Why Does nano/GoVibe Sound Better Than Touch/GoVibe?

[vranswer]

...using ALAC files, I'm trying to determine why my iPod nano 2nd Gen / GV5 combo is more satisfying than my iPod Touch/GV5 rig. Stand-alone, the Touch sounds much better driving my Shure E500s. But using my Ram Din from line-out through the Go-Vibe 5, the iPod Touch sounds somewhat strident and lacking in bass (again, not so if plugged in direct from headphone out).

Meantime, whereas the 2nd Gen nano is somewhat mushy and quite average from headphone out, it becomes a downright beast when hooked up to GV5 via line-out. Just a study in symmetry or what?

 

[jgonino]

I actually noticed this too. No idea why though.....

 

[Zephyron]

The answer maybe involved in the DAC involved.

The Nano uses a certain Wolfson DAC IIRC, but I can't remember about the Touch. I think it was some Cirrus Logic DAC.

 

[Capunk]

Touch = Wolfson DAC as well...
Have you check the EQ settings? Is it both set on Neutral?
The recent ipod has volume lock, make sure it's unlocked.

 

[vranswer]

EQ off, no volume lock. Bass on the nano/GV5 is much more robust, even though if you compare both headphone outs the Touch sounds fuller and cleaner.