro Plus. Fortunately, they have been kind enough to add a codename: Martha. And this name was chosen "because "Martha" was the name of the last surviving female passenger pigeon, the largest species of flocking bird that ever existed on Earth. After 109 years since the extinction of the passenger pigeon, in commemoration of this magnificent species, professional acoustics brand Hidizs has chosen to name its third generation HiFi Balanced Dongle DAC, the S9 Pro Plus, after "Martha". S9 Pro Plus Martha adopts the fourth-generation professional HiFi audio processing circuit architecture developed by Hidizs Acoustic Laboratory. It is a fully balanced circuit architecture, consisting of four parts: USB interface processor, DAC, separate headphone amplifier and POP sound cancellation system. The DAC uses ESS Technology's flagship ES9038Q2M DAC chip, which employs ESS Technology's proprietary 32-bit HyperStream® II QUADDAC™ architecture and time-domain jitter eliminator. It guarantees the highest accuracy of audio data and represents the highest level of audio decoding technology. Its outstanding features make it the first choice for audiophiles and hi-fi music lovers. The ES9038Q2M chip supports a maximum PCM sampling rate of 32bit/768kHz, has an SNR of up to 128dB and an ultra-low THD+N of -120dB. It has two buttons to adjust the volume and to set up to 6 impulse response filters (PCM FILTER IMPULSE RESPONSE) by pressing both buttons at the same time. Each filter will be represented by a different colour. In reality, the big changes between the S9 Pro and S9 Pro Plus are aesthetic, the two volume buttons and the change of balanced output from 2.5mm to 4.4mm. Presumably there will also be an improvement in sound and specs. But we'll get to that in this review.
Specifications
Packaging
Hidizs is once again repeating very similar packaging to its previous XO dongle. Martha comes in a very small, almost square, black box with dimensions 76x75x39mm. On the main side you can see a real picture of the S9 Pro Plus on a black background. At the top, on the left, is the model name as well as the description. At the bottom, also on the left, is the Hidizs logo. On the bottom right are the Hi-Res, DSD and ESS logos, all in holographic ink. On the back side are the specifications, both in English and Chinese, as well as other languages, in white ink. After removing the outer cardboard, a black plastic box appears, with the brand's logo and slogan inscribed on the lid. On one side there is a sticker with the CE certificate. On the other side there is another sticker with the model name, between two linear barcodes. After opening the box the dongle is embedded in a foam mould lined with black cardboard. There is a strap to remove it. It is also protected by a cellophane bag. The complete contents are as follows:
Again, the contents are as accurate and essential. There is no pouch to store the dongle, the USB cable is the same as always and the USB Type-C female to Type-A male adapter is still beautiful, practical and of high quality. A new Hidizs dongle under the same packaging and accessories. No need for innovation in this respect either.
Construction and Design
According to the specifications, the exterior of the S9 Pro Plus Martha is crafted from a single block of aerospace-grade aluminium using advanced CNC machining techniques. Both sides are protected by a glazed plastic plate. On the top face is the Hidizs logo. It is white, but translucent, below it is an RGB LED indicating the sample rates and filters. On the back side, on the top horizontal part is the ESS and DSD logo. Underneath it is indicated that it supports 32Bit/768kHz and DSD512. Finally, at the bottom is the full model name, all in silver ink.
Martha's shape is not a simple rectangular lozenge. On the left side, it has a subtle upward slope. On the right side are the two buttons, equidistant from each other, on a side that decreases from the ends, similar to the opposite side. The decrease is in gradient, as in width, until it reaches the buttons. Both look like two small potentiometer wheels, because of the grooves around them. But these buttons do not rotate, they can only be pressed. Both the shape of the bezels around them and the grooves on their edge suggest the opposite. On the top side are the headphone sockets. The 3.5mm SE output has a black border while the 4.4mm output is gold-plated. At the bottom is the USB Type-C connector.
The dimensions are 55x25x11mm and it weighs 17 grams.
My model is blue, it is quite eye-catching and nice. It is a small device that warms up subtly. The bevelled details on the edges give it a distinctive, special and attractive touch. I like it, but it's still a simple, minimalist yet elegant design. I would have liked the 3.5mm jack to be gold-plated as well.
Connectivity
The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Martha is compatible with Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS. For iOS compatibility, a Lightning to Type-C cable with OTG function must be purchased separately. For Windows 10 and above no additional driver is required and ASIO driver is available. Allows exclusive mode with HiBy Music APP. It does not support microphone, but it can control the volume of the system by means of its two buttons.
Operativity
The operability of the S9 Pro Plus is somewhat more comprehensive, due to its two buttons. Initially, the buttons were used to change songs. After a new firmware update, they adopted the volume functionality, which I consider much more practical and necessary. It also became ASIO compatible through the installation of a particular driver on my Windows 10. The two buttons also have another functionality: by pressing both at the same time you can change the filter. They are as follows and each has an assigned colour that flashes when selected:
Green light: Anodizing fast roll-off (Default filter): Voices are slightly advanced and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance.
It goes without saying that these filters also exist in other devices and are specific to the ESS DAC. Although I must confess that their impact on the sound is imperceptible to yours truly.
On the other hand, as usual, the general purpose of the RGB LED is to indicate the sample rate or format played, according to the following table:
My usual tests are with my PC using Foobar 2000 x64 with ASIO drivers. I have also tested it with Android and HiBy Music with the exclusive mode. The downside I have found with HiBy Music is that the hardware volume jumps controlled by the dongle are a bit big, there can be a higher change than desired. Another thing is that the volume is only changed if the APP is in the foreground.
In Windows 10 the volume control works from 0 to 100, but with 2-step jumps, as is usual with other volume-controlled dongles. Not bad.
Finally, it doesn't have gain modes.
Measures
As can be seen in the specifications, Martha's power is 138mW on SE and 180mW on BAL at 32Ω. In reality it is 150mW for both outputs, a little higher for SE, but a little lower for BAL. I have verified that it can give 2.76V per BAL at 33Ω with a pure tone of 5kHz, but I have not been able to make such a measurement with lower frequencies, simply, it is not able to give that power in all the frequency range. In that special case, the power would be 230mW, a very high value. And that means that Martha is capable of a lot.
The output impedance values are very good: 0.3Ω for the 3.5mm SE output and 0.5Ω for the 4.4mm BAL output. Here are some reference values.
No load SE
With no load on the 3.5mm output Martha reaches a value above 2V, more precisely 2.2V. Very good.
15Ω SE
1.222V for this impedance, 100mW and 81mA, great value.
33Ω SE
Martha is overmatched for this impedance: 2.2V, 150mW and 66mA. Excellent.
100Ω SE
Again the maximum value for a higher impedance: 2.2V, 49mW and 22mA.
No load BAL
With no load on the 4.4mm output Martha reaches 4.477V. Upper.
15Ω BAL
Martha has been chilled at this impedance by BAL, giving values lower than the SE output: 1V, 69mW and 68mA.
33Ω BAL
Once again it falters in BAL at 33Ω, it matches the values for SE: 2.2V, 150mW and 66mA, a bit far from the 180mW it promises. It would have been necessary to reach 2.4V, but it is very close.
100Ω BAL
Full output for this higher impedance: 4.453V, 200mW and 44mA. Very good.
Frequency Response
As can be seen in the graph, Martha has a flat response from 5Hz to 40kHz over the entire volume range. There is also no difference between channels, as both signals overlap. It is a Hi-Res device.
Sound
Hidizs again emphasises the use of Sabre's ES9038Q2M DAC, which worked so well in the S9 Pro. Comparing the specifications, there doesn't seem to be a clear winner. Martha wins in SNR, but in channel separation the S9 Pro is still ahead. It also has lower distortion on the 3.5mm output and more power per BAL. But the specs, when it comes to such high or low values, are very difficult to differentiate by ear and the suggestion may be more powerful. Be that as it may, I find Martha brings a point of delicacy over the already good sound of the previous S9 Pro. Starting with the low end, Martha awakens with a special control over the more extreme frequencies. The performance is slightly warm, compact, the bass performance is dry, fast and with a quick decay. It leaves no aftertaste and the texture is smooth, without being too rough. The bass is technical, deep, but not too dark, even then it is neutral. As it has very good resolution, it is able to follow bass lines perfectly and laminate layers with precision, thanks also to its great control, dryness and speed. All this makes the bass rich and descriptive, though perhaps lacking a little more punch or violence, given its education.
In the mid-range, its neutrality gives it transparency, a slight lightness, as well as a natural and realistic timbre, which does not lean to either side. There is a point of sharpness and grace, due to the clarity provided, which adds a more accentuated dynamic feel, allowing for a more moving and lively sound. In that way the vocals are vivacious and crisp, while the instrumentation is given a purposeful dynamism.
The treble follows the product's tone and comes across as neutral and extended, in just the right amount, while maintaining a warmth and musical softness. They are never bright or uncontrolled. Part of Martha's superior finesse is underpinned by the well-shaped, precise treble presentation, with great mastery of energy delivery, speed, resolution and definition. As a great Hi-Res product, Martha has a remarkable amount of air and hence that sense of clean, transparent sound. On the other hand, that distinguished point makes its sound more docile, consistent and controlled in complex and saturated situations. At this point it is able to bring order and generate a more polite and musical performance.
At the stage level, Martha has great laterality, generating a remarkable stereo feel and producing an oval presentation with a medium depth, quite in keeping with the overall size. There is a good sense of height, but no full or immersive three-dimensional recreation. There is a good amount of air and separation, while the background is discernible, without going to the extreme of blackness or pristine separation. Perhaps that is its limit and that is why the scene is natural, not overly volatile or gauzy, but rather realistic and relatively tight. The image and instrumental positioning is obvious and flawless, pleasant and understandable. The good lateral sensation allows the oval that extends up to 180°, which makes it possible for the elements to be separated, well distributed and rationally presented, easily distinguishable, being able to improve and scale with superior headphones.
Comparisons
Tempotec Sonata BHD Pro
Both dongles are recent, although the Tempotec has been on sale for a few weeks. Like Hidizs, Tempotec is sticking to its guns by using its CS43131 DAC in dual mode, adding a professional FPGA. Both have volume control, 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, RGB LEDs and a similar size. Both are metallic and the Tempotec stands out for its transparent window to the inside, while the Hidizs stands out for its more elegant design. The Tempotec has the possibility to change its sound via firmwares, while the Hidizs has 6 filters that can be changed by pressing the two buttons at the same time. The SNR of the Tempotec is higher, 131dB to 123dB and the distortion is lower, 0.00012% to 0.0008%. The Hidizs is more powerful, 150mW at 33Ω per BAL versus 100mW at 33Ω per BAL for the Tempotec. The Hidizs can play formats up to 768kHz/32Bit and DSD512, while the Tempotec goes up to 384kHz/32Bit and DSD256.
In terms of sound, the Tempotec is warmer, while the Hidizs is more neutral and somewhat more clean. Starting with the lower end, the Tempotec feels a little lower, with the sub-bass reproduction being deeper and darker. Its texture is rougher and the bass is bigger overall, taking up more volume and space, with a bit more power, even. On the other hand, the Hidizs is more neutral, compact, defined and fast, its transitions are quicker and it sounds drier, with higher control. The result is a cleaner bass, not as deep, not as dark, but with better technicalities.
In the middle area, the Hidizs is somewhat more transparent, although the level of detail is similar, the difference being in its representation. In this respect, the subtle warmth of the Tempotec is noticeable, being somewhat darker. Whereas Hidizs has slightly more luminosity. However, the Tempotec has a higher level of resolution when it comes to rendering details in the background of the scene, which go unnoticed. The Hidizs also reaches that point, but it is the detail that is the difference, that point of darkness and warmth in the Tempotec and that slight clarity in the Hidizs. In this way, the character of the Hidizs is subtly cleaner, with a little more sparkle. The Tempotec is more subdued, equally descriptive, but it is quieter, less striking because it is calmer and softer. That sparkle brings a liveliness to the Hidizs vocals and a little more dynamic feel to the instruments.
In the upper range, Hidizs has a behaviour that combines control, resolution and sparkle. Tempotec is quieter, with a slightly lower energy, but not as clean. The Hidizs is perceived as more loose and in noisier environments seems to reflect a more controlled, polished and resolute character, generating a more musical and less intricate response than the Tempotec.
The Hidisz's soundstage seems more open, reaching a 180° oval, while the Tempotec is a little more clipped. Both sound quite crisp and separated, but I find a little more order and openness in the Hidizs, perhaps the mix of speed, refinement, control and dryness brings a more expansive point to its soundstage, with a little more light and separation. On the other hand, the Tempotec is a little rawer, a little more violent, which gives it more texture, a slower decay and a subtly more abrupt character than the Hidizs, but also with a little less separation and definition across the notes.
Conclusion
Hidizs presents the new S9 Pro Plus Martha as the logical evolution of its previous successful dongle S9 Pro. Continuing with the name, until the superlative suffixes run out, Hidizs wanted to give it a more human name. Martha incorporates two buttons to control volume and change filters, as well as replacing the balanced 2.5mm output with a more robust 4.4mm output. It retains the informative RGB LED and a restrained size, improving the aesthetics, increasing the beauty of the device. The power of the SE output has been increased, while the BAL output has been slightly decreased. Compared to the previous model, there is no clear winner in terms of specifications. However, Martha's sound has gained in exquisiteness, being more distinguished and select. The new Hidizs dongle is characterised by a sound that is neutral, but soft, not bright, slightly warm, but not dark. But, without a doubt, one of Martha's greatest assets is the sound quality for its price, being able to extract very good potential from the DAC used. There are more and more dongles on the market and choosing one is always difficult. Martha is among the most powerful I have tested in its price range and can play the most extreme formats such as DSD512 and PCM 768kHz/32Bit. It is also very versatile and compatible with multiple systems, robust and light enough for everyday use. All this makes it very easy to recommend.
Earphones and Sources Used During Analysis
Purchase Link
You can read the full review in Spanish here
Sometimes I think it's amazing how portable audio brands from China are able to bring so many products to market. So far this year I have reviewed the IEMS MS5, MS3, MP145 and MS1. And now Hidizs is back with a revision of their famous S9 Pro dongle. However, they have not been very imaginative with the name of the new model: Hidizs S9 Pro Plus. Fortunately, they have been kind enough to add a codename: Martha. And this name was chosen "because "Martha" was the name of the last surviving female passenger pigeon, the largest species of flocking bird that ever existed on Earth. After 109 years since the extinction of the passenger pigeon, in commemoration of this magnificent species, professional acoustics brand Hidizs has chosen to name its third generation HiFi Balanced Dongle DAC, the S9 Pro Plus, after "Martha". S9 Pro Plus Martha adopts the fourth-generation professional HiFi audio processing circuit architecture developed by Hidizs Acoustic Laboratory. It is a fully balanced circuit architecture, consisting of four parts: USB interface processor, DAC, separate headphone amplifier and POP sound cancellation system. The DAC uses ESS Technology's flagship ES9038Q2M DAC chip, which employs ESS Technology's proprietary 32-bit HyperStream® II QUADDAC™ architecture and time-domain jitter eliminator. It guarantees the highest accuracy of audio data and represents the highest level of audio decoding technology. Its outstanding features make it the first choice for audiophiles and hi-fi music lovers. The ES9038Q2M chip supports a maximum PCM sampling rate of 32bit/768kHz, has an SNR of up to 128dB and an ultra-low THD+N of -120dB. It has two buttons to adjust the volume and to set up to 6 impulse response filters (PCM FILTER IMPULSE RESPONSE) by pressing both buttons at the same time. Each filter will be represented by a different colour. In reality, the big changes between the S9 Pro and S9 Pro Plus are aesthetic, the two volume buttons and the change of balanced output from 2.5mm to 4.4mm. Presumably there will also be an improvement in sound and specs. But we'll get to that in this review.
Specifications
- DAC chip: ES9038Q2M
- Headphone outputs: SE 3.5mm, BAL 4.4mm.
- Frequency response: 20Hz-40kHz.
- Distortion: PO (3.5mm): 0.0019%, BAL (4.4mm): 0.0008% (32Ω).
- SNR: PO (3.5mm): 123dB, BAL (4.4mm): 120dB. (32Ω)
- Separation: PO (3.5mm): 75dB, BAL (4.4mm): 115dB. (32Ω)
- Output power: SE 3.5mm up to 138mW, BAL 4.4mm up to 180mW. (32Ω)
- DSD: Native DSD64/128/256/512.
- PCM: Support up to 768kHz/32Bit.
- RGB LED sample rate indicator.
- Volume control: 2 knobs.
- Filters: 6 impulse response filters.
- USB Type-C connection.
- Weight: 17g.
- Dimensions: 55x25x11mm.
- Hi-Res Audio certified device.
- Supported systems: Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS (to be compatible with iOS it is necessary to purchase separately a Lightning to Type-C cable with OTG function).
- Choice of colours: Black, blue and silver.
Packaging
Hidizs is once again repeating very similar packaging to its previous XO dongle. Martha comes in a very small, almost square, black box with dimensions 76x75x39mm. On the main side you can see a real picture of the S9 Pro Plus on a black background. At the top, on the left, is the model name as well as the description. At the bottom, also on the left, is the Hidizs logo. On the bottom right are the Hi-Res, DSD and ESS logos, all in holographic ink. On the back side are the specifications, both in English and Chinese, as well as other languages, in white ink. After removing the outer cardboard, a black plastic box appears, with the brand's logo and slogan inscribed on the lid. On one side there is a sticker with the CE certificate. On the other side there is another sticker with the model name, between two linear barcodes. After opening the box the dongle is embedded in a foam mould lined with black cardboard. There is a strap to remove it. It is also protected by a cellophane bag. The complete contents are as follows:
- The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Martha dongle.
- One short USB Type-C to Type-C cable.
- One USB Type-C female to Type-A male adapter.
- One warranty certificate.
- One serial number card.
- Two Hi-Res Audio stickers.
Again, the contents are as accurate and essential. There is no pouch to store the dongle, the USB cable is the same as always and the USB Type-C female to Type-A male adapter is still beautiful, practical and of high quality. A new Hidizs dongle under the same packaging and accessories. No need for innovation in this respect either.
Construction and Design
According to the specifications, the exterior of the S9 Pro Plus Martha is crafted from a single block of aerospace-grade aluminium using advanced CNC machining techniques. Both sides are protected by a glazed plastic plate. On the top face is the Hidizs logo. It is white, but translucent, below it is an RGB LED indicating the sample rates and filters. On the back side, on the top horizontal part is the ESS and DSD logo. Underneath it is indicated that it supports 32Bit/768kHz and DSD512. Finally, at the bottom is the full model name, all in silver ink.
Martha's shape is not a simple rectangular lozenge. On the left side, it has a subtle upward slope. On the right side are the two buttons, equidistant from each other, on a side that decreases from the ends, similar to the opposite side. The decrease is in gradient, as in width, until it reaches the buttons. Both look like two small potentiometer wheels, because of the grooves around them. But these buttons do not rotate, they can only be pressed. Both the shape of the bezels around them and the grooves on their edge suggest the opposite. On the top side are the headphone sockets. The 3.5mm SE output has a black border while the 4.4mm output is gold-plated. At the bottom is the USB Type-C connector.
The dimensions are 55x25x11mm and it weighs 17 grams.
My model is blue, it is quite eye-catching and nice. It is a small device that warms up subtly. The bevelled details on the edges give it a distinctive, special and attractive touch. I like it, but it's still a simple, minimalist yet elegant design. I would have liked the 3.5mm jack to be gold-plated as well.
Connectivity
The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Martha is compatible with Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS. For iOS compatibility, a Lightning to Type-C cable with OTG function must be purchased separately. For Windows 10 and above no additional driver is required and ASIO driver is available. Allows exclusive mode with HiBy Music APP. It does not support microphone, but it can control the volume of the system by means of its two buttons.
Operativity
The operability of the S9 Pro Plus is somewhat more comprehensive, due to its two buttons. Initially, the buttons were used to change songs. After a new firmware update, they adopted the volume functionality, which I consider much more practical and necessary. It also became ASIO compatible through the installation of a particular driver on my Windows 10. The two buttons also have another functionality: by pressing both at the same time you can change the filter. They are as follows and each has an assigned colour that flashes when selected:
Green light: Anodizing fast roll-off (Default filter): Voices are slightly advanced and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance.
- Red light: Linear phase fast roll-off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, offering a clean and crisp sound.
- Blue light: Linear phase slow roll-off: Enriched harmonics, full low frequencies and natural reverberation.
- Yellow light: Minimum phase fast roll-off: Balanced and moderate sound.
- Purple light: Minimum phase slow roll-off: Clean sound with a forward position.
- White light: Hybrid fast roll-off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail.
It goes without saying that these filters also exist in other devices and are specific to the ESS DAC. Although I must confess that their impact on the sound is imperceptible to yours truly.
On the other hand, as usual, the general purpose of the RGB LED is to indicate the sample rate or format played, according to the following table:
- Yellow: DSD 64/128.
- Purple: DSD 256/512.
- Blue: PCM 176.4/192 kHz.
- Red: PCM 352.8/384 kHz.
- White: PCM 705.6/768 kHz.
- Green: PCM 44.1/48/88.2/96 kHz.
My usual tests are with my PC using Foobar 2000 x64 with ASIO drivers. I have also tested it with Android and HiBy Music with the exclusive mode. The downside I have found with HiBy Music is that the hardware volume jumps controlled by the dongle are a bit big, there can be a higher change than desired. Another thing is that the volume is only changed if the APP is in the foreground.
In Windows 10 the volume control works from 0 to 100, but with 2-step jumps, as is usual with other volume-controlled dongles. Not bad.
Finally, it doesn't have gain modes.
Measures
As can be seen in the specifications, Martha's power is 138mW on SE and 180mW on BAL at 32Ω. In reality it is 150mW for both outputs, a little higher for SE, but a little lower for BAL. I have verified that it can give 2.76V per BAL at 33Ω with a pure tone of 5kHz, but I have not been able to make such a measurement with lower frequencies, simply, it is not able to give that power in all the frequency range. In that special case, the power would be 230mW, a very high value. And that means that Martha is capable of a lot.
The output impedance values are very good: 0.3Ω for the 3.5mm SE output and 0.5Ω for the 4.4mm BAL output. Here are some reference values.
No load SE
With no load on the 3.5mm output Martha reaches a value above 2V, more precisely 2.2V. Very good.
15Ω SE
1.222V for this impedance, 100mW and 81mA, great value.
33Ω SE
Martha is overmatched for this impedance: 2.2V, 150mW and 66mA. Excellent.
100Ω SE
Again the maximum value for a higher impedance: 2.2V, 49mW and 22mA.
No load BAL
With no load on the 4.4mm output Martha reaches 4.477V. Upper.
15Ω BAL
Martha has been chilled at this impedance by BAL, giving values lower than the SE output: 1V, 69mW and 68mA.
33Ω BAL
Once again it falters in BAL at 33Ω, it matches the values for SE: 2.2V, 150mW and 66mA, a bit far from the 180mW it promises. It would have been necessary to reach 2.4V, but it is very close.
100Ω BAL
Full output for this higher impedance: 4.453V, 200mW and 44mA. Very good.
Frequency Response
As can be seen in the graph, Martha has a flat response from 5Hz to 40kHz over the entire volume range. There is also no difference between channels, as both signals overlap. It is a Hi-Res device.
Sound
Hidizs again emphasises the use of Sabre's ES9038Q2M DAC, which worked so well in the S9 Pro. Comparing the specifications, there doesn't seem to be a clear winner. Martha wins in SNR, but in channel separation the S9 Pro is still ahead. It also has lower distortion on the 3.5mm output and more power per BAL. But the specs, when it comes to such high or low values, are very difficult to differentiate by ear and the suggestion may be more powerful. Be that as it may, I find Martha brings a point of delicacy over the already good sound of the previous S9 Pro. Starting with the low end, Martha awakens with a special control over the more extreme frequencies. The performance is slightly warm, compact, the bass performance is dry, fast and with a quick decay. It leaves no aftertaste and the texture is smooth, without being too rough. The bass is technical, deep, but not too dark, even then it is neutral. As it has very good resolution, it is able to follow bass lines perfectly and laminate layers with precision, thanks also to its great control, dryness and speed. All this makes the bass rich and descriptive, though perhaps lacking a little more punch or violence, given its education.
In the mid-range, its neutrality gives it transparency, a slight lightness, as well as a natural and realistic timbre, which does not lean to either side. There is a point of sharpness and grace, due to the clarity provided, which adds a more accentuated dynamic feel, allowing for a more moving and lively sound. In that way the vocals are vivacious and crisp, while the instrumentation is given a purposeful dynamism.
The treble follows the product's tone and comes across as neutral and extended, in just the right amount, while maintaining a warmth and musical softness. They are never bright or uncontrolled. Part of Martha's superior finesse is underpinned by the well-shaped, precise treble presentation, with great mastery of energy delivery, speed, resolution and definition. As a great Hi-Res product, Martha has a remarkable amount of air and hence that sense of clean, transparent sound. On the other hand, that distinguished point makes its sound more docile, consistent and controlled in complex and saturated situations. At this point it is able to bring order and generate a more polite and musical performance.
At the stage level, Martha has great laterality, generating a remarkable stereo feel and producing an oval presentation with a medium depth, quite in keeping with the overall size. There is a good sense of height, but no full or immersive three-dimensional recreation. There is a good amount of air and separation, while the background is discernible, without going to the extreme of blackness or pristine separation. Perhaps that is its limit and that is why the scene is natural, not overly volatile or gauzy, but rather realistic and relatively tight. The image and instrumental positioning is obvious and flawless, pleasant and understandable. The good lateral sensation allows the oval that extends up to 180°, which makes it possible for the elements to be separated, well distributed and rationally presented, easily distinguishable, being able to improve and scale with superior headphones.
Comparisons
Tempotec Sonata BHD Pro
Both dongles are recent, although the Tempotec has been on sale for a few weeks. Like Hidizs, Tempotec is sticking to its guns by using its CS43131 DAC in dual mode, adding a professional FPGA. Both have volume control, 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, RGB LEDs and a similar size. Both are metallic and the Tempotec stands out for its transparent window to the inside, while the Hidizs stands out for its more elegant design. The Tempotec has the possibility to change its sound via firmwares, while the Hidizs has 6 filters that can be changed by pressing the two buttons at the same time. The SNR of the Tempotec is higher, 131dB to 123dB and the distortion is lower, 0.00012% to 0.0008%. The Hidizs is more powerful, 150mW at 33Ω per BAL versus 100mW at 33Ω per BAL for the Tempotec. The Hidizs can play formats up to 768kHz/32Bit and DSD512, while the Tempotec goes up to 384kHz/32Bit and DSD256.
In terms of sound, the Tempotec is warmer, while the Hidizs is more neutral and somewhat more clean. Starting with the lower end, the Tempotec feels a little lower, with the sub-bass reproduction being deeper and darker. Its texture is rougher and the bass is bigger overall, taking up more volume and space, with a bit more power, even. On the other hand, the Hidizs is more neutral, compact, defined and fast, its transitions are quicker and it sounds drier, with higher control. The result is a cleaner bass, not as deep, not as dark, but with better technicalities.
In the middle area, the Hidizs is somewhat more transparent, although the level of detail is similar, the difference being in its representation. In this respect, the subtle warmth of the Tempotec is noticeable, being somewhat darker. Whereas Hidizs has slightly more luminosity. However, the Tempotec has a higher level of resolution when it comes to rendering details in the background of the scene, which go unnoticed. The Hidizs also reaches that point, but it is the detail that is the difference, that point of darkness and warmth in the Tempotec and that slight clarity in the Hidizs. In this way, the character of the Hidizs is subtly cleaner, with a little more sparkle. The Tempotec is more subdued, equally descriptive, but it is quieter, less striking because it is calmer and softer. That sparkle brings a liveliness to the Hidizs vocals and a little more dynamic feel to the instruments.
In the upper range, Hidizs has a behaviour that combines control, resolution and sparkle. Tempotec is quieter, with a slightly lower energy, but not as clean. The Hidizs is perceived as more loose and in noisier environments seems to reflect a more controlled, polished and resolute character, generating a more musical and less intricate response than the Tempotec.
The Hidisz's soundstage seems more open, reaching a 180° oval, while the Tempotec is a little more clipped. Both sound quite crisp and separated, but I find a little more order and openness in the Hidizs, perhaps the mix of speed, refinement, control and dryness brings a more expansive point to its soundstage, with a little more light and separation. On the other hand, the Tempotec is a little rawer, a little more violent, which gives it more texture, a slower decay and a subtly more abrupt character than the Hidizs, but also with a little less separation and definition across the notes.
Conclusion
Hidizs presents the new S9 Pro Plus Martha as the logical evolution of its previous successful dongle S9 Pro. Continuing with the name, until the superlative suffixes run out, Hidizs wanted to give it a more human name. Martha incorporates two buttons to control volume and change filters, as well as replacing the balanced 2.5mm output with a more robust 4.4mm output. It retains the informative RGB LED and a restrained size, improving the aesthetics, increasing the beauty of the device. The power of the SE output has been increased, while the BAL output has been slightly decreased. Compared to the previous model, there is no clear winner in terms of specifications. However, Martha's sound has gained in exquisiteness, being more distinguished and select. The new Hidizs dongle is characterised by a sound that is neutral, but soft, not bright, slightly warm, but not dark. But, without a doubt, one of Martha's greatest assets is the sound quality for its price, being able to extract very good potential from the DAC used. There are more and more dongles on the market and choosing one is always difficult. Martha is among the most powerful I have tested in its price range and can play the most extreme formats such as DSD512 and PCM 768kHz/32Bit. It is also very versatile and compatible with multiple systems, robust and light enough for everyday use. All this makes it very easy to recommend.
Earphones and Sources Used During Analysis
- Hidizs AP80 PRO-X Red Copper LE.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro.
- Hidizs MP145.
- Hidizs MS5.
- Hidizs MS3.
- Kefine Klanar.
- KiiBOOM Evoke.
- Kiwi Ears Melody.
- Letshuoer S15.
Hidizs offered me this model, in exchange for writing an honest review. I want to make it clear that all my opinions written in this review have not been conditioned by this fact, nor will I ever write anything that I do not really think or feel here. I will only write about my personal opinion in relation to the revised product.
Purchase Link
You can read the full review in Spanish here
TLDR version on YouTube: TDLR - Hidizs Pro Plus Martha
The S9 Pro Plus Martha has been sent to me directly by Hidizs in exchange for the publication of this review. Hidizs have not made any specific requests or comments and I will do my best, as always, to be a unbiased and sincere as possible.
You can find the official page for the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus here: https://www.hidizs.net/products/hidizs-s9-pro-plus-martha-hifi-balanced-dongle-dac
As with all of the links I share, this is a non affiliate link.
Intro…
I reviewed the S9 Pro dongle DAC quite some time ago, 2 years ago in fact, although the dongle was launched quite a bit before that. I remember the device being very powerful for its size, and in comparison to the competition at the time, with a sound signature that was quite cold and analytical.
I think that the S9 Pro was something that worked rather well for Hidizs, making the brand known to quite a few people, especially because, at the time, there were nowhere near as many dongle options as there are now. The S9 Pro used an ESS ES9038Q2M chip and the device was specified as putting out 200mW @32 Ohms from it's 2.5mm balanced socket and 100mW from its single ended socket. Again, quite an achievement at the time. However, what was even more of an achievement was the fact that it measured under testing even better than it did in their specs.
So, moving on over 2, almost 3, years since its release, Hidizs now bring us the S9 Pro Plus Martha, a device that is very reminiscent of the Pro but with some updates that Hidizs are quite excited about.
The DAC chip does remain the same on the new version but there have been changes to the implementation that we will discuss throughout the review. One thing to note from the new specs is that output power is actually shown differently, promising 100mW + 100mW from its SE output (@ 32 Ohms) and 180mW + 180mW from its BAL output (again at 32 Ohms).
I don't have the equipment to confirm or deny the claims (you can check out hiendportable.com for measurements) but based on the previous device and my time using the S9 Pro Plus, I have absolutely no reason to not believe that it meets at least the specs quoted. That is still a lot of power from a dongle device, even years after the S9 Pro was released.
But anyway, let's take a look in more detail and see what else, other than power, the S9 Pro Plus has to offer.
Presentation…
The packaging is a small square, hard plastic, black box. This is surrounded by a cardboard cover that shows the device on the front, along with specifications on the back.
Removing the lift off cover from the box, we find the S9 Pro Plus sitting inside a foam cutout that protects it. Underneath this top layer of foam, there is a small cardboard compartment that contains the USB-C to USB-C cable, a USB-A to USB-C adapter, a card with the serial number etc. and a couple of small, square, hi-res stickers (that I am sure will make some people happy as they are in the box and not on the device
).That is about it as far as presentation. There is no instruction manual included but I am not sure if it will be included in the retail version. To be honest, in my case, the manual would have been obsolete anyway as, when I first received the device, the buttons only served to change track. A later firmware update added functionality.
Build and aesthetics…
While the build of the S9 Pro Plus still features the machined aluminum and the glass of the previous version, there have been quite a few updates to the layout and aesthetics of the device.
The new model is slightly shorter, yet also slightly wider and thicker. The differences aren't huge only 4 or 5mm or so, and I don't have the original on hand to compare, but it gives me a feeling of being more compact.
One of the main additions to the Pro Plus are the two buttons on the side. These look like rotary dials but are in fact push buttons. The buttons are plastic and do have a bit of a wobble to them but nothing terrible.
The device is available in various colours (black, blue and silver) and features an illuminated Hidizs logo on one side that changes colour depending on the format of the track being played. In general, the aesthetics are not anything spectacular but they still look decent and I have no issues to point out with them.
Functionality…
While the S9 Pro was just a plug and play device, the Martha does add some extra functionality to the device. It still decodes PCM up to 32bit/768kHz and Native DSD up to 512, with no MQA support, if that is something that interests you.
The changes come by means of having 7 different filter options to choose from, at least according to the publicity, as the instructions and the actual device only have 6. These can be cycled through by pressing both of the buttons simultaneously. I honestly can't say that I notice much difference between the filters in a sighted test, so there is no way I would pick them out in a blind test, but they are there for those of you that have better hearing capabilities than me
When I first received the S9 Pro Plus, the main function of the buttons was to change tracks. I reached out to Hidizs (as did a few other people I think) and asked if there was any intention to implement volume control from the buttons. Hidizs took this into account and a couple of weeks later released a firmware upgrade that converted the buttons to control volume rather than tracks.
For use with a phone, I believe that there will be people who prefer one or the other based on personal preference, however, for use with a PC, which is how I have mostly been using the device, I much prefer the volume control. There is no sustained volume change, in other words, you need to click the button step by step, which are 2 point increases (or reductions) in Windows, but pressing and holding the button does not perform any action.
One thing to note is that the volume control on the S9 Pro Plus does not work with the Tidal app on Android. I have spoken with Hidizs about this and it seems it is due to the way the Tidal app works, not allowing an external device to control volume. The Tidal app also causes issues with volume control of other apps when Tidal has been opened with the dongle attached, when closing Tidal, the volume control does not work in other apps until the device is disconnected and reconnected.
I am not an engineer, or programmer, so I cannot say what the technical reason is for this but I will say that I have found the Tidal app to cause issues with many devices in the past, some of them frequent and others very random. The common factor in all of them was the Tidal app. Therefore, I have no doubt that it is an issue with Tidal but I just wanted to mention it.
Sound…
Hidizs say in their publicity that the S9 Pro Plus has a different tuning to the S9 Pro. While this is not exactly true, as both devices have a flat frequency response, there is a perceived difference in the actual sound.
With the S9 Pro I found that things could come across as rather bright and harsh, although very detailed. In the case of the S9 Pro Plus, the sound seems to not present these characteristics. It is not a warm sound, it is still very neutral, but it is not overly analytical like I found the S9 Pro to be.
Maybe analytical is the wrong word as this dongle is still very detailed, in fact, it is just as detailed as I remember the previous model being, it is just not as sharp as that model. I would say that the overall sound is neutral to the point of not leaning one way or another.
I have been using it to power quite a few IEMs, from budget offerings such as the Salnotes Zero, up to high end models such as the Aroma FEI WAN, and it has done a good job of driving all of them. I didn’t find that it caused anything in particular to stand out in comparison to other neutral sources that I have used, making it transparent and, well, neutral to my ears.
With headphones, it also does a fairly decent job with most of the dynamic drivers I have on hand. Even with the easier to drive planars, such as the Ananda, I find it to work pretty well, although some of the more demanding planars, such as the Arya v2, did seem to be a little lacking in performance. This is to be expected, especially when listening to fast paced music with larger quantities of bass.
I have got into the habit of trying the Koss KPH40 on many of the sources I review as they do react quite differently on different sources (the famous “scaling” is quite impressive for a set of 40€ headphones). The S9 Pro Plus doesn’t get excessively loud with them (60 ohms & 101dB is not really an easy load for the dongle) but they do sound clean and musical at my usual listening levels.
Conclusion…
The S9 Pro Plus has arrived a few years after the S9 Pro and I think it is a worthy upgrade to the previous model. The S9 Pro was (is) a very good dongle but, in my opinion, it was just a little harsh in its presentation.
The S9 Pro Plus has taken that presentation and smoothed it slightly, without losing the qualities that the S9 Pro was known for. Yes, the DAC chip stays the same but that is not necessarily a bad thing. As I have said before, it is more about the implementation than the chip itself, the newest isn’t necessarily the best.
What we do get is volume control, 6 filters to choose from and a 4.4mm output to replace the 2.5mm. All of these are improvements, while the price stays basically the same as the old model.
Speaking of price, I haven’t mentioned it yet!
Depending on when you see this review, the price is going to vary but the Pre-order starts on November 16th and runs until November 30th. During this time, the first 100 units will be priced at $69.99 and then, after the first 100 units are sold, it will cost $79.99.
As I said, this price I find reasonable as the S9 Pro is still around 80€ here at the time of putting this review together.
Also, Hidizs have offered a 5% discount to anyone who reads this review, using the Code: ACHO5OFF
As always, I have no affiliation with Hidizs nor do I use any affiliate links, so I do not receive anything in exchange for any purchases made with or without the code, but I guess it does give Hidizs a way of tracking anyone who purchases after reading my review.
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As always, this review is also available in Spanish both on my blog (www.achoreviews.com) and on YouTube (www.youtube.com/achoreviews)
Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Review
"Sweet Martha"
Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Review
“Martha”
Intro
Hello, today I am reviewing the follow-up of the much loved and admired Hidizs S9 Pro with its new predecessor the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus ($79.99). This latest entry into the “S9-series” is actually the 3rd installment. Hidizs began this wildly popular series with the 1st iteration, the Hidizs S9 which was quickly followed by the S9 Pro. Now, the S9 Pro was certainly one of the more impressive dongle-dacs within that first wave of the dongle-dac fury which first happened upon the Audioverse a couple years ago. The funny thing is… the S9 Pro still holds up very well. In my opinion it is still one of the best on the market within its price point. Anyhow, this latest entry into Hidizs lineup of dongle-dacs has some big shoes to fill. We shall see if the S9 Pro Plus is actually an upgrade and does the S9 Pro Plus provide a big enough leap to warrant purchasing one if someone already has the previous version.Hidizs
The audio company Hidizs has gone through a sort of renaissance the past year or so, igniting the audio world with device after device, earphone after earphone ultimately filling the pages of Facebook, Reddit, and Head-fi as well with glowing reviews and few detractors.We have seen some huge hits in the Audioverse such as the Hidizs MS3 (MS3 Review HERE), the Hidizs MP145 (MP145 Review HERE), the Hidizs MM2 (MM2 Review HERE), or even the much more expensive Hidizs MS5 (MS5 Review HERE) as well as the much less expensive “budget oriented” iem, the Hidizs MS1 Galaxy (MS1 Review HERE). However, it wasn’t just earphones that got updated, but also some small daps like the Hidizs AP80 Pro-X, or dongle dacs like the Hidizs XO or Hidizs S3 Pro Ultra. The only area we were waiting for was an update to the Hidizs S9 Pro (Pietro’s S9 Pro Review). Thankfully, this is why we’re here folks. The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus comes with some acclaim and anticipation, at least it does for me. I truly adore the older S9 Pro, which personally builds up the intrigue to this latest adaptation of the S9-series.
Martha
Who’s Martha? Yes, that is right folks, Hidizs named the S9 Pro Plus… Martha? Okay it may seem like a strange name, as the name Martha is more closely aligned to a soccer mom in the mid-80’s or the valedictorian and spelling bee champ in everyone’s local school system, also in the 80’s. We all knew a “Martha” didn’t we? I am joking, Martha is a fine name folks and I’m not making fun of spelling bee champs either. Lord knows I live and die with “spell checker”.I digress. The actual reason for the name Martha is kinda cool actually. I enjoy that Hidizs decided to look a bit deeper to give this device a proper name. Hidizs actually named the S9 Pro Plus “Martha” because that was the name given to the last remaining and last surviving female Passenger Pigeon. That is actually a nice concept for a naming scheme. Nice job Hidizs! Did you know that the Passenger Pigeon was the largest species of flocking bird… Ever?! Also, did you know that it’s been 109 years since they’ve gone extinct? Well, now you do. Anyways, to commemorate and remember this precious species of birds, Hidizs decided to name their illustrious 3rd generation device from the “S9 series” after the actual name of the last lone surviving female. Pretty cool. Hey at least they didn’t name it a “number name“.
One Diversity
Names are important and as it turns out, Martha is a dope name. The naming of Martha represents a reminder to the fact that we are “one diversity” and to cherish “nature” & “life”. Those were Hidizs words. I’d say that’s an honorable sentiment and one I’m sure we could all get behind. At least Hidizs put some reflective and virtuous distinction unto the personality of this brand-new device. With that all said, perhaps I went a bit long on that breakdown? Hey… Now you know.Dongle Madness
Dongle Dacs have come a long way from even just a couple years ago. We had the absolute CRAZE of “Dongle Madness” brought on by one of the more awesome people in the hobby… Andy EF. However, it was a bomb which only needed to be charged. The hobby was needing something to bridge the divide between those who couldn’t afford a DAP (or similar device) and those who no longer owned a phone with a 3.5 port. It was the perfect storm. How nice is it to be able to simply plug a device into your phone and you have hi-res audio on the ready. The last few years we’ve seen a 1000% uptick in dongle dac sales and dongle hype. Every week a new one hits the market, which naturally provides intrigue and speculation. It’s no wonder too! Again, how nice is it to simply attach a hi-res device into your phone, stream your music or play your own files, how nice is that? Certainly, dongle dacs have brought upon serious questions as to whether Digital Audio Players (Daps) or desktop setups are even needed. While I am not one who would go that far, I can tell you without the shadow of a doubt that many do believe this is true.I’m excited about this one folks, and I’ll do my absolute best to relay what I think of the S9 Pro Plus so to hopefully help you, the reader to make a purchasing decision. Before I do, I want to extend a big thank you to Hidizs for providing the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus in exchange for a full honest review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. With all that said, let’s jump into this one… The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus…
You can find the S9 Pro Plus HERE
Gear used for testing
–Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4–Hidizs S9 Pro
–Moondrop Dawn 4.4
–Fiio KA3
–Hidizs MS3
–Hidizs MP145
–Aful Performer 8
Full Review can be found HERE
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
Let’s do a quick unboxing friends, as there really isn’t much to say. Upon first receiving the S9 Pro Plus I was happy to see a small plastic box that is covered with a cardboard sleeve. On that outer sleeve you’ll see a picture of the device (S9 Pro Plus) as well as a few features. On the back is the usual small print specifications… and that’s about it. Nothing crazy, nothing that will jack up the cost of the device for needlessly lavish packaging. Nice move Hidizs! Anyways, the box is large enough for the S9 Pro Plus itself and that’s about it. Truly a tiny little box. I like that Hidizs is being as least wasteful as possible. These are the little things that I pay attention to in this hobby. Hidizs could’ve upped the price $10-$20 more and added some graphics, pouch, extra adapters etc. They are smart though. They know we likely already have this stuff and also, it keeps the price low and within the budget category. All expenses go into the device itself.What’s in the Box?
This’ll be quick. Take off the sleeve and you’ll see a plastic little box. Open the box top off and you’ll be greeted by the sleek and slick looking Martha, in all her glory. You’ll notice a couple pull tabs to remove the top layer and when you do, you’ll find a small box with some extras in it. Inside you’ll see one short type-C to type-C data cable. Hidizs also added in a type-C to usb-A adapter. However, I think I speak for everyone when I say that the next item, I describe is likely the most important. That’s right, Hidizs added in not one, but two little “Hi-res” stickers. It ain’t audiophile if it doesn’t have the stickers folks. Anyways, I think that Hidizs kept things simple, and I think that the packaging is nice, neat and not wasteful.
Build / Design / Internals
Build Quality
The quality of the build and the design are both upgrades from the previous S9 and S9 Pro devices. Certainly, the look. Hidizs went from Aluminum on the earlier S9 series devices to an upgraded Aerospace Aluminum material for the body of the device and glass on the front and back. So, the material didn’t really change a whole lot, but the feel of the unit seems upgraded when in hand. That’s one piece of CNC machined Aerospace Aluminum. Folks, everything about this device screams durability and structural integrity. Robust is a word which keeps coming to mind.On the left side of the S9 Pro Plus you’ll notice two buttons which resemble small volume wheels. These buttons feel sturdy, not wiggly or loose and they don’t feel cheap at all. I’m telling you; the construction is very good. On the front end of the device is the type-C data port and on the opposite side you’ll notice the 3.5 single ended port as well as the 4.4 balanced port as well. Now the 4.4 port isn’t necessarily an upgrade but for those of us wishing the previous generations had 4.4…we consider it an upgrade. There’s also a Hidizs logo which lights up and provides certain info for which I’ll get into later. As far as build is concerned the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is a great device.
Design
Hidizs knows design language. They just do! I feel everything they put out has a modern and stylistic twist to the design. Never just plain or bland with this company. Obviously, there was a lot of thought which went into the look and feel of this device. Hidizs actually makes the S9 Pro Plus in three distinct, bold, and good-looking colors with a “blue” model, a “black” model, and a “silver” model (see pics below). I think it’s pretty apparent that mine is the silver and I absolutely love it. I think it’s one of the best-looking dongle-dacs under $100. The body is so dope looking with straight edges, polygonal lines and a very bold design. The Hidizs logo is a nice touch and when it lights up it really “Pops” in contrast to the color of the body. Everything looks reinforced, clean, sleek and contoured with symmetry and style. Fantastic job Hidizs, this device looks awesome!
Internals
Now this is where we delve into the nuts and bolts of this review. Everyone is always wanting to know what dac chip that they went with. As if that is the only determining factor as to how the S9 Pro Plus will sound. Well, Hidizs actually opted for a tried-and-true dac chip by using the ESS Technology ES9038Q2M chip. This chip enables the S9 Pro Plus to get PCM sampling rate support of up to 32bit / 768khz audio rendering. It’ll also get you up to DSD 512 (Direct Stream Digital). This chip also happens to use ESS Technologies patented 32bit Hyperstream II quad dac architecture and jitter eliminator. The S9 Pro Plus also has a high SNR of up to 128db and an ultra-low THD+N of -120db. You gotta have quality components and Hidizs was able to supply that.
Specifications
Specs
-Dimensions: 55×25×11mm-DAC Chip: ESS9038Q2M
-DSD: Native DSD64/128/256/512
-PCM: Support up to 32bit/768kHz
-Output option: Compatible with single-ended 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm plug earphones
-Sampling rate indicator: Support
-Shell material: CNC integrated aluminum alloy
-Function buttons: Two in total (side of the device)
-Switching filter: Supported (simultaneously press both volume buttons)
-Transmission interface: Type-C interface interchangeable cable design
-Supported systems: Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS
-Net weight: 17g
-Color: Black, Sliver, Blue
-Packing list: Type-C to Type-C Cable×1, Type-C to USB-A adapter×1, User manual×1, Warranty card×1
Audio parameters
(Test conditions @32Ω Load)-Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz
-Distortion: PO (3.5): 0.0019% BAL (4.4): 0.0008%
-Signal-to-noise ratio: PO (3.5): 123dB BAL (4.4): 120dB
-Separation: PO (3.5): 75dB BAL (4.4): 115dB
-Output power: 3.5 SE= 138mW+138mW 4.4 BAL= 180mW+180mW
Features
Filter options
Hidizs decided to provide seven different PCM pulse filter response effects which actually provide some nicely subtle changes to contour and change the sound to suit your particular taste. Friends, usually filter effects are gimmicks and rarely show any signs of sculpting to the sound. I can’t tell you how many source devices I’ve owned which claim to give you these sweeping changes to alter the sound. Yeah… Not so much. At best you will hear the slightest, faintest and most finite little changes to the sound. However, I actually found that the S9 Pro Plus actually does effect some “changes”. Not all make as big a difference as others, and it takes a very discerning ear and the right type of track to notice with any concrete distinction. Still, they are changes nonetheless and I welcome it. Hidizs crafted an easy way to navigate through these filters by employing both of the side buttons to complete the task. Just press both buttons simultaneously and they will cycle through the filters. You will also notice that the Hidizs logo on the body of the S9 Pro Plus changes color to indicate what filter you’ve changed to. Those filter colors and descriptors go like this:- “Green Light” Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter): Vocals are slightly forward, and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance.
- “Red Light” Linear phase fast roll-off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound.
- “Blue Light” Linear phase slow roll-off: Enriched harmonics, full low frequencies, and natural reverb.
- “Yellow Light” Minimum phase fast roll-off: Balanced and moderate sound.
- “Purple Light” Minimum phase slow roll-off: Clean sound with a forward position.
- “White Light” Hybrid fast roll-off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail
Effectiveness
Again, these aren’t mind boggling changes and I haven’t honestly spent a ton of time going through trying to analyze each filter to see if it matches Hidizs’ descriptors, but I have spent enough time to hear the difference and actually pick one that I like the most. My favorites are “Blue” filter for earphones that are a bit more neutral-ish in tonal color and the “Red” filter for a warmer set. Remember it is ridiculously easy to cycle through these. Simply push both buttons and the light will change. Very cool.Sample Rate Indicators
Like most dongle-dacs or source devices the S9 Pro Plus will indicate the exact sampling rate in which you are listening to at any one given time. In this case the logo will light up and stay lit to the corresponding sampling rate. For instance:-Yellow: DSD 64/128
–Purple: DSD 256/512
–Blue: PCM 176.4/192(kHz)
–Red: PCM 352.8/384(kHz)
–White: PCM 705.6/768(kHz)
–Green: PCM 44.1/48/88.2/96(kHz)
The indicator light is a pretty snazzy feature. Again, we’ve definitely seen this many times in the past, but I suppose it’s worth noting. Plus, it looks nifty. It’s certainly better having it tm than not.
Connectivity
It should be noted that the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is like any other dongle-dac as it is a simple and easy to use “plug n’ play” device. Using the S9 Pro Plus on Windows was a simple task. Also using with a mobile phone is just as simple. The S9 Pro Plus is compatible with Windows, Mac, IOS (iPad/iPhone), Android, Harmony OS. There aren’t any 3rd party drivers that I’ve needed when connecting the S9 Pro Plus to my Android Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. Just simply plug it in and give some permissions and it’s as simple as that.Driving Power
When it comes to having enough output power to competently drive and operate iems or earphones it really doesn’t take much most of the time. In fact, any earphones that I have in my possession are all fairly easy to drive. The S9 Pro Plus actually has some decent power under the hood. It isn’t life changing though and definitely not class leading but hearty enough whether on single ended at up to 138mW @32 Ohms or balanced listening which will get you 180mW @32 Ohms. I honestly never had an issue and even my harder to drive earbuds were a simple task for the S9 Pro Plus. The funny thing is that the newer version S9 Pro Plus has less driving power when listening on balanced than the previous version (not by much). However, the new S9 Pro Plus actually has substantially more driving power on single ended. Either way the S9 Pro Plus can pretty much drive any earphones, within reason. I no longer have the Final Audio E5000 unfortunately which would’ve been great to test out though it is doubtful a low impedance/low sensitivity iem such as the E5000 will be driven properly. Take that for a grain of salt though.Does it have enough?
I also think that you’ll have to be reasonable as to how well the S9 Pro Plus will be able to push some high-impedance full sized cans. The voltage swing may not be enough to drive the more difficult over-ears perfectly. Again, I have none on hand to test out at the moment. So, I do hope you can forgive me for that. The output power is actually much better on 3.5 single ended than I had anticipated with an output of 138mW per 32Ohms. However, I did notice a slightly better dynamics with 4.4 balanced but it isn’t an across-the-board improvement such as you’ll hear on many devices. Which is a great thing. At the end of the day, I feel the S9 Pro Plus has plenty of driving power for my needs and I’m sure many of you reading this have a good idea how well it will drive your gear too.MP145 for example
Listening with the Hidizs MP145 (which is actually pretty easy to drive for a planar) I found the S9 Pro Plus to push this set very well. I truly had zero issues. The MP145 was dynamic and nimble and all the little fluctuations and modulations within any track were easily navigated through listening to this pair. Transients were speedy and the timbre was rich. It’s true that the MP145 is fairly easy to drive but it isn’t the easiest to drive to its pinnacle. While the S9 Pro Plus doesn’t have the fidelity of more expensive source devices, it is very well done for what it is, and I felt I lacked nothing with the MP145. This is a great combo folks.
Full Review can be found HERE
Sound Impressions
Note: All critical listening impressions are based after roughly 50 hours of playtime (give or take). I also conducted this review while listening to flac or better files which are stored on my devices. I mainly used the three earphones I mention below but I also used many others during the course of my time with the S9 Pro Plus. To conduct this review, I will be using a few different earphones in the Hidizs MS3 (MS3 Review), Hidizs MP145 (MP145 Review) as well as the Aful Performer 8 (Review coming soon) (Pavan’s P8 Review). I chose these sets simply because they are Hidizs products and… Why not? The Aful Performer 8 made sense to use because I am actually in the middle of a review at the moment. Kill a couple birds with one stone type of thing. I also have been using the S9 Pro Plus for around a month now and feel I have a good grasp on the sound so I will do my best at relaying that to you. Folks, conducting source reviews are always difficult because so much has to do with the earphones you are using. I will provide very general ideas about the overall tonality and sound descriptors only because so much can alter how we perceive sound.
Warm & Dynamic
One thing I find especially nice about the S9 Pro Plus is the overall musicality, smoothness, and lushness of the replay while still holding onto the technical side of my music as well. What we have is a slightly warm/neutral tonal color across the whole of the mix with the scales tipping slightly more to the warm side. Not to the point of veil and there is enough good neutrality mixed in as well. It certainly isn’t anywhere near “Dark”. The sound has good depth which adds some realism and an almost 3D effect. I hear good dynamics within the subtle warmth which is very engaging. The S9 Pro Plus does a fantastic job of keeping a softer timbre yet with added body to notes. Macro-dynamic fullness and intensity is there to add some dynamic expression to the sound though not equaled to more expensive source devices. Good for a $79 dongle dac though. Also, micro-dynamics are fairly well controlled and nimble for a dongle dac at this price. So, there’s some nice micro-dynamic agility and the transient quickness is pretty nice for a lusher sounding source.Solid Performer
The replay of the S9 Pro Plus is a solid performer at the price point. Technically it is pretty solid too with good separation of elements within the sound field, pretty good staging and imaging is nice as well. It’s evident that Hidizs have taken all of their collective knowledge into account and bestowed that knowledge unto the creation of Martha. The S9 Pro Plus has a more energetic replay amongst the warm/neutral sound, which makes for some nice listening sessions. Basically, the S9 Pro Plus will give its own spin to your earphones when attached. I have come to very much enjoy the naturally weighted and organic sound of the S9 Pro Plus, so much so that going back to something like the Fiio KA3 for example details pretty quickly where the KA3 lacks.
Sound Between the 20’s
Note: In this portion of the review, I will go over each 3rd of the mix (Bass, Mids, Treble) but please keep in mind that much of what I hear will be dictated by the earphones I have attached at the time of listening. I will try to describe how the S9 Pro Plus alters the sound as best I can. Bass Region
The low-end is emphasized, warm, rich and provides a slight lift in bass quantity to any earphone I attached it to (within reason). The bass reaches decently deep but will still let your earphones be what they are. If your earphones dig deep, so will the S9 Pro Plus. If your earphones aren’t the heartiest of bass heathens, then the S9 Pro Plus will not suddenly shock your ears in rumbly bass. For instance, the S9 Pro Plus won’t all of a sudden turn the HZsound Heart Mirror into a basshead set. There is a subtle emphasis with good added texture, good micro-dynamic movement and macro-dynamics are expressive as well for a $79 source device. Just enough to keep things fun.For instance, listening with the Hidizs MS3 I noticed a nicely hefty low-end response on bass heavy tracks. The S9 Pro Plus seemed to only enhance the capabilities of the MS3 in this region. The bass hits with good authority and extends nicely with good physical feedback, haptic reverb and a deft and tidy density. I find percussion hits with good energy and punch and are certainly well laid out and highlighted. Bass drops hit hard and with a robust boom when called upon and when using some earphones with a beefier low-end response. Yet at the same time there is a fine element of speed and a tautness to the sound that I find enjoyable. All in all, I really enjoy the low-end of the S9 Pro Plus.
Midrange
The midrange is a bit more forward in the mix, smooth, bodied and even robust too, which gives a nice presence to vocals and the midrange is nicely detailed. The S9 Pro Plus skirts around any upper-mid sheen or emphasis so you won’t have any eye wincing glare. The timbre is on the “smoother and thicker” side of the aisle but that doesn’t mean we don’t have nice separation of elements or good illumination of the subtleties within my music. Like I already stated, the micro-dynamic small shifts in energy are well done for what the S9 Pro Plus is. Granted, you have to keep in mind the price here as this little guy won’t compete against higher-end gear. Of course, we shouldn’t expect any dongle-dac to compete against them either. The midrange is represented very well with a clean replay that also gives a realistic and organic flare to the sound in relation to the tuning of any earphone you are using.Attaching the Aful Performer 8 to the S9 Pro Plus creates a very nice and melodic harmony. What a pair. You have the neutral/warm sound of the P8 and the slightly richer and lusher sound of the S9 Pro Plus. Vocals sound fantastic. There’s a very nice depth in the sound which gives off a rounded portrayal of voices and instrumentation. The sound is musical at its heart and doesn’t have any glare or peakiness. The S9 Pro Plus brings the P8 right to the brink of glare and stops just short while keeping a well-bodied and mellifluous sound throughout the mix. Also, the staging seems accurately placed within any recording/track.
Treble Region
The treble region is mostly a non-offensive affair and won’t add any undue brightness or forced resolution. In the same breath, the treble does have nice body to notes and even adds some controlled bite at the peak of each note. This all depends on the track being played and the earphones being used. But, for the most part the S9 Pro Plus adds welcomed realism to the sound adding color to the mix in a way that brings some naturally weighted authenticity to the sound. Much like the Shanling M6 Ultra that I use so often, the sound won’t be super lifted or abundant in extra brilliance, but it is balanced to the rest of the mix. In the same breath I find extension into the highest of highs to be nice and detail retrieval is also good too.One thing I find to be great is that I truthfully never hear the ESS glare or metallic and artificial timbre which can occur at times with these chips. Hidizs did a commendable job of tailoring the sound and the treble region is no exception. I find the natural timbre up top to be refreshing and easy to listen to for extended periods. I’ve heard this before out of these ES9038Q2M chips. Now a lot has to do with implementing them correctly, obviously, but I’ve heard similar warmth and note weight on the Shanling UA5 which also shares the same chip.
Downsides to the Sound as a whole
If I were to nitpick or find some subjective issues that some may find bothersome, I’d say that the S9 Pro Plus will not be a treble heads delight. The S9 Pro Plus leans to the warm/rich side of the aisle and doesn’t add forced vibrance to my music but instead comes across in a natural way. Also, this is not a dry and analytical sound or an ultra-detailed listen for those who prefer it. The S9 Pro Plus does an admirable job articulating the nuances in a track but mostly the S9 Pro Plus leans on its musicality with a more emotional replay, rather than a detailed and lean expression of sound. Folks these are seriously minor nitpicks. For $79 this dongle-dac sounds great!I'd say the biggest downside to the sound is actually, there are so many other great sounding dongle-dacs in the Audioverse. The S9 Pro Plus just adds a slightly different flavor. That said, it is a flavor I greatly enjoy.
Technicalities
Soundstage
This is a tough call for a reviewer because so much depends on the earphones you are listening with. However, the stage of the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus offers the listener a wide psycho-acoustic rendering of my music. No doubt the stage is nice from side to side with average height depending on the earphones. However, one standout feature of the stage is the depth and the added layering of elements within the stage. Like I said earlier, there is almost a euphonic effect or 3D effect to the sound. Again, the hijacked meaning of “euphonic”. The stage is well setup and nicely displayed.Separation / Imaging
Separation of elements on an imaginary stage are also very nice to my ears. The S9 Pro Plus will take the good abilities of something like the Hidizs MP145 and follow suit. Basically, the S9 Pro Plus will not take away and congest the sound or muddy the sound. As much as I can glean from listening to a source (S9 Pro Plus) and trying to decide whether separation or imaging is good or bad on that source I find it easy to hear that the S9 Pro Plus is a fine device which can easily parse out and partition off instruments and vocalists rather nicely. Even with the slightly richer sound. Imaging is just the same. The S9 Pro Plus has good control of the sound field from what I can tell. The best way to know is that sets with usually great imaging remain great attached to the S9 Pro Plus. Also, sets that aren’t as great get a little help in this area, like when listening to the HIDIZS MM2 that I was going to use for this review but decided against for various reasons. Honestly, as far as one can tell I would say that separation and imaging are well done.Detail Retrieval
The detail retrieval is actually fairly nice, not a detail monster, though. Micro-details come about fairly easily depending on the earphones and the type of genre or track you are listening to. I found the Aful P8 to have abundant in details with the S9 Pro Plus. Same thing goes for even the Hidizs MS3 which is good at rendering details but not inherently great. Basically, it isn’t it’s calling card. However, the stage is wide, the transient behavior is perceivably tight enough, separation seems good, micro-dynamic energy sounds agile and nimble to pick up the lower-level slight fluctuations in volume. For a $79 dongle-dac with a lush presentation the S9 Pro Plus does a better than adequate job. Granted it isn’t the strong suit of this little guy, but it isn’t a detriment either. Maybe average, but average is good.
Comparisons
Note: I will be very brief in these comparisons. I want to keep my word count down for the algorithm and so I will use very general verbiage when describing these differences. All comparison testing was done with the same set of earphones listening to the same tracks for an extended period of time. Hidizs S9 Pro ($77-$85)
Friends, the Hidizs S9 Pro was somewhat of a benchmark for some time at just above $100. This little device was one of the kingpins of the dongle madness brushfire which overtook the Audioverse a couple years ago. The S9 Pro is one of those dongle-dacs which simply doesn’t get old, and frankly still holds its own even today, quite easily too. The S9 Pro features the same ES9038Q2M dac chip and performs very well for a dac/amp at this price. Originally the MSRP of the S9 Pro was closer to $117 but has since come down in price to a more budget friendly price point.
Differences
To start, the look of the newer Pro Plus version is more modern and stylish in appearance, In my opinion. The old S9 Pro lacked physical buttons and is slimmer in comparison. I find the old S9 Pro to be a great looking device, but the S9 Pro Plus is simply gorgeous and really does trump the look of the OG. Also, the S9 Pro only offered 3.5/2.5 ports whereas the much welcomed 4.4 balanced port was added to the newer S9 Pro Plus. This was a big deal to me and many folks in the hobby.Sound differences
Both devices work off of the ES9038Q2M dac chip and both have a fairly powerful amp section. However, like I’ve stated, the OG S9 Pro has a hair more power in balanced but much less output power on single ended. To be honest, from my testing the new device has more real-world driving power than the old, no matter what the spec sheet says. I find the newer S9 Pro Plus to tilt a hair more to the organic and musical side of things, whereas the older S9 Pro has a hint more neutrality.Bass Region
Between the two the S9 Pro has a slightly more neutral lean, a brighter hue, more uplifted across the mix and less low-end emphasis. I find the new S9 Pro Plus has a fuller low-end with a warmer and weightier response along with more punch in the low-end. The S9 Pro is a bit leaner but also has a more vibrant low-end, crisper. Both devices can bump though.Midrange
Moving to the midrange, the new device is a tad more forward, lusher, weightier, a hint more realistic and better detailed. The staging in the midrange is more 3D on the S9 Pro Plus as well. Again, I find both generations to be very well refined, but I cannot help to be more impressed by the S9 Pro Plus.Treble Region
Both devices have a nice treble response, but the newer device has a hint less overall treble quantity. However, despite that the S9 Pro Plus has a more contoured, textured treble combining with less instances of sibilance. The new device is simply less vibrant up top. The OG S9 has more treble sheen with slightly more bite. Detail retrieval is very close between the two devices and to be totally honest it is only splitting hairs between the two.Technicalities
Starting with the stage I find both devices have a pretty grand stage with equal width across the two devices, same with height. However, depth narrowly goes to the S9 Pro Plus as evidenced by listening to “Hook” by Blues Traveler. Layering is only a hint better on the new device and separation is too close to call. Detail retrieval may be more in favor of the older S9 Pro but that is completely dependent on the track you are listening to. Is say both devices do detail retrieval well.In the end
To be honest, both devices sound pretty similar but I find the new S9 Pro Plus has more macro-dynamic punch and just as good transient agility, but at the same time it has a richer sound and a more organic sound. The older S9 Pro has a touch more vibrance and is basically what one would expect from an ESS dac chip and tuning. You do have a hint of that “ES timbre” but it is mostly kept in check. The S9 Pro Plus almost sounds more like an AK chip in that there is a bit more of a velvet musicality and resolving warmth. That ES9038Q2M chip has helped a few devices to be slightly thicker with a slightly warmer hue. However, when all is said and done, I think that the biggest difference between the two is… Musicality. The newer S9 Pro Plus is a bit more musical. This comparison is a testimony of Hidizs ability to craft these devices. I do think that the older S9 Pro is still relevant and near the top of the best under $100.Moondrop Dawn 4.4 ($69.99)
The Moondrop Dawn is what I believe to be one of the best dongle-dacs for pure sound quality that you can buy under $100. The Dawn 4.4 is truly a beast against the field and completely overlooked and undervalued. However, Moondrop left out any kind of volume buttons, or any buttons for that matter. Another thing that some folks don’t really jive with is the fact that the cable is non-removable. However, one of the largest disappointments is the fact that the Dawn will only run on 4.4 balanced. There is no single ended usage. Still, the Dawn 4.4 runs off of a tried-and-true Cirrus Logic CS43131 dac chip and a ton of power under the hood at 230mW @32 ohms. Also, Moondrop does have a dedicated app which is a huge luxury to have which can help with many different functions. The question I wondered since I received the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is, “How will the S9 Pro Plus stack up to the Dawn 4.4 in straight up sound quality?”
Differences
To start, the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is cylindrical in construction which means it will not sit flat when not attached to a device. It may or may not have rolled off a table or two at my home and office. However, I do really enjoy its understated look. Let’s be real though, the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is a much more dope looking dongle-dac. The S9 Pro Plus does have a detachable cable and it does have volume controls as well. Both pluses in my book. That said, the Dawn 4.4 has an app as well as a touch more output power on balanced listening.Sound Differences
Between the two, the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is certainly the brighter (though generally not bright) and analytical (though still very musical) while the S9 Pro Plus has a warmer and more weighty response across the mix.Bass Region
Beginning with the bass region, the S9 Pro Plus has a little bit more in the tank with a beefier low-end. I find the Dawn 4.4 has the speedier and more transient quick bass. Mind you, these differences are very minimal. Both devices offer a clean bass drop, weighted & full bass guitar, and both devices will give your earphones a slight bump in this region.Midrange
The midrange playback of the Dawn 4.4 features a nicely textured and slightly less musical take on the region. Perhaps a bit better detailed but not as dense in note delivery. I find both devices to prop up the midrange, scooting them a bit more forward. Yet they present them differently, tonally speaking. The S9 Pro Plus is closer to warm/neutral throughout and more organic sounding, whereas the Dawn 4.4 is closer to neutral with better texture. Macro-dynamics come through with more fullness on the S9 Pro Plus, but micro-dynamics and micro-definition are a bit easier to navigate on the Dawn 4.4. The Dawn is crisp, clean yet never too crisp. The S9 Pro Plus is smooth, weighted yet never too smoothed over. I feel the Dawn 4.4 is technical over musical and the S9 Pro Plus is musical over technical. Both do well across the board, however. Just skewed a bit differently is all. In all honesty, these two complement each other nicely and would be good to have for a collection.Treble Region
The treble region of the Dawn 4.4 is a bit more on the airy side while the S9 Pro Plus has smoother sound with more of a bodied presence. Again, this does not mean the Dawn isn’t nicely weighted or the S9 Pro Plus isn’t open sounding. Again, just skewed a bit differently. I find details in the treble region are a hair easier to focus on with the Dawn 4.4 while the S9 Pro Plus hold tight to the musicality in this region.Technicalities
Speaking about the stage size; both devices do an admirable job of presenting the stage. Both devices offer a nice sized stage but as always, a lot has to do with the earphones you’re using. The ability to separate elements of a stage seems about the same and imaging as well. Honestly it isn’t easy to compare source devices or to discern the ability of sources to separate instruments and voices while also figuring in the earphones you are using. To me they both do an admirable job. Let’s put it this way, I don’t hear anything negative while comparing. Detail retrieval is goes to the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 but again, both do a fine job at this price point.In the end
One thing is for sure, It’s a preference battle here. Both are nice dongle-dacs for the price and both simply do a great job of replaying music at a high level for the price. I love em’ both. If I had to choose what is the best deal at this price, I would say the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, however. The Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is a bit thinner in note weight, a little less natural in timbre but it does make up for it in other areas. The S9 Pro Plus may not have the same transient quickness and neutral airiness but again, it too makes up for it in other areas. Also, one thing I should mention. Just because I say one is more open and airier than the other does not mean the lesser device is necessarily lacking. Comparisons sometimes can sound this way. At the end of the day, both devices sound rock solid for a small price.
Is it worth the asking price?
This is an easy “rec” from me. I don’t even want to string this answer out, absolutely Martha is worth the asking price. I would actually venture to say it is one of the best in the price point and should be in everyone’s shortlist who’s in the market for a dongle-dac around this price. Obviously not everyone will be on board with that, but I think it is a fantastic option for the amount Hidizs is asking. Of course, one must consider the other quality dongle-dacs in the price point and they should measure and weigh different attributes of each one but, it’s hard to find negatives with the S9 Pro Plus. I do feel that the S9 Pro Plus is certainly an upgrade from its predecessor, the Hidizs S9 Pro. So that will kind of give you some sort of a gauge for where the newer version sits in the Audioverse under $100.However, for the buyer there is so much to consider. You may want something which can be used both through a cable and through Bluetooth like the Qudelix 5k which is still a great device. The Shanling UP4 is a good device as well. Straight up dongle-dacs are truly in abundance at this price point. There is the Hiby FC4, Tanchjim Space, Truthear Shio, Jcally AP90, Shanling UA2 & UA2 Plus, Fiio KA3, Hidizs XO, DD Hifi TC44 Pro, and there are about fifty more to mention that are decent to very good within this price point. I don’t want to waste the digital ink trying to name them all.
The Why…
To answer “why” the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is worth the asking price I would first start by saying that this thing looks flat out dope. Easily one of the best designed dongle-dacs out there. That said, it is also built extremely well. Just put it in your hand and you’ll feel what I’m talking about. The Volume buttons are a huge plus, the solid dac chip, nice driving power both in single ended and balanced. However, it is always the sound quality which is the final determining factor. The sound is so big in warm macro-dynamic energy and the note weight adds such a nice element to my music that I do find it hard switching to another source. I don’t know how else to put it. The sound is simply big, separated, layered, textured, clean and each area of the mix is represented so well. I love the musical nature of this dongle-dac and how my earphones synergize so nicely. I think this is a no brainer folks, the S9 Pro Plus is worth every penny.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus “Martha”, I have to once again thank Hidizs as well as the good people who I’m in contact with at Hidizs. I have never once been asked to skew my words to reflect well on the S9 Pro Plus and I’ve never been offered any money in exchange. Just a handshake and an understanding that we will let the chips fall where they may. This is comforting and shows a lot of how Hidizs believes in their products to subject them to the scrutiny of a subjectively objective review. So, thank you so very much. I also want to thank anyone who took the time to read any words that I’ve written about the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus. I really do hope that I can help you with making a purchasing decision. After all, it’s all about you, the reader. Different Perspectives
As I do in every review, I really do hope that you check out other reviews from other folks. It’ll greatly help you in making an educated decision. We are all very much different in many ways, from our likes and dislikes to the gear that we have at our disposal, to the library of music we enjoy, to our actual ability to hear the music. So many variables to take into account. I think the biggest factor as far as differences from one person to another is the fact that we all haven’t been down the same journey in audio. Think about it. It’s true that what’s good for me… may not be so good for the next reviewer. So do yourself a favor and check out other perspectives from other great people in the hobby. Please take good care, stay as safe as you can and always… God Bless!
By Chris Love
General/Packaging/Build
Hidizs is a brand where most in the community are familiar with, particularly with their sources (Mini DAP, Dongle Dac Amp), recently, they are upping the ante by releasing several IEMs which are well received by the community. MS3, MS1, and the most recent Planar MP145, back to the S9 Pro Plus, it is called Martha, why Martha? Here’s the snippet taken from Hidizs’s S9 Pro Plus product page “We've named Hidizs S9 Pro Plus "Martha" because "Martha" was the name of the last surviving female Passenger Pigeon, the largest flocking bird species ever to have existed on Earth. After 109 years since the extinction of the Passenger Pigeon, in commemoration of this magnificent species, the professional acoustic brand, Hidizs, has chosen to name their third-generation HiFi Balanced Dongle DAC , the S9 Pro Plus, as "Martha."”
Packaging is the usual Hidizs style packaging, minimal yet doesn’t look cheap. Build quality is fairly good, front and black glass panel, looks premium but the trade off being prone to micro scratches and fingerprints. The bundled USB-C cable is not bi-directional, meaning one end is input, and the other end is output, so if you plug it incorrectly, there will be no sound or power to the dongle. The cable with the Hidizs logo will be the end to plug into your phone/laptop, the other end without any logo will be plugged into the dongle itself, or if you have any other type C cable that’s bidirectional, just use that, not really a big deal.
Specifications
- ES9038Q2M High Performance DAC Chip
- PCM Supports Up to 32bit/768kHz
- Native DSD Supports Up to 512
- Physical Buttons for Volume Control & 6 Filter Option
- 4.4mm Balanced & 3.5mm Single-ended Output
- 138mW+138mW@32Ω 3.5mm SE / 180mW+180mW@32Ω 4.4mm BAL
- Sampling Rate Indication RGB Lighting
- Compatible with all platforms: Windows/Mac OS/iPad OS/Android/iOS/Harmony OS
- Hidizs S9 Pro Plus
- Hidizs MS1
- Hidizs MS5
- Oriveti OD200
- Hifiman Sundara Closed Back
- Fosi Audio DS1
Foreword
My review is solely based on what I hear via my equipment and I never consider my reviews to be objective in any way rather a subjective approach. Do take into consideration that everyone’s ear anatomy is not the same, so the psychoacoustics perception might be different as well, but i believe it will not stray too far
Battery Drain on Smartphone (iPhone 15)
- From 100% to 40%, running for approximately 7 hours +-
- Volume level at 3/10
- Streaming from Apple Music Loseless
- Doesn’t consume that much battery based on my observation, unless you pump up the volume to around 6-7/10
*The listening is done on my Macbook Air M2, occasionally on my iPhone 15
Having heard several DAC with 9038Q2M, it's safe to say they all sounded different due to the implementation of the amplification stage. Even the S9 Pro sounded different from the S9 Pro Plus. S9 Pro Plus is certainly not neutral, slightly coloured, and it is a very dynamic sounding dongle dac/amp. Bass has good control and not boosted, the mids are forward, default filter is slightly more forward, on certain track in can be a little shouty when you pump up the volume, but overall it is alright, another point to note is that, IEM pairing is also crucial, pairing a forward sounding IEM with the S9 Pro Plus, or a bright sounding IEM, will definitely spells disaster. Overall, it is a very dynamic and fun sounding dongle dac amp with plenty of power to spare for most IEMs out there, it can even power efficient headphones without any issue, Hifiman Sundara Closed Back is one of them.
Sound Characteristics of various Filters (Taken from Hidizs S9 Pro Plus’s Product Page)
- <Green Light> Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter): Vocals are slightly forward, and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance
- <Red Light> Linear phase fast roll-off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound
- <Blue Light> Linear phase slow roll-off: Enriched harmonics, full low frequencies, and natural reverb
- <Yellow Light> Minimum phase fast roll-off: Balanced and moderate sound
- <Purple Light> Minimum phase slow roll-off: Clean sound with a forward position
- <White Light> Hybrid fast roll-off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail
Comparison
Fosi Audio DS1
- The sound profile is fairly neutral to my ears, doesn’t add any coloration to the frequencies
- Clean and balanced sounding
- Hefty in terms of weight
- Independent volume control on the DS1, S9 Pro Plus doesn’t have that
- Slightly higher power output for DS1, 220mw on Balanced vs 180mw on Balanced for S9 Pro Plus, for IEM usage, it doesn’t really matter than much unless you are using it for headphones
Final Thoughts
Having tested several dongles from Hidizs, it’s good to see they are moving away from the 2.5mm and started to adopt 4.4mm for the balanced out port. In terms of sound performance, S9 Pro Plus is not the usual dongle with 9038Q2M, it is fun sounding, slight warmth with natural timbre, combined with all the factors mentioned makes for a dynamic and engaging listening experience, it is also priced competitively, hence, recommended!
If you are interested in grabbing a pair, head over to the following link:
It will be available to pre-order at 16th Nov 2023 at 70$ instead of the original price at 80$
Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Martha - Non Affiliated
*Received the review sample from Hidizs for the purpose of this review, big thanks to them for the support and opportunity as always
DISCLAIMER
I would like to thank Hidizs for providing the S9 Pro Plus Martha.
It can be gotten here: https://www.hidizs.net/products/hidizs-s9-pro-plus-martha-hifi-balanced-dongle-dac (no affiliate links).
SPECIFICATIONS/COMPATIBILITY
- DAC chip: ESS9038Q2M
- Dimensions: 55 × 25 × 11 mm
- Weight: 17 g
- Supported audio formats: Native DSD64/128/256/512; PCM up to 32bit/768kHz
- USB connector: Type-C
- Ports: 3.5 mm (single-ended), 4.4 mm (balanced)
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz
- Output power: 138 mW+138 mW (single-ended); 180 mW+180 mW (balanced)
- Separation: 75 dB (single-ended); 115 dB (balanced)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 123 dB (single-ended); 120 dB (balanced)
- Distortion: 0.0019% (single-ended); 0.0008% (balanced)
- Output impedance data not available
- Tested at $79.99
The Martha supports native DSD64/128/256/512, and PCM files up to 32bit/768kHz.
This device is compatible with Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS. On Windows 10 and above, the Martha is plug-and-play, with no need for installation of additional drivers. It was easily recognized on various Android devices too.
The Martha boasts of a fully balanced architecture, with 4 components in the chain - a USB interface processor, a ES9038Q2M DAC chip, an independent headphone amplifier, and a POP sound cancellation system - indeed I did not hear any nasty "pops" when connecting transducers to this dongle, which is appreciated. ESS's patented 32-bit HyperStream® II QUADDAC™ architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator are also implemented inside.
ACCESSORIES
Other than the S9 Pro Plus dongle, these are included:
- 1 x USB-A to USB-C cable
- 1 x USB-C to USB-C cable
Unfortunately for our Apple users, there is no lightning adapter included, and this may necessitate an aftermarket purchase.
DESIGN/FUNCTION
Manufactured from CNC integrated aluminum alloy, the Martha sports a black rectangular chassis, with rear and front glass panels. The S9 Pro Plus is quite sturdy. Buyers can choose amongst a silver, blue or black hued version when placing an order.
Measuring 55 × 25 × 11 mm, and weighing a mere 17 g, the Martha is a very sleek and portable dongle.
The Martha has a cool RGB display to signify the various sampling formats and rates:
At one end of the dongle, we have the 3.5 mm (single-ended) and 4.4 mm (balanced) ports. The 4.4 mm port is reinforced with gold-plating, which is a very nice touch.
On the opposite end, we have the USB-C port, which functions as a power and signal input port.
Volume buttons are found on the side. The volume steps are decently spaced, and click with a nice haptic feedback. Sadly, there are no independent volume controllers.
Simultaneously pressing both volume buttons will allow one to cycle thru the 6 DAC filters that this dongle has. The effect of the filters are very subtle, but these are what Hidizs advertises they do:
SOUND/PERFORMANCE
I tested the Martha with various Android phones, Windows laptops and PCs. Apologies, I am not an Apple user and can't vouch for the compatibility/performance with Apple devices.
On the default DAC filter, the Martha can be described tonally as having a warm-neutral profile.
There are no output impedance specs available, though most of the connected transducers display somewhat less stridency in the upper registers. The Martha has a mid-bass boost, and it synergizes well with brighter or edgier gear. Indeed, this dongle can be used for longer listening sessions, unlike brighter and fatiguing sources.
Despite lying on the warmer side, this DAC/AMP is not as analogue sounding as something like the Cayin RU6, and still displays respectable resolution and clarity. For the sub-$100 price, imaging and soundstage is above average, and music does not sound claustrophobic or congested. Instrument separation and layering are well done.
Timbre is very natural - it is one of the highlights of this dongle - with note weight on the slightly thicker side. Acoustic instruments and vocals are very accurately played back.
Coupled with the aforementioned mid-bass boost, the sub-bass extends very well, and sub-bass heavy tracks will showcase a visceral rumble when called for. The midrange is transparent yet lush, which provides a euphonic soundscape. The treble is quite smooth and sibilant-resistant, and treble sensitive peeps will appreciate the tuning choice.
Hidizs advertises power output specs of 138 mW (on single-ended), and 180 mW (on balanced), which is definitely adequate for easy to moderately-demanding gear, with the balanced port providing more juice than the single-ended one. Alas, there is no gain switch available on the Martha.
My crucibles for testing how powerful a source is include 3 of my hardest to drive gear:
1) Final Audio E5000 (low sensitivity at 93 dB/mW)
2) Sennheiser HD650 (high impedance at 300 ohm)
3) Yinman 600 ohm (600 ohm impedance and 87 db/mW sensitivity)
On the 4.4 mm port, the Martha is able to drive the E5000 acceptably to avoid a one-noted bass, though more powerful amps will arguably do a better job in texturing. The HD650 sounds okayish on balanced, but is a tinge undynamic, even at higher volume. This dongle struggles to power the Yinman 600 ohm, as it comes across as flabby, untextured and boring. However, it is no shame to lose to the notorious Yinman 600 ohm - which has a double whammy of low sensitivity and high impedance - and most portable sources fail in this challenge.
Thus, the Martha is optimally used for driving low impedance/high sensitivity transducers, and behemoth outliers are probably better paired with sources with more power on tap.
This dongle has a slight hiss with fussy high sensitivity IEMs, but generally once music plays, it is not that obvious, unless in quieter parts of the music. It gets a tinge warm during usage, but not overtly scalding.
COMPARISONS
Comparisons were made with some other dongles residing in the $50 - 100 USD range.
Truthear Shio
The Shio's utilizes a dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 chip. Both dongles are warm tonally - the Shio a bit more - with the Shio having a more pronounced treble roll-off.
The Shio is notably inferior in technicalities, with poorer soundstage, imaging, edge definition, micro-details and instrument separation. Both dongles have a 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm port, but the Shio has less power available.
Fiio KA13
The KA13 houses a dual CS43131 DAC chip. Sound-wise, the KA13 is thinner in note weight and more analytical. The KA13 is more sibilant and hotter in the treble, compared to the more sedate Martha.
The KA13 has slightly better technicalities, with improved micro-detailing, soundstage, imaging. Instrument separation is about on par.
Both dongles have 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm ports, but the KA13 pushes out an impressive 550 mW on the balanced port, with a desktop mode function. It definitely has more power on tap than the Martha to drive more demanding gear, though the KA13 burns battery much more rapidly.
CONCLUSIONS
The S9 Pro Plus Martha is a fine sub-$100 dongle, suitable for folks who are looking for something on the warmer side of the equation, but still retaining solid technicalities. Timbre is the star of the show, and the smooth sonics are a great pairing for more sibilant and fatiguing transducers.
It is quite small in profile and weight, with decent build. I quite like that there is no "pop" sound on connecting transducers, though very sensitive IEMs may have a slight hiss on the Martha.
The Martha's power output is quite decent - it is however not class-leading in this department - but it should be able to juice most easy to moderately difficult gear, save for outliers that have low sensitivity/high impedance. Some other nitpicks would be the dongle getting warm during usage, no independent volume controllers, and the lack of a gain setting.
The S9 Pro Plus furnishes a warm-neutral and smooth tuning, yet preserving above average technical performance - think of it as an improved and more refined Truthear Shio, for a similar price tag. Something to consider for budget audiophiles searching for an all-rounder velvety dongle.
I would like to thank Hidizs for providing the S9 Pro Plus Martha.
It can be gotten here: https://www.hidizs.net/products/hidizs-s9-pro-plus-martha-hifi-balanced-dongle-dac (no affiliate links).
SPECIFICATIONS/COMPATIBILITY
- DAC chip: ESS9038Q2M
- Dimensions: 55 × 25 × 11 mm
- Weight: 17 g
- Supported audio formats: Native DSD64/128/256/512; PCM up to 32bit/768kHz
- USB connector: Type-C
- Ports: 3.5 mm (single-ended), 4.4 mm (balanced)
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz
- Output power: 138 mW+138 mW (single-ended); 180 mW+180 mW (balanced)
- Separation: 75 dB (single-ended); 115 dB (balanced)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 123 dB (single-ended); 120 dB (balanced)
- Distortion: 0.0019% (single-ended); 0.0008% (balanced)
- Output impedance data not available
- Tested at $79.99
The Martha supports native DSD64/128/256/512, and PCM files up to 32bit/768kHz.
This device is compatible with Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS. On Windows 10 and above, the Martha is plug-and-play, with no need for installation of additional drivers. It was easily recognized on various Android devices too.
The Martha boasts of a fully balanced architecture, with 4 components in the chain - a USB interface processor, a ES9038Q2M DAC chip, an independent headphone amplifier, and a POP sound cancellation system - indeed I did not hear any nasty "pops" when connecting transducers to this dongle, which is appreciated. ESS's patented 32-bit HyperStream® II QUADDAC™ architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator are also implemented inside.
ACCESSORIES
Other than the S9 Pro Plus dongle, these are included:
- 1 x USB-A to USB-C cable
- 1 x USB-C to USB-C cable
Unfortunately for our Apple users, there is no lightning adapter included, and this may necessitate an aftermarket purchase.
DESIGN/FUNCTION
Manufactured from CNC integrated aluminum alloy, the Martha sports a black rectangular chassis, with rear and front glass panels. The S9 Pro Plus is quite sturdy. Buyers can choose amongst a silver, blue or black hued version when placing an order.
Measuring 55 × 25 × 11 mm, and weighing a mere 17 g, the Martha is a very sleek and portable dongle.
The Martha has a cool RGB display to signify the various sampling formats and rates:
- Yellow: DSD 64/128
- Purple: DSD 256/512
- Blue: PCM 176.4/192(kHz)
- Red: PCM 352.8/384(kHz)
- White: PCM 705.6/768(kHz)
- Green: PCM 44.1/48/88.2/96(kHz)
At one end of the dongle, we have the 3.5 mm (single-ended) and 4.4 mm (balanced) ports. The 4.4 mm port is reinforced with gold-plating, which is a very nice touch.
On the opposite end, we have the USB-C port, which functions as a power and signal input port.
Volume buttons are found on the side. The volume steps are decently spaced, and click with a nice haptic feedback. Sadly, there are no independent volume controllers.
Simultaneously pressing both volume buttons will allow one to cycle thru the 6 DAC filters that this dongle has. The effect of the filters are very subtle, but these are what Hidizs advertises they do:
- Green Light - Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter): Vocals are slightly forward, and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance.
- Red Light - Linear phase fast roll-off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound.
- Blue Light - Linear phase slow roll-off: Enriched harmonics, fuller low frequencies, and natural reverb.
- Yellow Light - Minimum phase fast roll-off: Balanced sound.
- Purple Light - Minimum phase slow roll-off: Clean sound with a forward signature.
- White Light - Hybrid fast roll-off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail.
SOUND/PERFORMANCE
I tested the Martha with various Android phones, Windows laptops and PCs. Apologies, I am not an Apple user and can't vouch for the compatibility/performance with Apple devices.
On the default DAC filter, the Martha can be described tonally as having a warm-neutral profile.
There are no output impedance specs available, though most of the connected transducers display somewhat less stridency in the upper registers. The Martha has a mid-bass boost, and it synergizes well with brighter or edgier gear. Indeed, this dongle can be used for longer listening sessions, unlike brighter and fatiguing sources.
Despite lying on the warmer side, this DAC/AMP is not as analogue sounding as something like the Cayin RU6, and still displays respectable resolution and clarity. For the sub-$100 price, imaging and soundstage is above average, and music does not sound claustrophobic or congested. Instrument separation and layering are well done.
Timbre is very natural - it is one of the highlights of this dongle - with note weight on the slightly thicker side. Acoustic instruments and vocals are very accurately played back.
Coupled with the aforementioned mid-bass boost, the sub-bass extends very well, and sub-bass heavy tracks will showcase a visceral rumble when called for. The midrange is transparent yet lush, which provides a euphonic soundscape. The treble is quite smooth and sibilant-resistant, and treble sensitive peeps will appreciate the tuning choice.
Hidizs advertises power output specs of 138 mW (on single-ended), and 180 mW (on balanced), which is definitely adequate for easy to moderately-demanding gear, with the balanced port providing more juice than the single-ended one. Alas, there is no gain switch available on the Martha.
My crucibles for testing how powerful a source is include 3 of my hardest to drive gear:
1) Final Audio E5000 (low sensitivity at 93 dB/mW)
2) Sennheiser HD650 (high impedance at 300 ohm)
3) Yinman 600 ohm (600 ohm impedance and 87 db/mW sensitivity)
On the 4.4 mm port, the Martha is able to drive the E5000 acceptably to avoid a one-noted bass, though more powerful amps will arguably do a better job in texturing. The HD650 sounds okayish on balanced, but is a tinge undynamic, even at higher volume. This dongle struggles to power the Yinman 600 ohm, as it comes across as flabby, untextured and boring. However, it is no shame to lose to the notorious Yinman 600 ohm - which has a double whammy of low sensitivity and high impedance - and most portable sources fail in this challenge.
Thus, the Martha is optimally used for driving low impedance/high sensitivity transducers, and behemoth outliers are probably better paired with sources with more power on tap.
This dongle has a slight hiss with fussy high sensitivity IEMs, but generally once music plays, it is not that obvious, unless in quieter parts of the music. It gets a tinge warm during usage, but not overtly scalding.
COMPARISONS
Comparisons were made with some other dongles residing in the $50 - 100 USD range.
Truthear Shio
The Shio's utilizes a dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 chip. Both dongles are warm tonally - the Shio a bit more - with the Shio having a more pronounced treble roll-off.
The Shio is notably inferior in technicalities, with poorer soundstage, imaging, edge definition, micro-details and instrument separation. Both dongles have a 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm port, but the Shio has less power available.
Fiio KA13
The KA13 houses a dual CS43131 DAC chip. Sound-wise, the KA13 is thinner in note weight and more analytical. The KA13 is more sibilant and hotter in the treble, compared to the more sedate Martha.
The KA13 has slightly better technicalities, with improved micro-detailing, soundstage, imaging. Instrument separation is about on par.
Both dongles have 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm ports, but the KA13 pushes out an impressive 550 mW on the balanced port, with a desktop mode function. It definitely has more power on tap than the Martha to drive more demanding gear, though the KA13 burns battery much more rapidly.
CONCLUSIONS
The S9 Pro Plus Martha is a fine sub-$100 dongle, suitable for folks who are looking for something on the warmer side of the equation, but still retaining solid technicalities. Timbre is the star of the show, and the smooth sonics are a great pairing for more sibilant and fatiguing transducers.
It is quite small in profile and weight, with decent build. I quite like that there is no "pop" sound on connecting transducers, though very sensitive IEMs may have a slight hiss on the Martha.
The Martha's power output is quite decent - it is however not class-leading in this department - but it should be able to juice most easy to moderately difficult gear, save for outliers that have low sensitivity/high impedance. Some other nitpicks would be the dongle getting warm during usage, no independent volume controllers, and the lack of a gain setting.
The S9 Pro Plus furnishes a warm-neutral and smooth tuning, yet preserving above average technical performance - think of it as an improved and more refined Truthear Shio, for a similar price tag. Something to consider for budget audiophiles searching for an all-rounder velvety dongle.
PACKAGING
The S9 Pro Plus arrives in an eye-catching package, featuring a plastic case. Upon opening the package, we have the a USB Type-C cable, a Type-C to Type A adapter, and, of course, the dongle itself. No instruction manuals are included on the dongle.
BUILD QUALITY
The build quality of the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus can be described as average for its price point. Although it is lightweight, there is some noticeable LED bleed on the plastic faceplate, which gives it a somewhat cheap feel. Additionally, the design of the Type-C cable is a bit impractical, as I found that the dongle only functions properly with a specific cable orientation. For it to work without interruptions, the logo should be facing up when connected to the phone. Otherwise, it won't work. Updating the firmware did not help, I believe this is a faulty hardware design that is not very user friendly.
SPECIFICATIONS
- ES9038Q2M High Performance DAC Chip
- PCM Supports Up to 32bit/768kHz
- Native DSD Supports Up to 512
- Physical Buttons for Volume Control & 7 Filter Option
- 4.4mm Balanced & 3.5mm Single-ended Output
- 138mW+138mW@32Ω 3.5mm SE / 180mW+180mW@32Ω 4.4mm BAL
- Sampling Rate Indication RGB Lighting
- Compatible with all platforms: Windows/Mac OS/iPad OS/Android/iOS/Harmony OS
- Hi-Res Audio Certification
FEATURES
IT HAS SEVEN FILTERS! WHO KNEW?
The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus boasts two dedicated buttons, one for volume up and the other for volume down. In addition, there's another feature that may go unnoticed unless you actively look for it online (Thank you, lack of user manual!). If you simultaneously press both buttons, you can access the filter selection, offering a total of seven filter options.- Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter): Vocals are slightly forward, and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance.
- Linear phase fast roll-off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound.
- Linear phase slow roll-off: Enriched harmonics, full low frequencies, and natural reverb.
- Minimum phase fast roll-off: Balanced and moderate sound.
- Minimum phase slow roll-off: Clean sound with a forward position.
- Hybrid fast roll-off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail.
- Brick wall: Excellent dynamics and strong presence.
IT HAS TWO PORTS!
The S9 Pro Plus is equipped with two headphone jacks, supporting 138mW at 32 Ohms through the 3.5mm port and 180mW at 32 Ohms via the 4.4 balanced port. When connected to the balanced port, it can effectively power the Sennheiser HD600 at approximately 70%-90% volume, being the safest. The S9 Pro Plus demonstrates its capability to drive planar earphones and even hard-to-drive headphones, all within its compact form factor.DEDICATED COLOR CODE FOR EACH SAMPLING RATE
While not particularly groundbreaking, it's a convenient feature that provides the on-display sampling rate information. This can be considered as an aesthetic enhancement, and it's worth noting that it's a feature found in a few other devices, such as the Audioquest Dragonfly.- Yellow: DSD 64/128
- Purple: DSD 256/512
- Blue: PCM 176.4/192(kHz)
- Red: PCM 352.8/384(kHz)
- White: PCM 705.6/768(kHz)
- Green: PCM 44.1/48/88.2/96(kHz)
SOUND
While I have strong criticisms regarding the build quality of the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, it compensates with exceptional sound quality. This device provides ample power to drive both my IEMs and headphones while keeping noise and hissing to a minimum, resulting in a clean, distortion-free audio experience. It truly enhances the audio characteristics of my gears, allowing their strengths to shine at their most decent potential possible. The S9 Pro Plus's sound quality can be described as clean, detailed, and free from any hissing, offering remarkable resolution and a non-fatiguing listening experience with plenty of intricate details.HOW ABOUT HARD TO DRIVE HEADPHONES?
Fortunately, my friend loaned me his Sennheiser HD600, allowing me to evaluate it with this dongle. While it may not completely unleash the HD600's potential, as high-end desktop stacks can, the headphones can still be comfortably powered at around 70-80% volume with surprising clarity, resolution, and power. It's important to highlight that for optimal performance, you should connect it to the 4.4mm port, as it doesn't perform well with the 3.5mm port, even at maximum volume, due to a lack of driving power.
COMPARISONS
vs Hidizs XO:Let's start by comparing it to its sibling first. The Hidizs XO is limited to supporting DSD files up to DSD256, whereas the S9 Pro Plus can handle up to DSD512. While both models deliver a commendable level of clarity and attention to detail, the S9 Pro Plus stands out for its cleaner sound quality without any harshness compared to the XO. It's worth noting that the XO supports MQA, a feature the S9 Pro Plus lacks. In terms of build quality, the XO takes the lead, but the S9 Pro Plus offers independent volume control and capabilities such as the 4.4mm port that the XO doesn't have, making it a versatile choice. The S9 Pro Plus is the clear winner here.
vs Audioquest Dragonfly Red
We must acknowledge that even though it was released in 2012, the Dragonfly Red continues to prove its worth as a reliable dongle. It has truly stood the test of time and holds a special place in my heart. However, when it comes to specifications, the S9 Pro Plus clearly takes the lead. It offers a broader codec support compared to the Dragonfly Red, which is limited to 24-bit/96kHz. Another advantage of the S9 Pro Plus over the Dragonfly Red is its hardware controls and readily available Type-C connection, while the Dragonfly Red relies on a USB-A connection. It's important to recognize that the Dragonfly Red was not originally designed as a mobile phone dongle but rather as a laptop/desktop accessory. In terms of driving power, both dongles can handle the Sennheiser HD600, but the S9 Pro Plus requires less power and, unfortunately, delivers a cleaner and superior output compared to the Dragonfly Red. Don't worry Dragonfly Red, you're still one of my favorite dongles! At least in terms of build quality, aesthetics and sturdiness, you definitely have S9 Pro Plus beat.
vs Fosi Audio DS1
The Fosi Audio DS1 is a dark-horse among many choices in the budget dongle, it has what S9 Pro Plus has to offer except for the filters and firmware support that the S9 Pro Plus has at two and a "half-ish" times lesser the price. It is more robust, has volume support, and can support up to DSD512. It also sports the same ES9038Q2M ESS DAC. Spec-wise
CONCLUSION
Pros:
- Neutral, clean, sound
- It has a 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced port
- Provides plenty of power for both ports
- Has physical volume support
- Very portable
Cons:
- Cheap build quality
- The LED bleeding is a personal nitpick
- The filters have no drastic changes
- The USB type-C only works on specific orientations
Opening the small box, one finds the Hidizs S9 PRO PLUS, a USB Type-C to Type-C cable, a USB Type-C to USB-A adapter, the User manual and the Warranty card inside. The Dongle itself is made well a nice mixture of metal and glass or high-quality plastic. It features external buttons that look like dials.
It features an RGB indicator light to show what file quality is being used.
As followed.
Yellow: DSD 64/128
Purple: DSD 256/512
Blue: PCM 176.4/192(kHz)
Red: PCM 352.8/384(kHz)
White: PCM 705.6/768(kHz)
Green: PCM 44.1/48/88.2/96(kHz)
The Martha named after that last passenger pigeon has a ESS9038Q2M DAC chip at its heart. With up to 138mW+138mW SE 3.5mm and Up to 180mW+180mW BAL 4.4mm power. I like that they have decided to go with the 4.4mm instead of the 2.5mm that the original had.
Sound Impressions:
The S9 PRO PLUS Martha is very transparent with very good dynamics and clarity, midrange is expressive, and treble is extended naturally. There is good separation and details with only a hint of warmth in the lower Bass and a mild lift in treble. Ground noise is nonexistent and the device powers planar IEM to prefect proportions.
Conclusion: The S9 PRO PLUS Martha is a well-made and great sounding dongle with good power and excellent clarity and resolution.
The Martha also has seven amazing filter effects, Here's a list of them in order:
.Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter): Slightly forward vocals, extended high frequencies with reduced resonance.
.Linear phase fast roll-off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound.
.Linear phase slow roll-off: Enriched harmonics, full low frequencies, and a natural reverb.
.Minimum phase fast roll-off: Balanced and moderate sound.
.Minimum phase slow roll-off: Clean sound with a forward position.
.Hybrid fast roll-off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail.
.Brick wall: Excellent dynamics and strong presence.
Hidizs brand has been quite active and brought intriguing and worthy stuff for the past couple of years. Their latest MP145 planar IEMs made some noise before the launch and early bidders have already started to receive their parcels and supply own very positive impressions.
Glad to see that the feedback on the sample items the reviewers have shared this summer finally turns into pleasing satisfaction of Hidizs customers and supporters and the campaign turned out a success in overall.
This time I’d share my experience and impressions of spending several weeks with Hidizs S9 Pro Plus USB DAC|AMP dongle.
First of all, S9 Pro Plus (codename “Martha”) is a successor of the previous versions of S9 lineup: S8 -> S9 -> S9 Pro -> S9 Pro Plus. Currently, Hidizs is pretty strong in such devices and has a long list of dongles: S8, S9 series (3 devices), XO, S3 Pro. Previous S9 dongles were widely reviewed and commonly placed on top among similar products of other brands and S3 Pro even has been mentioned in New York Times as the best budget pick. Back to S9 series…
Personally, I would say that S9 Pro Plus is a direct successor of S9 Pro whereas the original S9 is a standalone product. The main difference is that the original S9 is built on AKK DAC while S9 Pro and the newest Plus versions share similar ESS ES9038EQM DAC chip. Here we can see all the difference:
Despite that architecture of S9 and S9 Pro is different, their design and some features are more similar to each other than between S9 Pro and S9 Pro Plus. Plus version now offers 4.4mm BL & 3.5mm SE ports instead of 2.5 + 3.5 combination, it now features physical buttons, different design layout and additional switching filters. And on top of that there is more than 30% gain in power comparing to the original S9 version.
Full S9 Pro Plus specs:
Under 32Ω load:
S9 Pro Plus has the dimensions of 55x25x11mm, consists of the aluminum chassis with front and back glass panels. Design is resembling all Hidizs products with its sharp edges put under different angles.
Another heritage is Hidizs logo at front which also acts as RGB LED indicator for sampling rates and different sound filters. Looks beautifully when active but I wouldn’t call it informative. I would prefer slightly more expensive dongle with OLED screen and full information about rates, filters and track quality. Anyway, here is the list of LED colors and their meanings:
Sample rate indication:
On the right edge we have 2 physical buttons now that are responsible for 2 functions: Volume and Filter. Pressing one button increases or decreases the volume respectively, while pressing two at once would change filter mentioned above. Each press of 2 buttons scrolls to the next filter and there is a change in LED color to identify which filter is currently active. Changing volume with dongle buttons is quite discrete and sometimes it is better to control volume from a source in order to get some preferrable values in between.
Top edge of the device contains 2 ports: 4.4mm BL Pentaconn type and 3.5mm SE. Since the technical design of S9 Pro Plus claimed to be fully balanced – BL port provides the maximum potential in terms of output power and sound quality. 180mW/channel is pretty high figure that is not expected from such a tiny device. Just for example: the most advanced Hidizs AP80Pro X DAP has 70mW per channel on SE and 190mW per channel on BL outputs which is much lower on SE and only ~5% higher on BL in comparison to S9 Pro Plus dongle. This is despite the fact that AP80 DAP is much larger, has its own LiON battery as power buffer and much more space under the hood for its schematics.
Bottom edge contains type-C USB port which is compatible with PC, MAC, Android and current iPhones with type-C ports. There is also Lightning to type-C adaptor that can be purchased separately to connect to the older iPhone versions. For Windows, there is a dedicated ASIO driver available on Hidizs website. Having such driver on PC is crucial for the best audio experience as it bypasses system mixers, utilizes bit-perfect stream and opens sampling rates up to 32bits/386Khz under driver properties to avoid the additional resampling.
This type-C port also used to upgrade S9 firmware, although I don’t know whether it would be available for public. I have been provided with the firmware upgrade for my early sample that replaced track switch function with volume buttons when dongle is connected to PC to its direct function: volume change. I assume that all final version devices would already come updated. But if interesting: FW change requires PC connection, PID finding and adding to special FW update app plus the FW hex file to push it to the device. Takes about 5-10 seconds to finalize, restart and get back to music.
In respect of the sound I can state that S9 Pro Plus is a huge update to a regular audio output of general Android, iPhone, PC, Mac or tablet; some addition to the previous S9 Pro version and make some subtle difference when compared to AP80 Pro DAP. Any regular phone or PC sounds less powerful, has notably lower mid bass slap, less layering and instrument separation as well as less resolution. S9 Pro Plus adds the clarity and defines the stage better, provides better control throughout all frequency range and is able to drive IEMs and headphones to a better extent. In comparison to S9 Pro, the newer dongle adds slightly in gain, mostly notable at mid bass and can provide the additional preferences when switching between different filters. Filters do behave differently, adding / subtracting from the mid portion and making the sound less / more balanced. In case with AP80 Pro DAP found some difference in resolution (AP80 Pro sounds more crisp) but this is quite subtle. I would say that S9 Pro Plus and AP80 Pro sound on par if certain filters are chosen on S9.
To summarize: I am impressed with the performance of Hidizs S9 Pro Plus USB DAC|AMP in most possible ways. It is small, lightweight, universal for most of the devices, has unexpectedly huge power output and sounds close to AP80 Pro DAP. It is quite and addition to upgrade the sound source in our pockets and can even be used in the desktop setup if larger and more expensive stationary items are not an option. It might been lacking more informative screen or smoother controls but it definitely doesn’t suffer in audio quality.
The preorder for S9 Pro Plus in Hidizs official online store would start on November 16th, 2023 (9:30AM EST) and would end on Nov 30, 2023 (9:30AM EST). During this period first 100 units would be sold for 69,99USD and the rest for 79,99USD. You can also additionally apply our special 5% discount code: ZMCR5OFF (code would be available from Nov 15, 2023 12:00AM CST). Preorders would start shipping from Dec 5th, 2023.
Glad to see that the feedback on the sample items the reviewers have shared this summer finally turns into pleasing satisfaction of Hidizs customers and supporters and the campaign turned out a success in overall.
This time I’d share my experience and impressions of spending several weeks with Hidizs S9 Pro Plus USB DAC|AMP dongle.
First of all, S9 Pro Plus (codename “Martha”) is a successor of the previous versions of S9 lineup: S8 -> S9 -> S9 Pro -> S9 Pro Plus. Currently, Hidizs is pretty strong in such devices and has a long list of dongles: S8, S9 series (3 devices), XO, S3 Pro. Previous S9 dongles were widely reviewed and commonly placed on top among similar products of other brands and S3 Pro even has been mentioned in New York Times as the best budget pick. Back to S9 series…
Personally, I would say that S9 Pro Plus is a direct successor of S9 Pro whereas the original S9 is a standalone product. The main difference is that the original S9 is built on AKK DAC while S9 Pro and the newest Plus versions share similar ESS ES9038EQM DAC chip. Here we can see all the difference:
Despite that architecture of S9 and S9 Pro is different, their design and some features are more similar to each other than between S9 Pro and S9 Pro Plus. Plus version now offers 4.4mm BL & 3.5mm SE ports instead of 2.5 + 3.5 combination, it now features physical buttons, different design layout and additional switching filters. And on top of that there is more than 30% gain in power comparing to the original S9 version.
Full S9 Pro Plus specs:
- Dimensions: 55×25×11mm
- DAC Chip: ESS9038Q2M
- DSD: Native DSD64/128/256/512
- PCM: up to 32bit/768kHz
- Outputs: single-ended 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm
- Sampling rate indicator: yes
- Shell material: CNC integrated aluminum alloy
- Function buttons: 2
- Switching filter: 7
- USB interface: Type-C
- OS compatibility: Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS (Please note: a Lightning to Type-C cable with OTG function has to be purchased separately to support iOS)
- Net weight: 17g
- Colors: Black, Sliver, Blue
- Packing list: Type-C to Type-C Cable×1, Type-C to USB-A adapter×1, User manual×1, Warranty card×1
Under 32Ω load:
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz
- Distortion: PO (3.5): 0.0019%, BAL (4.4): 0.0008%
- Signal-to-noise ratio: PO (3.5): 123dB, BAL (4.4): 120dB
- Separation: PO (3.5): 75dB, BAL (4.4): 115dB
- Output power: 138mW+138mW SE 3.5mm, 180mW+180mW BL 4.5mm
S9 Pro Plus has the dimensions of 55x25x11mm, consists of the aluminum chassis with front and back glass panels. Design is resembling all Hidizs products with its sharp edges put under different angles.
Another heritage is Hidizs logo at front which also acts as RGB LED indicator for sampling rates and different sound filters. Looks beautifully when active but I wouldn’t call it informative. I would prefer slightly more expensive dongle with OLED screen and full information about rates, filters and track quality. Anyway, here is the list of LED colors and their meanings:
Sample rate indication:
- Yellow: DSD 64/128
- Purple: DSD 256/512
- Blue: PCM 176.4/192(kHz)
- Red: PCM 352.8/384(kHz)
- White: PCM 705.6/768(kHz)
- Green: PCM 44.1/48/88.2/96(kHz)
On the right edge we have 2 physical buttons now that are responsible for 2 functions: Volume and Filter. Pressing one button increases or decreases the volume respectively, while pressing two at once would change filter mentioned above. Each press of 2 buttons scrolls to the next filter and there is a change in LED color to identify which filter is currently active. Changing volume with dongle buttons is quite discrete and sometimes it is better to control volume from a source in order to get some preferrable values in between.
Top edge of the device contains 2 ports: 4.4mm BL Pentaconn type and 3.5mm SE. Since the technical design of S9 Pro Plus claimed to be fully balanced – BL port provides the maximum potential in terms of output power and sound quality. 180mW/channel is pretty high figure that is not expected from such a tiny device. Just for example: the most advanced Hidizs AP80Pro X DAP has 70mW per channel on SE and 190mW per channel on BL outputs which is much lower on SE and only ~5% higher on BL in comparison to S9 Pro Plus dongle. This is despite the fact that AP80 DAP is much larger, has its own LiON battery as power buffer and much more space under the hood for its schematics.
Bottom edge contains type-C USB port which is compatible with PC, MAC, Android and current iPhones with type-C ports. There is also Lightning to type-C adaptor that can be purchased separately to connect to the older iPhone versions. For Windows, there is a dedicated ASIO driver available on Hidizs website. Having such driver on PC is crucial for the best audio experience as it bypasses system mixers, utilizes bit-perfect stream and opens sampling rates up to 32bits/386Khz under driver properties to avoid the additional resampling.
This type-C port also used to upgrade S9 firmware, although I don’t know whether it would be available for public. I have been provided with the firmware upgrade for my early sample that replaced track switch function with volume buttons when dongle is connected to PC to its direct function: volume change. I assume that all final version devices would already come updated. But if interesting: FW change requires PC connection, PID finding and adding to special FW update app plus the FW hex file to push it to the device. Takes about 5-10 seconds to finalize, restart and get back to music.
In respect of the sound I can state that S9 Pro Plus is a huge update to a regular audio output of general Android, iPhone, PC, Mac or tablet; some addition to the previous S9 Pro version and make some subtle difference when compared to AP80 Pro DAP. Any regular phone or PC sounds less powerful, has notably lower mid bass slap, less layering and instrument separation as well as less resolution. S9 Pro Plus adds the clarity and defines the stage better, provides better control throughout all frequency range and is able to drive IEMs and headphones to a better extent. In comparison to S9 Pro, the newer dongle adds slightly in gain, mostly notable at mid bass and can provide the additional preferences when switching between different filters. Filters do behave differently, adding / subtracting from the mid portion and making the sound less / more balanced. In case with AP80 Pro DAP found some difference in resolution (AP80 Pro sounds more crisp) but this is quite subtle. I would say that S9 Pro Plus and AP80 Pro sound on par if certain filters are chosen on S9.
To summarize: I am impressed with the performance of Hidizs S9 Pro Plus USB DAC|AMP in most possible ways. It is small, lightweight, universal for most of the devices, has unexpectedly huge power output and sounds close to AP80 Pro DAP. It is quite and addition to upgrade the sound source in our pockets and can even be used in the desktop setup if larger and more expensive stationary items are not an option. It might been lacking more informative screen or smoother controls but it definitely doesn’t suffer in audio quality.
The preorder for S9 Pro Plus in Hidizs official online store would start on November 16th, 2023 (9:30AM EST) and would end on Nov 30, 2023 (9:30AM EST). During this period first 100 units would be sold for 69,99USD and the rest for 79,99USD. You can also additionally apply our special 5% discount code: ZMCR5OFF (code would be available from Nov 15, 2023 12:00AM CST). Preorders would start shipping from Dec 5th, 2023.
Zerstorer_GOhren
I see Manowar album in your player. Good review!
