getting a better sound out of my iPod classic 160gb

[gooses]

Hi all....I am new to the lod/dac scene and was wondering if a fiio e17 combo or just an amp through line out will give a step in the right direction??....any tips recommendations would be appreciated!....
Cheers
Chris,
Derbyshire ,
UK.

 

[ZMan2k2]

I have an iPod Classic 160Gb, and the Fiio E17, connected with an L9 connector.  What you get out of this package is using the iPod's EQ, ability to boost the bass and treble with the E17, and have really good output.  Keep in mind, I'm a basshead, so I have my bass boost cranked to +10, and my treble up to +2 on the Fiio and I'm using the "Rock" EQ setting on my iPod.  I have some JVC SZ1000 cans, which really put out the bass with the right amp, and right now, some Atrio MG7 IEM's to run with.  This setup gives me everything I'm searching for in a portable, but powerful setup.  
 
With the Fiio E17, you can only use the DAC portion with USB, SPDIF or optical input.  With the use of an iPod and the Aux input, you bypass the DAC, and go straight to the amp.  If you can find a cable that would connect to the USB from the iPod, you could use the DAC in the Fiio, but I haven't found a cable to do that.  I'm not bothered though, as I'm getting the sound I'm looking for out of my setup, but I thought you should know.

 

[gooses]

Thanks for the info.....i too like some low low bass....!.... but i am ultimately looking for a 'hi-fi' experience - if possible.....from my ipod classic....with my ie's (x10 and ie80's) i get a nice sound (no eq) but i would like to go to the next level, - line out and amp....
I have been looking at many reviews and you tube vids and i am getting a little bit confused as to which amp i should choose (too many choices) 
I am at the moment swaying toward the e12 after many positive reviews...
My modest home hi-fi set up spoils me i suppose (Marantz amp and b&w 600 series) i enjoy stress free listening - my set up can be on all day and i dont get the 'stress' of a one hour ipod session lol!
My ipod is harsh in comparison, but likeable - though i really need to 'smooth it out' as i say, if possible'....
Cheers
Chris.

 

[ZMan2k2]

What you're looking for is an amp/dac that is specifically made for iPod.  Cypherlabs used to make one, but I don't think they do anymore, but some research around here might dig up something for you that would allow you to use a DAC with your iPod.  Sorry I can't be of more help, I'm just getting into the Amp/DAC thing myself.

 

[gooses]

Thanks....I will have a look around and see if there is a 'proper' DAC option available for the classic.....
I wish I could try some of the amp/dac's with my set up....as this is a subjective subject...though review's are genuine they are a personal choice....as is music its self. I have audio that I think is fantastic...my wife will say to me 'turn that crap off!' Lol
I just wonder what she hears compared to me???
Cheer
Chris.

 

[ZMan2k2]

haha, my wife says the same thing.  At least I don't blast her out the door in my truck.  I've got 1500w in there, so I can really enjoy my music when I drive too.  My JVC cans leak out the back side, so she can hear me when I listen in the house, unless I use my IEM's, but they're mainly for travel.  What do you do, happy wife - happy life. 

 

[gooses]

lol 1500 watts....omg! my home set up is 45 per channel rms and it is surprisingly loud....its a wonder your not deaf ...
Seriously though i just want a detailed sound , i love the ipod interface and capacity just not too thrilled with the distortion at times if i use the eq, hence the external lod/amp/dac  researching...
The ipod is ok with no eq but it feels a bit cold if you know what i mean?
Anyway i intend to buy something soon so will have to make my mind up and bite the bullet...
Cheers
Chris.

 

[gooses]

Just took the plunge....ordered a fiio e12 and e3 line out.... £116 uk pounds....Amazon uk
i will post my thoughts when i have had a chance to get my ears tuned up to the new set up.....cant wait!!!.....and at this price i suppose you cant really go wrong for a first dipping of toes into the line out / amp world......
Cheers
Chris...

 

[nuxos]

I am really interested, since i also use a Ipod Classic and was thinking about the Fiio E12 to improve the sound quality. 

 

[gooses]

According to Amazon should receive it 24th july to 5 th August....really cant wait!   
After a bit of listening and fiddling with my new 'toy' when it arrives i will post my thoughts....(fingers crossed it reflects all the good stuff i have read about it)
Cheers
Chris...

 

[nuxos]

Fine
 
 am excited to read your future comparison 

 

[gooses]

OMG! buy it! lol.....e12 came today.....been strapped to my head for the last 4 hours - no joking.....its turned the average at best ipod classic into a real classic!......
I know have more power than i need - no hiss, wonderful clarity.....
I am now happy at last with the sound from an ipod......
Cheers
Chris.
Will post again when the excitement have calmed a bit and i have had time tune in my ears...

 

[FiJAAS]

OMG! buy it! lol.....e12 came today.....been strapped to my head for the last 4 hours - no joking.....its turned the average at best ipod classic into a real classic!......
I know have more power than i need - no hiss, wonderful clarity.....
I am now happy at last with the sound from an ipod......
Cheers
Chris.
Will post again when the excitement have calmed a bit and i have had time tune in my ears...

Could you take pictures of your new setup? Enjoy the music good sir!

 

[gooses]

Yes I intend to....will try to upload by the weekend.....and do a bit more of my thoughts...but first impressions are up to now fantastic ... Improved by a mile the sq on standard iPod.
Cheers
Chris

 

[gooses]

Hi all that are interested.....sorry about the 'gay' case lol! (my mrs picked it for me he he) any way here's my phantasmagorical set up! - ipod classic 160gb - fiio e12 fiio e3 - various in ear buds...(gay case!)

One feature i use all the time....the BASS switch....its perfect when you out and about - easy to find when in your pocket - just a quick slide for more or less....simple.

Another brilliant and simple in your pocket operation....smooth volume control.....no faffing around just precise control.

Crossfeed - not a fan......Gain for buds is more than enough on '0'.....but for those big cans its nice to have some power to call on when needed!

Line out is a must for that extra clarity....

This is one great set up for me.... a massive improvement on the classic hp out...

Even with my original Skullcandy ink'd this just awesome......
....
Best decision i have made audio wise for a long time.....lod/amp.....
As you can see i have hook and looped them together - the fiio comes with nice rubber bands but i prefer this set up as the bands get in the way a bit.
All i can say after a few days is superb improvement over stock 'pod' i have never heard anything like it before from a portable - yes i am new to the amp route and all i can say is
i really can now see what all the fuss is about. This has rekindled my love of music.... a massive fan already with my home set up, but never really too happy with portable - till now.
The detail now when using the Klipsch x10's is sublime - so smooth - Air Moon Safari - a wonder to behold!....layers only glimpsed on my B&W hifi now reveal themselves while i walk the dog around the park!!
Alanis Morissette vocals make my hair stand on end!....
Lol as you can see by my waffle i am well happy......
As i said i am no audiophile - just looking for a good portable sound and so far totally happy!!!
Cheers
Chris.