[music1st]

Hi everyone

I’m looking to buy a DAC/AMP and wired IEM combination.
Price/performance is important, with upgradability a strong factor.
I’m not against buying with a view of spending up to 5k in the next few years
My initial budget would be $1000 for the combination. I’m OK with used.
I’m an audiophile and I value a balanced sound, but I want a more emotional
and visceral connection with the music than I get with my iPhone 12 playing CD quality
Output by Bluetooth to my Sony WH-1000XM4s.


I love all genres of music.

Thank you for your thoughts.

Kerry

 

[Rackhour]

A couple questions:

1. What is your use scenario like? Do you intend to take your setup outdoors, or do you intend on using your setup at home/indoors? Or both?
2. Are you open to buying multiple IEMs? Or do you want just one?

IMO, #1 is important. If you’re thinking of commuting or other forms of outdoor usage, quality IEMs are a waste because the outdoor noises will negatively impact your listening experience, what with all the noises.

 

[music1st]

I think that the majority of my budget should go to the DAC/AMP dongle.
I could then use different IEMs for different situations.

First use would be quiet indoors with some light walking/jogging as a second consideration..

 

[music1st]

OK, I decided to buy a Queststyle M15.

Now to decide on my first pair of IEMs.