[putente]

There are some updates to the c421, with the new black faceplates and a new internal tweak! Details here: http://blog.jdslabs.com/?p=419
 

 

[ostewart]

Me want!

I wonder how much if I sent mine in, as I'm loving the black

 

[Ultrainferno]

Quote:

Me want!
I wonder how much if I sent mine in, as I'm loving the black

 
I already did last week.

 

[putente]

Quote:

Me want!
I wonder how much if I sent mine in, as I'm loving the black

 
 
You can order just the new black front plates, for around $20 shipped! 

 

[putente]

Quote:

I already did last week.

 
 
Did you sent it just for the new black front plates swap, or also for the new internal change?

 

[dimmockg]

my all black c421 (2227) has just arrived from the USA to the UK (took 6 days in all)
 
cannot wait to try this baby out later
 
will keep you all posted

 

[nkoulban]

Me too

 

[putente]

And I'd like to know what effects or differences in sound does the new internal change has:
 
Quote:

The c421 Black Edition actually marks a small internal change. In response to In Ear Matters review in June, we swapped output ferrites from an 11 ohm part to a 2 ohm part (PCB has not changed). It’s an extremely subtle change which can be made to any c421.

 
John, care to explain, please?

 

[Ultrainferno]

Quote:

 
 
Did you sent it just for the new black front plates swap, or also for the new internal change?

 
I think it's just for the black front plates, didn't know of any new internals

 

[ikeGT]

Could you recommend me what chip for C421 should i buy?
 
Now i own TF10 and HE-300 with d-zero and plan to sell d-zero to get C421.
 
Thanks!

 

[putente]

Quote:

Could you recommend me what chip for C421 should i buy?
 
Now i own TF10 and HE-300 with d-zero and plan to sell d-zero to get C421.
 
Thanks!

 
 
I think it depends on the kind of sound you want. On the JDSLabs c421 page you have the following under "Customization":
 
 
Quote:

Two options are available for the primary stage opamp: AD8620, or OPA2227. Our #1 recommendation for c421 is the OPA2227, which gives smooth, refined output and an excellent soundstage. If you cannot decide, it's safest to choose OPA2227. This chip receives excellent feedback from c421 owners.
 
We also greatly enjoy the AD8620. Some users love the AD8620, but feedback is admittedly mixed (either loved or hated). Choose AD8620 if you've heard the chip before, or if you certainly prefer an analytical sound signature over the "warmer" characteristic output of the OPA2227.

 
 
I think it pretty much tells you what you need to know to make your decision! I have the OPA2227 version and I like it very much...

 

[zeitfliesst]

The Headfonia review prefers the OPA2227 and I found a lot of head-fi users on this forum to prefer the AD8620. I don't think you could really go wrong with either one.

 

[Ultrainferno]

Quote:

The Headfonia review prefers the OPA2227 and I found a lot of head-fi users on this forum to prefer the AD8620. I don't think you could really go wrong with either one.

 
Exactly, it's smoothness versus detail I think. I prefer the smoothnes (OPA2227)

 

[Jdhmtl]

I am sending my 421 in this week to switch from the 2227 to the 8620. I found with my Westone ES5,JH 13 and Senn 598 the tone of the 2227 was not for me. I am looking for more clarity and detail and soundstage. I found the 2227 too warm,slow,less precise for my ears and set of phones,especially the ES5. The black plates look nice too. Oddly,my old XIN is still my go to reference.

 

[ostewart]

Just sent mine off for black plates, ferrite change and custom engraving! Can't wait to see the results