[chaiyuta]

I've got it, last week, and unfortunately there is no difference between my PC Lenovo Thinkpad t420 headphone out and the explorer headphone out. I 've tried Spotify 320kbs, and FLAC. I use a pair of Grado SR80e. Should I have to burn in? Are the grados suitable for the explorer?

I suggest you buying a high quality usb a to mini usb b cable that is made for audio purpose such as audioquest diamond or cinnamon, supra usb2.0 series, wireworld platinum starlight 7, etc. Hope this help.

 

[jkbkot]

  I suggest you buying a high quality usb a to mini usb b cable that is made for audio purpose such as audioquest diamond or cinnamon, supra usb2.0 series, wireworld platinum starlight 7, etc. Hope this help.

Do you have some evidence that USB cable makes a difference?
 
http://archimago.blogspot.de/2013/04/measurements-usb-cables-for-dacs.html

 

[chaiyuta]

Do you have some evidence that USB cable makes a difference?

http://archimago.blogspot.de/2013/04/measurements-usb-cables-for-dacs.html

I have nothing. My acquaintance who sound test with himself can hear a difference. If you worry, you should just try demo cables at any nearby stores. Anyway, if you are interested in technical issue, I think of this link might have your answer.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/617026/usb-cable-and-sound-quality

 

[tiobilli]

Is the impedance issue resolved applying the new firmware V1349?

https://www.meridian-audio.com/support/personal-audio-support/explorer/

I've just bought it, I'm doubting if it pairs correctly with a Grado SR80e so, I'm thinking to return it and wait for the explorer 2.
¿What do you think?

 

[obsidyen]

Is the impedance issue resolved applying the new firmware V1349?

https://www.meridian-audio.com/support/personal-audio-support/explorer/

I've just bought it, I'm doubting if it pairs correctly with a Grado SR80e so, I'm thinking to return it and wait for the explorer 2.
¿What do you think?

 
No impedance issue is hardware based, firmware won't make it go away. That said, newer Explorers have 5 ohm output so headphones over 40 ohm shouldn't have a problem, even 32 ohms would be ok in my opinion. That said it's better to buy the new one with only 0.47 ohm output.

 

[PhilW]

The Explorer2 has officially been released in the UK today for £199!
 

 

[obsidyen]

I've just placed the order from Custom Cable. Can't wait. I really liked the original Meridian Explorer and regret selling it for an "upgrade". With very low output impedance, this should be amazing.

 

[money4me247]

just curious if this can be used as a dac only with another dedicated amp.

 

[obsidyen]

just curious if this can be used as a dac only with another dedicated amp.

Yes, you can use the line out jack to connect it to another amp. The dac is quite impressive too, sounds very nice with an amp and speakers. That said, Meridian Direct Dac is probably better for dac only use.

 

[obsidyen]

Look what's arrived from Custom Cable (thanks to Phil and Matt for fast delivery as always).
 

 

[vikingboy]

Mine arrived s few days ago. I found it immediately more enjoyable than the explorer1. I haven't cruticslly listened yet, just plugged it in and listened to a few well known tracks. Bass is significantly better with my unique melody miracles.
I'd be interested in trying high end 6" sub leads, maybe in the new year when I have a bit more time.

 

[Click]

Is the Explorer 2 $150 better than Meridian 1?
 
I'm currently doing research on a DAC to pair with my HD700 and Schiit Vali. I appreciate any feedback from anyone who has paired this with a Vali and/or HD700. Thanks

 

[obsidyen]

  Is the Explorer 2 $150 better than Meridian 1?
 
I'm currently doing research on a DAC to pair with my HD700 and Schiit Vali. I appreciate any feedback from anyone who has paired this with a Vali and/or HD700. Thanks

It depends. For me it is. Low output impedance and MQA support alone justify the premium. Plus there's new DSP tech from high-end Meridian gear. You might be surprised how HD700 sounds just from Explorer2's headphone jack. HD650 sounds quite impressive at 300 ohms.

 

[vikingboy]

I'd agree with obsidyen, low impedance and possible benefits of MQA (any test files available publicly yet?) given the low price point make it a no brainer to go with the newer version.

 

[XERO1]

Can someone please confirm for me if both of the outputs can be used simultaneously or not?
 
Thanks.