@miriddin nice review.. and how if A15/17 paired with an amp like Sony PHA series, have you try it? Is there any sound quality improvement? Then do you still choose AP100 without an amp than A15/17 with amp?
I haven't any Sony amp, but i tested my Sony A17 with several amps, as Cayin C5, iBasso D12 and D-Zero, FiiO E11K and SoundBlaster E5,
Those DAP, as well preview X1060 model have a warm signature and i prefere to use with them amps with a more neutral signature, has iBasso amps.
With amps i get a better soundstage and better and fuller sound but Hidisz keep a more detailed sound and a better instrument positioning on stage.
Besides you can also use the Source button to change on the fly the sound to get the better sound for you personal taste.
Besides, i think that with Sony DAP we need to valuate other aspects:
- small form factor with full of space for songs (with a 128 microsd you have a total 192 GB of memory on a Sony A17)
- lower output volume but a better battery life
- really excellent bluetooth connection with full APTX support (now even better, as with the last firmware you get also LDAC)
- the best graphic UI that you can find in any player
Actually i use the Sony A17 mainly with my MEElectronics AF62-CF Air-Fi Matrix2 and i'm really enjoyimg this combo on the move!
I think that it is a good upgrade on my preview bluetooth setup with the Cowon J3!