xDuoo XD05 BAL vs. iFi xCAN - Undecided (yet)

[OspreyAndy]

Want to hear opinions from those of you who have had the experience to listen to both of these, Xduoo XD05 BAL vs. iFi xCAN. Both are pretty much within the same price bracket and I am fully aware that only XD05 offers full DAC functions. I am debating between these 2 because both offers 1000mW output power and both practically similar in size (almost)
Things to consider:
- I primarily use Etymotic ER4-XR at 96 Ohm configuration
- Will be using either one of these always balanced PO
- Both will be fed with FLAC sources, digital in for XD05 or Balanced analogue in for xCAN

Now, which one you think would be a better choice SQ wise? (I would love to have both really but I am saving up for a STAX rig as well). Thanks!

PS: I don't mind hearing other options as well, as long as they are similar to the two mentioned above in terms of output, size and functions

 

[iFi audio]

OK, I don't know the other product so can't contribute much, but I look forward to reading what others have to say

 

[TooPoorForHiFi]

My main reason for not buying the XD05 BAL is that hideous Volume design. Personally, I don't care how good it sounds if its a hassle to use on a daily basis I'm not gonna even bother. Such a disappointment as I was so hyped for this device, Nearly perfect for my needs.

I've owned the xCAN in the past while its a great Device, but I wish it had...

- 4.4 Balanced instead of 2.5mm Balanced.
- Dedicated Media Control, Play/Pause, Next Track over BT
- A switch / toggle for Battery Powered, External Powered use like the XD05 BAL / Basic.
- Better Battery Life.
- Not being Chrome.
- LDAC Support.

#iFiPlease!?

 

[OspreyAndy]

My main reason for not buying the XD05 BAL is that hideous Volume design. Personally, I don't care how good it sounds if its a hassle to use on a daily basis I'm not gonna even bother. Such a disappointment as I was so hyped for this device, Nearly perfect for my needs.

I've owned the xCAN in the past while its a great Device, but I wish it had...

- 4.4 Balanced instead of 2.5mm Balanced.
- Dedicated Media Control, Play/Pause, Next Track over BT
- A switch / toggle for Battery Powered, External Powered use like the XD05 BAL / Basic.
- Better Battery Life.
- Not being Chrome.
- LDAC Support.

#iFiPlease!?

YES, no CHROME body please!

 

[iFi audio]

- 4.4 Balanced instead of 2.5mm Balanced.
- Dedicated Media Control, Play/Pause, Next Track over BT
- A switch / toggle for Battery Powered, External Powered use like the XD05 BAL / Basic.
- Better Battery Life.
- Not being Chrome.
- LDAC Support.

#iFiPlease!?

I'm here and I hear you

While I can't promise anything, there's a lot in our pipeline, so perhaps one day we'll go in the direction you suggested.

 

[Steve Guppy]

Am i right in saying you can't connect usb audio out to the xCan?

 

[iFi audio]

Am i right in saying you can't connect usb audio out to the xCan?

That's correct, its only digital input is wireless.

 

[OspreyAndy]

I would probably end up skipping both and go for endgame which is the iFi Diablo, which I believe will satisfy my needs for power and fidelity

 

[iFi audio]

I would probably end up skipping both and go for endgame which is the iFi Diablo, which I believe will satisfy my needs for power and fidelity

It was designed to do just that

Once you have it, please share a word or two how it fits your needs