looking to purchase SE846 and DP-x1A?

[Donny3541]

Hi All,

I am looking to buy a pair of se846 and would like to get some advice as I am sort of new to this audio game.

Just to give you all a bit of a background of my listening experiences, I use to own a pair of Sony MDR ex1000sl which was my first “real” experience with higher end audio gear. I really enjoy these earphones but the cable broke after a few good years and I then brought a pair of Sony XBA-4’s. I wasn’t as excited listening to these compared to the ex1000 but they were pretty good. To me it seemed a bit flat and wasn’t really satisfied with the purchase.

I recently brought a pair of Philips X2’s for home use and loved it, this ignited a fire and I started doing a bit of research for a new set if IEM’s as the XBA died recently and came to the conclusion the se846 will be a good match for me (I hope). But the 846 seems to have a few years on it and wondering if there is a new model in the horizon, should I wait?

Just out of curiosity, would this sound a lot different from what im use too and what kind of life expectancy would I get from IEM like this(excluding cable)?

The other thing is im looking to pair the 846 with a DAP, im really liking the Onkyo DP-X1A just want to know what you all think?

Thanks

 

[raindogtrombone]

Following - I have DP-X1A and curious to hear perspectives as to whether the 846 might be a good match.

 

[Donny3541]

Following - I have DP-X1A and curious to hear perspectives as to whether the 846 might be a good match.

Hi raindogtrombone,

How do you find the DP-X1A? From what I gathered on the online reviews, it seems to be a nice device (overall) but reading up on this forum there is a lot of mix feelings towards this DAP regarding quality control with the headphone jacks.

I am just a little hesitant as I will be buying the DP-X1A online (overseas) as no one stock this in Australia and im guessing no warranty for me.

 

[raindogtrombone]

I've had it for about 4 months - haven't used it as much as I'd like (new baby), but I've been very happy with it. I haven't seen the issue with the headphone jacks. The UI is really good - I briefly had a Fiio X5iii and the DPX1A functions way better. Just recently got a balanced cable for my Shure SE535s so need to give the balanced jack a good listen, but I've been really happy with the sound quality and the build.

I'm in Canada and bought through Amazon from Japan - was about $300 cheaper than buying local, even with import fees.

 

[Donny3541]

Hi raindogtrombone,

Thanks for the insight, funny you mentioned the Fiio X5iii. I was tossing up between the X5iii, the AK70 mkii and the DP-X1A. The DP-X1A came out on top for my needs/budget but I wish it could be used as a DAC for the PC like the other 2 but not a deal breaker.

I heard good things with the balanced Jack, once I get the IEM and DAP sorted, hopefully I can look into investing in a balanced cable.

On a side note, Amazon is launching soon in Australia! (At the moment they only have books, music and kindle related items) so hopefully I can pick up the DP-X1A for a decent price.