I know, but this was just my most recent test. Previously I was using a class A tube amp which can make the MDR sound magical and some Elektron synths all w/ plenty of power. I tested the MDR and IER w/ the ZX300 just to try and rationalize the divergent views on each.
Also too which can be confusing.............the choice of firmware. I’m guessing 3.01 was the last update ZX300 software. And while the ZX300 and other DAPs have a slightly different sound quality, 3.02 made the 1Z a very different animal with the IER. Surprisingly for my ears the TA darker with the IER, but has enough power to drive the MDR well. With the TA darker it’s also maybe slightly smoother with the top end of the MDR. Still 3.02 is so midcentric with the 1Z that it kind-of sideways the issue of making a DAP with less power try to drive a full-size headphone. It’s like 3.02 actually also works better with the 1Z/MDR combination as the firmware has less bass, so it’s asking the amp part of the DAP to produce less bass, which keeps it more aligned with it’s abilities.
Still in the end trying to do side by side of the MDR and IER....the Sony TA-ZH1ES is a good choice as it’s quiet enough for IEMs but loud enough for full size. Also surprisingly the TA offers a blacker background and better imaging for the IER. Though once you hear how 3.02 makes the IER with a DAP, you always remember that tone is a desired feature over technicality.
I just looked at JVC's response on Crin's website. It does look to have a good tonality. The bass however is interesting, it's very linear than anything I've seen(ER4SE like low-end) How does the bass sound on the JVC?
I just looked at JVC's response on Crin's website. It does look to have a good tonality. The bass however is interesting, it's very linear than anything I've seen. How does the bass sound on the JVC?
In general I am agreeing with Jmills8, the Z1R is a little more realistic than JVC however. The JVC does need a good clean and tight cable, otherwise the image can be a touch loose with stock cable. I own both at the moment.
What about treble with silver cable? Usually silver adds more air and brightness. When I listened to the Z1R demo, it seemed to me treble sometimes harsh
The good silver cable with very high purity silver should not add harshness to the treble but they tend to be higher in price. You can cable roll to see what you like. Norne, DHC, Effect Audio etc. one stock cable that I think you should try is the Final Audio latest stock cable they use on their A8000, should not cost too much, I think it is an OFC SPC cable and that shouldn’t add any brightness.
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