[n-ster]

The Fiio L1 is 9$ vs 21$ of the L3, which should I buy? Source is ipod touch 2nd gen + Fiio E5

 

[High_Q]

Go for L1, cables should not make $12 increase in sound difference, if there is any at all.  KSC75 does not really need an amp, its really has great sound quality the way it is.  If you can, you should return the E5 and get a better amp that does not muddy up the sound.  E5 make the sound worse.  Do you really need an amp for the two headphones?  Their specs look like they can do fine without.  If you want line-out, I would not suggest E5, its really a gimmick than a real amplifier, it makes sound worse.

 

[n-ster]

I don't want to invest too much in an amp though... what do you suggest? I heard the SRH440 need amping for better sound
 
I can always resell my Fiio E5 since it would be BNIB

 

[High_Q]

If you know how to use a soldering iron, I would build a CMOY. Can be made for less than $20.  And it should be a real amp, compared to a FiiO 
 
http://www.jdslabs.com/  

 

[n-ster]

I don't want to do anything DIY really xD is the E5 that bad?

 

[High_Q]

Compare yourself.  Listen to it with the amp and without.  If you are satisfied with the amp, my opinion should not influence you.  Something I've noticed was that I was losing high frequencies(high pitch) sounds, and there was less definition to the sound. I was using an IEM(in ear monitor) though.  Its up to your ears to say if it sounds good or not.

 

[n-ster]

Thanks alot I don't have the stuff yet... its in shipping But I will test it myself

 

[Jack C]

Any updates? Would love to read your impressions.
 
Jack

 

[Mochan]

If you haven't gotten the LOD yet, I suggest the L1 over the L3. L1 is smaller and this is its main selling point IMO. The L3 looks gigantic in comparison. I prefer smaller. 
 
Regarding E5... I like the E5.
 
From my listening, what it does (with bass boost on) is add warmth and low end, widens soundstage slightly, and makes the mids recessed.  I don't listen to it without bass boost (sounds weak and hollow).

 

[DaeO]

Quote:

If you haven't gotten the LOD yet, I suggest the L1 over the L3. L1 is smaller and this is its main selling point IMO. The L3 looks gigantic in comparison. I prefer smaller. 
 
Regarding E5... I like the E5.
 
From my listening, what it does (with bass boost on) is add warmth and low end, widens soundstage slightly, and makes the mids recessed.  I don't listen to it without bass boost (sounds weak and hollow).

I have the L1 and have just ordered the L3 - the ipod connector is slightly deeper but the cable is 2 or 3 cm shorter I think

 

[n-ster]

I received my L1, I haven't had the time to really use it, and my headphones and amp are still AT LEAST 1 week to 10 days away before I get them
 
On a side note, my KSC75 are great, withstand abuse, and sound great even on bad sources. And Flac files are so much better than mp3 file :O I have hard time settling for mp3 192kbps, but thats the lowest I listen to know my ipod playlist is only 320kbps files, and my pc playlist is mixed between 320kbps and flac and apple lossless and stuff lol

 

[StevenYSC]

E5 seems to be the lowest priced amp...
I guess at that price, it has done a great job

 

[f4phantom2500]

I know you have E5 and LOD, but you should really look at the E1. There are comparisons here on head-fi, but basically the E1 has a more refined, transparent, and neutral sound; it provides higher SQ overall. Not only does the E1 have the LOD and amp integrated into 1 piece, it also has an in-line remote, so you can leave your iPod in your pocket to use song control functions like pause, rewind, next song, etc. Also the E1 just feels better build and looks cleaner.

 

[Mochan]

The only drawback of the E1 is that it will eat up your iPod's battery faster.