Want to share some interesting new products, especially for those who are considering purchasing a small dongle like the Lotoo PAW S1.
Update: see
post #43 for a first impression!
Update 2: see
post #180 for English user manual and instructions.
Update 3: see
post #304 for firmware version check and firmware update tools.
Since most of the users cannot download FW files directly from their official webpage, I have downloaded these files and then upload them to google drive so that everyone can access them.
General FW Update Steps (only for Windows 7/10 ATM).
- Download the FW update package (google drive links).
- Connect W1/W2 to your PC.
- Install the driver (WHQL_1222.zip and Windows 7 drivers if necessary).
- Install and run the FW update tool (ISP_Tool.exe) with FW file (ends in .bin; there are two such files in the package and you can use either of them).
- In case the upgrade fails or your W1/W2 is bricked, install this rescue driver.
You only need to install the driver and FW update tool once. For future FW updates, you only need to load the latest FW file to the FW update tool.
Latest FW: W1_V1.0.2.1_AS
- Add the Xelento-tuned EQ
- Add the Self-adapted UAC connectivity mode
- Fix W2's balanced DSD output issue.
- Improve connection stability.
To check your current FW version. Unplug your W1/W2 first. Then, keep holding the shorter of the two bottoms and plug the device into your PC. The device’s screen will display your current FW version.
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Luxury & Precision (LP) is launching its Portable USB DAC/AMP W1 and W2; W1 has 1 DAC chip and W2 has 2. For some of you who may be hearing this brand for the first time, LP made its name by producing high-end R2R DAP P6.
Both devices come in two outputs: 3.5mm and 4.4mm. The 3.5mm output is also a SPDIF output, allowing it to be used purely as a DAC and connect with other AMPs.
What is insane about these two products is the crazily low noise levels and huge output power. I cannot post the link to the other forum, but if you are interested just google the product names and you will see the measurements. Long story short, based purely on the measurements, it outperforms many desktop devices... Of course, we will need to wait for the actual products to tell whether it sounds good or not.
Some data for its power level (the third party measured numbers rather than OEM-supplied numbers):
Balanced:
32Ω 235mw
Single-ended:
32Ω: 125mw
W1 retails for 199 USD and W2 retails for 299 USD. Both W1 and W2 are now ready for order! Their advertisements suggest that the prices already include two cables in the box: one USB C-to-C and one USB C-to-lightening.