I've got the Magnius / Modius stack and it's amazing. I've ran Arya's, HD800S's, LCD-X/XC's off it, and it had no problems pushing any of them. It's a very budget friendly way to get into a fully balanced system, which I -highly- recommend for some of the mid/high end headphones listed, because instead of pushing the SMSL to 90% power you're going to push the Schiit to ~50%, and that will do two things, improve the lifespan of your components, and potentially cause less distortion. Not to mention, having the HEADROOM of running a fully balanced system is gigantic for EQ'ing, because you usually pre-amp down quite a few DBs, thus having to turn your volume knob up to reach the same sound levels. You can't do that effectively when you're already pushing ~90% of your unbalanced amps power output, and still get high volume.
I have compared the Modius against DACs 4-5 times it's price and can honestly say that the Modius is good enough to compete for a full time spot in my main 2 channel system. When paired with a class AB amp it provides nice detail and glorious midrange and sound stage.
Atom Amp+ & Atom Dac+ is one of the best budget stack ever made these days. just 200$, & it's everything that you'll ever need. please make a video for these new JDS Labs Atom stack Joshua. It'll be awsome.
I miss my jdslabs stack... but with hd560s and e1da powerdac I forget it. Nowadays stacks feel like a overkill with anything that is not extra demanding or plannar magnetic
How do you think they will compare to the new Element III which was recently released? Are separate DAC and AMP generally always better than DAC/AMP combo?
@@little_boy_blue No, the stack gave more connections before and could be paired or replaced being separate. I think the only thing the new Element 3 is missing is Coax and bluetooth, if you order it. They added Optical to the new Element 3, which the Element 2 was missing. Edit: Yeah, I would have done the JDS Labs Element or Atom line for the prices he used in this video. They are criminally underrated even still.
I appreciate your videos. I purchased the Hifiman Arya based on your reviews. In your reviews of the SH-6 you liked the lack of a wall-wart but also commented on the lower power of the unit compared to the Schiit. You also noted some sonic differences apart from the measurements. Currawong does a review of the different power supplies and their sonic impact in headphone amplifiers. It would appear the SH-6 uses a switching power supply to eliminate the transformer which may be the source of the lower power ratings. Although subjective, the stronger power supply of the Schiit may also account for the "richer" sound. It is what makes this hobby interesting. Thanks.
This channel led me to buy a SCHIIT Fulla and re-ignited my long abandoned hobby. =) Thanks Josh. While is it great for the price, and the Fulla is such a tiny and versatile piece of hardware that I cannot help but wondered what to go next. Learnt it the hard way for my other expensive hobbies that it is probably better go big or go home, I would be always be left wanting for more otherwise , perhaps I would take the plunge for FiiO K9 Pro as my end-game instead.
I felt this was one of your better explained differences videos. I understand it can be hard when there can be a lot of overlap in products capability. I think you mostly pretty much nailed down the key points in a way most people would understand it. The hardest thing is always going to be the subjective element.
Hey Josh, you're the reason I've bought LCD-X as an upgrade from my Senn. HD650. Definitely appreciate your work. Thank you. About the expensive cables. I've bought into the Hart cables ecosystem, you get a package of all the headphone SE and Balanced one-end and the other is a mini-XLR; then buy their cable specific to your headphones model connects, the other end has a mini-XLR. And you can change to whatever the amp connection needs. Ultimately, you don't have to have multiple cable with different connections. In my case I have one for Senn. and Audeze. And a pack of 6 different connections to the amp and interchangeable with both headphone cables. Hope this will help with your cable clutter. And no I'm not their sales man. Just thought it's a great cable system and it can grow to whatever you want. Cheers!
Great video! I really enjoyed the comparison. I often like to just listen to TH-cam (no video) and that was impossible with this review. You only referred to each as this Amp or this dac or this system and I couldn't tell which you were talking about for the comparisons.
I have the modius/Magnius stack. I went from a modi/magni stack. I'm primarily a gamer and rock HD6XX. When I moved over the the Magnius stack I upgraded the cables to be balanced. When I played warzone I started to laugh so hard because of how better things sounded. I couldn't believe in it
I just got the smsl su6 and sa6. 280 with the rca cables shipped. I really like it so far. The indicator lights on the front are nice. Sounds clean and neutral.
I just bought a modius magnius stack with a focal elex, they go great together and I also bought balanced cables for my 6xx, I'm extremely happy with everything
How come you never reviewed the regular ifi zen can? For 180$ I think it’s definitely one of the best budget amplifiers, and it is fully balanced through a 4.4 input. Add to that the 4 gain levels, the two audio modifiers it has (x bass and 3d space, both rather fun and interesting), and the 3.5mm input and it’s just really useful and extremely enjoyable!!! If you stack it with an ifi zen blue, you get an excellent balanced Bluetooth stack for less than 400$. I can’t vouch for the ifi dacs, but the zen can is absolutely great. Not the signature, the regular zen can.
*ASR measured the Ifi Zen Can as having about 15db worse resolution than the Magni Heresy and Magnius and only performed particularly well for high impedance headphones. Considering that the Zen Can and Magnius are both $200 now, the Magnius seems like the obvious choice between the two. But if you like it, that's really all that matters. Keep enjoying what you already enjoy and don't worry about it.
imo the zen dac is very good (besides all the qc issues) but the can isn't, way too expensive for the minimal power boost it gives over the dac, also the dac's truebass is stellar on many headhones while the X Bass and 3D options of the can are basically unusable on any headphone I've tried so far so but as always ymmv and we all hear differently
Another thing to consider is availability in the current climate. I was very interested in the schitt stack but when I looked at actually trying to buy it (in the UK) it was out of stock everywhere and has been ever since as far as I can tell. Ifi stack was on readily available on Amazon and delivered next day.
Great channel, I'm and definitely here for your opinions. In this video you kept saying "this one" but in the edit you were cut away and a few times I got lost as to which you were referring to.
Thank you, I have been watching reviews all day long and many of yours to finally find out what I am going to get . The Schiit stack Magni/Modi combo. Was looking at teh Zen dac/ can for a white. This one just seems to be a little bit more of what I am after and will do me for the next 10 years as I am no audiophile. I just want to experience some good quality when i sit down at the end of the day. Way overkill for my Senn HD660s but it will open me up to some other headphones as well. Thank you!
Here I sit enjoying another video about equipment I don't own and can't see myself owning anytime in the near future .......... I have been putting 3 years of research into my first amp DAC and headphone set up LOL
One thing I would like to see you cover in future would be the capability of the Modius/magnius stack to have a second amp/preamp hooked up because the have bal & SE outs. Like in a previous video when you talked about a tube preamp in the audio chain. That system is only possible with the schiit stack (or similar) because of the ports that have on the back. I, personally, am working towards having this schiit stack with a xduoo TA-26 in the chain as either its own amp from the modius DAC or as a pre-amp to the magnius
I do this with a Modius/Magnius and a Loxjie P20. Balanced Magnius pre out to the Loxjie. I volume match the two amps with the volume setting on the Loxjie and then just control both amps with the Magnius pot from there. Then you swap back and forth and have some fun!
Hart Audio cables are quality and no where near the outrageous price of those sennheiser cables. I would not scare off someone from using XLR when there are absolutely quality cables out there for reasonable money.
Great video! I've been really considering the Modius and Magnius as my next upgrade, but the micro USB is turning me off. I wish they would have done type C or even just type B to keep it in line with my other DACs. Aside from that, seems to be one of the best value stacks out there.
@@pootisspencer5492 Micro USB is less durable than the other types (just basing on experience). On top of that, having to add an extra cable to my desk. I have a pretty streamlined setup, with mostly type c to type c cables and a type c to type b for some audio devices. I won't be able to take out the type c and b cables because they're used for other devices, and would have to add a type c to micro usb cable that is only used for the Modius. You're right, it's a minor issue, but enough of a nuisance that I haven't bought it. If they had USB C, I would have pulled the trigger on this stack months ago. Maybe I should just suck it up and add the extra cable to my desk! Truly a first world problem. Hoping for a 2022 refresh that adds type C though.
I for the stack and sure it's not USB c but if this is plugged into a machine that doesn't get plugged in or unplugged alot you'll never know if it's micro or USBC. If u aren't doing that then the durability will lasted forever
Looking at the Asgard/Modius stack myself. I dont see me needing balance for my amp end and would have the flex to upgrade to balance if I change my mind later on. Thanks for the review.
I really wish there was a video on like, what all this means. Your videos are constantly talking about balanced systems, non-balanced systems, and all these components but from someone trying to get into all this it just seems to me like it all does the same stuff. Would love a revisited explanation video
What's your setup like? And which speakers do you have? I'm wondering, because I am kinda new to audio, and am considering the Schiit stack for my HE4XX. Does the Aiyima power your living room speakers, or are the speakers on your desk with your computer? Do/can you connect your speakers to both your TV's source and your computer? Personally, I would like to have my TV's source (probably a small computer) and my (main) computer connected to the same DAC, and then have one headphone amp and one speaker amp. But maybe it's a stupid/impossible way to do it, and I should just have 2 separate stacks, one for each use case. I don't know, that's why I'm asking, I guess. Any reply would be appreciated!
Best bang for buck stack for these new LCD-3 I scored for 900$. Upgraded from my 660s. I have a small schiit stack. Looking to upgrade 700-800 out the door?
I own h6xx massdrop edition headphones and been using my motherboard with them so I have a budget of $800 for the dac/amp. Any recommendations? i dont really care for blue tooth and all that
I was going to get the modius/modius stack but every person has said that the modius/asgard3 stack is better when I've talked to them and its really hard to figure out stuff cause its mostly preference but from what I've heard the asgard sounds like a better sound for only 50 bucks more anyone got anything to say about either stack?
about cables, if you can find somebody can makes a good cable its not cost even 100 bucks depend on what cable are you choosing, for even cheaper one can buy what ever the termination on aliexpress, some even build by request and at reasonable price. 400 bucks for senn cables? i reather get my self a second handed focal, but that just me
I like these comparisons. I know you already went over the topping A90 but could you do a comparison with the a90 and d90 stack and some other comparable stack competitor?
Care to elaborate? What was the issue? Also, sorry if this is a stupid question, I'm new to audio, but why do you have both a Magni and an Asgard? I can't decide between Modius/Magnius and Modius/Asgard
What a good dac just for upgrade on a CD player . Don’t need a amp or headphone no interest just looking to bypass my CD player dac only ? Any help would be great
Hi Joshua!. Can you help me decide if I'll go with Fiio K3S Dac Amp, iFi Zen Air Dac, or the Topping D10s Dac? My headphone is Philips Fidelio X1S and I will just use it for Desktop Computer (Motherboard Connection). Thank you in advance!
So I bought the setup in your "$1200 Audiophile Headphone System Build" video, which uses the SH-9 and Modius. Now I'm wondering how THAT would compare with a Magnius-Modius stack?
Would the SH-6 & SU-6 be a better purchase than Topping XM5 or the other way around? Currently looking today would be a $10 difference before shipping? Thoughts?
Hey Josh, this is a different topic but i'm wondering if you'll give your thoughts on the new Sony open backed true wireless earbuds? Just learned about them from the people in LTT and i'm very curious on your thoughts about this new design of earphones specially the opinions of the audiophiles. Hope Zeos and the others does so as well for a wider variety of opinion
Can you give me some recommendations for headphones for watching movies with Dolby Atmos, and listening to music. I prefer wireless so I can use them while kicking back. I really like clarity in a speaker/headphones. I do have the Audioengine HD3 Speakers with built in DAC. My TV is a Samsung and has Bluetooth capability. My price range is between $100 - $250. Thanks!!!
Hi Josh, lately I am looking a lot to your video’s. Question: do you recommend using the SMSL SH-6 and SU-6 for using with the Audeze LCD-X at max $600? Or you suggest something other?
Love your videos and crazy effort for the breakdown. I got a condenser microphone and can I ask what would you get if you also need microphone input with phantom power? Or would you recommend the Magnius, Modius and maybe 1 more addon? Thanks!
Great video! Would be interesting to hear if you would go up another 100$ for sth like the THX DAC/AMP (or similar DAC/AMP) for lets say an HD800S. Im planning to buy a DAC/AMP for my current Beyerdynamics but want also to be able to run HD800S´s or a similar performing Headphones the day i buy them.
For a DT 1770 Pro what set would you use if i like the low base as i feel is lacking without a amp for pc use (gaming, video, and high value on good sounding music)
Is there any stack around 400 that includes balance but in a smaller form factor like the SMSL? The Schitt stack just would be a bit on the bulky side for some like myself
Hey Joshua i need a little help here. Im still a little confused. Im using an internal soundcard (Asus essence stx II) and i want to get rid of it. Driving Beyerdynamic DT1990 Pro right now and using an condensor mic Rode NT1-A. I want to get an external solution cause the soundcard has compatibility problems with some newer hardware. Do i need to get some extra device for my mic?? Like the modius/magnius stack + extra device(for example for phantom power)? Im not quite an audiophile but i DO LIKE some nice quality tbf. I dont want a degradation of Sound quality
How does the Schiit stack stand up against the FiiO K9 Pro , I’m wanting to buy a balance set up in this price range to play sundaras and Focal Eligias both on XLR cables and stuck between these two at the moment going between reviews
Thank you for this fantastic review! I have a question regarding the TA 26 I saw at the background. I also own one. I intend sometimes to use it paired to powered speakers. Which do you think would be the best way to accomplish this from a PC? I have an Ifi zen DAC V2 and I have put it in the middle. But there are two volume knobs. Sometimes I have distortion. Thanks again. Ezequiel
I'm looking to buy my first system soon so this is a newb question. Does a parametric EQ require a higher power amp to realize the benefits of the EQ? I'm looking at a Modi, Magni, Loki+ stack with (maybe) the Sundara's. For all music but mostly hard rock, metal, and some rap. Running off a M1 MacBook Air/iTunes/Apple Music...... Maybe I'll add the Loki+ later but my experience with EQ's in vehicles in the past, I'm pretty sure I'll end up getting it. Thanks in advance!
@@rolandgibson6018 I have a Modius/Magnius Loki mini+ and Sundara setup. My experience is that the Bass EQ freq wasn't quite right for the bass boost I wanted from the Sundara. The mini+ is very low sub bass (20Hz) and I wanted more bass in the 80-120 Hz region. I ended up going with software EQ in the end.
@@jboard6839 Thanks J. . . What software is it and is all the software about the same? Glad you went with the Sundara's? Been doing a lot of research and general consensus is most of the Sennheiser's in the price range I'm looking at are not the best for low end bass. (or bass in general?)
@@rolandgibson6018 My 2 main headphones are the Sundara and HD6XX. They both do different things really well so they make a nice combo. Equalizer APO is available for free and sounds great to me. I think Joshua has mentioned it in a video or two.
Do you have any recommendations for something that is around the same price point as the modius/magnius stack (or only marginally more expensive) but has any (or some combination) of the following: remote, Bluetooth, USB C? I noticed a lot of the stuff recommended as the next step up from those online tend to be quite a huge price jump.
You’re DX3 pro link no longer works. Topping released a refreshed model called the DX3 pro + that technically provides better measurements but way more power than the DX3 pro it replaced. I’m curious how the newer DX3 pro + stacks up against the SML stack in this video. I personally don’t see a $100 value to jump up to the SML stack over the DX3 pro + when it offers same features.
Hi Josh, I have a Schiit Asgard 3 with a multi-bit card, I also have a Schiit Modi. The Schiit multi is rated as a step up. I do not hear that everywhere with most music I prefer the Madi over the multi-bit card. It seems more transparent. I run both through the Asgard 3. Am I just off with my hearing? I run Moondrop Starfield Carbon (love these) and HD6XX.
I'd take the modius over the multibit because it can run fully balanced. I've had the modi and the modius, they sounded the same to me, but switching to balanced was a gamechanger. I haven't tried the multibit though. One thing I'd say is make sure that you've set your audio bitrate to as high as you like when running both, if you don't already do that. Right click your playback device, properties, advanced, select your default format. I don't think the modi should sound better then your multibit so somethings gotta be up..
The problem is that Magnius and Modius are not available at Schiit website since months, and no date yet to their availability. I like the way you dress in the videos by the way.
I got a modius off their site a few weeks ago idk whatcha mean buddy. Checking their site now, the Magnius ships in 4-6 weeks, and the Modius ships in 1-3 days. They're both available.
I have ModHouse Argon Mk3 on the way and currently using a Modi3/magni3+ stack. Would the upgrade to either of these systems be recommended? I'm very unsure of what is meant my "they need a lot of power" Any specific advice would be appreciated. Thank you
A lot of the reviewers make this really confusing, possibly because of not understanding it themselves, but truth be told Volume = Power. Higher Volume is more power. The Watts of a Amp is mostly meaningless by itself. Your amp's ability to make them loud enough is the power you need. I am not sure on your particular amp, but I would wait and see when you get them. I know an JDS Labs El Amp will power them and it's about 1~1.3 watts, so your setup may work.
Unless you really want balanced, I would not consider changing out your amp. Any difference is likely to be miniscule and the money is better spent elsewhere.
I know the TOPPING and SMSL gear always measures well, but I've been through about 6 of them, maybe more, and not one did I actually like the way it sounded after an hour. It just sounds...off. I just get this perception that they made it in a lab, measured it, then boxed it up and started working immediately on the next iteration, to be released 6 months later, that measures a hair better, but sounds the same. But it just *feels* like no one there spends much time listening and obsessing to how the gear actually sounds. This stuff just feels to be made with the same love as if they were manufacturing a light bulb or surge protector. That's just me though. Maybe I just haven't stumbled on the right combo. I hear the Topping A90 is a nice piece of kit.
I've got the Magnius / Modius stack and it's amazing. I've ran Arya's, HD800S's, LCD-X/XC's off it, and it had no problems pushing any of them. It's a very budget friendly way to get into a fully balanced system, which I -highly- recommend for some of the mid/high end headphones listed, because instead of pushing the SMSL to 90% power you're going to push the Schiit to ~50%, and that will do two things, improve the lifespan of your components, and potentially cause less distortion. Not to mention, having the HEADROOM of running a fully balanced system is gigantic for EQ'ing, because you usually pre-amp down quite a few DBs, thus having to turn your volume knob up to reach the same sound levels. You can't do that effectively when you're already pushing ~90% of your unbalanced amps power output, and still get high volume.
My favorite is Ifi Zen DAC V2 + Ifi Zen CAN
I have compared the Modius against DACs 4-5 times it's price and can honestly say that the Modius is good enough to compete for a full time spot in my main 2 channel system. When paired with a class AB amp it provides nice detail and glorious midrange and sound stage.
Atom Amp+ & Atom Dac+ is one of the best budget stack ever made these days. just 200$, & it's everything that you'll ever need. please make a video for these new JDS Labs Atom stack Joshua. It'll be awsome.
I miss my jdslabs stack... but with hd560s and e1da powerdac I forget it. Nowadays stacks feel like a overkill with anything that is not extra demanding or plannar magnetic
How do you think they will compare to the new Element III which was recently released?
Are separate DAC and AMP generally always better than DAC/AMP combo?
@@little_boy_blue No, the stack gave more connections before and could be paired or replaced being separate. I think the only thing the new Element 3 is missing is Coax and bluetooth, if you order it.
They added Optical to the new Element 3, which the Element 2 was missing.
Edit: Yeah, I would have done the JDS Labs Element or Atom line for the prices he used in this video. They are criminally underrated even still.
Lol that is until you hear what hi end sounds like. You'll wonder what you've been doing with your life.
@@samza9622 Oh Yeah, what exactly do you mean by that?
Actually, in Europe the Schiit stack is exactly double the price of the SMSL. This makes the choice a bit different 🙂
Yes. Tt makes the Ifi Stack the obvious choice.
I appreciate your videos. I purchased the Hifiman Arya based on your reviews. In your reviews of the SH-6 you liked the lack of a wall-wart but also commented on the lower power of the unit compared to the Schiit. You also noted some sonic differences apart from the measurements. Currawong does a review of the different power supplies and their sonic impact in headphone amplifiers. It would appear the SH-6 uses a switching power supply to eliminate the transformer which may be the source of the lower power ratings. Although subjective, the stronger power supply of the Schiit may also account for the "richer" sound. It is what makes this hobby interesting. Thanks.
Do you use a balanced amp?
This channel led me to buy a SCHIIT Fulla and re-ignited my long abandoned hobby. =) Thanks Josh.
While is it great for the price, and the Fulla is such a tiny and versatile piece of hardware that I cannot help but wondered what to go next.
Learnt it the hard way for my other expensive hobbies that it is probably better go big or go home, I would be always be left wanting for more otherwise , perhaps I would take the plunge for FiiO K9 Pro as my end-game instead.
My little fulla is my most used...especially for non demanding situations, but even when pushing more it can hold its own. Great little amp.
I felt this was one of your better explained differences videos. I understand it can be hard when there can be a lot of overlap in products capability. I think you mostly pretty much nailed down the key points in a way most people would understand it. The hardest thing is always going to be the subjective element.
Hey Josh, you're the reason I've bought LCD-X as an upgrade from my Senn. HD650. Definitely appreciate your work. Thank you.
About the expensive cables. I've bought into the Hart cables ecosystem, you get a package of all the headphone SE and Balanced one-end and the other is a mini-XLR; then buy their cable specific to your headphones model connects, the other end has a mini-XLR. And you can change to whatever the amp connection needs. Ultimately, you don't have to have multiple cable with different connections.
In my case I have one for Senn. and Audeze. And a pack of 6 different connections to the amp and interchangeable with both headphone cables.
Hope this will help with your cable clutter. And no I'm not their sales man. Just thought it's a great cable system and it can grow to whatever you want.
Cheers!
Great video! I really enjoyed the comparison. I often like to just listen to TH-cam (no video) and that was impossible with this review. You only referred to each as this Amp or this dac or this system and I couldn't tell which you were talking about for the comparisons.
bought the modius and magnius cuz of your reviews, totally worth it~
I have the modius/Magnius stack. I went from a modi/magni stack. I'm primarily a gamer and rock HD6XX. When I moved over the the Magnius stack I upgraded the cables to be balanced. When I played warzone I started to laugh so hard because of how better things sounded. I couldn't believe in it
I just got the smsl su6 and sa6. 280 with the rca cables shipped. I really like it so far. The indicator lights on the front are nice. Sounds clean and neutral.
I just bought a modius magnius stack with a focal elex, they go great together and I also bought balanced cables for my 6xx, I'm extremely happy with everything
How come you never reviewed the regular ifi zen can? For 180$ I think it’s definitely one of the best budget amplifiers, and it is fully balanced through a 4.4 input. Add to that the 4 gain levels, the two audio modifiers it has (x bass and 3d space, both rather fun and interesting), and the 3.5mm input and it’s just really useful and extremely enjoyable!!! If you stack it with an ifi zen blue, you get an excellent balanced Bluetooth stack for less than 400$. I can’t vouch for the ifi dacs, but the zen can is absolutely great. Not the signature, the regular zen can.
I have the ifi zen can/DAC stack with a pair of Sundaras and love the sound.
Find the reviews of both on "audiosciencereview"
All the measurements are directly comparable.
*ASR measured the Ifi Zen Can as having about 15db worse resolution than the Magni Heresy and Magnius and only performed particularly well for high impedance headphones. Considering that the Zen Can and Magnius are both $200 now, the Magnius seems like the obvious choice between the two.
But if you like it, that's really all that matters. Keep enjoying what you already enjoy and don't worry about it.
imo the zen dac is very good (besides all the qc issues) but the can isn't, way too expensive for the minimal power boost it gives over the dac, also the dac's truebass is stellar on many headhones while the X Bass and 3D options of the can are basically unusable on any headphone I've tried so far so but as always ymmv and we all hear differently
Another thing to consider is availability in the current climate. I was very interested in the schitt stack but when I looked at actually trying to buy it (in the UK) it was out of stock everywhere and has been ever since as far as I can tell. Ifi stack was on readily available on Amazon and delivered next day.
Great channel, I'm and definitely here for your opinions. In this video you kept saying "this one" but in the edit you were cut away and a few times I got lost as to which you were referring to.
Thank you, I have been watching reviews all day long and many of yours to finally find out what I am going to get . The Schiit stack Magni/Modi combo. Was looking at teh Zen dac/ can for a white. This one just seems to be a little bit more of what I am after and will do me for the next 10 years as I am no audiophile. I just want to experience some good quality when i sit down at the end of the day.
Way overkill for my Senn HD660s but it will open me up to some other headphones as well.
Thank you!
Here I sit enjoying another video about equipment I don't own and can't see myself owning anytime in the near future .......... I have been putting 3 years of research into my first amp DAC and headphone set up LOL
One thing I would like to see you cover in future would be the capability of the Modius/magnius stack to have a second amp/preamp hooked up because the have bal & SE outs. Like in a previous video when you talked about a tube preamp in the audio chain. That system is only possible with the schiit stack (or similar) because of the ports that have on the back. I, personally, am working towards having this schiit stack with a xduoo TA-26 in the chain as either its own amp from the modius DAC or as a pre-amp to the magnius
I do this with a Modius/Magnius and a Loxjie P20. Balanced Magnius pre out to the Loxjie. I volume match the two amps with the volume setting on the Loxjie and then just control both amps with the Magnius pot from there. Then you swap back and forth and have some fun!
Hart Audio cables are quality and no where near the outrageous price of those sennheiser cables. I would not scare off someone from using XLR when there are absolutely quality cables out there for reasonable money.
i wonder why he didn't talk about the topping e30 l30 stack. it is 240$ total and is cleaner than both those 2 stacks
Great video! I've been really considering the Modius and Magnius as my next upgrade, but the micro USB is turning me off. I wish they would have done type C or even just type B to keep it in line with my other DACs. Aside from that, seems to be one of the best value stacks out there.
Ya I am right there with you, at least usb B for durability.
how is that an issue at all practically speaking? it’s not gonna make a difference. usb type is a weird hangup to have for something like this
@@pootisspencer5492 Micro USB is less durable than the other types (just basing on experience). On top of that, having to add an extra cable to my desk. I have a pretty streamlined setup, with mostly type c to type c cables and a type c to type b for some audio devices. I won't be able to take out the type c and b cables because they're used for other devices, and would have to add a type c to micro usb cable that is only used for the Modius. You're right, it's a minor issue, but enough of a nuisance that I haven't bought it. If they had USB C, I would have pulled the trigger on this stack months ago. Maybe I should just suck it up and add the extra cable to my desk! Truly a first world problem. Hoping for a 2022 refresh that adds type C though.
Audioquest makes a good micro male to female B usb adapter you can get on amazon to use with Schiit’s dacs
I for the stack and sure it's not USB c but if this is plugged into a machine that doesn't get plugged in or unplugged alot you'll never know if it's micro or USBC. If u aren't doing that then the durability will lasted forever
Looking at the Asgard/Modius stack myself. I dont see me needing balance for my amp end and would have the flex to upgrade to balance if I change my mind later on. Thanks for the review.
What I don't really understand is why the Modius/Magnius stack doesn't include a HDMI input. This way, you could also turn eArc HDMI into sound.
I really wish there was a video on like, what all this means. Your videos are constantly talking about balanced systems, non-balanced systems, and all these components but from someone trying to get into all this it just seems to me like it all does the same stuff. Would love a revisited explanation video
I'm ready to get my first hifi system. You just know me Josh. Awesome video
I like the schiit stack because if you put it on the side standing up you can use it as a headphone holder aswell 😂
That shot at 6:41... why did that look so aesthetic O.O
I have the Modius/Magnius stack paired with the Aiyima A300 speaker amp running fully balanced from source to speaker and I love it!
What's your setup like? And which speakers do you have?
I'm wondering, because I am kinda new to audio, and am considering the Schiit stack for my HE4XX. Does the Aiyima power your living room speakers, or are the speakers on your desk with your computer? Do/can you connect your speakers to both your TV's source and your computer?
Personally, I would like to have my TV's source (probably a small computer) and my (main) computer connected to the same DAC, and then have one headphone amp and one speaker amp. But maybe it's a stupid/impossible way to do it, and I should just have 2 separate stacks, one for each use case.
I don't know, that's why I'm asking, I guess. Any reply would be appreciated!
It’s funny I was just gonna get the smsl stack here and a hifiman xs, I swear Josh is always making videos about what I’m thinking
Awesome timing, just what I was wanting
How does Topping A50S and D50S compare to these two?
9:38, did I just see a magic trick? Yes, I am not the brightest bulb on the tree🤷🏼♂️🤦🏼♂️😉😂😅
How do these compare to the JDS Labs Element II?
can i drive the senheiser HD650 with the S.M.S.L stack?
Best bang for buck stack for these new LCD-3 I scored for 900$. Upgraded from my 660s. I have a small schiit stack. Looking to upgrade 700-800 out the door?
How about the topping A/D50s stack. Worth a little extra money?
I own h6xx massdrop edition headphones and been using my motherboard with them so I have a budget of $800 for the dac/amp. Any recommendations? i dont really care for blue tooth and all that
So which stack is needed for the LCD-X?
Thanks for the video!
Hey Josh...dunno if you'll see this...but kindly explore and review some dongle dacs as well...
Would love to hear your recommendations
I was going to get the modius/modius stack but every person has said that the modius/asgard3 stack is better when I've talked to them and its really hard to figure out stuff cause its mostly preference but from what I've heard the asgard sounds like a better sound for only 50 bucks more anyone got anything to say about either stack?
@Josh That's one heck of a car!! Lol
Hello Josh, can you please review more class A stuff. I`ve tried some and it blowed my mind till now
about cables, if you can find somebody can makes a good cable its not cost even 100 bucks depend on what cable are you choosing, for even cheaper one can buy what ever the termination on aliexpress, some even build by request and at reasonable price. 400 bucks for senn cables? i reather get my self a second handed focal, but that just me
I like these comparisons.
I know you already went over the topping A90 but could you do a comparison with the a90 and d90 stack and some other comparable stack competitor?
I have a Modius/Magni/Asgard stack, I wasn't a fan of the single ended out on the magnius.
Care to elaborate? What was the issue?
Also, sorry if this is a stupid question, I'm new to audio, but why do you have both a Magni and an Asgard?
I can't decide between Modius/Magnius and Modius/Asgard
If I have mi headset and microphone connected to it can I used it in conference call??
What a good dac just for upgrade on a CD player . Don’t need a amp or headphone no interest just looking to bypass my CD player dac only ? Any help would be great
Suggest you do something similar on just headphone amp at 200, 400 and 600 bucks. Cheers.
Thanks for the review. What about the fully balanced iFi Zen stack , class A (DAC v2 + CAN)?
Hi Joshua!. Can you help me decide if I'll go with Fiio K3S Dac Amp, iFi Zen Air Dac, or the Topping D10s Dac? My headphone is Philips Fidelio X1S and I will just use it for Desktop Computer (Motherboard Connection). Thank you in advance!
How does the magnius/modius compare with EF400?
So I bought the setup in your "$1200 Audiophile Headphone System Build" video, which uses the SH-9 and Modius. Now I'm wondering how THAT would compare with a Magnius-Modius stack?
Soncoz topping and ifi would also be in the hunt here
Would the SH-6 & SU-6 be a better purchase than Topping XM5 or the other way around? Currently looking today would be a $10 difference before shipping? Thoughts?
You should compare the Fiio K9 to the Topping A/D30 pro stack
Hey Josh maybe I missed the boat but can I have some info on that watch? ‘Preciate ya mane.
so is the schiit stack bad now??
Hey Josh, this is a different topic but i'm wondering if you'll give your thoughts on the new Sony open backed true wireless earbuds?
Just learned about them from the people in LTT and i'm very curious on your thoughts about this new design of earphones specially the opinions of the audiophiles. Hope Zeos and the others does so as well for a wider variety of opinion
Can you give me some recommendations for headphones for watching movies with Dolby Atmos, and listening to music. I prefer wireless so I can use them while kicking back. I really like clarity in a speaker/headphones. I do have the Audioengine HD3 Speakers with built in DAC. My TV is a Samsung and has Bluetooth capability. My price range is between $100 - $250. Thanks!!!
I'm new to all this. Where do I plug in my headphones if there's a plug on both the dac and the amp? What if I put the gain up all the way on both?
I wonder how it would compare to Topping L50/E50. Any thoughts?
Hi Josh, lately I am looking a lot to your video’s. Question: do you recommend using the SMSL SH-6 and SU-6 for using with the Audeze LCD-X at max $600? Or you suggest something other?
Do u still have or ever use your thx 887 or 788 from monoprice?
Toppang MX5 comparison?
Love your videos and crazy effort for the breakdown. I got a condenser microphone and can I ask what would you get if you also need microphone input with phantom power? Or would you recommend the Magnius, Modius and maybe 1 more addon? Thanks!
Great video! Would be interesting to hear if you would go up another 100$ for sth like the THX DAC/AMP (or similar DAC/AMP) for lets say an HD800S. Im planning to buy a DAC/AMP for my current Beyerdynamics but want also to be able to run HD800S´s or a similar performing Headphones the day i buy them.
For a DT 1770 Pro what set would you use if i like the low base as i feel is lacking without a amp for pc use (gaming, video, and high value on good sounding music)
what can u recommend 'neutral sound' AMP DAC stacks among 300~500$?
Is there any stack around 400 that includes balance but in a smaller form factor like the SMSL? The Schitt stack just would be a bit on the bulky side for some like myself
what would you suggest with the grado sr 225e?
Hey Joshua i need a little help here. Im still a little confused. Im using an internal soundcard (Asus essence stx II) and i want to get rid of it. Driving Beyerdynamic DT1990 Pro right now and using an condensor mic Rode NT1-A. I want to get an external solution cause the soundcard has compatibility problems with some newer hardware. Do i need to get some extra device for my mic?? Like the modius/magnius stack + extra device(for example for phantom power)? Im not quite an audiophile but i DO LIKE some nice quality tbf. I dont want a degradation of Sound quality
How does the Schiit stack stand up against the FiiO K9 Pro , I’m wanting to buy a balance set up in this price range to play sundaras and Focal Eligias both on XLR cables and stuck between these two at the moment going between reviews
Any opinion on Schiit switching the Modius to the ESS ES9028 vs the prior AKM chip?
How does the IFI ZEN stack compare to these?
Thank you for this fantastic review! I have a question regarding the TA 26 I saw at the background. I also own one. I intend sometimes to use it paired to powered speakers. Which do you think would be the best way to accomplish this from a PC? I have an Ifi zen DAC V2 and I have put it in the middle. But there are two volume knobs. Sometimes I have distortion. Thanks again. Ezequiel
Would a Valhalla be a good match for my modius? I'm building it around my hd600's
Ah yes, me listening to you about DAC's I can't afford with my $30 haircut
are the a30pro/d30pro reviews still planned to release? can you throw in the l50/e30 stack too?
I like the extra power as I always use parametric EQ for the low end
I'm looking to buy my first system soon so this is a newb question. Does a parametric EQ require a higher power amp to realize the benefits of the EQ? I'm looking at a Modi, Magni, Loki+ stack with (maybe) the Sundara's. For all music but mostly hard rock, metal, and some rap. Running off a M1 MacBook Air/iTunes/Apple Music...... Maybe I'll add the Loki+ later but my experience with EQ's in vehicles in the past, I'm pretty sure I'll end up getting it. Thanks in advance!
@@rolandgibson6018 I have a Modius/Magnius Loki mini+ and Sundara setup. My experience is that the Bass EQ freq wasn't quite right for the bass boost I wanted from the Sundara. The mini+ is very low sub bass (20Hz) and I wanted more bass in the 80-120 Hz region. I ended up going with software EQ in the end.
@@jboard6839 Thanks J. . . What software is it and is all the software about the same? Glad you went with the Sundara's? Been doing a lot of research and general consensus is most of the Sennheiser's in the price range I'm looking at are not the best for low end bass. (or bass in general?)
@@rolandgibson6018 My 2 main headphones are the Sundara and HD6XX. They both do different things really well so they make a nice combo. Equalizer APO is available for free and sounds great to me. I think Joshua has mentioned it in a video or two.
@@jboard6839 Thanks, appreciate the advice!
will SMSL stack will be better than IEMagni stack for IEMs?
How do these compare to the Topping E50/L50 stack?
Just bought the schiit lyr 3 for my thx00 ebony instead of the modius magnius stack cause of singleended... was that a bad idea?
Does the SA-6 working with usb-c -usb-c cable for ex. iPad or Android?
Can you do a review on the new jds labs element 3 pls
Whats the best dac and amp for HD 800s ?
i have the shiit modi and magni hersey looking to upgrade for 400 is the magnius the way to go or is there anything else
Do you have any recommendations for something that is around the same price point as the modius/magnius stack (or only marginally more expensive) but has any (or some combination) of the following: remote, Bluetooth, USB C? I noticed a lot of the stuff recommended as the next step up from those online tend to be quite a huge price jump.
You’re DX3 pro link no longer works. Topping released a refreshed model called the DX3 pro + that technically provides better measurements but way more power than the DX3 pro it replaced. I’m curious how the newer DX3 pro + stacks up against the SML stack in this video. I personally don’t see a $100 value to jump up to the SML stack over the DX3 pro + when it offers same features.
can the sh6 su6 stack dac push 300 ohn headphone full volume?
Anyone ever pair the Magnius/Modius with the argon mk3's?
Hi Josh, I have a Schiit Asgard 3 with a multi-bit card, I also have a Schiit Modi. The Schiit multi is rated as a step up. I do not hear that everywhere with most music I prefer the Madi over the multi-bit card. It seems more transparent. I run both through the Asgard 3. Am I just off with my hearing? I run Moondrop Starfield Carbon (love these) and HD6XX.
I'd take the modius over the multibit because it can run fully balanced. I've had the modi and the modius, they sounded the same to me, but switching to balanced was a gamechanger. I haven't tried the multibit though. One thing I'd say is make sure that you've set your audio bitrate to as high as you like when running both, if you don't already do that. Right click your playback device, properties, advanced, select your default format. I don't think the modi should sound better then your multibit so somethings gotta be up..
The problem is that Magnius and Modius are not available at Schiit website since months, and no date yet to their availability. I like the way you dress in the videos by the way.
I got a modius off their site a few weeks ago idk whatcha mean buddy. Checking their site now, the Magnius ships in 4-6 weeks, and the Modius ships in 1-3 days. They're both available.
@@ChaseHub i don't know about the Us, but the Europe website they're unavailable for months
I have ModHouse Argon Mk3 on the way and currently using a Modi3/magni3+ stack.
Would the upgrade to either of these systems be recommended?
I'm very unsure of what is meant my "they need a lot of power"
Any specific advice would be appreciated.
Thank you
A lot of the reviewers make this really confusing, possibly because of not understanding it themselves, but truth be told Volume = Power. Higher Volume is more power.
The Watts of a Amp is mostly meaningless by itself. Your amp's ability to make them loud enough is the power you need.
I am not sure on your particular amp, but I would wait and see when you get them.
I know an JDS Labs El Amp will power them and it's about 1~1.3 watts, so your setup may work.
Unless you really want balanced, I would not consider changing out your amp. Any difference is likely to be miniscule and the money is better spent elsewhere.
I know the TOPPING and SMSL gear always measures well, but I've been through about 6 of them, maybe more, and not one did I actually like the way it sounded after an hour. It just sounds...off.
I just get this perception that they made it in a lab, measured it, then boxed it up and started working immediately on the next iteration, to be released 6 months later, that measures a hair better, but sounds the same.
But it just *feels* like no one there spends much time listening and obsessing to how the gear actually sounds. This stuff just feels to be made with the same love as if they were manufacturing a light bulb or surge protector.
That's just me though. Maybe I just haven't stumbled on the right combo. I hear the Topping A90 is a nice piece of kit.
what was that noise at 5:51?
No THX LINEAR?
He put the DAC on top of the Schiit stack?!!!!
somebody owns the SH-6/SU-6 and also the topping e30/l30 combo?