Usually, I'm really skeptical about headphone cables and all related stuff. When we hear the noticeable difference, it's often caused whether by the build quality or by impedance/capacity. But new Meze's cables proved their usefulness.

First of all, I'd like to thank Meze for providing me a cable in exchange for my honest, unbiased opinion.

I'm sure, every visitor of this site knows about great 99 Classics and 99 Neo headphones, built by Meze. Combining sound quality, build, look and affordable price, those models became real bestsellers. Of course, creating replacement cable for this model, Meze tried to do their best. They've selected really expensive cables, high-quality connectors and made a really great solution.
Balanced cables for 99 series of their headphones exists in two versions: copper one ($150), and silver-plated copper ($200), for review I've got the second one.

The cable comes in the nice tin box, packaged in the plastic bag. With it, you'll get 3.5 mm angled adapter to use with single-ended sources. Connectors are protected with plastic caps and special protective grids.
Length of this wire is 1.5 m, in my opinion, it's the perfect length to use both in portable and stationary setup. Cable looks really fancy, braiding quality is superb, strain reliefs present, wherever it's necessary. Splitter is done with heat-shrink with Meze's logo. Cable is soft, has almost zero microphonics and doesn't get hard when it's cold. So, both esthetically and usability-wise, this is the perfect product.

Meze uses regular 3.5 mm connectors in cups, so cable installation is really simple and fast.
To tell the difference in comparison with the stock cable, I've used the 3.5 mm adapter in order to level possible difference between balanced and single-ended outputs of DAP. I've used Lotoo Paw Gold and A&K AK320 as a reference source. I've done a series of blind tests, using stock cable and this silver-plated cable. Also, I've done a series of blind comparisons with DIY balanced cable I've built. For this comparisons, I've used A&K AK320 and iBasso's DX200 with AMP3. I've used both 99 Neo and 99 Classics for comparisons.
Probably, you won't be surprised to know, that difference is here, and it's clearly noticeable. This silver-plated cable makes lows deeper and more punchy, actually, with this cable, 99's became one of the most "deep-bassed" headphones I've tested. Of course, lows here can't be compared with good speakers and/or subwoofers, but they are pretty close to the physical limit of headphones. Also, there was tiny difference in mids emotions, but it's really small, I can't surely find it in any blind tests. Trebles improve a little bit too, they have better attacks and decays, the difference isn't huge, but this time it's definitely noticeable in A/B testing.
So, actually, it's a really good cable, with one drawback, it's price. Meze tried to use best possible materials, which are expensive themselves, so they actually don't have a huge margin here.
To conclude, if you're looking for cable upgrade for 99 series of headphones and you want to improve their lows and treble, you should definitely consider Meze's own cable.

Looks like theBit have decided to become a king of the hill, or at least join those who are already standing on the top. After the first successful skill test (I mean OPUS#1) they've come back with really flagship OPUS#2 model that can be considered as one of the TOTL solutions. And now, theBit strengthen their position with great OPUS#3.


First of all, I'd like to thank theBit for providing me a sample in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

I'll shorten my work and won't go deep into describing OPUS#3 package, accessories set and overall design. There are few stellar reviews done by fellow Head-Fiers, you've read them, and I don't have much to add to them.


The package is simple and stylish; DAP looks interesting and fresh, it feels solidly built and operates smoothly. There is a little wiggling of volume wheel, but it's still doing its job flawlessly (better than one on my AK320 actually). Firmware is rock-solid, as usual for theBit products, and recently added wireless streaming applications are an excellent addendum. Well, this time looks like I was brief in sharing my impressions, so, let's move on to the sound.


First of all, I'd like to mention that my feelings on OPUS's general representation slightly differs from other reviewers. I'm not sure what it the reason, maybe it's a subjective perception, perhaps there is some other reason, who knows. Personally, I don't found OPUS#3 sounding very neutral or bright. There is a small accent on treble, but it's not enough to call it bright. Also, there is a slight hint of added warmth on lows, so for me, OPUS#3 has a bit of "fun" sounding coloration, but without sounding colored or non-natural, because accents are subtle.


The bass is very, very slightly accented to create a slight effect of warmth. A speed of lows is slightly reduced to make the sound more massive, but it's done very neatly, without making sound bloaty or muddy. The player is superb in texturing and instruments separation in the low-frequency range. Sub-bass is present, but it is slightly reduced quantitatively, to avoid muddy sounding on the LF.


The mid frequencies are transparent and slightly emphasized regarding emotionality. Sometimes it seems that the player especially highlights the vocals and adds emotions in the vocal. With OPUS # 3 it is very pleasant to listen to classic bluesmen, favorite jazz singers, emotional rockers. Naturally, the player is right at the resolution, but it does not go into sharp, dry sounding, and does not try to pull out all the tiny nuances from the record. On the contrary, it can even sometimes hide some mastering/recording flaws. The imaginary stage is very wide, but without further inflation, the depth is bigger than average, but not as record-breaking as the width. The separation of layers is magnificent, especially due to the emphasis on vocals.


HF "in general" are good, detailed enough and have splendid decays. Sometimes, rarely, OPUS adds too much energy to treble attacks and can cause a bit sharper sound than intended, but with appropriate headphones, it won't be an issue. Also, this problem seems to be less pronounced in the DSP mode of XMOS, although the difference is small and can be attributed to the placebo effect.

Few quick comparisons

theBit OPUS#1 The first OPUS sometimes loves to "inflate" the imaginary stage, it gives a spectacular, but not always natural sound. Also, OPUS#1 sounds more neutral and has slightly drier representation. OPUS#3 does not try to exaggerate the stage, representing it as it is, and in general, the player sounds a little darker and more vigorous. Plus OPUS#3 has a darker "background."

theBit OPUS#2 The primary task of the flagship is to sound as neutral as possible, without going too dull, and the "second OPUS" is doing that well. He's less accenting emotions (although he's flawlessly showing what is present in the recording), he has a deeper bass and better in layering. Treble is a bit better too. Although in fact, the difference between #2 and #3 is not that significant (less than between #3 and #1), but the feeling of "step forward" is present.

iBasso DX200 Quite the opposite of OPUS #3, iBasso is neutral, not colored, with maximum resolution and detalisation. The main problem of the iBasso player is a pickiness to the quality of the recording. Opus in this respect is more tolerant, and his presentation is more emotional but slightly less resolving.

Fiio X7 + AM2 In general, the representation of these players can with a little stretch be called similar, but in fact, there is a noticeable difference in the accents - the Fiio player is slightly less sharp on the HF and somewhat simpler in the mid range.

Fiio X5-3 Not quite a competitor for OPUS#3, but since the model is popular, I can not ignore it. The newcomer from Fiio is just an even greater deviation in the direction that Opus only hints. X5-3 has more warmth in the sound, relaxed HF, everything that is necessary to create a "comfortable" sound.


Compatibility
OPUS#3 isn't super-powerful, it shows very reasonable approach, allowing battery saving and background noise reduction. Player's power is more than enough for almost all IEMs and reasonably tough full-size cans. I've tried lots of IEMs, but best results I've got with Ambient Acoustics LAM7 (customs from Kiev laboratory) and Noble Kaiser Encore. Of the more affordable models, I can mention Dunu's hybrids and new Periodic Audio Beryllium IEMs.


So, to summarize — theBit made a balanced player with good sound, beautiful design, and great ergonomics. They've chosen right niche and select competitive price (best price I've seen are offered by MusicTeck). IMHO, now theBit is the strongest A&K competitor.

P.S. As usual, I have an initial impressions video for this excellent DAP

I think it would be pretty fair to call Meze 99 Classics last year's sensation. Appeared early 2016, they quickly prove themselves being an excellent price/quality performer. Meze engineers decided to sustain those achievements and released a more affordable model.

First of all, I'd like to thank Meze for providing me a review sample in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

Luckily, Meze doesn't have a big marketing department like some other companies do, so instead of "clipping" their flagship to create it's younger sibling, Meze merely tweaked Classics a little bit and released 99 Neo.

As usual, I'll try to make a part with box, accessories and design description as brief as possible.

Box has the same size as Classics one, but polygraphy is done in more "hi-tech" style, representing the shift in Neo's design. Inside there is a hard case with zipper, but this time it's done from nylon. In this case, you'll find headphones, cable, 6.3 mm adapter and "airplane" adapter with dual 3.5 mm mono jacks.

Design-wise Neos are absolute doppelgängers of Classics: same headband, same stylish casted details, same comfortable earpads, and head pad. The only difference is cups material, in Neo, they're made of qualitative ABS plastic with a pleasant texture. Other truly minor difference — model's name on the head pad. In theory, wooden cups of Classics should look more "luxurious" than plastic ones, but in practice, Neo looks as stylish as it's more expensive brother. Even more, if you're looking for a pair of headphones for street usage, Neo will be a better option as they are less conspicuous.

I must admit that 99 Neo are also comfortable and provide reasonable sound isolation (not superb, but good for almost all circumstances) and they are pretty comfortable (at least for me).

But let's move on to the most exciting — sound. The sound of this version is close to Classic's one, it's not surprising as Meze used same drivers, but cups materials causes a small difference in the form of a more forward upper mids.

Lows in Neo still has a charming accent in the mid-bass region. Deep bass is present but isn't so noticeable. Low frequencies aren't the fastest ones, but they don't sound bloated and boomy. Instruments separation and textures rendering are at a right level. Bass has a decent body and gives music a solid foundation, causing a bit darkened sounding but without the excesses.

Mids are very musical, and a bit smoothed, giving 99 Neos a hint of warmth. Microcontrast in this headphones is "reduced," so lovers of "hearing any tiny nuance" should look somewhere else, but the actual level of details is right. Simply put — all details of music is here, while different noises, recording imperfections and so on won't bother you. Small upper mids accent in 99 Neo causes a little less relaxed sound, compared with classics and very rare can sound a bit sharp (really, really rare and just a bit!). The imaginary stage is not bad for closed back headphones but can't compete with open models.

Treble range is absolutely the same as the 99 Classics', they are just as well developed concerning quality, but slightly subdued in attacks for general "non-fatiguing" sound. This treble fits well with the overall presentation of the model, providing a good balance of tonality, which is the main advantage of these headphones. The resolution of HF is better than average, but it does not reach the ideal but is magnificent for this price tier.

Meze 99 Neo sounds pretty good even with smartphones and tablets (besides those which sound totally sick), but they do benefit from good mid-level DAPs. Style-wise, these headphones are pretty universal, but keep in mind that over-compressed recordings will sound miserably with them.

To summarize, in my opinion, Neo is a no way worse then Classics both sonically and aesthetically, so Meze could easily ask for it same $310, but they've selected more affordable $250.

As usual, I've made a video with initial impressions.

Campfire Audio are a perfect example of brand development from scratch. Their IEMs lineup blew the market up, offering excellent quality for reasonable money. First 3 models — Lyra, Orion and Jupiter became a huge success, but CA continued expanding their lineup and offered full range of IEMs with unique single dynamic driver model Vega as a flagship. In this review, I'll share my impressions about Vega.

First of all, I'd like to thank Campfire Audio for providing me a sample in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

Usually, at the review's beginning, I should write about 50 lines of text, describing the box, IEMs design and unboxing impressions. I won't do this because you can easily see all that in few photos, saving read time. So, I'll try to be as laconic as possible in this part. Vega's retail price is $1300, so creators did their best to provide as much value as possible.

The box is standard for all CA products: small, plain cardboard box with stylish polygraph. Inside you'll get IEMs themselves (quite surprising, isn't it?), a perfect leather case for storage, three pairs of foams (different sizes), three pairs of single-flange silicone tips (also assorted), standard pack with spinfits, cleaning brush and metal badge with CA logo.


Earphones build quality is also superb. CA uses "liquid metal" alloy to cast small and comfortable cases that will fit any ears with ease. With appropriately selected tips you can wear them long without any traces of discomfort or fatigue. Sound isolation is on average level typical for this form-factor: it will be enough for almost any circumstances except noisiest ones (plane, subway, Formula-1 racing track, etc.).

Of course, Vegas have replaceable cable with MMCX connector. Creators have found probably best possible connectors with beryllium plating, offering excellent durability. New stock cables are softer than old tinsel wire, and this adds even more comfort in wearing. Definitely, CA's cables are one of the most comfortable wires available on the market: soft, lightweight, easy to untangle.

But let's go back to what's important: sound.

For this IEMs evaluation, I've used following gear.

- NuPrime DAC-10H and Resonessence Labs Concero HP as DAC/amps
- Apple MacBook Pro Retina 2016 as a source
- Audirvana+ as a player
- Lotoo PAW Gold, A&K AK320, TheBit OPUS#2, iBasso DX200 as DAPs

I've given earphones about 100 hours of burn-in before evaluation.

I'm not sure, should I say that proper tips selection is very important here? It's obvious for all IEMs, but for TOTL ones it's crucial. I've tried different options, but stock single flange silicon tips gave me the best possible sound (at least to my taste).

Campfire Audio decided that they don't want to make "typical" neutral sounding IEMs (they have Lyra II for such sound fans), so Vegas are colored IEMs, but they are a perfect example of coloration done right.
Bass. A lot of basses, it's punchy, it's weighty, it's controlling well. Despite that, bass in this IEMs stays below the level where it became bloating and muddy. Lows here aren't fastest, and they are a bit smoothed (a really tiny bit) to sound meatier. Anyway, bass here is fast enough to provide perfect texture representation and exceptional instruments separation.

Mids are a bit recessed, and upper mids are slightly smoothed to make the sound even more "fun." Vega entirely separates vocal and move it forward, giving listener overwhelming sense of imaginary stage depth. Width is also good, but a bit narrower then Andromeda's. Mids resolution is good, but not absolute, like in balanced armature IEMs. I think this smoothing is done on purpose, as it perfectly fits general sound representation.

Treble is designed to balance lows and succeed in that. Highs here are prominent and have splendid resolution and attacks. Despite treble's quantity, it's not fatiguing and doesn't sound harsh. Highs here perfectly complement lows, giving a good overall balance. Treble in Vega shines, especially with high-quality recordings, having lots of treble details.

Of course, they are exceptionally picky when it comes to source selection. These earphones need immaculate control all over whole frequencies, but most of all I liked them with A&K. Its signature mids gives perfect synergy with this IEMs. Another good option is iBasso's new DX200, with it Vegas became fun bass cannon.

Style-wise, these earphones sound better with jazz, classical music, rock — styles where "fun" sound is better then "correct." But anyway, it's subjective and is a matter of taste.

So, to summarize all the above. Vegas are unusual earphones with unique and tasty sound. Of course, this sound representation isn't "one size fits all," but it's the best IEMs with colored sound, offering excellent built quality and unusual, engaging presentation. There are lots of fans of this model, and I definitely can understand them.

P.S. As usual, I've also made a fist impressions video.

Burson Audio's developers definitely hate to be idle, so they always come out with some unexpected ideas. The most interesting thing about those ideas it's their relative simplicity and high usefulness. As a beautiful example, I can mention their hybrid OpAmp V5i I've recently reviewed. Now, their new idea — interconnect cable with an active amplifier.


First of all, I'd like to thank Burson Audio for providing me with a sample for review in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

Generally speaking, the idea behind that cable is pretty obvious. We're living in the smartphone era, so a vast majority of people have their music library stored on the phone. And some of them from time to time wants to attach the smartphone to the amplifier in their "big" setup. But many good amplifiers require more power at the input then typical smartphone can provide. And that's what Cable+ does — it amplifies weak signal from "regular" sources.

So, it's a simple device: long input cable with 3.5 mm connector, aluminum block with amplification and shorter part of cable with output connectors, it can be 2xRCA or 3.5 mm too, depending on your amplifier's input.

However, there is one more modification of Cable+, with 2xRCA on both ends. According to developers, this version is designed to use as an active adapter, allowing to avoid impedance mismatch between your DAC (or another source) and amplifier. I didn't have an opportunity to test this version (though would like), but other reviews told that this version also does its job well, improving sound too.

If you'd like to get more details about Cable+, you can visit its official site, [containing helpful explanation with pictures].

Each version of Cable+ costs 150 dollars. It includes worldwide shipping and two years of warranty,

Package and design
Cable arrived in the plastic box, reminding container of V5i, but a much bigger. In the box you'll get cable itself, simple micro USB cable to attach power to the amplifier and simple USB charger to use as PSU. Cable connectors are covered with silicon caps.

Middle block is made of aluminum. It looks beautiful and sturdy. Amplifier inside uses SupremeSound V5i hybrid opamp. Wires are made of high-quality cable in soft black silicon isolation, and connectors are both stylish looking and reliable.

The design of Cable+ is simple, and usage is evident. You plug longer end of the cable to the smartphone, shorter to the amplifier, connect power to small micro USB socket on the middle of amplifier block, and that's all. Tiny but bright led, hidden in the "plus" sign on top of the amplifier will show you that device is working.

Sound
For device testing, I've used following equipment.
- iPhone 6 Plus and HiFiMan SuperMini as sources
- NuPrime DAC-10H as an amplifier
- Headphones: Meze 99 Classics, Audio Zenith PMx2, Noble Kaiser K10AU, Campfire Audio Jupiter, Kenerton Odin and others

Despite being an Apple fan, I never considered iPhone as a sound source. Its sound isn't "bad," I'd rather called it "normal," but it's also pretty far from "good." Sound problems are rather common for modern smartphones: flat imaginary stage, hollow bass, loose treble. Good headphones amplifier, of course, tries to compensate that, but usually not perfect. For example, NuPrime, I'm using for a long time, sounds much, much better with a better source.

Well, it's expected, but Cable+ did manage to level almost all those problems. Of course, they aren't completely gone, but improvements are here. Lows became deeper and got more weight. Of course, the bass is still a bit slower than I'd like, but at least it's not sound bodyless as before. Treble sounded more refined and got more details. The imaginary stage became noticeably wider and a bit deeper though anyway gap from players of the average and higher level is noticeable. Every single change isn't "night and day" improvement (except bass, which improves drastically). But in sum, they are indeed changing sound noticeably, giving a big step forward.

Lows improvement with iPhone test gave me an idea of another experiment. Recently I've tested HiFiMan SuperMini, which is an excellent player but sounds a bit light to my taste. So, as you can easily guess, Cable+ here also does its job of giving more weight to lows, and in this setup SuperMini sounds pretty closer to HiFiMan's higher and players. I've made some blind tests, comparing my HM-901 (old version) and SuperMini, connected to DAC-10H via Cable+. I've managed to distinguish them correctly in 8 trials of 10, but the difference is not that big.
Summary
Of course, Cable+ usage scenario isn't most common in the audio world. But I can't call it too rare too. In my opinion, in cases, where you need to connect a smartphone or some other "weak" source to the good amplifier, Cable+ is the simplest and most convenient way of doing that with good sound.

P.S. As usual, I've made a video with initial impressions.

Sometimes I have a strong desire to start a review with a conclusion, and then explain everything in more details. This time I think I'll follow this urge. So, OPUS#2 from theBit became for me one of the biggest discoveries of 2016. Phew, now I've said it, so I don't have to hold this inside anymore, and I can go on to review.

First of all, I'd like to thank theBit for providing me with a sample for review in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

OPUS#1 showed that theBit company has the own vision of a sound and can implement it in hardware. The first model of their player turned out fascinating — neutral representation with a bit expanded stage gives the pleasant involving sound. The DAP's case is made of polycarbonate (there is also a limited metal version), the Android-based firmware is essential, but very convenient (not so long ago it was updated it to the Android 5.1 with the interface similar to OPUS#2). Recently reduced price made OPUS#1 even more attractive.

After the success of the first player, theBit decided that second model should be perfect from any points of view. To start with, they replaced a DAC with ESS Sabre 9018K2M as chips from ESS are one of the indisputable leaders of the market. Creators decided to improve the sound to an ideal level and used two separate chips in the completely balanced schema. Sound engineers added the hybrid amplifier using opamps and the discrete elements, high-precision master oscillators, and other necessary elements. For DAC USB mode support they've added separate XMOS chip that allowed to implement support of Native DSD in this mode. The perfect interior was complemented by the high-quality screen, 128 GB of the built-in memory and other buns necessary for a flagship.

Package and accessories set

Well, at last, some vendor of audio equipment made a box, not in a black color. Koreans decided not to join the dark side and made a package of beautiful white cardboard with foiled print. The design of the package is standard: dense box in thinner "jacket". Inside everything is traditional: the player is on top, underneath, in separate boxes lies accessories. With OPUS#2 you'll get few screen protectors (luckily, one is already preinstalled), high-quality MicroUSB cable and an excellent case.

As before, theBit cooperate with Dignis. Therefore the case is made of genuine leather, is ideally adjusted and looks stylish. Special thanks go to theBit for putting a case in the box, so we don't have to buy it separately.

So, with OPUS#2 you'll get everything that is necessary to use it.

Design and control

The first thing you'll notice after pulling the player out of the box it is its size and weight. OPUS#2 is on a larger side, and it's body made of aluminum, giving the user a feel of solidness. Fortunately, designers did their work nicely, so player looks attractive and perfectly fit in hand. Of course, this player not created for a slim jeans pocket or a pocket of business short, but anyway, OPUS#2 is more transportable then, for example, Lotoo Paw Gold.

In the exterior, designers used a nice combination of shapes and different shades of gray and black, so DAP looks stylish and clearly distinct from other players.

Traditionally, there are three buttons on the left side of the player. They are used for playback control. On the top side, you'll find on/off button which is also locking the screen and two sockets. First one is traditional 3.5 mm TRS socket, used for non-balanced headphones. Also, it can be used as line out and optical out. The second one is the balanced 2.5 mm TRRS outlet for balanced headphones.

The right side of player contains volume knob; it's encoder-based, so you can quickly adjust volume in 150 precise steps. The encoder is of high quality, has nice distinguished clicks and is working like a charm. Bottom side contains MicroUSB connector and a slot for MicroSD cards.

The central part of the front panel is occupied by 4" screen. Of course, bevels are pretty big so that the display could be even larger, but I don't see any sense in a larger screen in dap. The screen is pretty nice, it has good resolution, excellent color depth, and viewing angles, and even under the bright sunlight, it remains more or less readable. The sensor is also reliable, so touch controls are flawless.

Inside of second OPUS's body hides powerful 4000 mA/h battery that gives him about 9 hours and 15 minutes of playback (my standard test: MEEAudio P1 as a load, average gain, volume at 60 and 44.1/16 FLAC files playback). DAP has a "deep sleep" mode that allows it to preserve power in idle mode for days and be almost instantly ready when necessary. Charging with 2A iPad charger took about 4 hours, so nothing super-fancy, but figures are pretty good for a powerful device with 2 DACs and sophisticated amplifier.

TheBit have done a splendid work with firmware, as well as in the first model. It's Android based, but everything related to OS hides with the custom launcher. You won't have access to PlayMarket or any other source of applications. It's a bit strange, as the player has WiFi, but it's the only usage is wireless FW update. Probably, in future, theBit will add at least streaming services support and access to wireless media storages. At least it would be a logical step for a flagship.

The whole interface is built around the now playing screen. This screen shows album cover, track name, progress bar and three traditional buttons for playback control. Tapping on a cover allows you to show more details about the record or display lyrics if it's present.

In the upper left corner of this screen, you'll find a button to access media library. There you'll traditionally find tracks grouped by album, artist, and genres, playlists, and favorites. Also, regular folder browser is present too. Media scan is done in the background and works fast.

Settings are hidden in a pull-down menu, activated by a swipe from the upper side of the screen. They contain screen brightness slider, wireless interfaces toggles, sleep timer switch and repeat/shuffle mode toggle. Button with gear icon will open a full settings menu with all you can expect from an excellent player: 10-bands equalizer, gain switch, sleep timer, USB mode and so on.

So, to summarize all of above: the interface is hand and easy, the firmware is stable and reliable.

Sound

For listening of the OPUS#2 I've used following headphones: Meze 99 Classics, Lear LHF-AE1d, Audio Zenith PMx2, Noble Kaiser K10AU, Campfire Audio Jupiter, 64 Audio U12, HUM Pristine and others.

OPUS#2 is a DAP that I've missed for a long time. He's reaching the level of most flagships (permission, microdynamics, speed and other characteristics), but offering neutral and uncolored sound. DAP provides uncolored sound but avoids excessive dryness and loss of emotionality. If I'd need to summarize OPPUS#2's sound "in one word," this would be the word "correct."

Player's bass is fast, with good depth (but without attempts to reach the bottom of hell). OPUS#2 balances nicely between two extremes: dry bass, giving an effect of "fast lows with excellent separation" and bloaty bass "with great slam and mass." The player will hardly suit tastes of those, who like colored LF, it plays just what is present on the recordings, but does it perfectly. Such representation suits best to "real" and timbre-rich instruments. Bass in this DAP is universal, when necessary it can portray cannons in 1812 overture, and when necessary, it can smoothly and slowly surround you like in David Gilmour's "A Boat Lies Waiting."

Mids impress with a level of details, they are detailed, but without being razor-sharp and fatiguing, like it often became with some headphones. OPUS#2 plays without artificial coloration, giving listener perfect sense of presence and authentic reproduction of emotions. Mids here has a decent body and sense of solidness, which is often missed in neutral sounding devices. The imaginary stage is spacious and close to three-dimensional, both in width and depth.

Treble reminds a bit "typical Sabre" — fast attacks, combined with an excellent level of details sounds natural, giving recordings the necessary sense of airiness and lightness. To my ears, treble is almost all about that micro-nuances that is hard to point at, but when they aren't here, right music loses a big part of its charm. Luckily, this DAP nails high with ease. OPUS#2 isn't harsh, except awful recordings, horrible masters can sound harsh.

Comparisons

I have only one DAP of similar level, and another one, which is "below" OPUS#2, but offers same representation, so there will be not many comparisons.

Lotoo Paw Gold In general, players are close in level, with LPG being a bit better. Gold offers more forward sound representation with deeper bass, more emotions and aggression (if necessary for music). Also, LPG has more power, so it deals easier with big cans.

Questyle QP1R If OPUS#2 had no "younger brother" OPUS#1, QP1R could become one. They both gave the similar feeling of neutrality and technicality in sound representation, but OPUS#2 has better treble control and better-defined lows.

Compatibility
OPUS#2's amplifier isn't the most powerful amp ever, so the best load for this player is different IEMs and not tight full-size cans. Opus#2 is tailored for high-level IEMs, to my tastes, it's one of the best options for HUM Pristine, 64 Audio U12, and many other IEMs I've recently tested.

Style-wise, this player is universal, however, to my taste, neutral representations suit best for classics, different progressive types of rock and metal and other "serious" music. Sensitivity to the quality of material is high, I'd estimate it about 8/10.

Conclusion
The player has a nice market niche — a high-level source for neutrality lovers. The Korean developers from theBit once again showed that they have an own vision of a sound and they can achieve it at any possible level. Personally, for me, this player became one of the best discoveries of last year, and it remains a reference source for me for a long time.

And traditional first impressions video. If my english didn't scare you, my accent will definitely do

Company 64 Audio (former 1964 Ears) is a well-known maker of top-level multidriver IEMs. They are offering a big range of models, but the most attractive feature of their earphones is APEX technology. As I'm a big fan of different experiments in audio, for quite a long time I was interested in reviewing some of their models. Closer to the end of the year, I've got the chance to review their former flagship U12.


First of all, I'd like to thank 64 Audio for providing me with a sample for review in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

Of course, a model with 12 BA drivers in each ear (oh, not so long ago, six drivers seemed the top of the luxury) could not be cheap, and it's not happened. U12 costs $1,600, and a custom version A12 is even more expensive — $2000. At the same time, the company did not stop, they have developed a new technology to create headphones without inner sound tubes, and announced two new models with its usage. 18 drivers "Tzar" will cost $3,000 (regardless of the housing version) and 4-Driver hybrids tia Fourté will cost $3600. Progress is expensive, and customers should share the cost of R&D with manufacturers.

However, let's return to our 12 drivers, they are unique and sounds like nothing else.

Packaging and accessories

A box of these headphones is simple, but it is the case when simplicity hides thoughtful design. Packaging is made in the form of an elongated bar, and it's outer "jacket" made of cardboard with a pleasant soft-touch effect. On the back side printed brief company history, which reveals the origin of figure 64 in the title (my programmer side was upset that it's not 2 in 6 degrees, but my audiophiliac side was satisfied). Below is printed description of APEX technology. Under this cover hides the main box of thick red cardboard, containing three pairs of foam tips and plastic case with headphones. Plastic case has individual tabs for winding wires and compartments that hold the earpieces, so it protects its contents securely. Also inside of plastic case you'll find a clip to attach the cable to the clothes and cleaning tool. You'll also get a dehumidifier tablet, which must be unpacked and inserted into designated lock inside the case.

Design

64 Audio product designers obviously get their salaries deservedly, presentation of the product is made with style.

For 12 drivers model, headphones are surprisingly small. Difficult to believe that 12 BAs are hidden in a fairly compact body made of black hypoallergenic plastic. Universal versions are made from black glossy plastic with company logo and APEX module on faceplates, for customs you can select different colors and faceplates design.

The ergonomic shape and sufficiently long "nose" of the universal model provide an excellent fit and pretty good sound isolation. Due to a presence of APEX module, U12 can be considered as semi-open, but it's almost not impacting their isolation level.

The cable, of course, is interchangeable, 64 Audio uses standard 2-pin connectors, so fans of third-party cables can easily find an option for themselves. The stock cable is good, it's made in black silicone insulation, it is soft and not noisy. It does not harden in the cold and is prone to entanglement.

Sound

For listening, I'm using following gear

• NuPrime DAC-10H and Resonessence Labs Concero HP as a DAC/amplifier
• Apple MacBook Pro Retina 2013 as a source
• Fidelia as a player
• Lotoo PAW Gold, Fiio X7 and theBit OPUS#2 as DAPs

Before listening, I gave U12 48 hours of burn-in.

Of course, most of all sound is caused by APEX technology. You can read it's detailed description here. APEX protects your hearing and gives U12 spacious and open sounding.

For U12 engineers chose a little darkened sound with a slight emphasis on low frequencies and smooth, "musical" presentation for the rest of the range. At first, the sound of U12 seems to be less detailed than in "traditional" IEMs. But after getting used to their presentation, I understood that in fact, all the tiny nuances are here, they just aren't accentuated as it's done in other IEM.

Bass in these headphones is very impressive, it goes deep and has a weight, but thanks to the APEX, it doesn't cause excessive pressure on the eardrums. It is quite difficult to explain to those who did not listen to APEX IEMs, but the bass in this model is unusual. Fans of punchy lows, massaging the brain, won't be satisfied with U12, but for the high-quality music bass here is decent. Despite the massiveness, it's kept in its place and does not bleed the other frequencies. Resolution isn't the highest but is quite good. U12 is confidently building a low-frequency basis for melody without dragging the attention to bass. It turns to a little paradoxical situation - a headphone with darkened representation, but without the low-frequency dominance.

Mids are also slightly smoothed; they do not have the typical for BAs accent on micro-contrast and tiny details. Instead, U12 emphasize the openness of the sound and integrity of the representation. Sometimes this sound is called "musical." U12 won't fit those, who'd like to hear all the tiny details of records, but they are tolerant to the quality of a recording. You'll hear all flaws of mixing and mastering, but they aren't brought forward like in usual multi-driver IEMs. U12 succeeds in portraying emotions, in particular for strings. U12 builds a wide imaginary stage with good instruments separation. Depth is also excellent, but there is no sharp separation of plans in depth, they pass each other smoothly.

Treble also bears the influence of the half-open design. In general, it's a bit hard to describe the sound of 64 Audio's IEMs. Usually, softened treble causes muddy and sluggish sound lacking details, and the dark sound is often caused by lacking of treble, but U12, in general, does not correspond to anything of that. This model has nice, detailed highs with decent attack and decay, furthermore, there is a small high-frequency peak, adding more expression to treble, but these headphones don't sound sharp. APEX does it's job here, making treble more "comfortable" for perception.

Usually, I'm trying to make some comparison between reviewing gear and other models in similar price range, but U12 are really on their own so that they can be compared only with other 64 Audio's models, but I didn't have such possibility yet. Judging by the reviews on the Internet, their U10 model is also attractive, offering a bit more flat frequency response with a slightly lower prevalence of low frequencies, while retaining all the strengths of the house sound.

Compatibility

On the one hand, headphones are tolerant to the quality of the source and the recording, and 16Ω with a sensitivity of 115 dB/mW isn't heavy load. But, of course, for the top tier IEMs you'll need a source that showcases their strength. Therefore, it's not the best idea to use U12 with some sources like smartphones of inexpensive DAPs. They need some player from mid or higher price range. I've tried all DAPs that I have, and best of all U12 played with Cayin N5, Fiio X7+AM3, Questyle QP1R and OPUS#2 from theBit.

Style-wise this IEMs are universal enough if their soften representation suits the tastes of the potential owner. Especially brilliant they work out the styles, which need both extensive scene and a massive sound (as an example - symphonic metal).

Conclusions

Fascinating headphones with sound not typical for multi-driver balanced armatures. U12 combine incongruous and offers the user an emotional and not fatiguing sound. At first sight (or hearing?) it seems that the headphones are too dark, but after getting used, you'll understand that in fact they are simply not sharp where it is not necessary, but their real level of detalisation is very high. APEX technology has proven (at least to me) the solvency, and I am looking forward to new products from 64 Audio.

As usual, I've also made a video version of this review.

HUM Pristine earphones became for me one of the biggest surprises of 2016, so I've decided to gather my skills and create a review. HUM is pretty well known on the exUSSR market due to their Pervasion DAP, which gathered a group of fans of its unique sound. Meanwhile, other HUM's products (IEMs and cables) remained relatively unknown.


First of all, I'd like to thank HUM for providing me with a sample for review in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.

HUM came with all diligence to the creation of Pristine and results have turned out great regarding sound quality. But from the marketing point of view, it's hard to sell people IEMs with "just" two drivers. Modern buyers are spoiled with wild numbers of drivers in top-tier IEMs, and it's hard to judge by what you hear, and not by pure specs only. HUM Decided to do everything at the top level, so they've found perfect drivers, created uncompromising crossover using electrolytic capacitors and Vishay resistors. Internal wiring is made from top-level litz. Sockets are made by Amphenol, and so on, and so forth. Developers even used two different kinds of solder to obtain better sound. The crossover was calculated to have maximum coherence and minimize phase distortion.


In general, the developers have decided that it is better to use only two drivers but to use them to the full.

Accessories set is pretty basic. Earphones came in great genuine Pelican case, protecting them from all problems, inside you'll find IEMs themselves and cleaning tool. Pristine exists in two kinds, custom and universal, with universal you'll get three pairs of gray silicon tips. HUM rightly decided, that hi-end IEM users will have their own tips set. Also with Pristine you'll get great cable HUM CX-1, it's made from highest purity copper and costs $300 alone, so it's a great addition to this earphones. Cable is soft, but sturdy, probably, it's the best stock cable among all IEMs that I have.


Like other manufacturers, from HUM offers different color options and faceplate customization, but I believe that best option for pristine is transparent colorless acrylic so that you can see the internals of this IEMs. Inner details of this earphones look really pleasing: capacitor, drivers, internal wiring — all are neatly placed inside. Overall quality of the shells are close to perfection — no traces of dust or bubbles, typical to low-quality castings. The only decoration on my pair of Pristines is bright red company logo in faceplates.


Shells are surprisingly small, it's one of the pluses of having only two drivers, and thanks to a nicely rounded shape, IEMs fits nicely even for small ear owners. Sound isolation is a bit above average for universal version and noticeably better than average for customs, actually, as expected.


For listening, I've used following equipment.

• NuPrime DAC-10H and Resonessence Labs Concero HP as DAC and amplifier
• Apple MacBook Pro Retina 2013 with Fidelia as a source
• Lotoo PAW Gold, Fiio X7 and theBit OPUS#2 as portable players

My version is universal, so the sound of customs can be a bit different. Also, universal shells require more work to select proper tips and got the best fit. Before listening, I've burnt IEMs in for 96 hours. Usually, BA doesn't need such a long burn in, but this includes the electrolytic capacitor, so I decided to carry out the necessary formalities.


The overall presentation of Pristine corresponds their name: genuinely neutral IEMs with a bias on micro-details, but they avoid being too bright or harsh. These earphones created for "serious" music, with superb mastering and they require a good source. This neutral representation isn't for "mass market," so they can sound too neutral for some styles, but those, who are looking for maximum sound purity, will be satisfied.

Lows of Pristine are source-dependant. I didn't find any correlation, but with some DAPs, they have rolloff on sub-bass, while others drive this IEMs without any issues. I'll describe some pairings below. So, with "compatible" players, Pristine gives the nice amount of both sub and mid bass, which is fast and detailed. Of course, bass here isn't as weighty as in dynamic/hybrid models, it's more "armature" type of bass — a bit dry, fast, with excellent textures.

Mids of Pristine for me are close to absolute etalon of mids representation in IEM world. HUM's earphones manage to combine incongruous. They are very detailed, but they don't sound too thin and dry. They didn't go into nitpicking like many BAs do, so they are to some extent "forgiving" for not perfect recordings. These earphones are splendid in transmitting emotions and instrument's characters. So, it's a real pleasure to listen to "audiophilic" recordings with them. The imaginary stage is close to real in size, and it's spacious and 3-dimensional.


Treble a little brighter than in ordinary modern "average IEMs," primarily it's due to the excellent attacks and decays. Highs aren't sharp, at least if recordings are good, and your DAP can control treble. Everything in this range sounds fascinating, starting with light chimes of percussion, and ending with almost subtle overtones. So, Pristine can forgive some errors in recording's mids, but treble should be recorded perfectly.

The combination of a pretty high impedance and high sensitivity imposes some restrictions on the sources for this model. Players or amplifiers for them must be detailed to showcase strengths of this model. They should work well with high impedance and have little noise. Almost all high-end DAPs are a bit noisy with Pristine, but in most cases, this can be heard only in silence. Ironically, one of the best results showed Luxury & Precision L3, virtually noiseless with this model. The best result showed OPUS#2, noise is present but really quiet, bass goes very deep, and it sounds with power. Also, excellent pairings were Questyle QP1R and Fiio X7 with AM2. The reverse side of the coin - Lotoo Paw Gold and Cayin's players, in spite of all their advantages, Pristine isn't the best option for them.


Style-wise headphones tend to serious styles - classical, vocal, chamber music, live jazz. For sure, they are magnificent with many other styles, like metal and electronic music, but there are not so much of high-quality recordings that fully reveal this IEMs.


It's great that in an age of extensive development exist companies that can take a step back and think, "what we're going to get?". While others try to insert more transducers in small enclosures, HUM decided to achieve the maximum, using only two drivers, and they succeeded. Pristine - fully justifies its name, providing a rare purity and detailed sound.

Company Meze with their model 99 Classics literally took personal audio market by storm. Offering great price, stylish and functional design and superb sound, their headphones didn't have any option but to succeed. Meze, of course, decided to continue development and recently released two models of IEM — 11 Neo and 12 Classic. Did they managed to repeat the success of elder model? I've tried to find this out with 11 Neo.

First of all, I'd like to thank Meze for providing me their earphones in exchange for my honest review.

As usual, I won't spend much time, describing packaging, accessories set and build quality. There are few good reviews from respected Head-Fiers, covering this. So, just my own subjective impressions.

Box is really good, small, but sturdy, with excellent cardboard quality and polygraphy. Accessories set is absolutely nice for this price range. Earphones build really good: metal body with interesting unusual shape, thick reliable cable, strain reliefs everywhere. 11 Neo reach perfect both in esthetics and stamina. Due to small size, they fit nicely in almost every ears, and offers good comfort and nice sound isolation (not the greatest, but anyway good).


I should also mention Meze's attention to details. For example — jack, cable splitter and talk control block have similar design and size, so it gives 11 Neo much more expensive look. This level of accuracy usually can be expected from mid tier models with price starting at \~$200, but this earphones costs just 59.00€.

So, without any futher delays I continue to the sound.



For this IEMs evaluation I've used following gear.

• NuPrime DAC-10H and Resonessence Labs Concero HP as DAC/amps
• Apple MacBook Pro Retina 2013 as a source
• Audirvana+ as a player
• Lotoo PAW Gold, Fiio X7 and Luxury&Precission L5Pro as portable DAPs

I gave this IEMs 48 hours of burn-in, but there were no big change in sound.

In this model Meze decided to make almost flat frequency response, but without being too neutral, and lifeless sounding. Such models are pretty rare among dynamic IEM, since many users prefer the "traditional" V-shaped frequency response. By the way, for the latter, Meze created model 12 Classic.


Bass in the Neo is quick enough and has noticeable depth (not a record one, of course, but pretty good). This model won't satisfy those, who like strong low frequencies accent. Furthermore, the amount of bass here depends on used tips, for example, SpinFits and double-flanged tips can raise the amount of LF. Personally I prefer more neutral and polite bass, so I've chosen large single-flanged tips, giving perfect amount for me. With this option, bass is really detailed, but without being too dry. It has nice texture and layering. Lows are controlling really good and don't bleed on mid frequencies.

Mids of this earphones tend to be neutral, non embellishent and play just what is present on recordings. Compared with more mid-centric IEMs, 11 Neo sounds more modestly, but at the same time more skillfully. Of course, there is no such crazy level of microdetails like in BA IEMs, but for dynamic driver resolution is really good. Imaginary stage is above average in width and about average in depth, but layering is really good. Instruments sounds realistically and separated well.


Treble is also quite good for its price. In comparison with the more expensive models, I can spot some lack of decays refinement, but it's noticeable only on some tracks, and in comparison with models that is 3-4 times more expensive. Meze's engineers were able to avoid the two extremes - they did not emphasize the highs to create the effect of "detalisation" and did recess this part of the range for a "comfortable" sound. For treble-sensitive persons 11's can be a bit "too much", but to my taste, these earphones are very well balanced on highs.

This model plays pretty good with mobile phones and inexpensive players, but because of its neutral representation, they can sound dull, if source didn't manage to saturate music with a sufficient level of nuances. With good DAPs of middle segment, situation changes dramatically, the sound is live and realistic, it is one of the most natural of headphones in its price range. This model also has reasonable sensitivity around 100 dB, so they are pretty tolerant to the background hiss of DAPs. One small drawback IMHO, is lacking of option without headset.


Style-wise, this model is universal enough, if you like not embellished representation, but of course, neutral representation suits best for classic, chamber music, vocal, jazz with a small number of instruments. Simply put, those styles where technicality is necessary.

To conclude, Meze were able to repeat everything necessary for success. 11 Neo offers cool design, normal price and interesting sound. Of course, neutral representation does not fit all, but Meze have "complimentary" model 12 Classics, focused just on the fans of the "traditional" signature. I must admit that good sound became more and more affordable, and it's a good news for the regular music lovers.

As usual, I've made a first impressions video.

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest influences on the audio market was the invention of the operational amplifiers. Compact and inexpensive (mostly) chips allowed to create small and well sounding products. But not always the miniaturization is good for sound quality, and then comes to the aid well-known company Burson.

In addition to developing popular DACs and amplifiers, Burson is also known as the creators of the V4 and V5 discrete op amps, but because of the large size of those solutions, not every device is suitable for upgrading with these opamps. Recently, company released V5i - a more compact model, using hybrid schematics inside.


First of all, I'd like to thank to Burson audio for providing me a pair of V5i in exchange to my honest opinion.

V5i designed for easy OpAmp rolling with devices, allowing that. V5i can be used to replace big number of "traditional" OpAmps, details can be found on the official website. You should look carefully, whether you need single or double V5i, they are not interchangable. Also they differs in price a bit ($49 vs $69). Apart from the V5i, on the official website are sold various useful accessories that can come in handy - extenders for those cases when V5i not fit in the body of the device in the normal position, capacitors to upgrade power supply, insulation to protect against interference, different sockets and adapters. By the way, separate nice bonus - V5i is covered by a lifetime warranty.


I've received my OpAmps in a simple plastic container, sealed by a brand tape. A simple and effective solution.

First candidate for upgrade became Audinst HUD-DX1 — very good DAC/amp combo with great potential, although not everyone likes its monitor sound representation with a hint of brightness. Replacement of stock Muse9820 is easy and quick. You will need two screwdrivers (H2 and Philips 1) as well as special pliers for extracting chips. I strongly recommend usage of chips extractor for everyone, as opamps legs are soft and can be bent very easily, while sockets are tight, so it's really easy to damage your chip. Actual replacement can be done under 5 minutes. You'll have to unscrew the screw that secures the volume control knob and remove it. Then unscrew the 4 screws at the corners of front paned and remove it. The last step - Philips screw on the back side of device near RCA connectors, then the board can be easily removed and parts replacement is easy.


Usually I am skeptical about such upgrades, often it requires a blind tests with two devices to fully disclosure the difference, but in this case sound changed drastically.

Bass is more accentuated so the overall representation becomes warmer, or, to say more precisely, it's loosing that hint of coolness that present in stock. Lows became more layered, separation of instruments in this range also improves. Midrange is almost unchanged, perhaps there is a bit of detail increase, but it's barely audible. Because of bass improvement, treble became less accentuated and sound more musical. After the upgrade, HUD-DX1 became pretty usable even with bright headphones.


I've tried some other devices capable of amp-rolling. xDuoo XD-05 as a result of the upgrade becomes slightly tighter and got more details in LF. Unfortunately, treble remained unchanged, looks like problems in this range isn't caused by amplification. To install V5i in the XD-05 I had to slightly bend the capacitors around the socket. I also tried these amplifiers with Valoq DAP. Because of the design, V5i do not fit in the opamps bay, so they can be used only with an extender. Player became not portable, so it's not a best candidate for tweaking. From the sound point of view, player gains better defined mids and treble with improved details level.

Of course, there is no silver bullet, and not all devices became better as a result of V5i installation. In some cases, the changes in the sound come not to your taste, sometimes device is tuned exactly for particular OpAmp. But in most cases V5i does the trick, so it's probably the simplest and most affortable way to improve sound of your devices. As for me, I'm really glad with a step forward that my DX1 made with V5i.

P.S. As usual, I've made a first impressions video.
[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1KiXaKRXE0[/VIDEO]

Cayin can definitely organise master-classes "how to succeed on personal audio market". Of course with their experience on serious hi-fi market, taking over portable niche isn't hard, but so many other well-known companies failed there… Cayin started with really good N6, followed by excellent N5, and now they're targeting new niche with model, coded I5.

As usual, I'd like to apologise for my english, as it's not my main language.

This index corresponds new lineup of players, built with Android and having all related pluses. Of course, 4.4 is a pretty outdated, but it's more then enough to give user WiFi streaming, access to network storage, additional Google Play applications and so on. Android in this player hid behind nice shell, based on Hiby music, so you can actually use I5 without much Android interaction.


Musical hardware is pretty similar with N5: AK4490 as DAC, similar OpAmp, so sound doesn't cause any concerns. Additionally Cayin gave users nice sensor screen, stylish design and even USB-C support. Player "understand" almost all formats, including different kinds DSD, can work as USB DAC and has a nice battery.

Price is also pretty good. Of course, $470 isn't spare change, but if we compare I5 price with competitors, we can call Cayin philanthropes.


Technical specs
All specs can be found in official I5 tread: http://www.head-fi.org/t/802382/cayin-i5-lossless-android-dap-with-akm4490-dac-supporting-32-384-pcm-64-128-dsd

Packaging and accessories set
Of course, I5 is far from gorgeous N6 packaging, but it's obvious that Cayin have way lower margin for this player. Nevertheless, I5's box is really good. White outer envelope hides traditional black cardboard box with minimal polygraphy. Inside you'll find player itself, USB-C cable, few protector screens for both front and rear panels, MicroUSB to USB-C adapter and different papers.

There are "official" case, sold separately. I've purchased it immediately, it's really stylish and protects player well.


Design and controls
Cayin are constantly working on design of their products, making it more and more strict. I'm really missing those bold experiments like circular display of N6, but I'm a minority here. Fortunately, I5's design is still interesting enough.

Player's body made from metal, back side features carbon insert, on lower side is plastic lid, I think it hides antennas.

Front panel mainly occupied with screen, which has pretty good resolution and view angles. Unfortunately, under the bright sun it loses major part of readability. Under the screen located sensor "home" button.

On the sides of player located mechanical control buttons. On left side — on/off button, combined with screen lock, on right side — play/pause and tracks navigation and MicroSD slot. Player has 32 Gb of built-in memory and supports cards up to 200 Gb.


Lower side of player contains USB C connector, upper — headphones and line out.

Upper right side of player occupied with volume regulator, and it's a pure tactical orgasm. It's rotating slowly, but smoothly, and it's hard to resist from turning it all the time.

As OS used Android 4.4 with custom launcher, based on HibyMusic. Main screen of I5 contains nice buttons, leading you to different music storages: internal memory, micro SD, Dropbox, LAN servers and external USB drive (yep, player supports them). When source connecter, player shows diagram with free space. Also, you can browse your media library by artist, album, and genre. For more convenience, there are separate menu with lists: recent tracks, most played ones, favourites, etc. Actually, controls are pretty good, but buttons are too small for easy control, so I hope Cayin will fix it in future updates.

There are all necessary features: equalizer, 5 digital filters switch, sleep timer, and so on. You can install thirdparty software from Google Play, but most of this apps will play hi-res with downsampling via Android mixer.

I5 has 1 Gb of RAM, it's pretty OK for shell itself, but not so much for additional apps. In AnTuTu I5 scores 14605 points.

There are some nice features like network streaming and external USB drives support, they simplifies everyday tasks. Also, Cayin declared that I5 will be able to use external DACs via USB, but it will be implemented in future FW updates.

With MeeAudio P1 as a load, on low gain and volume set to 30, I've got 10 hours and 45 minures of playback (FLAC, 44.1/16), but active screen usage will reduce this time noticeably. Charging with iPad adapter took about 4 hours and 20 minutes. Actually, life time is pretty good for such feature-packed device.



Sound
For listening, I'm sung following headphones: ZMF Omni, Meze 99 Classics, Lear LHF-AE1d, Ambient Acoustics AM10, Audio Zenith PMx2, Noble Kaiser K10AU, Campfire Audio Jupiter, Dita Audio Brass.

I5 uses pretty similar to N5 set of OpAmps, so they have common "general" representation, but Cayin collected N5's feedback, and took it into attention, removing some of small issues from N5's sound.

Bass in i5 is pretty deep and has moderate punch. It has good quantity, resolution is a bit lower then maximal, but lows have a nice texture. With darkened headphones, this player will be good even for bassheads.

Mids, of course, are good, resolution, microdynamics, emotions — all is present here. Player doesn't add anything to mids, so if you like colored sound, it's not an option for you. As many AK4490 devices, I5 features digital filter switch, from all its settings I prefer "super-slow". Subjectively, I'm missing stage depth with I5, it's aobut average in sound layering, but stage width is more or less OK.

Treble is "normal". They aren't superb in terms of general perception, they are lucking some sense of "luxury", but they have decent speed and decay.


Some subjective comparisions.

Cayin N5 Both DAPs have similar neutral sound, but N5 has some accent on upper-mids, that made sound "rougher", but on last FW it's lowered, so here N5 sounds closer to I5. Also I5 has a bit deeper bass.

Cayin N6 N6 features more rich sound, with some hint of softness, giving more "musicality" to records, so generally, N6 sounds a step higher.

Fiio X7 + AM Fiio offers better staging and better treble. Also, X7 has a bit better detalisation. On the other hand, I5 offers more engaging and energetic lows.

QLS 360 QLS is rougher, it has more drive, more emotions, actually, it offers pretty different representation, and those who like 360 won't like I5 and vice-versa.

Compatibility
I5 is pretty universal DAP: 180 mW for 32Ω load it's more then enough for vast majority of headphones, and close to 0 output impedance makes this player good option for multi-driver IEMs. With sensitive IEMs some noise is present, but for me it's pretty quiet, so it doesn't bother me.

Style-wise player is pretty universal, but to my ears it's the best suited for technical and complex music: classics, jazz, technical styles of metal, and so on. Player is pretty sensitive to quality of recordings, I'd say 7 points by 10 scale.

Conclusion
Really interesting player, having nice design, interesting features and good controls. Sound is also really OK, and affordable price is a cherry on top of I5's benefits.

P.S. I've also made a video with initial impressions

[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnFEi9JFpio[/VIDEO]

Recently, I've joined the crowd of people, using Meze 99Classics as primary headphones (or at least one of them), and I'd like share my opinion and join the praising choir

First of all, I'll save some of your time, if you'll decide to read a review, and I'll skip almost everything, related to design, accessories and wear comfort. There are few dozens of reviews on Head-Fi, most of them covers this perfectly, and I can't add more to them. Just to summarise, Meze 99 looks great, sits comfortably on your head and has good set of accessories (carrying case, 2 cables, etc.). They fit on my head perfectly, and I have zero issues wearing them. One minor issue — earpads can be a bit small for people with big ears, but Meze promised to create a bigger earpads set, so this won't be a problem anymore in nearest future.


So, I'm skipping all this unboxing and other staff, and moving on to sound.



I've used following equipment for evaluation purposes.

• NuPrime DAC-10H and Resonessence Labs Concero HP as DAC and amplifier
• Apple MacBook Pro Retina 2013 as a source
• Fidelia as a player
• Fiio X7 and Luxury & Precission L5Pro as portable players

I gave this Mezes about 48 hours of break-in, and they really improved their sound after first 20 hours of so.

Sound designers of this model decided not to follow current trend of neutral and audiophiliac sounding, and made main focus on "tasty" colored representation with a small hint of darkness. And 99 Classics definitely demonstrates that it was a good idea.


Bass has a small accent in mid-bass region, but it's polite and a slighly softened, so this cans doesn't sound as tough as typical basshead models. In general, lows resolution is enough for most genres, and there is a nice separation of lower register instruments. Also bass has good texture, but on low-quality recordings lows accent can be a bit "too much". Fortunately, those track are really rare and mostly occurred in modern pop-music. Deep bass in this model are rolled off a bit, but when necessary shows it's presence.

Mids are probably the strongest side of this headphones. It's really easy to fall in love with them after a few seconds of listening. Mids are represented smoothly and coherently, giving listener a good analog representation. "Classics" don't try to disassemble the music and highlight tiny nuances, like plannars do, their strong parts are emotions and vigor. An imaginary scene is good for closed headphones, although expectedly smaller then in open models. This headphones really begs about adding some good brandy and comfortable armchair.


Treble also bear traces of painstaking tuning. They are detailed, but they do not try to move to the forefront and pulled the attention. They are performing traditional role of the cream topping on the cake, they are crowning the composition, giving it necessary airiness and lightness.

Several subjective comparisons.

Oppo PM3 This model is more suitable for portable because of folding construction and more strict appearance. From the sound point of view, PM-3 are more "boring", they do not have this pleasant effect of smoothness that Meze do. PM-3 have a little less bass, though it deeper, also PM-3 have better resolution in the midrange, while 99 Classics have more forgiving treble.


Audio Technica MSR-7 Typical confrontation of "Asian" and "European" sound. Slightly brighter MSR-7 offers a more aggressive sound that reminds me fireworks and festivities, while a bit darkened Meze 99 Classics is more like a pleasant evening in a nice restaurant in a circle of close friends.

Sennheiser Momentum 2 Those ones do have a bit similar representation with accent on lows, but they simply don't reach the level of Meze. There is no such a noble and smooth mids, and treble is mory harsh and dry.

Compatibility
There is a wire with a headset included with the headphones, and indeed, "Classics" is quite usable with phones or tablets, their representation smoothes the shortcomings of today's mobile devices's sound. But this headphones really benefits from a good player or a desktop DAC/amp. So, this Meze well suited to the role of headphones that are bought "for growth", you can bought them and use with your existing source, and later upgrade the source to something better.


Genre-wise headphones are pretty versatile, with the exception of the simplest styles of electronic music, badly recorded pop and styles like that. Tracks with a strong emphasis on the lows or with strong DR compression - not the best option for this headphones.

Conclusion

Meze spent few years, creating this headphones, and they are really worth that. Great stylish design, good sound and nice price — you have all three of those. For now, I'm pretty sure that 99 Classics are the best closed-back headphones in their price range.

I'd like to thank to Meze for providing me a sample in exchange to my honest opinion.

As usual, I've made a video, showing my initial impressions.

[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7c5sJh2xi2U[/VIDEO]

In endless pursuit of more and more complex earphones schematics, we began to forget about the joy of minimalism that single-driver earphones can give. Luckily, there are nice companies that remind us about that, and Orion by Campfire Audio is one of those model.

Campfire is a pretty new name on earphones market, but they are really experienced, so their starting lineup is very strong and competitive. Single-driver BA Orion, single-driver dynamic Lyra and 4-driver top model Jupiter. Recently they've added two new models Nova and Andromeda, but they are pretty new and just started hitting the market, so I'll start from the most affordable model, Orion.

Campfire took a pair of nice BA drivers, put them into great aluminium housings, added cable and got a nice offer for $350.



I won't go deep into packaging, design and accessories, there are few really nice reviews, covering this in deep details. I can add only few my subjective notes.

Packaging and accessories set is nice, not gorgeous, but solid and practical. Cable is especially nice, it has slight microphonics, but it's not a big issue, as Orion tends to be work over ear.



Design is undoubtedly nice. Great shape, solid aluminium case, silver screws as a nice accent. Build quality is also great and solid.

Fit had a bit of issue for me, as inner edges touched ear and caused a bit of fatigue, but after 2 days of wearing, I've got used to it, and now I have zero issues. Orions slide into my ears perfectly, and I can wear them for a whole day. Sound isolation is about average and OK for most situations.



That's pretty all about exterior, and now I can easily continue to the sound.

I've used following equipment for evaluation.

- NuPrime DAC-10H and [Resonessence Labs Concero HP] as DAC and amplifier
- Apple MacBook Pro Retina 2013 as a source
- Fidelia as a player
- Fiio X7 and Luxury & Precission L5Pro as portable players
- Ambient Acoustics AM10, [Lear BD4.2], Campfire Audio Jupiter and Dunu DN-2000J as headphones for comparison

I gave Orion about 48 hours of burn-in before auditioning. Usually, burn-in isn't necessary for BA drivers, but I've decided to comply with all the formalities.



Generally, sound representation of Orion is pretty typical for single-driver armatures, but main secret is that they are really, really good single-driver armatures. Their frequency response is pretty linear from 50 Hz to 2 kHz. Bass roll-off under 50 Hz is less then 10 dB, and highs are recessed to remove often issues of BA drivers like harshness. Usage of single-armature design allowed this IEMs to avoid problems with drivers coherence and interference, sometimes met in multi-driver designs, and this allowed Orion to give incredible speed, clarity and resolution.

Bass of this model is very fast, it has great resolution and rendered with nice texture. It's good in quantity and able to go pretty deep. Main issue of this model's lows caused by fast decay, common for BAs, so, instead of familiar rumble, Orions gives detailed and fast bass. At first, it seemed that there is not enough bass, but after some time, I've realised that lows are here, they just have different unusual representation. When necessary, Orions can punch, but this punches will be dryer then usual. After getting used, I've started to find a pleasure in opportunity to hear minor nuances in low frequences.

Midrange is the strongest part in sound of this model. It's jaw-dropping and you can really fell in love at first sight with them. Campfire managed to achieve the exact balance, thus incredible micro-contrast of sound doesn't cause dull and emotionless representation. If you like vocal, Orions will blow you with level of emotions, they work like emotion magnifying glass, able to pinpoint any small detail, present in recording. Also this IEMs are great in showing real instrument details, for example, in good harp recoding you can locate not only instrument, but position of separate strings. An imaginary scene more than the average width and depth. Orion falls short to a record, but shows a very, very good results.



Treble is slightly recessed, personally I prefer more highs, but Campfire engineers decided to make a non-fatiguing sound and move treble a bit backward. This allowed them to avoid typical harshness of single BA models, so Orion offers non-fatiguing sound. Also, this allows listener to concentrate on spectacular midrange without any distortion. Another advantage of this solution - greater than in similar models tolerance for not very high-quality records. In terms of resolution and clarity, treble is really nice.



I've made few brief and subjective comparisons with different IEMs that I have.

Dunu DN-2000J Dunu's hi-end hybrids shows tighter bass and brighter treble. Compared with DN-2000J, sound of Orion is more relaxed, but also it has more resolving and emotional midrange.

MEEAudio P1 New, unusual, interesting model by MEEAudio. Orion has deeper bass and midrange resolution, but P1 leads in treble representation and scene size.

Ortofon e-Q8 Unusual Siren Armature driver gives Japanese model tighter bass, but Orion the leads in the midrange, and their high frequencies are more tolerant to the listener.

Campfire Audio Jupiter Former top model of the company with 4 drivers. Of course, is 2 times more expensive, but offers improvements in the field of deep bass and treble, although Orions have a bit better mids resolution.

Etymotic ER-4S Well, how can I omit true single-driver legend? Orion is better at low frequencies, about par on mids, any Etys have longer treble extention, but can be a bit harsh sometimes.

Of course, it's not very reasonable idea to use this IEMs with smartphones and tablets, they designed for usage with good DAPs. Among inexpensive DAPs, I preferred Cayin N5 with them, and in hi-end segment best results were shown by Fiio X7 and Questyle QP-1R. Please note, that Orion has relatively low impedance and high sensitivity, so they can highlight background noise of device.

Style-wise, I'd call those a universal headphoens, you just need a bit of usage to their detailed and honest representation. I've enjoyed everything, from black metal to trance, but Orions are especially good with serious music: jazz, classics, blues, vocal, something that allows them to show strong side. The quality of the recordings are quite critical, I would rate them a 7 out of 10.

So, Campfire Audio really succeed in creating nice single driver model for those, who like detailed and emotional sound.

I want to thank to Campfire Audio for providing me a sample for review in exchange to my honest opinion.

Here is my unboxing and impressions video.

[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLn7kDlIbiI[/VIDEO]

To begin, I want to say that MEE Audio really managed to impress me, I really liked P1. I'm familiar with MEE Audio products for quite a long time. Actually, they were the company, who led me to world of hi-end personal audio. So, I was always looking at their new products with interest. Last year, on CES they've presented first prototype of their future flagship P1, but fine-tuning took about a year of time. Anyway, P1 is out, and I've spent 2 beautiful weeks with them. Now I'll try to get all my poor english skills together and try to share my impressions.

Last years, vast majority of headphones are built on big OEM plants in China/Malaysia/etc. It's pretty easy to release your own headphones (but relatively expensive), select OEM producer, select model, customise package, logo and accessories set, and you're done. It's pretty funny to see models, made by ESMOOTH, sold under different brands with prices that sometimes varies by 2 times. So, it's always a pleasure to see model, designed by company from ground up. Such models usually can be distinguished by the thousands of small nuances: packaging, accessories, polygraphy, interesting tuning options, etc.

So, as you can easily understand, P1 is one of those models, and it's pretty great feeling, to see those small things, done by their product designers.

Packaging and accessories
Pinnacle P1 is definitely beloved child of MEE Audio. It's clear after the first look to the box. Stylish cover uses almost all modern polygraphic technologies — silver print, embossing, combination of gloss and mate paper, it's all present. After removing of this cover, you'll see internal box, made of black thick cardboard. This box opened symmetrically from the middle, really unusual. Inside, you'll find earpieces themselves, great leather case for carrying and two cardboard boxes with accessories. One contains cables and shirt clip, second — tips. Also, in box you'll find 1/4" adapter and useful manual, covering all topics.




With P1 you'll get 6 pairs of silicon tips (3 pairs of single flanged of different sizes, 2 pairs of double flanged and 1 pair of triple flanged). Also you'll get 3 pairs of assorted COMPLY foams.

But main treasure besides earpohnes are cables. First cable is black, it's made of copper and features single-button talk control. It's soft, pretty thick, sturdy and looks good. But second one, is a real masterpiece. It's made from silver-plated copper, have semitransparent isolation with color, matching earphones and looks gorgeous. MEE is planning to sell it for $50, and I'm going to buy at least one more to use with other IEMs. Cable is using standard MMCX, so it will be a worth purchase.

As you can see, packaging and accessories are really on par with ultra-expensive hi-end models.

Design and comfort
MEE Audio decided to use unusual material, P1 is cast of zinc alloy with hand-polished finish. This gave them really unusual color, something between graphite and bronze with interesting metal texture. Also, this model got unusual form, combining rounded shapes with soft edges. This gives P1 a little retro look, but I think it's stylish. Of course, build quality is perfect.




P1 can be worn cable down and over the ear. I prefer second option, as it gives me more convenience. In both cases, earphones sits in ear with good comfort and gives nice sound isolation.

Sound
I've used following equipment for auditioning
- NuPrime DAC-10H and Resonessence Labs Concero HP as DAC/amp
- Apple MacBook Pro Retina 2013 as a source
- Fidelia as player
- Fiio X7 and Luxury&Precission L5Pro as DAPs

I've burned in P1 for 48 hours before auditioning.


MEE Audio invested lots of work into sound tuning too. They've used special resonator for treble, allowing P1 deliver high frequencies with unusual resolution and energy. As many hi-end models, P1 is really fit dependent, also different tips changes sound representation. For example, COMPLY's foams tames treble a bit, and dual-flange tips gives a little more bass, but slightly reduces resolution. After some experiments, I've stopped on big single flange tips, as they allows P1 to show their best sides.


Bass is fast and have good amount of details. Main accent is made on midbass. Low bass is present, but is reduced in quantity. I think this is done on purpose, as P1 is tuned for serious genres like classics, and there quality is more important then quantity. Anyway, P1's subbass is enough to give a feeling of presence.

Mids are really, really good. OF course, they are detailed, emotional, etc. But P1 managed also to build a really great scene, both in width and in depth. It's one of the few headphones that gives me three-dimensional perception of music. Instruments have good separation, and vocals does really shine on P1.


Treble is the most controversial part in P1's sound. Earphones was tuned to deliver great treble resolution, so there is no attempts to masque highs and make them "comfortable". If you're treble sensitive, this earphones aren't for you. Personally I like treble, so great amount of details that Pinnacles has in this range is suiting my tastes good. P1 has one of the most resolving highs in IEM world, so percussion and other treble instruments sounds with unbelievable level of details. From other hand, P1 requires really superb source and good mastered records. DAPs having problems with treble control will give P1 metal ringing due to distortion. But it's not a Pinnacle's fault actually.

Compatibility
I don't know why, MEE Audio included cable with talk control to accessories set. P1 is really not a good companion for a smartphones and tablets. They require nice DAP. Only option I see, to use this cable with Fiio DAPs, they can understand talk control button, in this case it'll be convenient. P1 is really picky for source, out of all my DAPs they've sounded best with L&P L5Pro. Fiio X7 was also good.


Style-wise, I think this IEMs are for "serious" genres: classics, instrumental music, vocal, good recorded jazz. They aren't the best option for hard and heavy, as may of this music is recorded poorly, but I've enjoyed Iron Maiden in remastered version, released by Onkyo.

So, if you're looking for a serious earphones for serious music, have nice DAP and prefer spacious and three-dimensional soundstage, MEE Audio P1 is a great option for you. Luckily, they cost only $200, which is really inexpensive for earphones of this level.


I want to thank to MEE Audio for providing me a sample for review in exchange to my honest opinion.

Here is my unboxing and impressions video.

[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zS6-Nb6JNlk[/VIDEO]

Cayin N6 is definitely one of my most favourite players. That's why I've waited for their new more affordable model with impatience. Finally, I've got N5 in my hands and spent enough time with it to make a judgment.


I won't spend lot of time, describing box, it's contents and players design/menu. There are excellent reviews, covering this in depth. So, just brief impressions, before I continue to the sound.

Box is nice, simple and stylish. Accessories set is also good, but I recommend you purchase "leather" case, it's good enough for it's price, and N5 deserves better case then stock silicon one.


Design is really superb. It's not that futuristic, like N6's, but it's still interesting. N5 has it's own face and reminds me those retro hi-end devices, this is a nice touch. Controls are a bit complicated at first time, but I've quickly got used, and now they are OK for me. Scroll wheel is responsible and reliable, screen has nice resolution and remains readable in direct sunlight.


Menu is nice, it has 4 nicely animated themes. Feature-wise, N5 has everything that we expect from modern player: media library, folder playback, lots of settings, USB DAC functionality, etc.

I must admit, N5 offers pretty nice features that are absent even in their top model N6: balanced amplifier with balanced output, USB 3.0 slot for faster file transfer and 2 memory cards support. Also N5 uses top DAC chip from AKM, AK4490 (N6 has 2 PCM chips).


N5's battery is big, so it offers almost 9 hours of work, which is really OK for such a powerful devise.

So, outlook-wise, N5 is a modern device, with all necessary features, unusual design, comfortable controls and sleek look.


And now, about the sound. First thing that I've noticed — N5's sound really changed after firmware update, to be more precise, v2 firmware made sound worse, and v3 made it better again, so recent firmware have the best sound. Second notice — my sound perception of N5 differs from vast major of reviews here. I don't have any explanations beside of subjective perception features. So, I've warned you

Generally, N5 have analytical sounding, with a hint of brightness. Player have really great and emotional mids and builds really good soundstage.


Bass of N5 is fast and detailed. It have a good resolution and texture. In some rare cases, N5's bass lacking some power, punches are present, but they aren't as crashing, as with other DAPs. Fortunately, this isn't an often issue.

Mids are N5's best side. They are emotional, live, have great detalisation and speed. This is definitely the strongest staple of N5's sound. This allows player to build good stage, both in depth and width. Instrument separation is good.


Treble is nice, airy and have perfect for me quantity. Compared with hi-end DAPs, N5 has some simplifications in treble, but it's hardly noticeable in everyday listening.

Some subjective comparisons.

Cayin N6 This is the main place, where my perception differs from other reviews. For me, N5 sounds colder, while N6 is warmer and more musical, N6's sound have more body and is more solid.

Fiio X5-2 Main competitor in this price segment have about the same "level", but offers slightly different representation. N5 is more neutral sound, while X5-2 give more bass and punch. Roughly, I'd prefer N5 for classics and vocal, and Fiio — for rock and electronic music. But anyway, I've enjoyed metal with N5.

Hidizs AP-100 Darker and more energetic sound. AP100 has more lows, but also have less details on mids, it's stage is narrower.

iHiFi 800 This DAPs have similar sound representation, but iHiFi have better treble, and N5 — mids and lows. Also N5 is way better in controls and design (but also much more expensive).

iBasso DX80 For me, DX80's sound is too emotionless, while N5 is great in emotions representation, so in 100% of cases I prefer N5.

Another plus of N5 is its universality. It have really low output impedance, so it's a perfect choice for multi-driver hybrids and armatures. On the other hand, N5 have pretty lot of power, up to 300 mW is really enough for vast majority of full-size headphones. Only issue is pretty noticeable noise level of balanced output, when paired with very sensitive IEMs.

Style-wise, I think N5 is better suited for complex genres like orchestral classics and vocal. Also, N5 is good in progressive rock and jazz. Little worse (but still pretty OK) is metal, but here you should better look for good remasters.

To conclude, N5 is a great player for those, who prefer neutral representation and enjoys great mids representation with lots of emotions.

I'd like to thank to Cayin for providing me with a free review sample in exchange for my honest opinion (but import customs made this sample far from free).

As usual, my humble video with impressions.

[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vm5C459rf6M[/VIDEO]

Well, Shanling M3 was really outstanding: lots of connectivity features, great sound, excellent design, affordable price, and so on, and so long… When Shanling decided to create less expensive model, they've really done a great job designing both interface and sound. That's how M2 was created, and I'd like to add my humble opinion to M2 reviews pool.

Shanling targeted M2 to really competitive segment, it's recommended price is $240, there are few really nice DAPs in this niche, but M2 have unique features to stand out among them.



As usual, I don't want to spend a lot of time, describing everything not related to sound, there are lots of really great reviews from Head-Fiers, covering this , so just few my impressions. Box is nice and stylish, you'll have all necessary accessories (but I suggest you to buy leather case anyway, it's good). M2 is also greatly built, aluminium body with carbon insert looks stylish, and player is sturdy and handy. Actually, M2 has it's own face.

I really liked control wheel, it reminds me my favourite Sony NEX. Combined with nice menu, it gives great interface that I like to use. I didn't experience any software issues or glitches. Firmware-wise, M2 have all features that we expect from modern DAP: tons of settings, media library, support of many formats, and so on.



So, I'll go straight to the sound. During the test I've used: Oppo PM-3, Titan 3 and Titan 5, Lear LHF-AE1d, Ambient Acoustics AM10, VE Monk and Asura v2, HiFiMan HE-400S

Shanling engineers decided to make a nice, musical sound representation that reminds me a bit old vintage sounding of Hi-End gear of the past. It has energetic bass, lively mids and a bit rolled off treble.

Lows are really balanced ("balance" is actually a codename of M2), they have enough power to create "body" of music, but they aren't too punchy, because it can be sometimes irritating. Just prefect average amounts, but with decent headphones it kicks nicely.



Mids are totally OK, I can't say much here. If we'll forget about price, I can say that M2 missing a bit micro details, but it's only in comparison with really expensive models. Price-wise M2 mids are great: small nuances, emotions, it has it all, and balanced bass does it's job, highlighting midrange. Stage is average in width and a bit less then average in depth. Instruments have normal separation.

Highs are a bit simplified. Not so much to become a mess, but it's noticeable. Luckily, Shanling engineers decided to move treble a little back, so this problem isn't drag to many attention. Actually, treble in M2 is fairly OK to add necessary air and space to music. On the other hand, M2's sound isn't fatiguing even with bright earphones.



Few comparisons with DAPs of similar price range and/or form-factor. Please note, that this comparisons are subjective, and based on my personal preferences.

iHiFi 800 Really good inexpensive player with "audiophiliac" neutral sound representation. It's better then M2 in detalisation and speed, but M2 offers more "musical" sound and more bass. So, IMHO, M2 is a better option for rock and other heavy music lovers.

Fiio X3-2 Probably, the most popular DAP in this price range. Compared with M2, X3-2 have more accent on bass and treble, offering more "engaging" and "energetic sound", but it can be sometimes too fatigue, so M2's relaxed sound can be more preferable, if you like such representation.

xDuoo X3 By price/quality relation, this player beats almost everything on market. But if we'll compare without price in mind, M2 offers more musical sound without distortion, caused by X3's "slow playback" issue.



Pairings

Generally, M2 isn't the most universal player. It's not powerful enough to drive hungry big cans, so best headphones for it are IEMs. Also, M2 has pretty big output impedance that makes it not a good solution for multi-driver armatures and hybrids. So, best choice for M2 is a single-driver models with dynamic driver. Luckily, now we have a plenty of them. Especially I've liked M2 with Trinity Techne and Lear LHF-AE1d. Anyway, I've tried M2 with Dunu's hybrids and it was also pretty OK, but DN-2000J really needs higher level source.

Style-wise, M2 is best suited for music that benefits from it's representation: non-brutal metal, classic rock, jazz. Also OK is orchestral classics (keep in mind not the biggest soundstage) and electronics. Brutal metal sounds a bit worse, but still is pretty OK.



So, Shanling created really great DAP if you like to enjoy the music in general, without nuances neat-picking, without audiophile details attention, just nice music, relaxation and you. Add here affordable price, nice controls and good build quality, and you'll get a perfect travelling companion.

I'd like to thank to Shanling for providing me with M2 review sample in exchange for my honest opinion, I've only had to pay import taxes (that cost me almost 50% of player's price )

And a video, showing M2 "in real life"
[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJT5_8og_w0[/VIDEO]

I am a pretty big fan of CEntrance's gear. I'm owning both HiFi-M8 and Mini-M8, and I really hope to see full-sized desktop DAC/amp from CEntrance. Meanwhile, company presented very interesting tiny DAC with built-in headphone amplifier DAC Port HD. Of course, I can't resist and get one for review. Here are my humble 5 cents.

Package is really basic, it's small black cardboard box, inside you'll find device itself and USB cable to plug it.

DACPort HD is incredibly tiny, it's slim and is just a bit bigger then usual disposable cigarette lighter. Device made completely form black aluminium and provides solid and sturdy build. From one side you plug MicroUSB, from other — headphones (3.5 mm used). One of edges contains volume wheel, other — gain switch. No LEDs, no power button, no built-in battery, pure minimalism.



It's really incredible, how many power was stuffed inside this small case. Heart of DACPort HD is fresh AMK4490 DAC, so device is capable of handing signal up to 384 kHz/32 bit and even DSD64/DSD128. Amplifier is built in A-class, powered by ±9 V rails and doesn't have output capacitors. It's heard to believe, but DACPort HD has up to 775 mW of output power, so it's pretty able to drive even orthos.

Actually, specs

• DAC: AK4490
• Formats supported: up to 384 kHz/32 bit, DSD64, DSD128
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 40 kHz (±0.2 dB)
• Dynamic range: 112 dB
• THD+N: 0.002% (1 kHz)
• Noise level: 7 µV RMS (at high gain)
• Output impedance: 1Ω
• Max. signal level: 4.1 VRMS / +14.5 dBu
• Max. power: 775 mW
• Size: 76 mm × 29 mm × 11 mm

Pretty impressive for a device that weight 40 grams and cost $200. By the way, there is "simplified" version DAPort Slim, that sold exclusively on Massdrop and costs only $100. It has reduced power, doesn't support DSD and resolutions higher then 192/24. Also it has a bit worse THD+N and DR. But anyway, it's also a good option for "not-so-hard-to-drive-headphones" owners.

DACPort HD is a USB powered device, and it "wants" pretty lot of power to operate, thus isn't compatible with smartphones. I've seen solution, involved external battery, USB hub and Android smartphone, but I can't call it portable. I've seen mention, that DACPort Slim works with mobile sources, but I didn't have an opportunity to check it.



This tiny thing gets a bit worm during work, don't worry it's OK.

And, on to sound.

During the test I've used

• MacBook Pro Retina Late 2013 as a source
• Audirvana Plus as a player
• ZMF Omni, Oppo PM-3, Titan 3 and Titan 5, Lear LHF-AE1d, Ambient Acoustics AM10, VE Monk and Asura v2, HiFiMan HE-400S

DACPort HD shares same "house sound" as well-known HiFi-M8, it's detailed, neutral and have a good resolution, so device's sound is on brighter side, it's airy and light.



Bass is pretty quick, combined with plenty of power, it's both an advantage and a drawback of this device. The fact is that DACPort requires excellent bass control from headphones. It will showcase all faults in lows, if they are present. It's especially ruthless with small IEMs and earbuds. For example, it sounds pretty OK with new VE Asura, but with VE Monk — it's not an option at all. If you like strong lows, DACPort may be not a good option, as it doesn't add anything to lows, so you can benefit from darker sound, but DACPort is more for neutrality addicts.

Mids are emotional nd dynamic. DAC is especially good in representing small nuances and emotions of vocal. Voice's sound is intimate and engaging. It helps DACPort build pretty deep stage with good layers separation, it's pretty on par with some much more expensive desktop devices. Width is about average.

Highs are just perfect to my taste. Not too much, not too few, not harsh and not soft, not overdetailed, not veiled — just good in any aspect. DACPort even tries to "fix" bad treble of some old records, and sometimes it's even succeed in this business (but sometimes it doesn't, so it's better to feed it with good remasters).

"Big" HiFi-M8, of course is better in terms of connection and sound tuning options, also it features more resolution and better mids rendering, but DACPort can be easily treated as "sound sampler" of bigger M8.

As I've mentioned above, DACPort is pretty picky for IEMs, from my big collection most of all I've liked Titan 3 and Lear LHF-AE1d. But big cans is where DACPort shows his brilliance most of all. For last 5 days I'm listening DACPort HD with HiFiMan's HE-400S, and I think it's one of the best combos by price/sound ratio.

So, if you need small, inexpensive, but powerful device, I can recommend DACPort HD with easy heart.

So, I continue sharing my experience with excellent Trinity audio earphones, and today it's time for Techne. While Trinity prepares to release their top-notch multidriver models, simpler single-driver models are still interesting. There are not much reviews of Techne on Head-Fi, so I've decided to add my 5 cents.

AFAIK, Techne shares same driver with entry-level model Hyperion, but offers completely different sound presentation. Also Techne introduces Trinity's signature sound tuning filters and offers really great design. It's sold on Trinity's website for $95 (including free shipping worldwide), but Head-Fi users can get really great discount that makes Techne even more interesting.



This model came in grey box, common for all company's models, inside you'll find earphones themselves, carrying case, 4 pairs of signle-flange tips, pair of dual-flange tips, 2 pairs of foam tips, shirt clip, and adapter to make straight jack 90°-angled. Also you'll get small container with 2 pairs of spare filters. Pretty great set of accessories for this model's price.

Techne uses unusual body shape that slightly reminds Phonak's models. Due to this shape, Techne offers not so deep insertion, compared with Hyperion and Dalta, so I've used dual flange tips to get proper fit. From other hand, Techne's design allows them to completely avoid cable microphonics.



By the way, Techne's cable is really nice — braided, soft and stylish, it's durable and tangle-prone. Cable splitter and jack are also sturdy, so Techne will serve you long time.

As for the sound, it greatly depends on used filters. Techne offers 3 options. Red filter offers "fun" sound with V-shaped frequency response, it have really strong bass, which is too much for me. Purple filter is almost neutral, it have pretty balanced representation with slight hint of brightness. Dark grey filter reduces bass and offers bright signature with pseudo-detalisation effect. This sound is interesting, but somewhat fatiguing for me. So, as you can understand, I've chose "average" purple option.



Bass in this earphones are pretty fit-dependent. If you don't fit them properly, you'll loose both in quantity and in quality of lows. So, I prefer dual-flange tips. With them you'll gen nice resolving lows, with decent depth, but main accent is made on mid-bass. Resolution is pretty OK for Techne's price.

Mids are a bit recessed in lower-mids, but not really much. To my ears, Techne also have some accent on upper-mids, that makes their sound "festive" and airy. There is some smoothness on mids to make sound more pleasant, and Techne succeeds here.



Treble is also a bit more then average, so you'll need a source with good treble control, to get the most of this model. If you're treble-sensitive, most probably this model won't fit you, but to my ears, Techne offers good treble with lots of air and light representation.



I've tried this earphones with my iPhone and iPad, and I think they really need better source, that can highlight their strong parts. For example, I've really liked them with Xuelin iHiFi 800 (treble-lower's delight).



Style-wise Techne is the best option for jazz, classics, vocal, instrumentals — those genres, where details are necessary. But I've listened to metal and classic rock with pleasure too. Techne is sensitive for recordings quality, so bad masters aren't good in them.



To conclude, Techne offers interesting and unusual sound representation, that is really interesting compared to "typical" V-shaped earphones that flooded market. So, if you like such representation, this earphones are worth paying attention.

I can definitely say, that I'm in love with this tiny and inexpensive earphones, made by Trinity Audio Engineering, so once again I need to gather my poor english skills to share my love with you.

I won't write much about Trinity itself, they are active participants in Head-Fi community, I can only notice, that most of all I like their passion for experiments, necessary for all companies that wants to succeed. If you are interested in getting more information about company, here is excellent thread.

Also, I won't spend lot of time, describing box, accessories set and other aesthetic stuff. You can definitely see Hyperion's design on pictures, accessories set includes case, shirt clip, 4 pairs of single-flange tips, 1 pair of dual flange and adapter, to change straight jack into 90° one. Hyperion's build is nice, despite being really affordable model, they made of metal, have pretty robust cable and nice sturdy jack. They fit nicely into any ears and sits there without any comfort issues. Only disadvantage I've noticed — slight microphonics, when cable touches your cloth. Luckily, shirt clip and over-ear wearing comes to the rescue.



So, that's all about outlook, main thing here is sound, and it's really nice.

I've burnt this earphones for 48 hours, not that I believe it can change anything, but just to be sure.

As lots of small earphones, Hyperion's sound really fit-dependant. You should try different tips to ensure perfect sealing. For me best option became white two-flanges. I've heart good words about foam tips, but I didn't try them.



Trinity managed to get nice, "tasty" sound with slight accent on lows and great mids. Earphones sound representation is really nice for their price, and suits almost all genres.

Bass have a slight emphasis, to create necessary effect of tightness. It's not going really deep, but offers good resolution for this price range. Bass speed greatly depends on source capabilities, so with DAPs that dosn't control lows greatly, Hyperion can be slightly boomy, but with good DAPs, there is no any issues.

Mids are especially nice for such inexpensive model. Their mids are lively, it's smoothed a little to create more "musical" representation, and it sounds really nice. Stage is a bit wider then average, but not really deep. Instrument separation is also OK.



Highs are rolled off a little, to make sound comfortable and not fatiguing, but there are enough of them to represent treble. Hyperion's sound isn't the most airy one, but it's not harsh and too bright.

So, if I don't mind the price, there are some slight drawbacks in Hypreion's sound, but price-wise, they are more then good. BTW, if you go to Trinite Audio thread, you can find there coupon for really great discount.

You can definitely use those earphones with smartphones and tablets (they have microphone with 1-button talk control), but Hyperions can really benefit from nice DAP. They have growth potential and improves sound with mid-tier DAPs. They are pretty OK with almost all music styles (of course, for orchestral classic or technical metal you should consider something much more expensive). Earphones are pretty forgiving, so you can listen to not-audiopiliac recirdings with ease.



To conclude: if you are looking for inexpensive earphones with balanced and fun sound, Hyperion is really nice option.

I want to thank to Trinity Audio Engineering for providing me a review unit in exchange of my honest opinion.

I don't know why, but there is not much information about Audinst's new DAC/amp combo on Head-Fi. So, I've decided to correct this, and write my impressions about this really worthy device.

For last 5 years, I've auditioned lots of different gear, from expensive Hi-End DACs, down to small micro-amps. But only few of them stayed with me for all this time constantly, and Audinst HUD-MX2 was definitely one of my most favourite devices. Pretty inexpensive, small, stylish DAC/amp combo with nice, little warmish sound and lots of output power paired greatly with almost any headphones that I own. But recently Audinst introduced new device, tailored with all new trendy features, and it's HUD-DX1.

While DX1 shares common chassis shape with MX2, inside it's and absolutely different device. PCM DAC chip was replaced with Sabre 9018K2M, amplifier build with MUSE8920 and TPA6120A2, and USB-interface is now handled by XMOS. So, DX1 now "understands" all modern formats like native DSD and DXD. You can find more details on Audinst's main website [http://audinst.com/en/product/hud-dx1/].



Audinst used high quality details inside (TXCOs, capacitors, resistors, etc.) and made well-thought protection circuits, to avoid possible damage of your headphones during on/off and PSU connect.

All good new features came at price, and DX1 became more expensive, it costs $400, so DX1 is a higher model in Audinst's lineup, not an MX2 new revision.

DX1 shares same chassis shape with MX2, but now it offers two stylish color options — black with gold and white with silver. Both of them looks really great, but I prefer white option, unusual in the audio gear world.



DX1 came in glossy cardboard box, inside you'll find device itself, USB cable, PSU, great self-glued feets (I wonder, where I can buy them separately for my other gear, they are so great…), hexagonal "unscrewer", manuals and adapter for EU plugs (not sure will it be in all boxes). So, everything you'll need to use device.

This DAC/amp combo is packed with features, so it's both sides is full of different sockets and controls. On the back side you'll find: 2 RCA sockets of line out, USB input, optical in and out (yes, you can use DX1 as USB-to-optical converter) and socket for PSU. As it's predecessor, DX1 can work without plugging PSU, using USB power. It's pretty convenient for portable life. You'll only need to plug PSU for really power hungry headphones, or if your PC produces too many noise into USB power line.



On the front panel there are 2 headphones out (one 3.5 and other 6.3, very convenient, can be used simultaneously), output switch (headphones or line out), input switch (USB, optical and device off) and volume knob. DX1 uses good quality potentiometer, so channel imbalance is almost absent, and there is no noise during knob rotation.

HUD-DX have really impressive measurements, DR is 127 dB, THD+N is about -120 dB, and it's driving is really awesome, it delivers about 1.5 W into 32Ω load (±10 Vpp @ 600Ω). It can drive almost all headphones with ease, even 2 headphones simultaneously isn't a problem.



Audinst worked great with sound, while MX2 has a little darkened sound, DX1 is close to neutral and fair representation. In combination with 1.5 watts of power, it gives us universal device for almost any headphones.

Bass is fast, tight and pretty punchy. It has good depth and body. Lows are controlled greatly and doesn't bleed into mids. Mids are a bit on colder side, offering great detalisation, which suits female vocals and male tenors greatly. On other hand, male vocalists with lower then tenor voices lose a bit of intimacy. But it's an only my claim to DX1's sound. Good resolution gives you a nice sense of small music details and nuances and allows DX1 to build decent scene, both in depth and width.



Treble also doesn't have any problems. Audinst managed to avoid harshness, typical to some ESS Sabre implementations, so highs of DX1 isn't fatiguing (with exception of really bright headphones) and adds nice sense of airness to device's sound.

DX1 is a great option for power-hungry cans, but on the other side of the scale we have lots of sensitive IEMS. They are also usable with DX1, except of most sensitive ones. Background noise is almost inaudible. DX1 have 2Ω of output impedance, but I didn't have any problems with multi-driver BAs that I have (but some models can have issues though).





So, DX1 is really interesting device for those, who wants small, powerful DAC/amp, especially for fulls-sized headphones.

I want to thank to Audinst for providing me a review unit in exchange of my honest opinion. And, as usual, sorry for my english

[VIDEO]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdvZRcSDwec[/VIDEO]