DX228mod is an all-degree upgrade to DX208mod (only the AMP8 was modified) as far as I can tell. The sound signature was changed a little bit on 228mod, though overall sensation is quite similar to each other. However, the performance of 220 is relatively lower than 200 as I don't find any unacceptable lag on 200 but definitely on 220. The SoC, which seems to be the same RK3688 but overclocked, may not be capable to handle a Full HD resolution screen well. The actual situation is even I use Live Wallpaper (Galaxy Pack) on 200 (latest firmware with Lurker's add-on) with Nova Launcher and a bundle of apps, it was just smooth like a good phone. But with the same condition, my 220 (latest firmware with Lurker's add-on) was so dull that I had to use basic wallpaper instead.
Dx200 and Dx220 have completely different sound signature. If you have an upgraded amp module, it will be more pronounced for sure
220 just gives more details and more solid bass than 200 and controls the sound stage more stably . The sound signature difference I won't call as 'completely different' as their difference is not as huge as comparing to other brands' DAPs, like WM1Z, X7 II, etc. with either of them. Anyway, the MQA implementation is quite impressive comparing to UAPP's MQA IAP on 200.
Yes, they definitely is retaining the Ibasso house sound, but within the Ibasso house sound, the dx200 and dx220 have a very different sound signature and approach . Not only from the hearing observation, but also the hardware as well.
@Whitigir , about the cable you showed me as 4.4mm to dual XLR, can 2.5mm balanced output on DX220 amp1mkii have same effect by using 2.5mm to dual XLR. I would think so, but just want to confirm if anyone has done it.
Yes, you would be just fine, and expect different sound signature for different modules. However, The real line out 2.5mm would be the Amp3 module, and the real line out on Amp1 is 3.5mm. So, if you want, and care, with 2.5mm, then I recommend Amp3 line out for your 2.5mm usages
Thanks for confirming it. One question about DAC mode, does DX220 must be in DAC mode, so it can be recognized by PC? My laptop didn't see dx220 when in DAP mode, but I had no chance to try it yet, and I am still catching up reading all posts.
Anyone have the TaoBao link to buy the TPU case for the 220? I have a friend who's travelling next month to Asia and I would like to order one of those cases to send to my friend's hotel
https://m.intl.taobao.com/detail/de...oD0E3&id=598241895724&ns=1&abbucket=13#detail Better ur friend is going to Hongkong... or Singapore if I not mistaken already available in local store...
Updated my DX220 to latest firmware. This DAP is hot, it doesn't burn, but it is hot. I tried the USB DAC mode, it doesn't display anything about the format which is played, I think this can be enhanced. FiiO dac/amp will at least display led in color, not to say that DX220 has a beautify display screen. The more information it displays will be signaling it as a hi-end player.
USB DAC mode in iBasso DAPs starting from DX80 is fully handled by XMOS chip. The software in the player knows nothing about this process, and the SoC just sleeps, if you don't touch the screen and buttons.
I don’t have a DX220 but do have a recently acquired six month old DX200 with Amp1. I bought the Amp 9 and am absolutely delighted with it. It has a lovely analog signature as well as a crisper & better separation of the instruments. AMP9 makes a significant improvement in the sound compared to Amp1 and there is no going back now to that Amp now.
Oh my a DX220 Max https://audio123reviews.com/2019/07/20/ibasso-dx220-max/2/ It’s big! And doesn’t seem to feature modular amp support... curious as to which amp design is in there... something like the N8 with both NuTubes and regular amp? Curious... Also how big the battery will be... @Paul - iBasso is this just a concept of will it become a product? Back to AMP9, the more I listen to it the more I am convinced it pairs superbly with thicker sounding IEMs, right now the best combos are the Phantom and the FIBAE Black in my collection. I also like AMP1 mk2 very much, it’s very very good with more punch and fuller sounding. AMP9 is just a very different tuning and take, with insane dynamic range and ability for separation, contrary to a lot of impressions I don’t think AMP9 is warm... at all. Lower mids is quite lean and upper mids very articulate. Bass and treble are so textured and rich and infinitely layered... quite unique sound very analogue.
