Having heard the majority of the DAPs on the list, I should mention that the Aune M2 deserves a spot for top SQ if you ignore the primitive UI and poor battery life. Just had it and the matching B1 amp for a week on tour. It is an amazing DAP that doesn't need an external Amp to drive CIEMs to their top SQ. Paired with the matching Aune B1 amp, the stack is driving my LCD2.2s as good as any desktop I have heard in terms of sound stage, impact, and detail. The Aune lineup has the best treble I have ever heard with some of the best transparency providing a very magical listening experience.
Right now, I am waiting to hear it again head to head with the M1 pro to see how much better the SQ can get with the improved clocks in the Pro version.
Right now, I am waiting to hear it again head to head with the M1 pro to see how much better the SQ can get with the improved clocks in the Pro version.