Initial comparisons to the Oppo HA-2 with the xDSD
Source : Tidal Hifi via Android
Interface : Bluetooth from Samsung S8+
Headphones tested : Campfire Audio Atlas
Sound
This section is brief as I've only listened (with interruptions at work) for approximately one hour. I will come back and update this. The xDSD is definitely a step up in overall clarity, highs are cleaner, midrange seems a little less compacted, and low-end is punchier (Without Bass+ enabled on HA-2 anyway)
Modes
XBass+ - adds a slight bit of mid-bass punch, without muddying anything. I think the general listener might appreciate this, but coming from the significant bass-boost offered on the Oppo HA-2, it feels very tame. I am a basshead personally, so I'll need to find a way to EQ in additional sub-bass (80hz and below) to make up for this.
3D+ - Doesn't appear to do much, if anything.. perhaps this is more noticeable with a wired connection. I know this mode is very apparent on my iFi micro Black Label.
Physicality
Pros :
- The size is perfect for what I purchased it for. Lightweight, it appears to be durable which is daily "out and about" to and from work. I no longer have to have a device strapped to my smartphone - YAY
- The volume knob is easy to operate, well defined movement, and restrictive enough that its not going to accidentally go from a normal listening volume to deafening by mistake.
- The chassis itself is beautiful. A fingerprint magnet for sure but that's okay with me
- The color scheme for volume control is easy to understand - it reminds me of my Chord Mojo's.
Cons :
- It would have been nice if this device had USB-C fast charging capability, especially as it was released in 2018 - a relatively new product. Its good to see iFi implemented this on the xCAN.
- Less bass boost than the Oppo HA-2, however I imagine this can be resolved by EQ'ing, and this is a personal preference. I imagine for non bass-heads this will not be an issue whatsoever.
Overall
- This is a wonderful all rounded unit, which I'm looking forward to putting many many hours into. It will replace my Oppo HA-2 as a daily driver when out and about. Great job
@iFi audio !!
Help needed!?!!?
Actions needed from me : I need to figure out an EQ program I can use on Android to bump up the low-end frequencies to fulfil my basshead desires. Unfortunately as UAPP doesn't interface with Tidal Offline (that im aware of), i'll need to find something that interfaces with the OS itself - Any advice people?