I think I'm starting to get a feel for how AMP8 sounds. It's bass is easily the best out of all the previous AMP modules. It's a better take on AMP3's sub-bass dominant sound. With the Hyla CE-5, the rumble is not only cleaner, but even more authoritative. The Oriolus is where it gets interesting though! With AMP4 and the Ares II+, I sometimes felt the upper bass and lower mids were a little too thick. With AMP8, the bass is MUCH tighter and more suitable for faster metal (listening to Meshuggah right now). I actually think these have better synergy over the Hyla's now.
The treble seems smoother and more detailed due to a slightly recessed lower treble and forward upper treble. Both the Z1R and CE-5 have an emphasis on this range, so the AMP actually emphasizes that sparkle more (can be good or bad). It's now perfect on the Oriolus though!
Mids are hard to describe. I think there's a slight upper mid emphasis due to some songs having more presence/sibilance compared to AMP4, but the lower mids are still very present. It might be due to the tighter upper bass. The mids are leaner and tighter on the Oriolus for sure. Great detail!
So, the synergy with the Oriolus is amazing. Hyla needs more listening before I decide how I feel about it. Same for the Z1R when I get home. I might still be interested in hearing the AMP4S for the Hyla if it's smoother than AMP8. Lower mids are the Hyla's biggest weakness. (Or maybe I should buy AMP7 if it's an improved AMP5)
Edit: Nah, I don't really need AMP4S. Think I'll finally stop trying to turn the Hyla into an Oriolus. The Oriolus are now absolutely golden with AMP8. The Hyla make a perfect complement for other music anyway. I no longer feel the need to upgrade my IEM cables either lol (except my Ares that's still in 2.5mm).
I also wonder how much of this will change after burn in.
it's from Valentinum, you can order and or contact him through Etsy.
if you don't see anything you like, contact him, he can build a case based on your input.
Right now there is this one for sale:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/626364447/ibasso-dx20o-leather-case-cases-for?ref=shop_home_active_1
Is that... Pink stitching? Looks like I made the wrong decision when it came to grey stitching lol.