I've recently upgraded from Onkyo DP-X1 to a Kann, unfortunately the DP-X1 was on it's way out after 2 years of constant use; it was a great player but suffered from inferior build quality where the headphone and USB ports were starting to become inoperable.
So I decided to demo the Kann, liked what i heard and took the plunge.
So far, I am really pleased with my purchase, the Kann is a completely different DAP to the DP-X1, which was a "jack of all trades" player in terms of sound quality and functionality (mainly the fact that it was possible to download 3rd party apps from Google Play Store) whereas the Kann is completely locked-down when it comes to downloading 3rd party apps, so whilst i lost a lot of features I was prepared to trade the this on the basis of sound quality alone.
I am not saying anything to detriment the sound quality of the DP-X1, but with the Kann the sound really opens up, I find the clarity, separation and airiness mind blowing and it is taking a bit of getting used to. But I feel the Kann has a lot more in the tank in terms of amperage and getting the most optimum sound experience, therefore I am contemplating whether I also need to upgrade my headphones to get the most out of it.
I am playing FLAC files (16/44 up to 24/192 quality) and using the following headphones:
- Meze 99 Classics
- Beoplay H6 (2nd Gen)
- Audeze iSine 10
- Philips Fidelio X2HR
- Bowers & Wilkins PX
I have being doing some research on a range of different headphones, e.g. Focal Elear, Audeze LCD-2, MrSpeakers Aeon Flow Open & Closed, Audioquest Night Owl to name but a few.
But nothing is jumping out on me to justify upgrading, therefore I would appreciate any feedback on whether:
1) I should stick with what I have got already
or
2) Are there any alternative headphone upgrade recommendations in the sub $1000 category (I cannot afford anything more, unfortunately
).
Many thanks in advance - Matt