Any sound comparisons between the Delta Sigma DAC (ESS9038PRO) in the HA-L7A to the iBasso DAP’s?
DX340 iBasso developed Discret DAC, Easily replaceable batteries, Amp Modules! ***New firmware on 1st page. v1.04 local update. ***
- Thread starter Paul - iBasso
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Here's what I can say:
Listening to the YH-5000SE solely through the DX320MAX Ti, DX340, HA-L7A, as well as some other less notable gear, just didn't hit the mark. Although I didn't spend enough time to definitely confirm just how much its sound changes across them, I can say that the overall character remained present. The headphone is peaky and matches the description of those who didn't like its sound. It's only when I pair these two DAPs with the HA-L7A that YH-5000SE's sound profile becomes flexible.
I personally feel like HA-L7A's internal DAC undermines the amplifier section's potential. More DAP owners should bring their DAPs to audio shows and pair them with amps. You'll need a 3.5mm>RCA [female] or 4.4mm>XLR [female]. I'm yet to try the HA-L7A with other headphones, so I can't give you an accurate comparison between the DAC sections!
Here is an excerpt from my YH-5000SE review [DAPs are used as the source for the HA-L7A]:
I think I made the mistake by using a comparative adverb to describe the sound. The truth is, the DX320MAX Ti has an airy and open presentation, while the DX340 has an intimate and cinematic presentation. Hearing a headphone shift from one polar end to the other is mind-boggling! For example, vocals are airy and light on the DX320M, and forward and dense on the DX340. I just want to make it clear that these are the differences I observed when using these DAPs as sources for the HA-L7A, and listening to this chain on the YH-5000SE.
This headphone is simply unlike any other. Those who haven't heard this range of variation firsthand cannot comprehend it, nor can they accept it, apparently. In the YH-5000SE thread, some dismissed my observations as 'brain burn-in'. For one, as a critic, I don't get brain burn-in—I don't get used to sound. The best way I can describe my approach to judging sound is by comparing it to the sensation of touch. Imagine you have a textured surface and you run your finger over it. If you are running your finger over it for a while, you'll lose the intensity and the depth of the surface texture. When I am composing reviews, each time I put the headphones on is a fresh sensory experience. My ears and brain hit a factory reset button each time I take the headphones off my head. A sharp edge is a sharp edge, it doesn't become dull once you run your finger over it. It's just disappointing to see people accusing you of things when all you are doing is trying to share your observations. It's not like I am trying to convince anyone...
Anyyyhow, what I wanted to say is that the DX340 is magical when paired with the HA-L7A. It's possible that the DX340's unique DAC architecture is what contributes to such a difference in sound. I know that it has a blacker background and sounds noticeably cleaner than the DX320M. Sound had greater depth, and I regularly get that tingly sensation in my ears—the one that hits the spot and gives you goosebumps.
Since the YH-5000SE is such an alien, I'm yet to hear the DX340. That will happen when I bring it back home and listen to headphones whose sound I am familiar with (iBasso's SR2 and SR3).
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The triton are very versatile. Had the pleasure to demo them. From my notes I can't say I found a fault.
Jazzi
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Very sharp, you are absolutely right! Fixed...thanks for reporting @Tomz1313
For those we ran the first line in the last couple of hours...you may want to re-run it, sorry
I think it's cool as hell that @Paul - iBasso would provide assistance to you on a 'unofficial' tweak. Thanks to both of you!
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Ibasso and Paul have always been very supportive to the DIY community, unlike many other brands. The reasons why I am with Ibasso and many of Ibasso products
Shrapnel7247
Head-Fier
What are the thoughts on using a magnetic USB cable for charging? Any risks in using one? I'd like to avoid loose USB port from the constant plugging/unplugging of the USB over time
DingDongMonster
500+ Head-Fier
I’ve been using magnetic cables on everything that needs charging for a while now. I don’t like the idea of plugging in an out everyday, sometimes a few times. Looking at scratched up worn out ports triggers me. LOL
Just get the ones that have stronger magnets.
What case are you using for your MAX?I’ve been using magnetic cables on everything that needs charging for a while now. I don’t like the idea of plugging in an out everyday, sometimes a few times. Looking at scratched up worn out ports triggers me. LOL
Just get the ones that have stronger magnets.
I'm going to get a new leather case for my 300MAX Ti.
Any recommendations?
DingDongMonster
500+ Head-Fier
I am using the original case it shipped in. The condition is pretty bad now. The 300Max uses the same case as the 320 Max. Maybe the custom maker can create one for you?
I use these with the purple ring. The magnets are strong, one end can swivel, and it can do data. But I only use it for charging. There might be newer, better ones? I use these and I know it works. Every once in a while, I will remove them and spray contact cleaner on it.
Alix link here
You can also buy an adapter to transform your USB-C cable into a magnetic one.
Link here
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Amazing work Remko !! I saw Roon! Natively supporting now ?Am I missing something?
ragnathin
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Any direct comparison of sq between dx340 vs sp3000 ??
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