There are certainly a lot of promise on the SXFI Amp, but if I were to tone down the expectations, it might make the product more palatable and less hyped.
1. SXFI primary purpose is
to make headphones audio sound like it’s coming from outside your ears through external speakers in a natural environment.
2. It is a portable solution, requiring no additional software license. Literally just plug and play (after uploaded the ear and headphone profiles).
Multi-channel audio works amazing, because after all, the multi-channel data is already there. One common knowledge is that Android only supports 2-channels, hence the output for multi-channel audio might not be as expansive. Comparatively, when using the SXFI Amp over desktop computers, by selecting the Sound profile to "5.1/7.1 Surround" will achieve much better results.
With regards to two-channel audio, it's a mixed bag. The only drawback I got from sampling a handful of tracks is that vocals under studio recordings appear to create rather unnatural transformation. It sounds a little boxy, with unnatural echos. Hence, the quality of the holographic audio depends on the recording mix. Having said that, the overall sound staging is certainly a refreshing and pleasant experience as I can perceive the audio coming from in front of my face rather than around my ears. I enjoyed the most listening to light and clean instrumentals and jazz, as opposed to heavy modern pops.
The SXFI Amp is
definitely not a supreme audiophile product, it will not translate audio imaging accurately (as most audiophiles demand even from their normal stereo headphones). But it transports me into a virtual room to deliver believable natural room audio. For listeners who enjoy a relaxing audio experience (not for critical listening), the SXFI Amp will elevate the enjoyment further.
Reference:
https://musicphotolife.com/2018/10/creative-sxfi-amp-review/