Modern smartphone vs Ipod 160gb classic

[Meeotch]

Hey guys, I've been using an Ipod 160gb classic for about 5 years now and it has treated me well. Certainly the sound quality can't compare to high end gear, but IMO it gets the job done. I'd like to transition to using a smartphone for all my on-the-go listening, but am concerned about "stepping backwards" in overall sound quality.

I realize all smartphones aren't created equal (ie LG V20), but I'm just wondering if the average smartphone can compete with the Ipod classic? Or is this too much of a generalization? I'm not too keen on large phones, so I am particularly interested in the new Sony Xperia XZ1 Compact. What about a real budget phone like the Moto E4? Thanks!

 

[artpiggo]

Hard to tell. If talking about pure quality btw ipod classic and general smartphone, ipod would be a winner.

However, it is much a matter of "favoritism" or "colorization" you might prefer from smartphone these day.

Xperia series is like a junior version of sony A-series DAP. so if you like punchy bass, fun sounding, you might enjoy it more than ipod.

Idk about Moto phone so no comment.

 

[duo8]

Pretty much all phones should be equal or better than the iPC. However some have noticeable hissing.

 

[Parker75]

I use a Moto G4+ and iPhone, and also have a collection of iPods (2 7th gen classics, 2 6th, 2 5.5th and some nanos and shuffles), in general this is what I found (with EQ flat):

iPod classic vs iPhone - iPhone wins, with the native music app and even better with apps like BBE sonic maximizer or JetAudio.
iPod classic vs Moto g4 - iPod wins easily, louder, fuller and better sounding, even with apps like Jet Audio it doesn't sound as good, also, the battery on the iPod lasts for days, while the phone lasts hours,only advantage on the phone would be the interface with the big cover and all.

For higher end android phones I wouldn't know, as the moto is my first android device, but you could also get a nice amp from Fiio (around $30 - $130 depending on the model) which you could use on your iPod and your phone and the sound will be much better on both devices.

 

[Meeotch]

Thanks for the input everyone! Can anyone else comment on the Sony Xperia Z1 Compact (or the Xperia series in general)?

 

[duo8]

Thanks for the input everyone! Can anyone else comment on the Sony Xperia Z1 Compact (or the Xperia series in general)?

All I know is the Z3 has a rather weak output.