[archimonde]

Hi,
 
I'm planning to buy a DAC/Player but still can't decide which one should I buy. Let's start.
 
I listen mostly Rock/Metal genres (Progressive Rock like Genesis, Yes, Pink Floyd, Dream Theater; Heavy Metal like Accept, Iron Maiden etc.; Also Instrumental Rock like Joe Satriani).
 
I currently don't have any DAC/Player. I used to have a clip zip. Now listening from my pc (Asus Xonar D2x sound card), my phone (Samsung S4) and my Laptop (onboard sound card ).
 
I have Shure SRH840, Ostry KC06, Trinity Audio Delta (from Kickstarter campaign) and Flare Audio R2A. But I usually use Trinity Audio Delta.
 
Now, I use my phone to listen music, while working use my computer and again use my phone to listen music. (home -> work -> home ) My music archive is mostly FLAC.
 
I found FiiO X1. It is good enough but can't use as USB DAC. X1's price is $99. I also found an used X3 (1st gen) for $120 (sold ). Also there is X3 2nd gen for $199 but I don't know should I pay 80 bucks more than X3 1st gen.
 
Which one should I buy? Or other suggestions?
 
Thanks,

 

[archimonde]

And there is iBasso DX50. What about that? For my music style, DX50 vs. X3ii? Also found an used DX50 for $190 (with 64GB card). Should I buy it or go with X3ii?

 

[rmullins08]

The Fiio's are good options.  I don't have experience with the iBassos.  I would probably go for a Fiio E18, or you could probably try to save up a bit and go for an Oppo HA-2.  Can still use your phone as the source, and they can be used with your laptop as a DAC/AMP.

 

[archimonde]

I don't want to use my phone as the source. My phone has some software issues (Samsung's terrible ROMs) and also there is battery life problem.
 
Oppo HA-2 is expensive for me. There is another player I'm considering. Sony NWZ A10 series, or in my country there is Sony A15 (16Gig version of A17). What about that? It has better battery life. What about that? There are comments about it is not powerful enough to drive some headphones but I think its power is sufficient for my headphones.