[my-2000]

So, Is there a general consensus on any SQ changes with the latest firmware update ? 

I don't want to upgrade if there is a negative impact on the sound and would love to read more opinions on the differences if any.
I would imagine they are very subtle if there are any.

If you enjoy the sound signature of 1.15, personally I wouldn't recommend you upgrading to 1.16. The difference is quite obvious.

After listening to it for an evening, so far I notice:

- lower volume, i.e. need to turn up the volume to have the same loudness as before at same volume levels
- further to the point above, lower volume levels now somewhat make the whole piece of music "lighter" too. Not sure if that's my subjective feeling but I just heard it that way
- lighter bass, comparing to the heavier bass of 1.15 vs previous versions. While that's welcome for IE800 because 1.15 was a little bit too heavy for it previously, I don't think I like the new sound signature on SE846

 

[Bechti]

Feedback on the 2.5mm balanced socket issue:

I have received my balanced silver cable deem Ted. Whilst it is more touch sensible (in a sense that you hear when the cable moves, or is touched ), there is not a single crackle or signal loss when the 2.5 mm plug is turned, touched or pushed. I had different experiences with other cables. Highly recommend Teds cables, even though I had to wait forever

 

[Bechti]

Can you downgrade the firmware?

 

[speedracer1]

I'm in agreement with my-2000.  I find the differences between the Cord Hugo and the AK 240 are even greater now with the software upgrade(1.16) then before when I was running 1.15. I also have the Shure SE 846 and the the bass is not as impactfull.  Maybe AK  is  busying tuning to the completely unrealistic sounds of the JH Roxannes!!  Since they are using them as references.   Unless you bring the volume up the bass is missing.  Since I have the Hugo and use the AK240 as my front-end it just must be the Hugo is forced to work harder to correct the timing and bass impact.  I would like to go back and hope there is a way to do so.  Suggestions welcome!
-Speed... 

 

[JamesLe3krman]

I completely agree with my-2000.
I have been listening for about 10 hours after the update and I do have to turn up the volume but still feels like the bass is lacking compared to 1.15. I am listening with the K10 and I personally am not liking it. really wish I can go back to 1.15

 

[Sauntere]

You would think iRiver would have all firmwares available to download. 
 
You guys have completely put me off doing an update. Must be a really obvious difference.

 

[flymetothemoon]

If you enjoy the sound signature of 1.15, personally I wouldn't recommend you upgrading to 1.16. The difference is quite obvious.

After listening to it for an evening, so far I notice:

- lower volume, i.e. need to turn up the volume to have the same loudness as before at same volume levels
- further to the point above, lower volume levels now somewhat make the whole piece of music "lighter" too. Not sure if that's my subjective feeling but I just heard it that way
- lighter bass, comparing to the heavier bass of 1.15 vs previous versions. While that's welcome for IE800 because 1.15 was a little bit too heavy for it previously, I don't think I like the new sound signature on SE846

Thanks for sharing your impressions on the FW update.

How much you think the new FW has reduced the bass? In percentage wise

 

[Bechti]

1,375%

 

[CosmicHolyGhost]

I could be an outlier but I really dig the new firmware. An even more sophisticated sound presentation off my Tralucent 1Plus2 with uber balance...

 

[hemtmaker]

I honsetly dun hear much difference btw 1.15 and 1.16. Certainly for me, my listening volumes are the same. I am on 846 balanced with an OCC silver cable

 

[my-2000]

1,375%

Haha

Thanks for sharing your impressions on the FW update.

How much you think the new FW has reduced the bass? In percentage wise

You're welcome.

I'm recalling this from memory (including 1.16's as I can't listen to it right now) but I would say at least 25%.

 

[flymetothemoon]

1,375%

Then you have very sensitive ears LOL.  Thanks for your reply.

 

[Saraguie]

  I could be an outlier but I really dig the new firmware. An even more sophisticated sound presentation off my Tralucent 1Plus2 with uber balance...

Cosmic, so no loss of bass you can hear?

 

[CosmicHolyGhost]

 
Cosmic, so no loss of bass you can hear?

not to my ears, no. I feel it is a cleaner and more accurate bass presentation. Overall, a more balanced and musical sound.

 

[Sauntere]

Hmmm.. confusion now reigns. If only we could revert back if we didn't like it or to double check.