phthora
Headphoneus Supremus
Hi! since I didn't find anything specific about this configuration I'm asking my question here:
I'm thinking of getting a FiiO M11 for my first DAP to use it with my SE846s I recently got used.
Has anybody tested this configuration and can give feedback on how good they play together?
FiiO states an Output Impedance of <1Ohm, but also recommends it for use with headphones >12Ohm.
I‘m looking for a DAP for my 846s that allows the installation of streaming apps, is bluetooth compatible (recieve and transmit) and allows airplay. Best would be if I can get such a device used for about 300$.
The only device that matches all these requirements so far is the FiiO M11, I‘m unsure about compatibility with high sensitivity IEMs tho.
I‘d be also interested in all alternatives. IBasso dx160 comes to my mind, however UI is inferior from what I‘ve read and I think it also has no Airplay support.
In general what are your opinions on M11 vs IPhone XS?
Thx and have a good day!
In my experience, impedance matching is crucial for getting the best sound out the 846. I went from a DAP with a measured OI of 1.12 ohms to one with an OI of 0.38 ohms, and it made a big difference for clarity and treble presence. More than going from the stock filter to the white one. With low OI and the white filter in, the 846 sounds magnificent and highly detailed. It's still got the lack of post-10khz treble, but lots of IEMs do, even at $1k. These specs list the output impedance of the M11 (oops, that's the Pro version!) at 1.1 ohms, making it very close to the OI my former DAP had. As such, it's going to make the 846 sound a bit more muffled and muddy, in addition to whatever coloration the player has on its own. If you are determined to keep the 846, look into a different DAP. In this case, output impedance will make more of a difference to the sound than DAC chip, volume control, or just about everything short of the gain stage. If you are determined to keep the DAP, look into a cable with the lowest resistance you can find. Let's put aside the can of worms about cable quality, since this isn't about that. Cable resistance adds to source resistance, and raising the latter changes the resulting frequency response and muddies the sound. Of course, finding a low resistance cable can be harder to find than a DAP with a low OI. You can also experiment with various tips to change the FR. The 846 can be a finicky little diva, but man, when you get the set-up right, they absolutely shine!
EDIT: The M11 seems to have the same output impedance as the M11 Pro, 1.1 ohms, while the DX160 has an output impedance of 0.3 ohms or 0.4 ohms according to this. As such, I'd go with the DX160.
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