[fzaba]

Does anybody know of an amp-less source component that plays FLAC?  Top sound and small size are my priorities for this component. I do not need a built in amp nor the associated headphone output since I will amp the signal using an RSA Shadow. A 1/8" mini line out jack would be perfect. I have been looking for some time now and never came across such a device. Any help?
 
Ideally, something the size of the RSA Shadow would be ideal. This is a strictly portable setup. I'm willing to spend up to $400 or so for such a device.
 
The Hifiman HM-601 looks interesting due to it's claim of awesome sound quality, but if I didn't have to pay for the built-in amplifier I would save additional money AND there is room on the manufacturing side to shrink its size..... IF they were so inclined to build my ideal device. One can dream, right?

 

[WonderSlug]

Maybe the Nationite S:Flo2 16GB?  It's around $180 USD, plays nearly every format, 16  GB (expandable via MicroSD cards), and has a line-out that bypasses its built-in headphone amp.
 
Dimensions are 11cm (4.33 inches) x 6.2cm (2.44 inches) x 1.2cm (0.5 in)
 
I think it comes with cheapie IEMs.
 
 
http://mp4nation.net/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_36_58&products_id=377&zenid=372ce81ad8cac865d9cda679bfc96a89
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

[Uncle Erik]

What about jailbreaking an iPod and using a LOD?

 

[fzaba]

Maybe I am asking for too much... but I want a smaller device that is specifically made with SQ in mind. The size of a Sansa Clip+ would be perfect. I would go slightly bigger as well, but not by too much. I want it to fit in my jeans pocket. The idea is a no-holds barred approach to SQ in a FLAC-enabled player that fits in a package the size of a RSA Shadow. No other bells or whistles are needed like video or picture viewing. Wishing and hoping someone makes this device!!!
 
I currently have the Clip+, but I cant get over the fact that I'm using the headphone out to my RSA Shadow. There must but SQ improvements that can be made without sacrificing size, right?

 
I thought about looking up someone that can mod the Clip+ to make it into a line out instead, but it would still be missing specific internals that make it tailored for better SQ; a higher quality DAC being key. I may just end up going this route for now, but I am still very much open to suggestions.

 

[fzaba]

Anybody else in this type of situation, what did you go with?