[RTTO]

I've been satisfactorily listening to K550 for quite a few months as follows:
 
1) K550 > E17 (AUX) > Sansa Clip zip
2) K550 > E17 (USB) > laptop (WMP)
3) K550 > E17 (OPT) > TV > Patriot PBO > NAS
 
Usually, I listened to flac via (1) & (2). Movies via (3)
Recently, I started to play back music via (3) as well. I was surprised by the improvement in sound quality. Especially listening to music from live concert. Soundstage, clarity and sound separation signifantly better than the other 2 options.
 
I am wondering what is the factor that cause such a drastic improvement?
Is that because of the optical connection, TV, external media player .....etc?
If the external player is responsible, which portable player(s) will deliver similar performance?

 

[BillsonChang007]

Hello!

Before I start, please do not trust me TOO MUCH at this post as I am just using my random logic to answer this question... Lol

Anyway, with your 3rd rig, I am guessing that the FiiO E17 reacts as an amp then either one of your sources that you plugged in to have an excellent DAC. So this result in better SQ? I don't know~ someone please clarify XD

To get a better result, probably a better DAC will help K550 in performance?

Billson

 

[RTTO]

Thanks for the reply.
I am very novice in audio things.
Thanks for the clarification. I am under the impression that the E17 serves as a DAC when connected thru optical in....

 

[RTTO]

I dug out the Patriot PBO spec sheet and noticed the audio out thru HDMI is Dolby/DTS.....
 
I believe it is the surround sound thing that make the head phone sound so exceptionally good.