The discovery thread!

[thaslaya]

Btw, the Dunu dtc480 kicks ass.

It is a great little dongle indeed!

Starting with ARMOR, I need to compare again with SHOCK, but where ARMOR of course falls down in comparison from a technical standpoint, it sure does make up for it in terms of completely captivating musicality - again, I need to compare but I possibly find even more enjoyable vs SHOCK… just covers me in a warm blanket of deep relaxation where I simply enjoy and love the music.

Ooo I love me some warm blanket style tunings!

Pics first, listening later. Figured I'd grab some photos before my body oil inevitably leaves its mark.

Smart. One day I'll learn to take pics when everything is mint. I can't help but get them some ear time first.

I may be a bit scarce here the next few days, also for illness, but I'm heartsick. One of our two cats, Chuck, died last night after a brief illness. We're not crazy pet people who consider pets to be children -- I have three of the real thing. But they do become family members, and it's always tough to say goodbye.

So sorry, Paul. Meant to say so earlier but the mutliquote malfunctioned on me. I hope the days get easier but the memories remain strong.

This morning and afternoon listen has been the DUNU DK3001 Brain Dance + Sony NW-A25 (untethered). Been delving ears first into my 80's pop playlist, and it's been a blast. You know an IEM is special when it gets you singing along, bobbin', and your hips sway. This is the TELL TALE SIGN. All this is happening with the Brain Dance.

Maybe they should change it to Body Dance?

Another night with the DITA Audio MECHA and tonight's pairing is a fantastic one with the IBasso Audio DC Elite powered off a Power source and using my Cayin N3Ultra as music transport.

Oh what fun and sweet tunes are gracing my ears tonight!

Sources matter and this Synergy is fantastic!

Looking forward to your review, Monk!

Awesome little post, keep it up in 2025, but maybe take it easier with the reviews, at least I know I want to (I say as I await 5 things ...).

I meant to add something to my post about what I would be trying to accomplish/making a resolution for in 2025 but forgot. I do want to slow down a bit and try to enjoy the gear I own more. This past year has seen so much good stuff but it gets put aside very quickly in favor of the next review. I'm missing the things I gave high scores to like the S12 2024, OL, Splendor II, P5+2, Brain Dance, etc. Need to get them back into rotation sooner than later.

Since no one asked...

I literally asked in my big long post lol . I can't wait to hear your impressions of Cantor and Terra. Early candidates for IEM of the year already? Guess we'll find out.

I Haven’t bought a single IEM or Cable at all this year.

But how long will that last? I give it 2 weeks

I’m here to say That you’re Comprehensive list is something else. I really appreciate your work. Just beautiful.

Thanks Ozboy! And I appreciate your contributions as well. Glad you're sticking around

The new IEM from LETSHUOER is launching soon, the model Mystic 8. This is an 8BA model with Knowles and Sonion drivers, and is rumored to be around $1000.

I liked this one at CanJam but it was still a prototype at the time. Reminded me a lot of the Orchestra Lite. I'm a bit shocked at the proposed price though. Would need to do some AB comparisons against other BA sets to see how it fairs.

Iems that I'm interested in them for 2025:
1. Penon turbo (90% I'm going to purchase them during the next big sale).
2. Epz P50 (if they gonna get good reviews).
3. Softears Volume S (if they gonna get good reviews).

I am really digging the Volume S. I can't decide which of the two tunings I like most. Lower impedance is warmer and chill. Higher impedance has more air and sounds a bit brighter and balanced.

 

[BlueA]

But, for me, nothing beats that mind blowing experience of swapping from Apple dongle + FH3 to SP2000 + U18S, listening to Bach violin partita no.2. That detail, that tone, that orbital soundstage. It was unprecedented for me.

For me it was Kennerton Thekk on Shanling M6 Pro (akm version) listening to Dhafer Youssef interpretation of birds requiem

Some tears fall out only to surprise me out of the experience...

 

[ToneDeafMonk]

Did you end up with the Muse M5 Ultra or went straight to TAP-1 Pro? Did you get any op-amps or the dac chipset? Or strictly amp only?





Awesome pictures. Are these purchases or demos that you're checking out?

... Ka is a wheel.

I passed on the Muse M5 and purchased the Tap 1 Pro without Dac Amp only , muses stock and I am working on a DIY Sparkos SS3602 solution and might order the 4x Solo Burson V7V depending on what the adapter looks like and how the Sparkos sound.

Stock with the muses02 it's lovely as is,

 

[BlueA]

DITA Audio MECHA

I did not had the chance to listen to M but this Mecha is my top spot for the year.

 

[Zerstorer_GOhren]

While conducting and typing down my review on HIDIZS ST2 PRO. A vodka with grenadine syrup and lemon-lime soda is also part of it. Cheers! Salut! Prost!

Will publish a full review of this one later.

 

[Mangoboy]

DITA Navigator Review: A Dynamic and Analytical Experience
Introduction
Before diving into my impressions, I’d like to thank Dita Audio and Audio Geek India for including the DITA Navigator in the Audio Geek India Tour. It’s a privilege to have the chance to experience and review their product. This is my first official review of one of their DAC/AMP devices, and I’m excited to share my thoughts.
This review of the DITA Navigator is based entirely on my personal listening impressions using the Onix Overture DAP (Digital Audio Player). For this review, I paired the DITA Navigator with DITA Project M IEMs, which proved to be a heavenly match. My aim is to share an impartial review of this DAC/AMP, showcasing its strengths and weaknesses.
Unboxing and Packaging
The package includes:
1x DITA Navigator DAC/AMP
1x Detachable cable (with both 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended outputs)
1x Protective carrying case
Instruction manual and warranty card

Pros
Highly analytical sound signature with crisp texture.
Wide soundstage with excellent instrument separation.
Lows deliver a deep, bassy thump that’s satisfying.
Sweet highs paired with well-pronounced mids create a balanced sound profile.
Rugged tank-like build ensures durability.
Dual ESS Sabre 9219 DAC chips provide dynamic and powerful sound output.
Cons
Bright highs may not appeal to treble-sensitive listeners.
Slightly bulky design may not suit all users for portable use.



Design and Build
The DITA Navigator boasts a rugged, tank-like build that feels durable and dependable. Its robust design is perfect for audiophiles who prioritize longevity in their gear. Equipped with dual ESS Sabre 9219 DAC chips, it delivers a dynamic and lively sound. Both 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended outputs are included, providing flexibility for various headphones and IEMs.

Sound Impressions
Bass
The bass is deep, punchy, and engaging, delivering a satisfying thump that enhances genres like electronic and hip-hop. Tracks with low-frequency elements feel powerful without overwhelming the overall mix.
Midrange
Mids are sweet, smooth, and well-pronounced. Vocals and instruments shine with clarity and precision, creating an enjoyable and emotive listening experience.
Treble
The highs are slightly bright but remain sweet and detailed. While some listeners might find the brightness too much, it adds sparkle and energy to the overall sound signature.
Soundstage and Dynamics
The DITA Navigator offers a wide and spacious soundstage, allowing instruments to breathe and creating an immersive listening experience. Its dynamics bring out the subtle nuances in tracks, making each listening session engaging and enjoyable.

Technical Performance
The DITA Navigator excels in delivering a highly analytical and detailed sound. The dual ESS Sabre 9219 DAC chips ensure high-resolution audio reproduction with excellent technicalities. While it may not be the warmest DAC/AMP, its focus on accuracy and precision is ideal for critical listening.

Conclusion
The DITA Navigator is an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking a dynamic, analytical DAC/AMP with a rugged build. Its powerful sound output, wide soundstage, and sweet highs make it a versatile and enjoyable device for a variety of music genres. Paired with the DITA Project M IEMs, it creates a heavenly listening experience. While the bright treble and slightly bulky design may be drawbacks for some, the Navigator’s strengths far outweigh its limitations.
If you value precision and durability in your audio gear, the DITA Navigator is a fantastic choice.

 

[Mangoboy]

DITA Navigator Review: A Dynamic and Analytical Experience
Introduction
Before diving into my impressions, I’d like to thank Dita Audio and Audio Geek India for including the DITA Navigator in the Audio Geek India Tour. It’s a privilege to have the chance to experience and review their product. This is my first official review of one of their DAC/AMP devices, and I’m excited to share my thoughts.
This review of the DITA Navigator is based entirely on my personal listening impressions using the Onix Overture DAP (Digital Audio Player). For this review, I paired the DITA Navigator with DITA Project M IEMs, which proved to be a heavenly match. My aim is to share an impartial review of this DAC/AMP, showcasing its strengths and weaknesses.
Unboxing and Packaging
The package includes:
1x DITA Navigator DAC/AMP
1x Detachable cable (with both 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended outputs)
1x Protective carrying case
Instruction manual and warranty card

Pros
Highly analytical sound signature with crisp texture.
Wide soundstage with excellent instrument separation.
Lows deliver a deep, bassy thump that’s satisfying.
Sweet highs paired with well-pronounced mids create a balanced sound profile.
Rugged tank-like build ensures durability.
Dual ESS Sabre 9219 DAC chips provide dynamic and powerful sound output.
Cons
Bright highs may not appeal to treble-sensitive listeners.
Slightly bulky design may not suit all users for portable use.



Design and Build
The DITA Navigator boasts a rugged, tank-like build that feels durable and dependable. Its robust design is perfect for audiophiles who prioritize longevity in their gear. Equipped with dual ESS Sabre 9219 DAC chips, it delivers a dynamic and lively sound. Both 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single-ended outputs are included, providing flexibility for various headphones and IEMs.

Sound Impressions
Bass
The bass is deep, punchy, and engaging, delivering a satisfying thump that enhances genres like electronic and hip-hop. Tracks with low-frequency elements feel powerful without overwhelming the overall mix.
Midrange
Mids are sweet, smooth, and well-pronounced. Vocals and instruments shine with clarity and precision, creating an enjoyable and emotive listening experience.
Treble
The highs are slightly bright but remain sweet and detailed. While some listeners might find the brightness too much, it adds sparkle and energy to the overall sound signature.
Soundstage and Dynamics
The DITA Navigator offers a wide and spacious soundstage, allowing instruments to breathe and creating an immersive listening experience. Its dynamics bring out the subtle nuances in tracks, making each listening session engaging and enjoyable.

Technical Performance
The DITA Navigator excels in delivering a highly analytical and detailed sound. The dual ESS Sabre 9219 DAC chips ensure high-resolution audio reproduction with excellent technicalities. While it may not be the warmest DAC/AMP, its focus on accuracy and precision is ideal for critical listening.

Conclusion
The DITA Navigator is an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking a dynamic, analytical DAC/AMP with a rugged build. Its powerful sound output, wide soundstage, and sweet highs make it a versatile and enjoyable device for a variety of music genres. Paired with the DITA Project M IEMs, it creates a heavenly listening experience. While the bright treble and slightly bulky design may be drawbacks for some, the Navigator’s strengths far outweigh its limitations.
If you value precision and durability in your audio gear, the DITA Navigator is a fantastic choice.

 

[pk4425]

After going down a rabbit hole while doing a Head-fi search for an old headphone (Martin Logan Mikros 90) that I have the opportunity to purchase for a song, for use with my FiiO cassette player, I came across this post by @Dsnuts almost exactly 11 years ago. At that time, the Discothread was only 3 years old. Did you ever imagine that 11 years after you made this post, this thread would not only be alive, but thriving the way it has? Prophetic words.

Btw, anybody have any first hand experience with the Mikros 90?

God, I feel like a mere short-timer after seeing this. You cats are the OGs!

The new IEM from LETSHUOER is launching soon, the model Mystic 8. This is an 8BA model with Knowles and Sonion drivers, and is rumored to be around $1000.

I have one that should arrive very soon, I was told to wait with sharing about it. I re shared it here since it already been leaked/shared on Facebook.

I'm not huge on aesthetics with IEMs -- sound and fit matter the most, by far. But that is a good-looking design.

Did you just hit the lottery or earn your inheritance and buy all these, or are you just showing us your collection? Impressive!

 

[Mangoboy]

DITA Project M Review: A Comfortable and Detailed Listening Experience
Introduction
Before diving into my impressions, I’d like to thank DITA Audio and Audio Geek India for including the DITA Project M in the Audio Geek India Tour. It’s a privilege to have the chance to experience and review their product. This is my first official review of one of their IEMs, and I’m excited to share my thoughts.
Please note that this review is based on a review unit, and I didn’t get my hands on the tips or the protective carrying case that are part of the full package. As a result, I have not included pictures of these accessories in this review.

Unboxing and Packaging
The package includes:
1x DITA Project M In-Ear Monitor
1x Detachable Cable (MOCCA custom-built with Cardas Audio conductors)
6x Pairs of Eartips (silicone and foam)
1x Modular Connectors (3.5mm & 4.4mm swappable plugs)
1x Protective Mini Systainer Carry Case designed by Tanos

Pros
Extremely comfortable fit for prolonged usage.
Solid stainless-steel chamber for optimal driver performance.
New PM1+ Dynamic Driver delivers exceptional clarity, punchy bass, and speed.
Knowles Balanced Armature Driver enhances soundstage and detail.
Excellent instrumental separation with a wide soundstage.
MOCCA cable with Cardas Audio conductors for top-notch audio transmission.
Custom-moulded transfer tube and aluminum nozzle ensure precise sound projection.
Cons
Highs are slightly suppressed, which might not appeal to treble lovers.
Sound signature reacts noticeably to different sources and cables, which might require extra effort for optimization.
A more premium price point due to the quality of materials and craftsmanship.

Design and Build
The DITA Project M is housed in a meticulously crafted stainless-steel chamber, optimizing the performance of its hybrid drivers. The new PM1+ Dynamic Driver, developed specifically for the Project M, is complemented by the Knowles Balanced Armature Driver, creating a nuanced and detailed listening experience. The IEMs feature a custom-moulded transfer tube, which leads to an aluminum nozzle that ensures precise sound projection. This design maximizes clarity and enhances the soundstage.
The IEMs come with a flexible MOCCA cable, made from 16 strands of wire material sourced from the American HiFi brand Cardas Audio, which ensures excellent audio transmission quality. The inclusion of a mini systainer carrying case from Tanos, equipped with custom-made silicon inserts, helps protect the IEMs and cables during transport.

Sound Impressions
Bass
The bass on the DITA Project M is both punchy and detailed, thanks to the combination of the PM1+ Dynamic Driver and the Knowles Balanced Armature Driver. The bass extension adds a noticeable depth to the sound, but it remains controlled and never overpowers the mids. It delivers a solid punch and vibrancy that makes listening to genres like electronic and acoustic equally enjoyable.
Midrange
The mids are well-balanced and engaging, with great instrumental separation. Vocals come through clearly, and instruments like guitars and pianos are rendered with fine detail and emotional depth. The mid-bass delivers a pleasant thump, enriching the overall warmth and providing a natural cohesion with the lows.
Treble
The highs are somewhat suppressed compared to other frequencies, which makes them smooth and non-fatiguing. However, treble enthusiasts who crave a brighter sound may feel the treble lacks a bit of sparkle and air. The overall treble presentation is well-controlled, providing clarity without becoming harsh or piercing.
Soundstage and Separation
One of the standout features of the DITA Project M is its impressive soundstage. The hybrid driver setup, with the PM1+ Dynamic Driver and the Knowles Balanced Armature Driver, creates an expansive and immersive listening environment. Instrumental separation is excellent, allowing for an intimate yet wide presentation of the music. This IEM excels in creating a dynamic, three-dimensional soundstage that feels both engaging and expansive.

Overall Sound Experience
The DITA Project M offers a flat sound signature with slight bass extension, but the hybrid driver setup provides a uniquely dynamic and detailed experience. The integration of the PM1+ Dynamic Driver and Knowles Balanced Armature Driver results in exceptional clarity, speed, and a natural, cohesive sound. The wide soundstage and accurate instrumental separation allow for an immersive experience, making it a great choice for listeners who appreciate well-defined music.

Conclusion
The DITA Project M is an impressive IEM that stands out in both design and performance. The new PM1+ Dynamic Driver and the Knowles Balanced Armature Driver deliver a rich, balanced sound with excellent detail retrieval and an expansive soundstage. While the highs may not satisfy treble enthusiasts seeking a more prominent treble presence, the overall sound profile is smooth, engaging, and enjoyable.
If you value comfort, robust build quality, and a dynamic, clear listening experience, the DITA Project M is a remarkable choice. Its premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and excellent cable system ensure top-notch audio quality for an unparalleled listening experience.

 

[avishifi]

A sliivo has arrived

From short listen, the sub-bass amount this set have is… more than I have expected

 

[Thieme]

Well drats, I wrote this in the morning and now at work I lost an eartip on one side with the Explorer because it doesn't have a lip. Guess that would be a big + of the TD20. Stupid me also putting on a relatively expensive eartip in the form of wide boars...

Came home, first thing I did was trying out different tips, no wonder the wideboars fell off, they really don't grip on that smooth plastic nozzle of the Explorer.
In the end the winner is the Azla Xelastec II. They grip really well and I hope that stays that way for a while... The orange lickies did good too, as well as the Spinfit CP100. Surprisingly the IvipQ/Xinhs/Zisin tips also gripped that nozzle pretty well especially considering I couldn't even slide them on that far because of the waxguard built into these things.

 

[Ineras]

A sliivo has arrived

From short listen, the sub-bass amount this set have is… more than I have expected

Is that the new one with ESTs? Does it have a name yet?

This one is kinda intriguing with that graph.

 

[avishifi]

Is that the new one with ESTs? Does it have a name yet?

This is the SL41

 

[Ineras]

This is the SL41

Ahhh, the faceplate looks very different from mine.

 

[avishifi]

Ahhh, the faceplate looks very different from mine.

Ah, do you have the black version?
And in the blue I think the lighting could affect the look of them, I saw many people on facebook who were also confused by that