I can't choose ihifi 960 or ma8( is rockbox ma8 better than stock ihifi 960 with v moda crossfade m100, which player better with electronic music?
Hi
Audio17,
I've been in a similar choice situation only a week ago, and I asked several guys on the Russian forum who listened to both ihifi960 and MA8.
It seems both this models are not very popular among head-fiers, but more popular among russian-speaking audiophiles.
Some guys said they are on the same level of quality, but sound different. 960 was often described as more bright, airy, analytical. Some said it was a bit "sterile" or too bright.
Most guys, however, prefered MA8 to IHIFI960 because of many reasons: "fun" sound signature, detailing, soundstage.
I think the difference might depend on your headphones. As
Project86 mentioned, some are better paired with 960, and some with MA8.
Besides, MA8 offers better screen, USB DAC, rockbox, and possible upgradability in the future (for now you can order only a balance amplifier card for around $160).
But if this is your first audiophile player, you wouldn't be disappointed with any of these two.
At least I was told so.
I decided to go for MA8.