Just got a
S.M.S.L IQ, I don't know how similar to the iDEA it is, but I am impressed.
The sound was a bit cold at first but after a while the thing warmed up and took me by surprise with a huge soundstage (at least compared to my phone using the HTC usb-c to 3.5 with built-in DAC or what I remember of my Onkyo DP-X1 or Granbeat I owned a while ago. Or maybe I just don't remember well).
Sound is full of details, lows are heavy but not overwhelming, mids are detailed, highs too without being harsh. Not Mojo warm but not as clinical as I was expecting. (I have sold my Mojo a long time ago too)
I have only used it in balanced mode so far and I'm pairing it with a Xperia XZ1 compact + SE846 (+ Onkyo HF player).
The thing is light, thin and quite tiny (95mm x 56mm x 9mm). I was expecting something roughly the size of my phone (which is only 5") but it is still smaller. Both devices attached together are still pocketable in my front pants pocket.
I was a bit disappointed to find no accessories except the necessary short cables though.
The included micro-usb to usb-c cable works but having straights connectors and being in white color, I have ordered a black angled one.
I wasn't convinced by the product photos showing the flat horizontal volume wheel, but it is a multifunction selector with pushing function, a bit like some old MD walkman, I like it.
1 or 2 things I don't like though:
- the tiny OLED screen is always on. Not sure if it affects the battery but I dont see it when stacked anyway.
- the power button is on top... weird decision... luckily I am using a repositionnable double-sided sticky pad for stacking so it is fine with its thickness. That could be an issue if you attach it directly to your device with silicone bands.
I was considering an iDEA or even a Dragonfly black/red, but having something hanging, sucking my phone battery and possibly having a chain of cable adapters lead me to get something stackable instead.
I have paid around USD125 (HKD 1000) and I am very pleased.