Time to weigh in with the feedback updates I have sent to Hidizs in a bid towards transparancy.
All in the best interest that they have a chance to improve on the final product before delivery.
So far I have recieved two beta firmware updates that have improved things. Most of my feedback is firmware related.
I wrote a small piece on my blog of early impressions but will reserve my final review write up for when the finished product is ready to ship. Its too early now whilst people are buying blind on pretty pictures, websites and the information from the lucky few reviewers: nothing like having a device in hand.
Make no mistake. I do think this dap is fairly well complete as is. It just needs a few more tweaks under the hood, and the volume wheel.
My role as I see it is to inform, not to hype.
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Feedback (early/first)
Its a fairly responsive ui as i showed off in the video
(EDIT: UI is now more responisive faster with 0.08 beta FW)
I am still exploring the sound. Seems good so far. Towards neutral.
(EDIT: seems a tad bit brighter into 0.08).
Exiting to the main menu can be confusing at times.
(EDIT: seems one has to exit the Hiby player to go to the main menu).
Exiting to main menu cuts off the music. Please change this.
EQ works but isnt so strong, thats ok.
I like it better that way (ern though I dont use EQ).
MSEB settings buttons seem a but laggy and unresponsive. Also quite small buttons.
(EDIT: font can be changed. S/M/L. After FW 0.08 beta - Even the smallest setting is responsive now- I only tried the small font under fw 0.07 when I gave feedback)
The volume control wheel is a bit small but too late for that now.
(EDIT: maybe not?)
But the drag up menu -
Small( -is great for adjusting volume).
Main volume slider on the screen when using the volume wheel disappears too fast.
I havent tested bluetooth.(EDIT: seems fine but havent tried many codex)
It worked easily with DH1000 - i havent tried any other devices (tried the audirect Beam no problems) - with cables. Instant connection
Feedback email 2.
Also the radio needs to search at 0.05 not by tens.
Feedback 3
I see LDAC is coming. Good.
Does it come with a screen protector on?
I tried putting the on the one from the box. It wasnt a perfect fit on the curved edges.
(EDIT: Some say theirs came with protectors on? I cant tell on mine. Maybe not).
Also the volume wheel needs some um roughness/texture to it, now its too smooth. I need two fingers to turn it.
Indentations etc cross hatching (i cant think of the right word).
See photo:
I might have some grain in the far low end sound. I need to recheck it wasnt my earphones or the track. (Firmware 0.07)
*i am enjoying it. (EDIT: jury is out after last 0.08 update. Need more listening time. A bit brighter, vocals a tad too forward).
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In closing its a great, even excellent sub $150 dap.
Quite a surprise what is coming out these days: daps, dacs and earphones.
I look forward to further FW updates and other tweaks as we move forward.
Enjoying it as we speak on my commute with Campfire Audio Atlas.
Beautiful screen.