You are assuming balanced is the optimal output of all design, all products. This is NOT necessary the case in high fidelity industry.
1. I'm not assuming that.
I believe the idea is to use the best output available. That depends on implementation, but your product has a balanced output, so presumably you think that is a good idea.
Otherwise, you could just have a SE output and simplify the design. If balanced isn't the best output, then why add it on to your product?
I was just noting that if people want to use balanced headphones they can't utilize the Nutubes.
I think that is factually accurate and will come up as people consider buying this
Or, buy it and not realize this fact. Bookmark my comments and we'll see.
I can't comment on what other manufacturers are doing, I simply urge you to listen and make up your own mind.
2. Since I and others don't have access to this DAP and it is hard to compare multiple DAPs at once except at various events -- that not everyone can attend -- this is what we do on audio forums.
We are intrigued by various products and designs, ask questions and speculate.
If you want to send me a loaner I would be happy to listen and make up my own mind.
I am DAP shopping, so very interested.
Please don't quote any comparison between the balanced output vs single-ended output of the same DAP, this is an unfair approach to start with. The fair game is to compare a $500 or $3000 single-end designed DAP to a similarly priced balanced designed DAP.
3. I am sure every reviewer WILL compare the output sound characteristics of the same DAP.
Why wouldn't they.
If balanced is not the optimal design in this DAP, they will say that.
If balanced is the optimal output but can't use the Nutubes, I'm sure potential buyers will want to know that.
The reason I am on this thread is that I am DAP shopping and this product sounds interesting.
Mike