[dhmcclain1]

Currently using an iPod Classic at home and work. Have a couple docks
for use when headphones are not required. Looking for a replacement/backup
for when the classic bites the dust. Requirements are that it sound good, have
a line out, play flac and wav files, and be inexpensive. That means less than $200.
Tend to lean towards the warm/smooth end of the sound spectrum, preferably
without sacrificing detail. Piece of cake, right?
While I have some knowledge of equipment, there are many things that I find
a bit of a mystery. For example, in my home system, I have a Musical Fidelity
M1Dac. Easily the best and most expensive piece in the system. I wonder,
since most any DAP I would buy already has a DAC chip, would running it
thru the M1DAC have a negative effect on SQ? Or should I simply run the DAP
straight thru my amp? Whatever DAC is in my iPod seems to have minimal effect on the sound,
as it sounds way better thru the M1DAC. My understanding is that most any of
the DAPs out there sound better than the iPod? True?
Any advice/opinions are welcome.
Relatively new to this hobby/lifestyle.
Thanks!

 

[PurpleAngel]

I'm guessing the FiiO X3 Gen II DAP on it's own, has a better DAC feature, then your iPod
A FiiO X3 Gen II DAP comes with a coaxial output, which could be connected to the coaxial input on your M1DAC.
Using the X3 Gen II's coaxial output will bypass the DAC function on the X3 Gen II, so only the M1DAC will do the digital to analog conversion

 

[dhmcclain1]

Thank you. Did not realize the dac would be bypassed. Is that a common
thing?
Have been looking at the X3 II and also the Hidizs AP100 which I've seen
a bit cheaper than X3. And due to my rather cheap nature, also was looking
at the 770C upgrade version. A bit leery of the 770c as I am unsure of its
reliability, tho that holds true with the other 2 also.
I was underwhelmed and disappointed by my other Fiio purchase(E07k).
Barely used it and it is now unuseable as the battery will not hold a charge.
Any experience with or knowledge of the iBasso DX50?

 

[PurpleAngel]

  Thank you. Did not realize the dac would be bypassed. Is that a common
thing?
Have been looking at the X3 II and also the Hidizs AP100 which I've seen
a bit cheaper than X3. And due to my rather cheap nature, also was looking
at the 770C upgrade version. A bit leery of the 770c as I am unsure of its
reliability, tho that holds true with the other 2 also.
I was underwhelmed and disappointed by my other Fiio purchase(E07k).
Barely used it and it is now unuseable as the battery will not hold a charge.
Any experience with or knowledge of the iBasso DX50?

 
Really know almost nothing about the iBasso stuff.

 

[dhmcclain1]

Thanks, purple angel.
Well, after reading a few posts and reviews about it, I have ordered a Colorfly CK4+.
Already having some remorse as I have since discovered the bass roll-off issue.
Soooo, guess I will start looking into an amp. Knew this would be expensive in the end. LOL
Shoulda spent a bit more on the DAP and been done with it. SIGH