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I've noticed a difference enough in linear power supplies that I now factor it into my potential purchases, my PC, DACs, preamps, and four of the monoblock amps I use have them, I also keep them on a seperate circuit to my switchmode power supplies.
This is what we all knew back in the 70s. :) You don't really need fancy processing, high-end circuits or equipment. You need overhead and sheer mass on the back-end. This is why almost every DAC works better with the highest rated power supply that it can handle. The issue isn't wattage or impedance, it's the spikes in power and how the equipment handles it. Does it deliver or does it wimp out. Can it handle being stressed for more than a couple of minutes before it starts to overheat? Most power supplies are trash with excessive noise, bad attempts at any regulation, and zero overhead. And that's kind of to be expected with transformers the size of a walnut in those power bricks and everything running through the cheapest components imaginable. That linear power supply is like going from an old engine with carbs and hoping it handles the mountains versus modern fuel injection. Also, a fun fact is that most old "classic" hi-fi equipment wasn't really that good except the power supplies were typically massively overbuilt. I had an old Yamaha CA amp back in the 90s (used) and it would drive 2 ohms class A. The circuits were laughably simple and the tech old school (not too different from a guitar amp) but it absorbed anything you threw at it. And we see this with modern "high-end" gear. Behind that $5000 amp that looks massive is typically the same cheap components as everyone else (plus some nice features and bling, of course) but a massive power supply. You can get 95% of that same results with a good power supply hooked up to basic equipment, most of the time. So this is indeed the #1 "cheap audio" trick, IMO. Get a good power supply. Toss a cheap DAc or amp on it and laugh at the huge savings.
Please do a video about how to buy a linear power supply. Every time I go to look for one (I have two J2s), I'm stopped by the fear of smoking the device I power with it. Help!
As a 28 year old,making good money,I was saving for an airplane. Got married and bought a house, by by airplane. Now with the family raised and out of the house I have 3 rooms of audio equipment.
Power supplies always matter. Audio devices are essentially modulated power supplies - a low level signal goes in, and gets converted and/or amplified *by adding more power*.
RME disagrees and they are so pro, Who do you guys think you are? You got some nerve… can’t start the year in peace we are already bombarded with misinformation… sigh…
I did the 5V LPS mod on the node 2i and I noticed a significant improvement. I have since bypassed that DAC to a J2 AKM4499 w/sparkos op ams (analog out) and have been on the fence to get a 12V LPS … I mean I know the answer and it is just a matter of time. LPS make a noticeable difference, no snake oil.
I have a bluesound node n130 that I currently use as a transport for streaming music bypassing bits internal dac via coax cable to my anthem avm90 which has a real nice DAC, will I experience a significant improvement if I upgraded to the 5v LPS system for the n130? Also can I put a LPS on my anthem AVM90 processor?
@@michaelwright1602hey I’m thinking of doing the n130 upgrade although I only use my node as a streaming transport and bypass the internal dac with coaxial to an external dac, not sure if this is a stupid question but does the upgrade and LPS still benefit the streamer for my particular situation or is it specifically for using the internal dac of the node? Cheers
@@njrumenos I did it with my Node N130, the one Alvin at Vinshine audio sells. The streaming sound quality was much improved. I heard an immediate improvement in my system. Instead of the linear power supply, I would recommend going with the LHY Battery Power Bank. I have one on my WiiM Pro+, which I only stream with, and again, another jump in sound quality vs the LHY linear power supply. It should work with your Node. I would purchase on AliExpress vs Vinshine audio. I paid $125 delivered to Detroit for mine. I think Alvin is close to $300 for the ones he sells. You want the 5v with the blue batteries. I would also recommend picking up this inexpensive DDC, the Douk Audio U2 Pro. Use the USB output on the Node into the U2 Pro and then try both optical and or coax out to your DAC. This was another bump in overall sound quality. The U2 Pro is $65 on Amazon, and worth every penny. It is self powered via the USB cable, so no worries in regards to another power supply. It is about the size of a deck of playing cards. Hope this helps!
@@njrumenos I would upgrade, I did, and, it does improve the sound quality. I would go with the LHY battery power bank vs the linear power supply. I paid $125 at AliExpress for mine. Also, pick up a Netgear GS108eV3 network switch and a CAT8 UGreen cable, another say $70. I would also pick up the Douk Audio U2 Pro DDC and run that off of the USB output of the Node via coax, another $65. Do that, and it should sound as good as a $1000+ streamer.
Randy, like many of your viewers I have bought products based on your recommendations, many of which have saved me major dollars because of their price/performance ratio and the law of diminishing returns. At this point I've got my major components purchased and am now focusing on less impactful things to fine tune the sound. I was hoping you'd do a review some time on battery vs linear power supplies in the $200 range. My cursory searches show several options in linear or battery style with dual outlets, meaning I can power both my dac and streamer with one purchase. To be honest Randy, I'd like to know the truth about the sonic gains one might expect using either option. I realize everything is system dependent, but could you at least give us average scenarios and reasonable expectations. I hate overpaying which is why I've enjoyed your channel. Thank you in advance!
The great HiFi engineer Bruno Putzys after doing mindbogglingly complex coding of amp modules and DAC's is now working on power supplies. Power supplies? Aren't they about ten million times simpler than those things? I guess not.
I do not. I couldn’t find it online and didn’t want to link anything I don’t have personal experience with. It was out of stock on the places I found it
Great Jan 2nd video with very enlightening information. I may just have to get the Edition XS. 😂 and some linear power supplies too. Oh dear, FOMO syndrome kicking in on the 2nd! Doesn't bode well for the rest of the year. 😂 Thanks for your time and efforts to tantalize us all in this young year. All the best, my friend.
Glad to see Randy has experienced the real benefits a power supply can give. Hopefully more people can have the same experiences and stop the silliness of denying power supply can make a difference in sound.
I've been an LPS believer ever since a ChiFi unit I paid $80 for COMPLETELY eliminated my turntable hum. Man, that hum was drivin' me nuts, too. I have 3 of 'em now (linear power supplies, that is). 18v unit on my Fluance turntable. 5v unit on my Pro-Ject DAC Box S2 (that I don't really use anymore). internal LPS in my Eversolo DMP A6 Master Edition (which is why I don't use the Pro-Ject DAC anymore)
They worked this out in the 50s and 60s because they HAD to for commercial use. The problem is that the market since about 1985 simply won't tolerate a 10 lb brick that radiates heat like a small space heater. So.. many compromises are typically made. Most modern gear is all driven by these little DC bricks that are laughably trash at being a real power supply.
For those who wonder about one of the measurements in the spec that can demonstrate a difference when using different power supplies for audio application: the power supply transient recovery time. It's not something that can be done by just anyone, but it's not very complicated if you have some advanced technical knowledge.
Headphones are an interesting hobby. I've spent a lot more on headphones, amps, dacs, earpads, etc than on my regular 2 channel setups and still haven't found a combo that I feel gives a similar experience to sitting in front of halfway decent speakers. I stopped going down that upgrade path for headphones at about the 1k mark figuring that the law of diminishing returns had kicked in. I'd be curious to know if you've had a similar experience, or if you've found a pair of headphones that, even if the experience is different to speakers, gives that same level of enjoyment. It's as if with speakers I can get to "that's good enough" to make me smile pretty quickly but with headphones I never quite got there.
Respect to your time in service! As a bit of a radio nut, the "somewhat" misconception is Antenna Antenna Antenna.. well NO! Clean power supply is Number 1.
Yesterday I turned on my hifi with my linear power supply powering my streamer for the first ever time, and the verry first thing I had to do was dive for the volume button as it was considerably louder. Strait out of the box I like the sound who knows what it will sound like in 98 hours time when it should be broken in.
Amazing video Randy, one of your best....funny, entertaining, introspective, full of great information and advice....fabulous stuff....thank you for making a heavy day (for me) just that little bit lighter. Well done!!
I didn’t want to spend the scratch on a LPS because it was more expensive than the streamer/DAC that I was using. And to be honest I was too skeptical. So I opted for an iFi SMPS for my WiiM Pro Plus. And EVERYTHING Randy said happen to me. It got louder, more crispy and more of that opaque background. My wife also noticed it. It matters and it changed my whole perspective of HiFi
This is the info that I've been searching for. I recently hooked up a wiim pro plus and noticed a considerable volume decrease using it versus streaming directly from MusicCast on a yamaha avr.
I went from the iFi to a linear power supply on my preamp and there is no relation, swapping back to the iFi lasted for about 30 seconds and I couldn't take it anymore and went back to the new, not even burned in yet LPSP....
More solid, more cohesive, blacker background, calmer more organic sound, and the highs are much better in every way. Essentially just better. (my opinions)
Hmmm. I noticed my modi3 sounded much better when plugged into an open USB port on a tv for power. Used the optical out to feed sound to the modi and digital coax from a dvd player for music.
I think the relationship advice is not being fully appreciated here in the comments Randy.....100% agree with you, lol. Love my Hifiman XS, which I bought based on your review. Looking into LPS now.
The volume issue means the old power supply was underpowered for the job. Couldn't deliver enough power for the headphone amp to perform at its full potential with those headphones
I can't think of any technical reason why 12V from a linear supply, or for that matter a 12V battery, would give different outcomes to the12 volts coming from the supplied SMPS, providing it is not faulty or of poor quality. I would check that the SMPS 12V holds up under load just to be sure. I doubt that Geshelli Labs would have skimped on their SMPS.
Best I can figure the linear supply has more headroom thus it doesn't have to work as hard to provide the same volume as other supplies thus the connected device can run at a lower gain to volume ratio thus quieter and less distortion
@@macheesmo3 These are like 1 amp load, at max..... Not hard to build any kind on PSU to power that small load.. Just put a big capacitor between the PSU and load, and it will help a lot, for far cheaper!
The U.S. Department of Energy........................ will begin scrutinizing & restricting the sales of WALL WARTS and EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES in 2027. Those components not meeting new EFFICIENCY ratings will be illegal. (just like AC's) Acid Jazz, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
Amazing what can improve a hifi system. I saw Jay place his speaker wires on little mouse chairs so they didn't touch the wood floor. I can barely hear a difference between my "Excellent" rated Sanskrit 2 (Audio Science Review) and my Hidizs S9 Pro dongle dac/amp.
If the primary thing you notice with the power supply is volume change, it may be putting out more than 12 volts which is dangerous for your equipment, or, the other power supplies weren't putting out enough.
Hi, bought Edition XS year ago, but they are for me quite boring, but still very detailed. Sennheiser 660S is my favorite headphones more fun, can bring volume up, have some fun and goose bumps. But for less then 400 it is a steal if you like details and don`t mind big headphones.
I have a Geshelli J2S AKM 4499EX with Sparkos op amps (SS2590s) and put a 50W Chi-Fi LPS on it with comparable results. I put a 25W Chi-Fi LPS on a WiiM Mini streamer with similar results as well. I'm of the opinion that any sensitive digital audio device such as DACs and streamers may benefit from a well-filtered LPS, and relatively inexpensive ones like what we both have seem to do the job.
I have the exact same setup and I’m petrified to use one because it voids the warranty. How long have you used it and if you don’t mind can you leave a link? Thx
@@ElboogsI've been using an LPS for a year now, no issues here. The model I use is from Ali Express and is listed under " New 50W HiFi Ultra-low Noise DC Linear Power Supply 12V 3A Audio Amplifier LPS PSU With Blue Display" by a seller described as "SENGTERBELLE HiFi Audio World Store." The device is well filtered with efficient transformer design, and the voltage has been perfectly stable.
My preference is to use a 750watt uninterruptable power supply to power my audio equipment because I noticed years ago how much better everything sounded with that cleaned up power feed. $3k for headphones is way outside my boathouse as I doubt my hearing is good enough anymore to realize any return at that price.
@@jbscpa No way to really not crap in someones oatmeal over this but it doesn't; not even remotely the same thing. A UPS only is only actively doing anything to your power with the voltage drops below a certain threshold and then its generating its own (120V in NA) AC at the proper voltage but then its really, really poor compared but what is typically going to coming into your home.
@@PhillioDoede I would have to disagree as the units I use actuallt do have power clean up and they do a lot more than just watch for drops. They are a faor site more advanced and inclode software to further clean up the power feed going out to the gear attached. Maybe the power where I live is a bit dirty but these UPS units make a difference in the sound I get.
@@WireHedd There are two standards, though (technically 3). a back-up UPS, a line conditioning UPS, and the third, which is rarely bought by consumers due to price (though occasionally found used) is a medical grade UPS. Bypassing the most basic and getting one that filters and conditions the power is a huge upgrade, IME ( as well ) :)
@@plektosgaming I use commercially intended models for studios and data labs like where I work. I should have specified that I wasn't simply referring to the simpler models. Thanks for the clarity I kinda forgot.
Yep, years ago I bought the THX789 , I fell for the hype and sure it was ok, but it wasn't amazing. I guess I would give it a C+. Months later, I bought a Burson 3A power supply, and now it is a solid B+ , The edginess is tamed and it now the bass has punch. Hey manufacturers, power supplies do matter. Please stop buying noisy cheap junk , Thx.
I must own six of these LHY units in different amperages, they really do improve the sound of everything they are used with. Video too, I have my Roku hooked up. If you use ethernet for your video, pick up one of these... NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS108Ev3). I own three of these, and they have the same results as the LHY units do, but on the picture quality. Everything pops, cleans up the picture that you did not even know was dirty. They were $49, now they are $64, imagine that?
These are digital signal (ethernet).... it won't change the picture quality at all.... digital in - digital out.... So you are telling us that the power supply, has the capacity to intercept the packets, decode the digital stream, clean the data, reencode the stream and shoots cleans packets to your tv...............
@@SilmarilS79 I too was once ignorant in these matters just like yourself, until I actually installed a quality filtered network switch. It is not the 1's and 0's, it is the electrical stream they ride on, it is noisy and will affect what you see and hear on the other end. Try one, they are only $64, it does nothing, send it back.
Memories as an 80s Pro Musician and a gig in Bossier City. We took the bridge across Ponchartrain to New Orleans (of course) good times. As a bass player, I feel like you are a drummer?? You mention cymbals and snare hits regularly on the channel. Good stuff today.
Awesome to hear that the hifiman come that close for 1/8 the price, cuz they were on the top of my list but I bought the WiiM amp instead, next purchase will probably be the hifiman xs, and maybe later a power supply for my j2? thanks Randy !!!
Im about to buy the Meze classic 99s ive heard they are great for an "affordable" audiophile headset, I'd also like to hear your thoughts on them though.
To be honest, unless you are an audio engineer or trained musician, anything over about $300 is just wasted money once you get to be middle-aged. Our hearing has been shaved off so much by then that we're basically deaf compared to almost every other mammal on the planet.
Week in Mexico riviera for all my family still sound more convenient for 3k, since not only me will get some fun from it. And happier family makes me happier more than headphones. That's my choice.
Would that linear power supply work for a Bluesound node? I’ve heard of people doing after market power upgrades on them, couple small companies selling the kits.
I have loved Hifiman headphones but unfortunately, they tend not to hold up for me very well over the past years. Hoping their build quality is improving. BTW, power supplies absolutely can make a difference depending on the application.
Of course their build quality isn’t going to improve. They’re selling like gangbusters because people’s only priority is hearing the greatest sound they can get, next day, for as little money as possible.
I really appreciate you talking about the power supply. I have heard both the pro & cons about them. I am wondering about finding it for sale? Couldn't find it on Amazon, a few sellers have it for $160 & AliExpress has it for around $80. I have always been wary @ purchacing through them. Where did you get yours? Have you compared it to the Topping power supply?
The Ali-Express ones are fine, just make sure you are purchasing the correct one in regards to voltage and amperage. Also, you will not get full output with two devices attached to the LHY units, the power is halved if powering two devices. So, if you need 5v, 2.5 amps and connect another device, you will not get the 2.5 amps, you will get less. So, know what you are purchasing. And they do make a noticeable difference in overall sound quality. Well worth the price. I own around six of these LHY units.
Hey Sailor, you had me at Arkansas/350z but about lost me at $3000 headphones. lol In all seriousness though, could you start mentioning where a product is made? E.g. This was manufactured in China but the company is American…etc. While I’m all for people having freedom to choose their products, I’d like to support countries/brands I like. USA, Japan, Emotiva(I think) Yamaha…etc.
I can't believe any headphones have ever been worth $3000. Unless they are at least 6x as good than the best $500 pair you can find, you are getting screwed. Not that this situation is rare in certain areas of the audio world.
Diminishing returns isn’t enough to stop some people. Like Randy said, if you consider something a hobby, you can potentially justify almost any price.
I agree that the Edition XS's sound has sharp edges but compared to Grado's, they're downright sweet. It's great to have the XS's bass and treble extension.
Exciting when something makes such a wonderful difference! Skepticism is triggering questions in me about how many different linear power supplies did you test and how do you know the power supply you were comparing to was not faulty? I’d be interested in some rigorous testing of various linear power supplies and switching power supplies.
Hey Randy, I got the Geshelli J2 DAC, hoping to upgrade from a SCHIIT DAC. I notice the Geshelli is Much lower in volume than the SCHIIT! I'm still breaking in the Geshelli this week and hope it'll improve but will definitely upgrade the power supply if needs be. Post the linear power supply link so we can purchase please...not seeing the link. Thanks
Mate, if you can hear that, you must be about 12 years old! Don't kid yourself; you can't hear any difference, unless you make a buck on "hearing" it and giving it a hype... Same with cables; the ones who can hear the difference among cables (unless some are defective) will get into the Guinness book of records for best hearing.
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I've noticed a difference enough in linear power supplies that I now factor it into my potential purchases, my PC, DACs, preamps, and four of the monoblock amps I use have them, I also keep them on a seperate circuit to my switchmode power supplies.
This is what we all knew back in the 70s. :) You don't really need fancy processing, high-end circuits or equipment. You need overhead and sheer mass on the back-end. This is why almost every DAC works better with the highest rated power supply that it can handle. The issue isn't wattage or impedance, it's the spikes in power and how the equipment handles it. Does it deliver or does it wimp out. Can it handle being stressed for more than a couple of minutes before it starts to overheat? Most power supplies are trash with excessive noise, bad attempts at any regulation, and zero overhead. And that's kind of to be expected with transformers the size of a walnut in those power bricks and everything running through the cheapest components imaginable.
That linear power supply is like going from an old engine with carbs and hoping it handles the mountains versus modern fuel injection.
Also, a fun fact is that most old "classic" hi-fi equipment wasn't really that good except the power supplies were typically massively overbuilt. I had an old Yamaha CA amp back in the 90s (used) and it would drive 2 ohms class A. The circuits were laughably simple and the tech old school (not too different from a guitar amp) but it absorbed anything you threw at it. And we see this with modern "high-end" gear. Behind that $5000 amp that looks massive is typically the same cheap components as everyone else (plus some nice features and bling, of course) but a massive power supply. You can get 95% of that same results with a good power supply hooked up to basic equipment, most of the time.
So this is indeed the #1 "cheap audio" trick, IMO. Get a good power supply. Toss a cheap DAc or amp on it and laugh at the huge savings.
Yes, the first rule of audio is “headroom” - in every way.
can you recommend a good linear power supply?
Please do a video about how to buy a linear power supply. Every time I go to look for one (I have two J2s), I'm stopped by the fear of smoking the device I power with it. Help!
Agreed. I'd to know what power supply units the Geshellis recommend (off the record of course).
As a 28 year old,making good money,I was saving for an airplane. Got married and bought a house, by by airplane. Now with the family raised and out of the house I have 3 rooms of audio equipment.
:''')))
Power supplies always matter. Audio devices are essentially modulated power supplies - a low level signal goes in, and gets converted and/or amplified *by adding more power*.
RME disagrees and they are so pro, Who do you guys think you are? You got some nerve… can’t start the year in peace we are already bombarded with misinformation… sigh…
Curious to see some measurements to back that up
@@mfdoom808 Measurements? Just look at the topology - a low level input signal plus power equals output. Clean(er) power is good.
@@NeilBlanchard Right, as an electrical engineer I do understand the premise. Still curious to see how it would measure.
@@mfdoom808 By definition, the quality of the power supply matters.
I did the 5V LPS mod on the node 2i and I noticed a significant improvement. I have since bypassed that DAC to a J2 AKM4499 w/sparkos op ams (analog out) and have been on the fence to get a 12V LPS … I mean I know the answer and it is just a matter of time. LPS make a noticeable difference, no snake oil.
Agreed!
I did the same thing to my node 2i that feeds my Gustard R26 - superb.
Same experience with eversolo a6 ME. I really want to figure out why it does this thou 😂.
I have a bluesound node n130 that I currently use as a transport for streaming music bypassing bits internal dac via coax cable to my anthem avm90 which has a real nice DAC, will I experience a significant improvement if I upgraded to the 5v LPS system for the n130? Also can I put a LPS on my anthem AVM90 processor?
I did this through Vinshine for my Node 2i. I don’t how how I’d prove that it’s made a difference, but things do sound great.
I heard an immediate difference in sound quality with my Node N130 and the Vinshine power supply. It was worth the money.
@@michaelwright1602hey I’m thinking of doing the n130 upgrade although I only use my node as a streaming transport and bypass the internal dac with coaxial to an external dac, not sure if this is a stupid question but does the upgrade and LPS still benefit the streamer for my particular situation or is it specifically for using the internal dac of the node? Cheers
@@njrumenos I did it with my Node N130, the one Alvin at Vinshine audio sells. The streaming sound quality was much improved. I heard an immediate improvement in my system.
Instead of the linear power supply, I would recommend going with the LHY Battery Power Bank. I have one on my WiiM Pro+, which I only stream with, and again, another jump in sound quality vs the LHY linear power supply. It should work with your Node. I would purchase on AliExpress vs Vinshine audio. I paid $125 delivered to Detroit for mine. I think Alvin is close to $300 for the ones he sells. You want the 5v with the blue batteries.
I would also recommend picking up this inexpensive DDC, the Douk Audio U2 Pro. Use the USB output on the Node into the U2 Pro and then try both optical and or coax out to your DAC.
This was another bump in overall sound quality. The U2 Pro is $65 on Amazon, and worth every penny. It is self powered via the USB cable, so no worries in regards to another power supply. It is about the size of a deck of playing cards.
Hope this helps!
@@njrumenos I would upgrade, I did, and, it does improve the sound quality. I would go with the LHY battery power bank vs the linear power supply. I paid $125 at AliExpress for mine. Also, pick up a Netgear GS108eV3 network switch and a CAT8 UGreen cable, another say $70. I would also pick up the Douk Audio U2 Pro DDC and run that off of the USB output of the Node via coax, another $65. Do that, and it should sound as good as a $1000+ streamer.
Randy, like many of your viewers I have bought products based on your recommendations, many of which have saved me major dollars because of their price/performance ratio and the law of diminishing returns. At this point I've got my major components purchased and am now focusing on less impactful things to fine tune the sound.
I was hoping you'd do a review some time on battery vs linear power supplies in the $200 range. My cursory searches show several options in linear or battery style with dual outlets, meaning I can power both my dac and streamer with one purchase.
To be honest Randy, I'd like to know the truth about the sonic gains one might expect using either option. I realize everything is system dependent, but could you at least give us average scenarios and reasonable expectations. I hate overpaying which is why I've enjoyed your channel. Thank you in advance!
The great HiFi engineer Bruno Putzys after doing mindbogglingly complex coding of amp modules and DAC's is now working on power supplies. Power supplies? Aren't they about ten million times simpler than those things? I guess not.
"Louder" isn't subjective. A quick measurement would confirm this.
Maybe I missed it but do you have a link to the power supply?
I do not. I couldn’t find it online and didn’t want to link anything I don’t have personal experience with. It was out of stock on the places I found it
Great Jan 2nd video with very enlightening information. I may just have to get the Edition XS. 😂 and some linear power supplies too. Oh dear, FOMO syndrome kicking in on the 2nd! Doesn't bode well for the rest of the year. 😂 Thanks for your time and efforts to tantalize us all in this young year. All the best, my friend.
Glad to see Randy has experienced the real benefits a power supply can give. Hopefully more people can have the same experiences and stop the silliness of denying power supply can make a difference in sound.
I've been an LPS believer ever since a ChiFi unit I paid $80 for COMPLETELY eliminated my turntable hum. Man, that hum was drivin' me nuts, too.
I have 3 of 'em now (linear power supplies, that is).
18v unit on my Fluance turntable.
5v unit on my Pro-Ject DAC Box S2 (that I don't really use anymore).
internal LPS in my Eversolo DMP A6 Master Edition (which is why I don't use the Pro-Ject DAC anymore)
Great video as always. Loved the back-story and solid gold life advice. How could anyone ever get bored of you...
Keep em coming.
"WHO KNEW?" The folks at Naim knew in 1973 about power supplies.
They worked this out in the 50s and 60s because they HAD to for commercial use. The problem is that the market since about 1985 simply won't tolerate a 10 lb brick that radiates heat like a small space heater. So.. many compromises are typically made. Most modern gear is all driven by these little DC bricks that are laughably trash at being a real power supply.
For those who wonder about one of the measurements in the spec that can demonstrate a difference when using different power supplies for audio application: the power supply transient recovery time. It's not something that can be done by just anyone, but it's not very complicated if you have some advanced technical knowledge.
Headphones are an interesting hobby. I've spent a lot more on headphones, amps, dacs, earpads, etc than on my regular 2 channel setups and still haven't found a combo that I feel gives a similar experience to sitting in front of halfway decent speakers. I stopped going down that upgrade path for headphones at about the 1k mark figuring that the law of diminishing returns had kicked in.
I'd be curious to know if you've had a similar experience, or if you've found a pair of headphones that, even if the experience is different to speakers, gives that same level of enjoyment. It's as if with speakers I can get to "that's good enough" to make me smile pretty quickly but with headphones I never quite got there.
Respect to your time in service! As a bit of a radio nut, the "somewhat" misconception is Antenna Antenna Antenna.. well NO! Clean power supply is Number 1.
Very funny and great video! What a nice way to transmit your experience and the relative "wow" factor of different buy!
Hey, quit attacking my labradoodle who wears headphones driving a 350Z
Yesterday I turned on my hifi with my linear power supply powering my streamer for the first ever time, and the verry first thing I had to do was dive for the volume button as it was considerably louder.
Strait out of the box I like the sound who knows what it will sound like in 98 hours time when it should be broken in.
Amazing video Randy, one of your best....funny, entertaining, introspective, full of great information and advice....fabulous stuff....thank you for making a heavy day (for me) just that little bit lighter. Well done!!
I didn’t want to spend the scratch on a LPS because it was more expensive than the streamer/DAC that I was using. And to be honest I was too skeptical.
So I opted for an iFi SMPS for my WiiM Pro Plus. And EVERYTHING Randy said happen to me. It got louder, more crispy and more of that opaque background. My wife also noticed it.
It matters and it changed my whole perspective of HiFi
I’ve got the same little 5 volt one too.
This is the info that I've been searching for. I recently hooked up a wiim pro plus and noticed a considerable volume decrease using it versus streaming directly from MusicCast on a yamaha avr.
I went from the iFi to a linear power supply on my preamp and there is no relation, swapping back to the iFi lasted for about 30 seconds and I couldn't take it anymore and went back to the new, not even burned in yet LPSP....
@@bayard1332which LPS did you use? And which preamp?
More solid, more cohesive, blacker background, calmer more organic sound, and the highs are much better in every way. Essentially just better. (my opinions)
I love your work Sir, great review! You “are”…..da man.
Hmmm. I noticed my modi3 sounded much better when plugged into an open USB port on a tv for power. Used the optical out to feed sound to the modi and digital coax from a dvd player for music.
I think the relationship advice is not being fully appreciated here in the comments Randy.....100% agree with you, lol. Love my Hifiman XS, which I bought based on your review. Looking into LPS now.
Great marriage advice! Power supply stuff also good!
Awesome video! Thanks for the fun journey
I bought the XS last month. They fit my tonal preference perfectly. Basically bass boosted neutral.
should does even by the voltage stability alone should give stable sound, i also used to use stabilizer back then for the dac only
same principle for why good pc psu is important
it was an original matsunaga i believe it converts 220 to 110 indeed cleaner and smoother
Could have shown the power supply and how it hooks up to whatever you were powering with it.
Oh yes this makes a huge difference it’s unbelievable. I could not believe it.
The volume issue means the old power supply was underpowered for the job. Couldn't deliver enough power for the headphone amp to perform at its full potential with those headphones
CAM, please find a good LPS that works with the Geshelli J2 that costs less than $125. That could be a wonderful topic for a future video.
Had the same LPS experience...
I can't think of any technical reason why 12V from a linear supply, or for that matter a 12V battery, would give different outcomes to the12 volts coming from the supplied SMPS, providing it is not faulty or of poor quality.
I would check that the SMPS 12V holds up under load just to be sure.
I doubt that Geshelli Labs would have skimped on their SMPS.
Best I can figure the linear supply has more headroom thus it doesn't have to work as hard to provide the same volume as other supplies thus the connected device can run at a lower gain to volume ratio thus quieter and less distortion
@@macheesmo3 These are like 1 amp load, at max..... Not hard to build any kind on PSU to power that small load..
Just put a big capacitor between the PSU and load, and it will help a lot, for far cheaper!
@@SilmarilS79 I'm no expert, I was just making a logical guess!
The U.S. Department of Energy........................
will begin scrutinizing & restricting the sales of WALL WARTS and EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLIES in 2027. Those components not meeting new EFFICIENCY ratings will be illegal. (just like AC's)
Acid Jazz, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
Amazing what can improve a hifi system. I saw Jay place his speaker wires on little mouse chairs so they didn't touch the wood floor. I can barely hear a difference between my "Excellent" rated Sanskrit 2 (Audio Science Review) and my Hidizs S9 Pro dongle dac/amp.
Most 'improvements' diminish quickly when listening blind...
I had those and they were trash for good music. Not worth listening to.
Switching my cheap PSU out to a linear one on my Arcam Dac made a huge difference! Good video.
If the primary thing you notice with the power supply is volume change, it may be putting out more than 12 volts which is dangerous for your equipment, or, the other power supplies weren't putting out enough.
Hi, bought Edition XS year ago, but they are for me quite boring, but still very detailed. Sennheiser 660S is my favorite headphones more fun, can bring volume up, have some fun and goose bumps. But for less then 400 it is a steal if you like details and don`t mind big headphones.
Your content is some of the best! Thanks for being so “real”!
Awesome video, love the headphone reviews.
One of your best videos to date. Love your storytelling. Hilarious.
Power supplies & cables… have been my greatest upgrade per $
I have a Geshelli J2S AKM 4499EX with Sparkos op amps (SS2590s) and put a 50W Chi-Fi LPS on it with comparable results. I put a 25W Chi-Fi LPS on a WiiM Mini streamer with similar results as well. I'm of the opinion that any sensitive digital audio device such as DACs and streamers may benefit from a well-filtered LPS, and relatively inexpensive ones like what we both have seem to do the job.
I have the exact same setup and I’m petrified to use one because it voids the warranty. How long have you used it and if you don’t mind can you leave a link? Thx
@@ElboogsI've been using an LPS for a year now, no issues here. The model I use is from Ali Express and is listed under " New 50W HiFi Ultra-low Noise DC Linear Power Supply 12V 3A Audio Amplifier LPS PSU With Blue Display" by a seller described as "SENGTERBELLE HiFi Audio World Store." The device is well filtered with efficient transformer design, and the voltage has been perfectly stable.
Now you’ll have to try out the Sparkos 2590s in the J2 with the linear power supply! Got em in mine
My preference is to use a 750watt uninterruptable power supply to power my audio equipment because I noticed years ago how much better everything sounded with that cleaned up power feed. $3k for headphones is way outside my boathouse as I doubt my hearing is good enough anymore to realize any return at that price.
I have been wanting to ask if a UPS is the same thing as an LPS?
@@jbscpa No way to really not crap in someones oatmeal over this but it doesn't; not even remotely the same thing. A UPS only is only actively doing anything to your power with the voltage drops below a certain threshold and then its generating its own (120V in NA) AC at the proper voltage but then its really, really poor compared but what is typically going to coming into your home.
@@PhillioDoede I would have to disagree as the units I use actuallt do have power clean up and they do a lot more than just watch for drops. They are a faor site more advanced and inclode software to further clean up the power feed going out to the gear attached. Maybe the power where I live is a bit dirty but these UPS units make a difference in the sound I get.
@@WireHedd There are two standards, though (technically 3). a back-up UPS, a line conditioning UPS, and the third, which is rarely bought by consumers due to price (though occasionally found used) is a medical grade UPS. Bypassing the most basic and getting one that filters and conditions the power is a huge upgrade, IME ( as well ) :)
@@plektosgaming I use commercially intended models for studios and data labs like where I work. I should have specified that I wasn't simply referring to the simpler models. Thanks for the clarity I kinda forgot.
I got an Booster Power supply now on my Bluesound node n130 it will blow you away the difference in sounds. .
Are you bypassing the n130 dac with a digital out to an external dac?
Very entertaining with a good review. Incredible headphones.
Love the review and and the Story! Happy New Year from Canada.
Yep, years ago I bought the THX789 , I fell for the hype and sure it was ok, but it wasn't amazing. I guess I would give it a C+. Months later, I bought a Burson 3A power supply, and now it is a solid B+ , The edginess is tamed and it now the bass has punch. Hey manufacturers, power supplies do matter. Please stop buying noisy cheap junk , Thx.
Best story I’ve heard in a while!
Hey Randy, how's this;"It makes total sense that it made a huge difference." Sincerely, Reality.
It's always been about the power supply (astronaut holding gun).
Do you have a link to the power supply?
Great coffee cup man, If I was a better follower I'd have sent you more coffee by now. Keep spittin that great marriage advice :)
Darko also found that a LPS made a huge difference with the FiiO R7 Streamer/DAC
Several options on AliExpress… different voltages? Which is best?! Thanks Randy!!!
Why didn't you list the Power Supply?
it starts with the power....also hooyah navy
Where do you purchase these power supplies?
All 3 headphones are excellent.
well that was different.. me likee! Great vid.
I must own six of these LHY units in different amperages, they really do improve the sound of everything they are used with. Video too, I have my Roku hooked up. If you use ethernet for your video, pick up one of these... NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS108Ev3). I own three of these, and they have the same results as the LHY units do, but on the picture quality. Everything pops, cleans up the picture that you did not even know was dirty. They were $49, now they are $64, imagine that?
I'll test the LHY soon. I use the D-Link DGS 108 - should be super good for HiFi with LPS - Google it 🙌🙌😅😅
These are digital signal (ethernet).... it won't change the picture quality at all.... digital in - digital out.... So you are telling us that the power supply, has the capacity to intercept the packets, decode the digital stream, clean the data, reencode the stream and shoots cleans packets to your tv...............
@@SilmarilS79 I too was once ignorant in these matters just like yourself, until I actually installed a quality filtered network switch. It is not the 1's and 0's, it is the electrical stream they ride on, it is noisy and will affect what you see and hear on the other end. Try one, they are only $64, it does nothing, send it back.
@@michaelwright1602 Lel
Memories as an 80s Pro Musician and a gig in Bossier City. We took the bridge across Ponchartrain to New Orleans (of course) good times. As a bass player, I feel like you are a drummer?? You mention cymbals and snare hits regularly on the channel. Good stuff today.
Speaking of linear Power supply, would you recommend the lhy to run with a pro-ject tube box s2?
Awesome to hear that the hifiman come that close for 1/8 the price, cuz they were on the top of my list but I bought the WiiM amp instead, next purchase will probably be the hifiman xs, and maybe later a power supply for my j2? thanks Randy !!!
Im about to buy the Meze classic 99s ive heard they are great for an "affordable" audiophile headset, I'd also like to hear your thoughts on them though.
Joke? Cheap Audioman - I get a 80-125 USD LPS, but 3,000 usd headphones ????????????????????? No, thanks!
To be honest, unless you are an audio engineer or trained musician, anything over about $300 is just wasted money once you get to be middle-aged. Our hearing has been shaved off so much by then that we're basically deaf compared to almost every other mammal on the planet.
Am I the only one receiving a “playlist not available” message clicking on Randy’s playlist links?
Week in Mexico riviera for all my family still sound more convenient for 3k, since not only me will get some fun from it. And happier family makes me happier more than headphones. That's my choice.
Would that linear power supply work for a Bluesound node? I’ve heard of people doing after market power upgrades on them, couple small companies selling the kits.
Node has internal power supply. Interestingly enough, there is a kit for a linear upgrade for the BS. Couple of guys in my Patreon have done it
I have loved Hifiman headphones but unfortunately, they tend not to hold up for me very well over the past years. Hoping their build quality is improving. BTW, power supplies absolutely can make a difference depending on the application.
I want a pair of headphones that sounds like a car stereo. Any suggestions? Do you think it exists?
Of course their build quality isn’t going to improve. They’re selling like gangbusters because people’s only priority is hearing the greatest sound they can get, next day, for as little money as possible.
Where can I get one of those linear power supplies ?
Thanks!
Can you add one of your links for that linear power supply?
Where is the link to the linear power supply you talked about?
I really appreciate you talking about the power supply. I have heard both the pro & cons about them. I am wondering about finding it for sale? Couldn't find it on Amazon, a few sellers have it for $160 & AliExpress has it for around $80. I have always been wary @ purchacing through them. Where did you get yours? Have you compared it to the Topping power supply?
I’ve had no problems with power supplies from AliExpress
did you measure them?@@armyofdorkness6159
The Ali-Express ones are fine, just make sure you are purchasing the correct one in regards to voltage and amperage. Also, you will not get full output with two devices attached to the LHY units, the power is halved if powering two devices. So, if you need 5v, 2.5 amps and connect another device, you will not get the 2.5 amps, you will get less. So, know what you are purchasing. And they do make a noticeable difference in overall sound quality. Well worth the price. I own around six of these LHY units.
Hey Sailor, you had me at Arkansas/350z but about lost me at $3000 headphones. lol
In all seriousness though, could you start mentioning where a product is made? E.g. This was manufactured in China but the company is American…etc. While I’m all for people having freedom to choose their products, I’d like to support countries/brands I like. USA, Japan, Emotiva(I think) Yamaha…etc.
Cheapaudioman, claims to hate audiophiles, proceeds to promote LPS and mono blocks...
I can't believe any headphones have ever been worth $3000. Unless they are at least 6x as good than the best $500 pair you can find, you are getting screwed. Not that this situation is rare in certain areas of the audio world.
Diminishing returns isn’t enough to stop some people. Like Randy said, if you consider something a hobby, you can potentially justify almost any price.
I recall Beats by Dre had a COGS of $14 and sold for $450. But to be fair the cost included bits of metal that made them heavier.
@@WS-gs6sf Well, sure, like the guy from Jurassic Park said: “If it’s heavy, it’s expensive.”
@@WS-gs6sf 🤣🤣
you can get really good headphones for 5-700 USD. Sound preference kicks in.
Thank you for pronouncing Porsche correctly. 😁
Oops until the end… well, thanks for pronouncing it correctly in the first part of the video. 😟
I'm liking you more and more.
I agree that the Edition XS's sound has sharp edges but compared to Grado's, they're downright sweet. It's great to have the XS's bass and treble extension.
I am not really surprised that a good power supply made a difference.
Hey first home in Arkansas! What part of Arkansas?
Exciting when something makes such a wonderful difference! Skepticism is triggering questions in me about how many different linear power supplies did you test and how do you know the power supply you were comparing to was not faulty? I’d be interested in some rigorous testing of various linear power supplies and switching power supplies.
Where do you buy the LHY power supply? Didn't see a link. Thanks
alli express item. Not Amazon as of today. But many brands are available.
chips love steady power
Amazing video!!!!
Stupid question: did you level match with the power supply?
Found the exact same thing with a LPS on my turntable...just got louder....bigger soundstage...
Was it a Sith Audio audiophile engagement ring? Marriages work better with audiophile grade jewelry.
Hey Randy, I got the Geshelli J2 DAC, hoping to upgrade from a SCHIIT DAC. I notice the Geshelli is Much lower in volume than the SCHIIT!
I'm still breaking in the Geshelli this week and hope it'll improve but will definitely upgrade the power supply if needs be. Post the linear power supply link so we can purchase please...not seeing the link. Thanks
The Geshelli has three output levels, maybe you are using the medium or low one. Check the manual.
@@willemvdg9557 I'm using the highest level...I checked and cycled through.. I always RTFM Sir 🙌🏼.
Maybe the linear power supply, supplies more amps to the DAC and that's why it got louder
Now I just need a time machine so that I can go back and buy that sports car ;-)
Mate, if you can hear that, you must be about 12 years old! Don't kid yourself; you can't hear any difference, unless you make a buck on "hearing" it and giving it a hype... Same with cables; the ones who can hear the difference among cables (unless some are defective) will get into the Guinness book of records for best hearing.