[psikey]

And the BTR5 is less money and simpler. But....but...that’s Bluetooth only? Haha.

No, its BT and a full featured wired DAC doing Native DSD and 32/384. I couldn't justify keeping a Dragonfly Cobalt after getting it.

 

[Redcarmoose]

No, its BT and a full featured wired DAC doing Native DSD and 32/384. I couldn't justify keeping a Dragonfly Cobalt after getting it.

Really? Wow! This stuff moves fast! I’m checking that out.

https://headfonics.com/fiio-btr5-review

 

[psikey]

Really? Wow! This stuff moves fast! I’m checking that out.

https://headfonics.com/fiio-btr5-review

Its just good via 3.5mm SE but shines via its 2.5mm balanced. Some devices sound little different SE vs balanced but for me the BTR5 is much better balanced.

Linked review has to tag it low-mid level with it being sub $100. How else could you justify the "high-end" stuff otherwise.

This was really first device other than say a DFC that really makes you think about spending £500+ on a DAP based purely on SQ consideration. A DAP (mid or high) obviously is stand alone if you really can't/dont want to use a phone for your source.

For me the high-end/cost DAP's are as much about design/style/materials to justify their cost rather than big improvements in SQ. A cheap watch can show you the time but people still pay many £1,000's for image/style/brand/cudos. DAP's, like high cost IEM's, are delving into Jewelery band IMO, a way to treat yourself and maybe even impress fellow hobbyists.

Saying that, only DAP I've heard getting close to super high-end/cost is a NW-WM1A (DAC/AMP a Hugo 2). Never had interest in AK as always consider their designs mostly ugly or weird.

 

[Colors]

Sony DAPs, yes.

 

[Redcarmoose]

Sony DAPs, yes.

 

[GRUMPYOLDGUY]

Also it would be useful to know what $70 external dac (s) are being suggested

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