[daanh]

Hi, I have a Fostex TH-600, that I used to drive with a RSA Intuder hooked to a Sound Blaster Bluetooth DAC. I loved the sound, especially balanced, but it was a hefty package and I switched to noise-cancelling Sony's for traveling by bus. I listen to all kinds of music, mostly pop/rock/indie.

I miss the sound I got from that set. I have long since sold the Intruder, and I went looking for a newer solution. I settled on an Ifi Audio Gryphon.

On first listen, it sounds nice but also a bit clinical. I miss the punch and the silkyness I got from the Intruder. I must admit I haven't hooked it up with a true balanced cable yet, maybe that will make a change.

I would like to know some opinions, maybe from people who also had an amp from RSA. Is there a better choice for me than the Gryphon, seeing how I loved the Intruder?

Other AMP/DACs I considered, all cheaper than the Gryphon:
xDuoo XD05 Balanced (this seems the most interesting contender)
Shanling UP5
Fiio ??? (the Q5s is discontinued...)
TRI TK-2 Dual 9038Q2M (no Bluethooth)
Qudelix-5K
iFi Audio GO Blu
Chord Mojo (no bluetooth...)


Thanks, Daan

EDIT: I just ordered the xDuoo, so I can try them both at the same time. I'm interested in opinions regardless!