Even if neither DX220 and Galaxy S10 can drive Elegia as good as a destkop amp would, DX220 should still be many steps above the S10. The difference should be day and night, shouldn't it ?
I open the same audio file on UAPP bit perfect in both devices. I listen to 30 seconds of the track from my S10. Than I connect the Elegia's cable to DX220 and listen to the same part.
The difference is there but DX220 is not obviously better at all. The soundstage is bigger but the clarity is not improved or even dirtier.
It is definetly possible there are issues with other parts of the system so DX220 is not being directly blamed here. But really interesting. I don't know
well... there's no body needs to blame then... it just your ear and perspective is in role.
Trust ur ear...
For me, using Vampire Weekend's Album, Father of the bride, the sound is noticeable different in 3 device...
- DX220 via optic to D30 => A30 (Burson V5ii D) : everything seem authoritative, Soundstage was the highlight, every frequency seem clear and tight, the separation is noticeable... Warm, yet Transparency still keep up.
-DX229 direct : Fluidity seems the Highlight, needs volume to 88 (Mango OS) for my ear feel the same (can be louder...)
- Same song, from NOTE 8 with UAPP, same warm, but in term of SQ will be almost the same marginal... but SOUNDSTAGE, separation, Micro detail in background it will be unnoticeable in (assuming) same volume, based from my ear...
Again... if you still presumed the same... (assuming nothing is wrong with the device)... well, need to look around...
Regarding Focal, IMO, we need more Power, to fully drive the cans... but keep in mind, must in the right Volt and Ampere, or it will fry the driver...
just my 25 cent