KICK ASS $700 AUDIOPHILE SYSTEM!
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 ก.ย. 2024
- Can you get a kick ass hifi system for just $700? Heck yes!
Edition XS Here - amzn.to/3Atl2yq
DX3 Pro + - apos.audio/pro...
Here are all the optionals I mentioned in this video?
HD660S - amzn.to/3cqCICN
DT1990 Pro - amzn.to/3QZdqL4
HD6XX - massdrop.7eer....
Magnius - amzn.to/3cnDTD3
Modius - www.schiit.com...
TOP 3 FAVORITE BUDGET HEADPHONES
🥇 HD560S - amzn.to/3NwLeNM
🥈 SHP 9600 - amzn.to/3NEsoEo
🥉 K361 - amzn.to/3xxKQsM
Favorite headphones
🥇 DIANA TC - abyss-headphon....
🥈Arya - apos.audio/pro....
🥉 DT1990Pro - amzn.to/3MzsBrg
TOP 3 FAVORITE CLOSED BACK HEADPHONES
🥇 Sony Z1R - amzn.to/3aDxOB4
🥈 Sony Z7 - amzn.to/3O0C2Bd
🥉 K361 - amzn.to/3xxKQsM
BEST Amplifiers -
🥇 Topping A90 - apos.audio/pro....
🥈 THX 789 / 887 - amzn.to/3QdJ0Vq
🥉 DX3 Pro - amzn.to/3O1wF4H
IEMS
🥇 Sennheiser IE300 - amzn.to/3Q8svd3
🥈 Moondrop Aria - amzn.to/3aEytlG
🥉(budget Option) - Tin T2 - amzn.to/39g6eta
SPEAKERS
🥇 SVS ULTRA Towers - amzn.to/3xzt9sU
🥈 Vanatoo T1E - amzn.to/3O5ag6q
🥉 Micca RB42 - amzn.to/3aBmXHP
ACCESSORIES
iFix It - amzn.to/3NCok7O
Soundrise Pro Stands - amzn.to/3tphpXt
IEM TIP Storage - amzn.to/3NAMQ9r
Headphone Case - amzn.to/39xOlk...
My Filming Equipment
Camera - A7S-3 - amzn.to/3mynq00
Sigma 24-70mm - amzn.to/3MtKBmQ
Sony 90mm - amzn.to/3QarT6P
Sachtler Flowtech 75 - amzn.to/3H4WEG9
Ronin RS2 - amzn.to/3HdOgUP
GVM Slider - amzn.to/3Q8nEIV
These are my genuine recommendations in various categories. They are affiliated links that help pay for this TH-cam channel at no additional cost to you.
SOCIAL MEDIA
📷 / joshua.valour
🔔 / joshvalour
📫SENDING FOR REVIEW??📫
Email Me - JoshuaValourYT@gmail.com
#Topping #Hifiman#Audiophile
*As an Amazon, Drop and Apos Associate I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
I use this money back towards the quality of video of this channel. To see how, watch this video - • AWESOME Studio Tour! -...
I actually bought the Dx3 Pro+ and Edition XS based on your reviews. Great combo!.
I then added an A50S and a 4.4mm balanced cable and use the Dx3 Pro+ as a DAC+pre-amp to the A50S. Man, such a great sound. Even though the A50S is not a truly balanced amp, the difference between single ended and balanced is quite noticeable! I love it!
Just a few small issues with the HiFiman Edition XS: 1 - I cannot make the headband "fit" properly. It's fine so long as I don't move my head, but when I do, (to pick up a cup of tea for example) the Edition XS slip and slide so that I have to adjust them on my head again. 2 - the black colour along the outer edge of the cups just under the headband pivot (where my thumbs rest to hold the headphones when I put them on and off) is fading/wearing and the silver/grey "under colour" is coming through. Under six months use - admittedly heavy use, my daily driver if you will - I wear them for many hours every day, consuming and creating content, gaming, everything. 3 - the earpads supplied are "hybrid" leather/mesh, not a fan of that type but I'll get some full leather pads soon.
I followed the previous $700 video exactly and I’m in love with that system! I plan to upgrade more in the future because of course I now have the audiophile itch to see what’s next but couldn’t be happier with what I have. Next for me will be the Focal Elex!
I 100 % agree to your choices for this system. I've been thinking about this exact combo since your reviews for those two pieces of gear came out, absolutely love this! I'm excited for the things that might come out in the future in this price category and where they will improve over this already pretty amazing performance.
Great build! Your review made me buy the Sundara and I paired it with a used JDS Labs Atom+ amp. I kinda cheaped out with the dac and bought an Apple usb-c dongle. The build cost me 480 canadian rupees and I'm having a blast. 70-75% of your budget going to the headphones seems like the perfect balance.
May I recommend some higher power (but unfortunately a tiny bit less resolving) dongle DACs such as the VE Abigail or the Tempotec Sonata HD. The volume that the Apple DAC provides just isn't enough for me in most cases, but these "audiophile dongle DACs" help me enjoy my IEMs fully
@@Videohead-eq5cy I'm using the Apple Dongle only as a DAC. The Atom+ amp provides more power than enough for the Sundara.
Just purchased this combination based on your recommendation. Love the channel. Cheers.
I have a Sundara with an ifi zen dac v2. Been enjoying it so much. Superb sound. Paired it with a balanced cable as well recently
I'm running my Edition XS via Lehmann Class A Headamp, my DAC is Topping E50. Really great combination.
I went with a DX3 pro + which was discounted on Amazon (less than 180 dollars) and a pair of 660s found second-hand but barely used for 250 dollars. I just decided to spend additional 15 dollars in a cable because the two in the box are WAY too long for my use case, sitting at the desk. For a total of 445 dollars, I am incredibly happy. Next Purchase will be a pair of Sundara, because I am quite curious to hear them
Soundwise 660s and Sundara are closer together, then you might think.
I've listened them both and I think it's a better Idea to save Up for XS if you aleady own and want to keep your 660s.
I have my XS from Release on and still Like to Switch between both Headphones.
This is my setup, I just added the Meze 99 Classics for a fun option when I’m feeling something more punchy
I bought this exact set up last week haha! Good to see I made the right choice.
Totally agree Josh... About 70 percent of budget for speaker/headphone. Except for car audio setup, may be the proportion about 50:50 because need DSP with Time Alignment to build the great sound stage.
This 700$ setup is my next purchase goal now, love to try it out.
Literally the video I been needing
i got a30/d30 stack and a 660s today for just over 700$ after market. And I'm really pleased, but it is my first HIFI setup and i think a made a good deal for upgrading later
HiFiman Sundara + Topping NX7 + Shanling M3X. Basic audiophile set-up however works for me.
amazing piece of advice. Its insane to thing that getting the Topping DX3 pro plus u are set for the audiophile starter pack as well as till the 700$ + price point
Exactly my setup 😍
And also upgraded to DX3 pro + from Fulla E
I love my Edition XS so much and I bought the SMSL SH/U-6 to pair with it based on your videos. I do think it is better and worth the money over the Sundara which I had previously but they have some dealbreaking problems IMO. I had some bad static issues with them with multiple setups and overall the imaging for competitive gaming is garbage. Obviously competitive gaming isn't the focus for the Sundara at all, but the imaging on the XS is absolutely fantastic for competitive gaming even compared to my PC38X. Ultimately, its just nice that I don't have to switch headphones from listening to music to gaming like I did previously. The default frequency response is also leaps and bounds better as I feel it needs none or very slight EQ, maybe a small bass shelf, but that is it. The Sundara I felt improved significantly with EQ more than just a bass shelf.
The Dekoni Elite Velour for the Arya/Ananda work much better than the stock pads for people who get squeaking while wearing glasses. The material that contacts the side of your head can rub on the arms of your glasses and sorta squeak. I haven't noticed a drastic difference in sound overall with the Dekoni pads, just better comfort.
Great input, thank you! I have the smsl HO200 amp and smsl with DO200 dac paired with a HD599SE headphone. And I want to improve my hifi and gaming headphone allot. Is the Edition XS that good, our should I go another route in your opinion?
I've actually had this exact setup for a bit, and it is MAGIC! Ended up with this pairing based on your individual coverage of these products, and I could not be happier with it. Happy to see my purchase somewhat validated by your video as there was a lot of conflicting information in forums about the DX3 Pro+ being capable of powering this headphone despite the specs.
I asked the Hifiman support what the maximum recommended amp power is and they told me to not go above 2 watts. So the DX3 would be perfect i guess
Question do you use high or low gain and at what DB, I have the same setup and have seen myself at -14dB on low gain which is much louder than the -30dB Im used to. Just wanna make sure this is normal. I can hear pretty clearly at -25dB tho
@@Yxzjvc Yes these XS can eat. Their headroom feels limitless compared to other headphones I've used. Max power handling on HD 6x0 lineup is 500mW.
Nice build. Will definitely be looking to add the 6XX once I get the dx3 pro+
My preference would be Hifiman Sundara + Sennheiser HD6xx + a Dac-Amp that would be for example like a Fiio BTR5 or BTR7 or Fiio Q3 or Xduoo XD-05 Basic or IFI Hip Dac Amp, which is close enough to this range. I personally would get more out of 2 different headphones, than with a headphone that is probably 10-15% better than the Sundara at best. Also, this system is one that you can build with just 1 headphone at a time so you also don't need to spend the whole amount in 1 go. This is the system I'm aiming for someday.
Or any DAC & AMP that would still be useful on its own, even if you upgrade to a much better DAC and AMP like the Schiit Magnius Modius stack. I'm against buying the same thing twice, so I'd rather have a DAC AMP that is good enough rn, and will still be useful in situations when I have better equipment.
I thought the same thing till I realized the Magni/Modi was half the price of Magnius/Modius and produced more power out of the Magni single ended. It is like future proofing your system for no reason while also crippling your current gear. Doesn't really make sense. Either way, the Magni will absolutely drive the headsets you mentioned and the XS. I am only running a 1v DAC into my Magni and I still cannot even max the power and this thing goes pretty hard.
my dream setup would be Topping 90 + D90 and Beyerdynamic DT1990
I picked up a xDuoo XA-10 for 10% last week. Probably going to get the Edition XS with matching red Hart Audio cables next. Gonna look and sound bad ass!
I use Hifiman Arya with Ovidius B1, volume at 15% (using UAPP) was pretty loud already. Sounded amazing and I don't even hear any difference when comparing it to a much more expensive amp/dac stack like the Topping A90 and D90. Total money spent was Arya (2nd hand at $850) then the ovidius b1 at $150 with a total cost of $1,000.
Good combo I have the HE400SE at present,powerd by a SMSL dac via spdif from my PC along with some Fostex T20RP.
Just started looking at some better quality gear and the Hifiman XS is very close to top for the headphone side but also considering Audeze LCD-2 used around £300 or just a bit under and for around £500 the LCD-X. Amp/ dac wise will most likely be ifi zen dac V2, and maybe the zen signature hfm can but may just get the std zen dac. These setups will range between the 650 to around 900 price range but under a 1000 easily.
I will not go higher for my use there is no point, but I may buy a few sets of pads for pad rolling a tinker with a few different headphones to expand my collection for different music genres and also for movies and gaming.
Good stuff. Would love to add to my Schiit stack. The downside with the Magni being so small is that it was very easy to misplace during a recent move. Talk about heart breaking.
Well done! I appreciate your insight into the products. Now to convince my wife… I prefer the split of the $$$ to go to headphones as well.
Great video 😊
I need an help my budget is $ 200 i planning to buy an IEM for the 1 St time and am gonna keep it very safe , cos i can't afford to buy another one.. i like bass (not heavy) what the song required.. and also i like all the things mid high vocal etc can you please suggest me a an all rounder IEM earphone
Wait for $200 - $300 Audiophile System Build, Maybe 400 too.
Got a pair of Cowin E8 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones new for $30.00 on Amazon under the guise name Qisebin E8. They sound great wireless because of the APTX codec. Amazon is giving them away. What a fantastic over ear Headphone for peanuts!
Really excited to see more videos of “best in class for XX $” - and starting from budget systems ;)
I would love to see like a 1500 dollar multi platform system like iems portable dac amp, desktop dac headphone and speaker amp with headphones and speakers under a given price point I think that would be fun
Great Build indeed, still though debating if I should invest in these or go higher and invest in a focal elex or Ldc-2 😮💨
Nice vid Josh. I'd like to try the Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital with the Hifiman!
I just noticed that they quietly refreshed the Modius and it now has USB-C!
Thanks again for another great video i bought the sundara and the focal elex based on what you have said in some of your videos I also bought the modius and magnius because of you as well, personally i think the sundara, magnius and modius are the way to go for 700$ my focal and schiit stack is a bit overboard but I don't have any audiophile stores around me so I had top just buy based on word of mouth.
Do you think that telegram me comment is legit
@@konawolv lol this has been going around for almost 2 years now its a scam and anyone who believes this has been living under a rock because Josh made a video about this and so have a bunch of other youtubers
@@AppleofMyDroid I appreciate you removing the rock
It really should be this simple to get into this.
A question for the experts: Is the Ifi Zen Dac V2 powerful enough to power a Hifiman Edition XS? And does it absolutely need an external power pack, or is the power from the USB port sufficient?
Thanks :-)
Still bugs me how you have the headphone stand installed upside down
How would you compare the Atom Stack to the Topping?
Ok Copping also 58x with removed foam and paper thing basically makes it a 660s doesnt it?
As someone who was *very* critical of your 900 dollar build, I think that this video is far better. Two good products that complement one another, it hits the price mark nicely, and there's nothing in your build that makes me do a double take. If I'm gonna be critical when something makes me feel you missed the mark, then I need to make sure to comment when I think you hit the mark. Good stuff Josh. I think your other options make sense, and your thinking is really solid on when you might wanna go with the alternatives.
For what it's worth--the modius *is available* in an ESS version--it's the Modius E. Instead of Magnius and Modius, I went with an Asgard 3 and a Modius E, which I think is a superior setup (because I think Asgard 3 is a superior sounding amp)
I heard "vzr model one" is the best headset with only 350$. Pls make a review and comparison about it. I heard it is better than super expensive headphones.
That drill on the beginning tho
The charismatic voice looks like she uses to DT1990. I'm curious to find out how she made that decision.
Hi Josh, u mentioned the DT1990 Pro as alternative. I have those. How does the DX3 Pro + work with those? Or if it doesn´t, is there a good / better DAC/AMP combo for the DT1990?
I’m not sure why but lately I’ve been gravitating towards iems instead of headphones. I feel you get more for you money there.
Would you be willing do do a setup for IEMs?
Have you ever tested the DAC and Amps from Geshelli Labs?
Stupid question - what's the Bluetooth for? Getting the audio out of some device eg iPhone instead of cable?
I have this setup idk if there's something wrong but sounds low volume? I am close to max to hear it like -5.5 low gane and -16 high gane? Any input would help
Are u going to review z reviews z12s?
wtf I was just thinking about a video like this to help me.
Power output aside, how does that dac/amp compare to the heresy/modi stack?
How about Xduoo xd-05 Plus or Xduoo xd-05 basic for Hifiman Edition XS instead of topping dx3 Pro+ ???
What about closed back headphones ? I have kids and I need silence 😂
Honestly I feel like the "best" $700 system would be completely different depending on the listener and the use case as you stated there are many different headphones you could go with in a $700 system and if I was to choose I would probably go with your original 6XX with a balanced periapt cable and schiit stack just because most of the music I listen to is singer focused. My personal system currently is hifiman edition xs and a magnius/modius stack, I'm waiting on a modded 1990 pro (4-pin mini XLR for balanced) and am eventually going to pick up a pair of focal elex just don't currently have the budget. Would I see a difference upgrading my magnius to an A30 pro or A90 D in the future or would that be a waste of money coming from a magnius? I have tried an L50/D50 stack and I found it to be a bit boring compared to my schiit stack so if all topping amps sound similar than I will stick to the Magnius. Thanks to any feedback and awesome video as always Josh!
I can afford xs now . thinking about arya . is that worth to wait ...
dx3 pro plus or zen can v2? i bought edition xs but i still dont know what dac/amp is great for 200$ for edition xs
I have a Beyerdynamic DT1990 250ohm and DT700 Pro X plugged into a RodeCaster Pro... And my question is... do I need a separate DAC for the headphones or will the RodeCaster suffice for both of those? Would it be a massive difference?
I’m using Beats Studio is this better sir?
hi Josh just wanna ask I ordered hd6xx and also a dt 1990 pro, just wanna ask what's gonna be a good choice for a 300-200$ amp or dac, and also zen dac V2 or dx3 pro +
DT 1990 pro - $366 thomann
Topping D10s/SMSL sh-9 - used $200
Muahaha
God and America love Ukrainians
thank you Josh
Josh, how it work if stack edition xs with moondrop moonriver 2? Is good? My always question is can it work with smartphone if stack together?
Good luck. This guy is a never answer type of TH-camr
@@shaolin95 😔
I was running a Focal Elex & Topping DX3 Pro+ as my WFH daily station for the past few months. A great pairing. Just upgraded to the Focal Clear (scored used) & Schiit Jotunheim 2 (wMulti-DAC).
My first setup was an Elex & a CTH. Both are still in use!
you notice much of a diff from Elex to the Clear?
@@wesleyleigh4063 I do. My ears are still sensitive to all the concerns you may hear about the treble peaks in reviews about the Clear headphones. I embrace this because I listen to lots of piano-driven symphonic music and lots of quartet/quintet jazz music. The dynamics on the Clear go just that much further and can reveal some of the scratching ephemera inherit to performance recordings. Think rings in pianos or fingers sliding on cello strings. The bass and definition for the Elex is effin’ great, too. Some go-to tracks I use for testing include Blue in Green by Miles Davis, Chopin Prelude No.15, and Doin’ it Right by Daft Punk. You can score the Elex at great prices used or discounted. Enjoy!
That Topping is bottlenecking your Clears big time. You really need to upgrade your source if you want to hear what the Clears can do, because the Topping is leaving a ton of stuff on the table, and compressing a bunch more into oblivion.
@@alondite215 I’m driving my Focal Clear with the Schiit Jotunheim 2 (w Multi-DAC). It’s pretty sweet.
Tuff to beat this combo at $700..I have the topping dx3+ pro and it's simply amazing at it's price point. Feature loaded and plenty of clean power.
I'm running Modius/Asgard3 with Sundara - $700
@@xOogieBoogie3x zen stack + Edition XS $800
Sad dx3+ pro hiss with sensitive IEM.
@@pelilin2519 Not with a better power suply. Had a P50 around to test, no hiss there with sensitive iems.
I can beat it verum 1s with e1da powerdac total 410
Now a $500 combo with the XS price drop!
Is this setup still up to date? especially considering competition
So many “this and that” . Dude you could have just separate and labelled each product you are saying and part it/compare it.
I always enjoy these budget capped builds. And cheap audio gear is getting crazy good!
This kind of performance was acheivable only at 1500$ few years ago. Many considered the first gen Edition X worth it at 1700$ and Edition X V2 a bargain at 1300$. 500$ is crazy cheap!
Topping is awesome. The features alone pulled me in to buying the dx7 pro.
I run DX3 Pro+ with Fostex T50RP Mk3 upgraded with Shure's alcantara pads and an alcantara suspension strap from Mod House, all at a total cost of $430. Hard to beat that level of audio quality and comfort for the money.
Is the dx3 pro+ better choince than fiio k7 for hifiman edition xs?
After watching your old and new video, I'm planning on matching XS + Schiit Magnius&Modius combo. Few questions here, is this combo still a good combo at year 2023? Also from your old video, you use XLR cable mod to connect to 6xx. Do you have any suggestions on XLR cable for Hifiman XS?
Generic comment for algorithm support
I think the main difference between the two you've picked as options at 700 is that the 6xx one is an expandable starter system where the Dac and amp won't need to be changed for a while , especially if the plan is to buy more headphones. This one is more of a final solution.
It falls a little beyond the parameters of this system, but I'll go there...
Personally, I would create a system by stepping up a notch for each equipment piece here. So, that would mean pairing the DX7 Pro + with the Arya. It's certainly more money - no doubt. But, in the long run you'd end up saving - because I believe many, many an audiophile would eventually want to upgrade both equipment choices in this one, Josh.
Well, at least I would.
Not me I ran the DT 770 pro for years only until they broke. I was also mostly satisfied especially because they are so comfy. I tried other $150-200 entry level audiophile headsets (K371, 560S) and did not feel they were a huge leap from the DT 770. The XS is a leap in price and performance for sure. I'll be happy here for years.... it's honestly overkill lol
My $700 system is the sundara $300 and the JDS labs Element II $400. Unfortunately the Element II is discontinued and the Element III is $50 more. I have room to grow with headphones using the Element the build quality and appearance are perfect.
Listening through XS and the opening music and tones is just so nice. You will not hear the full potential of these kind of beats and musical touches through regular sets.
Also wanna add, I bought the 560S and previously owned Dt 770 Pro 80ohm for years. The 560S is very impressive especially when EQ'd. It can deliver pleasing amounts of bass with a reasonable punch authority but it lacks the outright detail and neutral balance the XS brings to the table. XS is also superior in imaging and sound stage if you care about those things. There is something to be said for a smaller, intimate sound stage so I get that. I have been playing with Truth Ear Zero IEM later at night and it's shocking what a $50 IEM brings to the table these days. The XS has so much more going on for it though which makes it a better all arounder and *pleasing* sound signature. XS was made for EDM. It reproduces electronic noises better than anything I've heard. I still think a dynamic driver has its place for hip hop THUMP. I am also still very curious about the HD 600 lineup and might still buy a pair to see what the hype is about. This all being said, the XS is the "next level" and I know for a fact nothing will touch it in that sub bass region where it just delivers this crystalline wall of hot sub bass air... like opening the oven it just hits you with that WOOOMPH. All while maintaining perfect detail and clarity. You never lose any noises in the mix. I have to say I'm also very impressed with how it represents stringed instruments you just hear every detail and the speed is insane... nothing bleeds - ever. Overall as Josh says vocals are not its strongest point and I think that is because XS has a upper mid scoop but this does make listening to anything at higher volumes very natural yet subdued. There is zero "shout" to this headset like the 560S which sounded like you're listening through someone yelling through a parking cone. 560S also has a bit more air on top to really let female vocals whisp and ring out which I do miss. All in all, fantastic headset and clearly superior to anything else I've heard and I don't even bother to EQ it. XS definitely has that magic going on when you are teetering on higher volumes which other headsets cannot match. You can blast to outer space with this thing.
Again honorable mention really needs to go to IEM because I get spine tingles with that $50 IEM and I'm just so curious what a $500 IEM sounds like. Of course, XS is a lot more practical to wear all day which I do.
What do you think about the Ananda?
If you could get the Ananda or Xs for the same price.
@@Robin-ky8vr I would say the headband would be more of a concern than the sound quality differences. I've never heard the Ananda but the advice from a friend who bought the XS first and returned them for the Ananda's said the XS are the better buy. From the reviews I've seen the XS seem to be the crowd favorite for their tune. I have a narrow head and the XS's fit for me but just barely. If you have a large or wide head the XS's are probably GREAT for you. Ananda's offer a more secure fit.
Can you do a breakdown for headphones, amps, dacs separately for 300, 500, 1200, etc.? Like a top 3 pick for each at its respective price point.
I just bought the Edition XS and woah is it good. Sublime sound through and through, it really knocks any other headphone under 1k. Bought a JDS Labs Atom Stack to go with it and can't be happier with them!
How is the soundstage and imaging? Can it beat a dynamic driver headphone?
@@mayahorin9390 I find them (DD and Planars) somewhat similar and somewhat different at the same time. Then again, sound is subjective. There are plenty of dynamic driver headphones that sound incredible. Headphones like the HD800, Z1R, Focal Clear, Grado, and the list goes on.
Soundstage for the Edition XS is probably the best I've heard at this price point. I think it's better than the Ananda and Clear; incredibly expansive. The headphones that can really edge this out (to an audible difference) would be the Arya and the HD800, but they are far more expensive. Everything I said up above goes for imaging too (except the Focal Clear which is better but not by a $350 margin).
Planars have an insane ability to replicate sound; that's why they are unique. That also means it will treat music not mastered well quite harshly. The sound is more analytical than most dynamic drivers I've heard which isn't necessarily a bad thing. So it all comes down to your taste and what you like.
@@aaditt4673 is the staging batter then sundara?
Just got the amp yesterday, and I’ve been listening for about 6 hours straight now. So far, I’ve tried the Dt770s and Meze 99 Classics, and both sound great.
Got the same setup Edition XS and topping Dx3 Pro+ loving it so far
Hi,
I don't have this exact setup but I DO have hifiman XS paired with their EF400 amp/dac.
It's my only experience in "high end" hifi audio gear, because I come from basic "gamer" grade stuff
But I must say it's the best deal for 1000$ range. It really puts everything to a whole new level. I know (coz i watched a lot of review) that there are cheaper stuff that perform similarly well like Mojo DAC/AMP.
It's interesting though hearing '"spend more on your headphones vs the amp/dac" coz i've always heard "spend as much on headphones as you would on dac/amp".
Again my experience is very little so i can't tell with relevant opinion, but in the future I would probably (if I can afford) go to 1000-3000$ headphones and see if there is any difference.
However, I can (my opinion again) only encourage, if possible, to go to a dedicated shop, or return item if you can, just to try the headphones. Example is that many people praise the susvara (hifiman) or similar competitors product, and often say, 'well heh, I like it more for jazz or rock, but for electronics this one...etc".
In the end it's more of a personal taste than a real "this one is better".
Hope this is understandable.
Edition XS are easily the best pound to performance headphones out there. They really are something special
I wish the Edition XS had better build quality, I've had two of them that the height adjustment broke on within a week.
This combo was actually what I was looking to get to get into hifi audio after I got my tax return. Glad my instinct for a combo was good. Sadly both were out of stock on Apos so I landed with An Ananda and an SMSL 6 stack. Very happy with it (though I wouldn't be surprised if I could've found a better alternative set) and do not regret the purchase.
I am curious about the 6XX now!
I really love your vids. Seriously great amount of detail and seem genuinely knowledgable and honest.
I am just about to pull the trigger on buying a bundle of headphones from a local/known audiophile who's making room for new things.
I'm getting his Focal Clear (OG) and Hifiman Edition XS, along with a Topping DX3 Pro+ all for $1,200. Wait for it... Canadian!!!
My only concern is whether the DX3 will have enough juice to drive the Clear headphones. Any thoughts or concerns?
Cheers and looking forward to more of your vids.
*Listens to the opening track*
Josh you be getting sturdy? 🤨😅
find these refurb;d for 300 and less
I've now paid €700 for:
- €419 HIFIman XS
- €219 FiiO K7
- €60 balanced cable
because I'm gaming an optional:
- €80 akg Lyra microphone
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro and a MOTU M4 would be around $759 for a production/home studio setup. It also opens you up for adding 2 XLR mics, as well as studio monitors further down the journey.
Hi joshua congratulations for the videos. It would be interesting if you would also add the source, such as the Wiim pro plus or higher, (Eversolo DMP-A6 Matrix etc..) . Bye
Sennheiser HD 6XX
Moondrop Kato IEM
Moon River 2
School Fulla 4
Wiim mini
I have bought the Edition XS and I'm using my M1 Macbook Pro's headphone jack. It gets them loud enough. Is there any benefit other than volume to getting this DAC + AMP as well?
Hi Joshua.
I need some help with putting a build together.
I have a few questions. But b4 that some context.
1. I m completely new to this.
2. 800$ - 1000$ Budget (without shipping). Will expand further in the future.
3. This build will be used with a Windows PC.
4. I have BIG ears and I wear glasses. So I wud like to avoid over the ear headphones.
5. I am open to spend a bit more now, in order to save a lot in the future.
6. I want a neutral sound signature. No bass or treble boost. Want to experience audio as the creator intended.
7. Preferred build : DAC + AMP + IEM + Bookself Speaker/ Monitors. (and required cables/connectors)
My questions are :
1. Which app, service, website to use in order to get proper studio grade audio.
2. Can a GOOD IEM match the performance of a GOOD HEADPHONE? (I intent to buy Sennheiser IE600 in the future).
3. A good and available build in this budget?
4. Any other insight you may provide.
Thank you.
Late to this party but daily game and work with the Hifiman edition XS and the Fiio k7, also have the atom stack and magni modi stack and stay with the k7. Runs all my headphones perfectly(dt 900, dt 1990, hd58x, hd560s, hd6xx, Harmonicdyne Zues, ad700x, raptgo hook x, Hifiman Sundara, Hifiman edition xs) and nothing benefited for the minor difference in power from each stack and the k7. My only upgrade possibly would be the drop thx one or other thx amp or the schiit magnius since i want to get the hifiman aryas next. But the k7 and edition x(Or dt 1990) are a great combination. Without EQ though, the xs has the same detail but better sound stage and punchier bass and bass handling as a whole is better than the dt 1990. The 1990 has great everything but the bass is heavy but handled better with dekoni elite hybrids still the bass detail is lacking in comparison atleast to my ears. Also might be that i have a bias to planars. Who knows. Just my2cents.
Hi Joshua, its been a year since this video and everything changes, the hifiman edition xs now is around $320, which im getting God willing, but should i still get DX3 pro+, or do you have another newer Bluetooth amplifier that you recommend that i can plug and play with just my phone one plus 7pro?
Thank you beforehand and thanks for your videos, much appreciated