Salvatore
500+ Head-Fier
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2012
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I'm also on deliberation on buying the Aune T1 or matrix mstage to replace E17 for my X1.
You say that the Aune T1 is not a good pairing with X1 or is it just overkill?
Aune T1 is even cheaper (usd110) than E17 (usd 130) here in China. The matrix is 200usd and 250usd for the usb version.
Note, I will use either amp for my future cans, probably HD650 or k712.
Because T1 is practically an ss amp with tube DAC, the tube rolling doesn't have as significant effect to the sound as the dedicated tube amps do. Therefore, to get the best out of tube rolling, more refined cans are recommended. If you're not planning on upgrading your headphones I'd stay with the E17. With E17 you can also EQ if needed. Other than that T1 is simply fantastic amplifier for the price.
I pair T1 with K702 anniversaries because the anniversaries hit the sweet spot for me. They are so balanced I can use them very long periods without any major fatigue. The X1 bass can overpower lower mid detail and feel fatiguing in the long run. It also makes the mids feel slightly recessed (especially when A/Bing against anniversaries). X1 sounds very good straight from sandisk sansa clip so I don't think much amplification is needed. To conclude, X1 are imo very good for portable / unamplified use because they don't benefit as much from amplification as some higher end cans do. I use X1 to play games and watch movies and now to listen music both at work place and on the go.
E: Anniversaries have great synergy with T1. Especially with right tubes. T1 has plenty of juice to drive anniversaries. I use 0 gain, but there are options to go for +10db or +16db gain if needed.