iFi audio hip-dac 2: just the tonic for headphone fans
Oct 12, 2021 at 3:28 AM Post #136 of 314
I got the ifi go blu, which replaced BTR5, and it sounds great, but for my desk I would like to have something that sounds even better. On the go, the choice was easy, but on the desk there are waaaaay too many choices and that's prob why people spend their life hanging out at head if. I have a M500 from SMSL and a Sundara HFM. Can you recommend an optimal solution: Zen Can v2, Zen DAC v2, Zen can Signature HFM, or Hip Dac 2.
 
Oct 12, 2021 at 5:08 PM Post #137 of 314
Can you recommend an optimal solution: Zen Can v2, Zen DAC v2, Zen can Signature HFM, or Hip Dac 2.

For pure desktop use I'd go with ZEN DAC and ZEN CAN should you wish the extra power it offers. ZENs from the Signature range would be my pick if I had headphones tailored for their profiles.
 
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Oct 13, 2021 at 4:09 PM Post #139 of 314
is it sufficient to connect with the USB A port to feed current as well as sound or do I need to connect both USB A and USB C?

Both ports should be used, otherwise hip-dac 2's battery will eventually go down to 0%.
 
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Oct 15, 2021 at 12:34 AM Post #140 of 314
Hi all!
I have been using original (first) Hip-Dac for more than one year and i'm pleased with it's sound (comfortable and lively). I prefer to use dac/amp at my office with PC.
I don't listen to Tidal, because in Belarus it isn't official represented. My choice is Deezer. So in this way, that I don't need MQA, should I change first generation to second? What will I get if i do it?
 
Oct 15, 2021 at 2:06 AM Post #141 of 314
Hi all!
I have been using original (first) Hip-Dac for more than one year and i'm pleased with it's sound (comfortable and lively). I prefer to use dac/amp at my office with PC.
I don't listen to Tidal, because in Belarus it isn't official represented. My choice is Deezer. So in this way, that I don't need MQA, should I change first generation to second? What will I get if i do it?
Deezer is nice :wink: you don`t need MQA.. keep your blue hip dac :)
 
Oct 15, 2021 at 5:17 AM Post #142 of 314
I have been using original (first) Hip-Dac for more than one year and i'm pleased with it's sound (comfortable and lively). I prefer to use dac/amp at my office with PC.
I don't listen to Tidal, because in Belarus it isn't official represented. My choice is Deezer. So in this way, that I don't need MQA, should I change first generation to second? What will I get if i do it?

hip-dac 2 sounds a notch better and it fully decodes MQA, so if those things interest you then you might want to upgrade. If not, your hip-dac is still very solid for what it is :)
 
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Oct 16, 2021 at 5:10 AM Post #143 of 314
Just noticed it. Is this common for the 3.5 port to be see through?

IMG_20211005_172507.jpg
 
Oct 17, 2021 at 12:08 AM Post #144 of 314
I got mine this morning and have been listening all day. Non fatiguing for sure, that's the first thing I'll say.

I listen exclusively to vinyl at home, so that's where my ears are on the sound spectrum. I had the original Hip Dac and I didn't really like it. This new version has been a different experience. It's really well balanced and smooth. I like the soundstage. It's plenty sparkly on top but not edgy so far. The bass is really nice with my Oppo PM-3s. I'm listening to the Heartworn Highways soundtrack now and it's just lovely.

I've had 6 or 7 portable dac amps to use with my iPad and iPhone and MacBook Pro including the iDSD, Mojo, Fiio Q3 and so far, in limited listening, this is clearly my favorite. I get annoyed quickly with many digital components. Not happening here so far.
Interesting because I have the pm3 too and they're my reference, and since you've compared with other good dacs this looks very good, I'm looking for a less bulky DAC amp for the go since I have the Earmen Tr-Amp, very good
 
Oct 18, 2021 at 10:54 AM Post #146 of 314
Why isn't this available on Amazon uk yet?? You released this some time ago. I need a portable amp but im growing tired of waiting. I was told it would be on sale at Amazon uk in a few days which has now passed.
 
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Oct 18, 2021 at 12:32 PM Post #147 of 314
Why isn't this available on Amazon uk yet?? You released this some time ago. I need a portable amp but im growing tired of waiting. I was told it would be on sale at Amazon uk in a few days which has now passed.
It was available, when I ordered it there were only around 15 available at the time, sure more stock will come in
 
Oct 19, 2021 at 2:07 PM Post #150 of 314
Why isn't this available on Amazon uk yet?? You released this some time ago. I need a portable amp but im growing tired of waiting. I was told it would be on sale at Amazon uk in a few days which has now passed.

Latest news are that hip-dac 2s are coming in at the end of this week to Amazon UK, thanks!
 
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