I came 'this' close to owning the Violectric V200, but alas, I do not. Since I haven't heard the V200 and haven't had opportunity to compare them directly I can't comment.
I actually auditioned this amp for over two weeks and it has a lot going for it. However, it is more of a jack of all trades and master of none for me. They have to cut cost to fit everything in a $1299.
Heron 5 has a better amp section from what I can tell, and I have tested it with really demanding cans. I only tried the LCD4 on the CMA600i, and it didn't sound good. As this is my only observation with the LCD4, I can't put it down to the LCD4, yet. I have a feeling I'll be able to after Canjam. I love the LCD3, so the LCD4 out of the CMA600i was a bit of a disappointment.
Yes, I agree with you on the amp section as well. If anyone is in a market for a used amplifier, don't hesitate when you find a used Headamp GS-1 with Dynalo + module for sale. This particular amp is seriously good for less than $800. I have to admit that the CMA600i is one great looking unit tho.
Very good review. I especially find your comment about balanced out versus SE in a quality design being about volume or dynamics as I describe more than SQ poignant. As I get older and closer to retirement I find myself wanting to downsize my equipment and this is one piece of gear that fits that scenario quite well.
Nice review. I had listened to CMA600i at CanJam Singapore. Very positive impression: detailed musical DAC/amp when paired with the right headphone. It held up very well against its big brother, the Questyle Ref System Gold Edition stack priced around USD12000. I was auditioning the two Questyle set side by side. Among HE560, HD800S and Ether headphones, I like the pairing with HD800S best. Sonically, it reminds me a lot of Chord Mojo/Violectric V181, which I was listening extensively before getting my Yggy/Rag.
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