[Sarthak117]

It seems like the Westone ES5 is getting more and more popular, as is the iPod. As far as iPod based systems go, it seems like the two best choices are the iPod Classic with the Cypher Labs Algorhythm Solo and an Amp and with the Fostex HP-P1.
 
So which one sounds better? The HP-P1 or the CLAS to a good amp, such as the Meier 2Stepdance or the RSA Predator?
I understand that the HP-P1 is a more compact setup and is significantly cheaper, but as far as sound quality goes, what sounds better? Also, what genres of music would each setup be a good match for?

 

[Sarthak117]

Nobody?

 

[Eric_C]

Based on Jude's latest episode of Head-Fi TV, the CLAS+amp could be potentially better, if you need perfect channel balance even at near-silent volumes. 
 
Beyond that, he seemed happy to recommend the Fostex. And he uses them with his ES5 and JH16, so there you go.

 

[Sarthak117]

Yeah, I understood that from what Jude said, but I was more interested in the Fostex's amp. Does it compare to the likes of RSA or the Stepdance?