Fantastic review, Bravo, Bravo, Bravo! I know because I have one of these and your description matches what I hear 100%. The difference you describe in sound of strings between 50ma and 100ma is exactly what I hear. I have been waiting for this product a long time. I use it as a headphone amplifier and preamp and in both cases it has a wonderful smooth, luscious 3 dimensional sound that makes you want to listen. I am glad I waited, I almost purchased a Topping A90D. You may wish to mention that it is an outstanding preamp.
@@korob20080 The volume control is not perfect but I can easily get the volume I want. I use it with an SMSL SU-10 DAC and I can turn the volume of the DAC down if needed. It might be a but harder if you are using a DAC with fixed output but I still think you should be fine. If I would change anything I would make the difference between high gain and low gain larger. That would help a lot.
@@petermartin9494 see that raises my alarm bells instantly. I currently have a za3 and have had nothing but trouble with it's volume control as the gain is too damned high. So high that with my fixed output 5V Cyan 2 I literally have a range between off and 7:00 to play around with on the dial, no joke. It's ridiculous! So now that I want to upgrade to a power amp I need a pre that can *actually* handle volume control, for real, and it sounds like this one won't? with a 130 euro Fosi, ok. With a 700 euro unit that claims to be a preamp with "very good" resistor volume control...really? Am I going to have to get an attenuator for my pre in this case? sorry but this is ridiculously disappointing if true. Even more reason reviewers should actually be covering pre-features of these devices (unless they are channels very focused on headphone listening)
This should be a worthy amp for your GL2000. I believe they sound much better than on topping. I have two class A amplifiers but none of them gets so much hot. 65 degrees is insane for me. Great review as always.
I love this channel, and his reviews. But he does the same thing that every other channel I watch does. They mention it’s also a preamp, and that’s it. They never test it. Drives me crazy. WTF guy’s? 🤷🏻♂️ Seriously! Someone could make a whole channel on here dedicated to testing head/pre amps in pre mode I feel. Because no one else does. 🤦🏻
@@amb3cogexactly especially when they have stereo setup right behind them 😂. Zeos is the only one who tests all inputs outputs but then again his "reviewes" are less technical.
@@amb3cogHi I hope I can help. I am currently auditioning an S17 from the excellent UK distributor and I think it is fabulous, in my system probably better than the headphone stages. I have been using an SMSL SP400 for pre-amp into my Audiophonics NCore class D amp which I thought was excellent until now. I don't have golden ears but it is a significantly sweeter, dynamic almost scary at times but with a great soundstage which makes the SP400 sound congested and dull. Edges of notes may be slightly sharper with the SP400 but that is the only area where it improves. The S17 is just so much more dynamic, powerful and separation between instruments is better and not a hint of treble sharpness. I hate to use the phrase musical but it is so sweet and I'm in no hurry to use the SP400. I use a Soncoz SGD1 and a Chord Mojo2 as sources and using the Mojo 2 the combination is spectacular. Great build quality, simple to use and with 100ma it does get hot but I have never got above 65 degrees as a pre-amp. I concur with all the TH-cam reviewers. Simply brilliant.
@@datdudeinred Didn’t realize he did that. But I don’t usually watch him. Too long (for my schedule), and too lacking on real world info unfortunately. He is entertaining though. ✌️
Sorry, but is there a place in this video where you compare the S17 to Ladder Bach as a pre amp? If not, could you tell us if you think it is worth getting a Ladder Bach to use as a pre amp for a speaker system if you already have an S17, or is the S17 so good that the Ladder Bach will only yield a minor improvement? Thank you.
Thanks for the review I’m using the AUNE X7s 2019 version which I bought as used. Also a class A, no screen and it has an external linear power supply made by AUNE, i love it’s sound. I wonder what are the differences in sound between the 2. The ability to switch between 2level of transistor current bias sounds cool
How does it do as a preamp? Same performance as headphone amp? I wish manufacturers could put trigger in/ out in units that can work as preamps. Mad it a lot easier to work with other dacs, amps, etc.
As always, very nicely done! Great comparative notes between S17 and Topping A90D (which I own). Means I'll have to sell a few things to save up for S17 - oh no!
Great review as always. Like some others, I'm interested in its ability as a preamp - any experience with its soundstage, detail retrieval and tone/timbre in this capacity? Keep up the great work!
Many thanks Peter, Have you used it rca in, xlr out? That is actually just what I'd like to do - Chord Mojo 2 into Aune via 3.5mm to rca, then xlr out from Aune into Elac Navis actives. Thanks again for your reply.
Thank you for the review! Seems like this is a good amp to settle on for now, confidently knowing it'll beat pretty much all 'mid-fi' amplifiers out there. Got one myself and I'll see if it lives up to the review!
Sounds like it’s a great device, so thanks for your review. How much better is the headphones amp compared to the one in the SC9 Pro? What DAC would you pair with it? Is the Mojo 2 a good option? Any preference with regard to the headphones you tried with it? Thanks.
Compared to the amp on the S9c, the s17 is more full/heavy while still managing to be more spacious (blacker background) as well, treble is a lot better controlled, it does everything significantly better actually, I’d say the stage is the only thing I’d say is similar, everything else the s17 easily wins
Did you end up getting the Gustard/Aune combo? Recently upgraded to an R26 and now looking for a new amp. Wondered if you have any experience of the combo?
It seems like the 50mA mode is a good "standby" mode that won't drive up your electric bill as much? My favorite speaker amp at the moment, is an AkitikA GT-104. It is "just" 35W @ 8 ohms and ~55W @ 4 ohms - and it sound *far* more dynamic that the two 100W/ch amps I own; a B&K ST-140 and Schiit Vidar.
Another vote for performance as a preamp, is it easy to switch source, does the output mute when using headphones, and of course soud? Thanks for the review, but the preamp question is important as I don't want to buy two products I use speakers and headphones.
How about it's value proposition as a pre-amp (I just can't get into headphone listening, always prefer the freedom of sound crashing into my room) Just sound quality wise, I don't care about features so much
Currently using 300ohm Sivga SV023 with xDuoo TA-26 and like it pretty much. Not as detailed, as running from A90D or SMSL VMV A1, but can listen to it much more without fatigue. Should I consider this amp?
The Gustard Audalytic AH90 made me think of tubes. Everything is sweet. It sounds like the Aune is intersting regarding system matching. Naturally because it is also a streamer, I am glad I decided on it instead of the Aune. The Aune can probably drive higher impedance headphones.
I don't think I ever tried that exact combination, but given that Mojo 2 is a great DAC and this is a great amp - and neither have any specific tonality that would colide with the other one - that pairing should sound very very well.
Hey! Great review! Would you say that since posting it, would you still consider it the best AMP for this price point? If no, what would be other choices? In both cases, what would you say are good DAC pairings with these AMPs? Thanks!!!
Yes. If you like fuller and warmer sound it's still my to go recommendation. If you maybe want something more clean and crisp but slightly colder then Geshelli Labs Erish 3 Pro is a good alternative. But they only sell on the US market I belive.
IIWI, Thank you very much. Just the info I was looking for. Kind suggestion: As others have mentioned, many reviews gloss over the pre-amp aspect of a head-amp/pre-amo. It would be better to fully incorporate this into the product review. Thank you. You have a fantastic channel. : )
Great review!! Will you be reviewing the Topping LA90 Discrete soon? There’s quite alot of reviews on it already but I much prefer your take on things. Thanks
Wow! Great review! Thank you Srba! And I'm now waiting my S17 Pro to arrive)) Somehow it is called S17 Raptor, but as I heard, this naming is for China. What DAC around 500$ do you recommend to use with it? Will be a E70 Velvet enough, or should I pay some more for SU-10 or VMV D1SE2?
Your reviews help me a lot and I have the Aune S17 Pro at home, the sound is great, but what bothers me is the volume control. Even at volume 01 I find it too loud. Didn't that bother you? From 09 to 01 downwards there is hardly any change in the volume.
off course I love your video,excellent in depth presentation. I have to point out that you sound different on this video, like your voice is more deep,very detailed but up top the S is very pronounced,never heard it like that. But yeah,excellent review
Thanks. I was coughing for quite a bit so my throat and voice are still sore. That made me talk with a lower voice and closer mic to compensate. It's interesting you're noticing the difference, you are an audiophile after all. 😀
@@iiWiReviews off course I am, 65 and still hearing if treble is ok or sibilant. But I also know your voice very well, watching all the videos you make.Recently I bought again Modi Multibit so I saw your video and my comments from 3 years . Now I can say it is definitely my preferred DAC ever so I wonder if you ever went back to it? It replaced easily my Ifi Zen One signature.
Im really inyerested in this product but for a stereo preamp setup. Does this translate is characteristics on pre amp mode for stereo amp and Speakers?
Not sure about how much warmth you need. This amp is mostly neutral with some added warmth in a 100mA mode. Take a look at the new xDuoo TA-20 plus too (tube and class A hybrid) if you like tube sound but need one that works with planars. It's not as resolving and spacious sounding as this one but it is warmer and juicier. th-cam.com/video/4tfasZkhUh0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=S_DfJMYzXaP4cbeJ
Nice review! Is there anyway to adjust the balance from Left to Right in the settings? I have a slight hearing imbalance and need that feature alas. Looks like an excellent product!
Are you running a desktop setup? Then you could use equalizer apo and peace to do the channel balance. Otherwise I dont know of an amp in that price bracket with this feature. The phonitor x or the aries have that feature but they are around 2500
I purchased this amp after watching your review, thank you. Just curious, which similarly-priced DAC would you personally pair with this amp for your own system?
hello , very informativ video , how can in connect the Aune S17 pro to the Eversolo DMP-A6 for headphone listening from DMP, and can i also use the Aune as a preamp and how to connect it , because i think it s better then eversolo preamp, tnx , have a nice day!
Hi. How would you compare this to the burson soloist 3xp? Would it be worth it to get the 3xp for 300$ more (probably 600$ more with the super charger) ?
@@MoonerBros best DAC i could find for the S17 is Mytek Liberty Dac II. Next week "the honest audiophile" will review both AUNE Amps incl. Mytek LD II.
When you compared the A70Pro with the A90D you said you preferred the A90D which I find a little odd as the Aune S17 Pro is a very warm, organic, tubelike sounding amp, in the past you've gave the impression that you prefer a more incisive sound, especially being a fan of many Topping amps, has the Aune S17 Pro changed your tuning preference?
A70 pro is tonally warmer than A90D and I do prefer that warmth. The thing is that A70 pro veils some tone texture and some fine deteils, and also has less air and narrower soundstage compared to A90D. So I prefer A90D as the whole package even though I liked A70 pro's tonality more. S17 pro is even more revealing than A90D, more dynamic, even bigger sounding, and offers better tonality as cherry on the top. So it's better in almost every way possible. BTW, in 50mA mode it is tonally very neutral and close to A90D (but better). It's the 100mA one that brings warm and organic sound.
I remember you asked in another video what's the best way to pronounce their name. Well I think the pronunciation they are looking for is something that is more like the American "On" (maybe the Brits pronounce it the same way we do, I don't know but American is more like "Aww-n"). The actual name of the company in Chinese is pronounced completely differently: something like "Oh Lay Are. "
hey bud i know ths video is 10 months old i bought the Amp just need a good dac to pair it with can you recommend one soon so i can buy one asap haha. price range, use your judgement based on the price and power of this amp, thanks bud!
Hi, Srboljub! Do you recommend this over the Aune S9C for headphone amplification, without any other DAC? Also, I would like to pair this with the Meze Empyrean 2 .Do you have anything against this pairing?
If you don't have any other DAC that means you would amplify analog signal directly from your stereo jack on PC or Phone? If that's the case, something with a DAC like S9C is a better choice that would sound cleaner and more revealing. This amplifier only device is good only when you connect it to a really good source like good DAC or CD player for example. I haven't had a chance to try Meze Empyrean 2, but just looking at their price I guess we're talking about great and revealing headphones. Maybe I would start with S17 pro and then later add a decent DAC to feed it. Those headphones deserve the best you can give them.
Hey mate, I’m currently using s17pro with dx7pro plus and it sounds fantastic. Brings warmth and musicality to topping’s rather cold and analytical sound. Hope it helps
Im a fan of a good head amp...but if when it has a balanced input and variable balanced output i wanna know how it performs as a stereo preamp for a power amp as well. I hope you do a Preamp review on the unit in the future.
It will of course.Octo might be a better value due to its lower price but if you enjoy more forward presentation, there's nothing wrong with Sabre version.
Those are Sonitus Bigfusors made in Croatia and I bought them from local distributor here in Belgrade. They come in white or black, I coloured mine in various shades of earthy colors using paint.
Yes it's polypropylene but they work very well. I considered wooden one briefly but they are like 5 times the price and much heavier so I ended with these instead.
usually it depends if your headphones are capable enough. rule of thumb is to pay about 20-30% of the whole costs for dac/amp and 70-80% of the total price of a setup for the phones/sound transducer. there might be exceptions, as usual your mileage may vary
S17 pro would ideally pair with a DAC like Topping D70 pro Octo. Something like D6s would work just fine, but in absolute terms S17 pro is capable to reveal more deteils and create bigger soundstage than that DAC is. Skip SU-9n, it's getting old and it's not such a good option nowadays. D6s is better even if it's more affordable.
So happy with my device, i use xlr cabel to Audeze LCD 2 Classic, no big problem with high temps, 59 C on highest settings after 3 hours, volyme at 30, more then that and its to loud, 30 is max for me, streaming from roon.
Topping D70 Pro Sabre, Musician Draco, SMSL SU-10 etc. would be great choices. Just know that you shouldn't stack them directly on top of each other, that would be too much heat.
@@iiWiReviews Thx man and yeah that is annoying cause don't have that much space. And how about the X7 pro series you can stack them but less quality off course then.
@@iiWiReviews Well, FWIW, I'm planning on ordering an S17 Pro this week and plan to stack it on top of the Denafrips Ares 12th-1; I really don't have another practical solution. I did already buy the tallest adhesive rubber feet (.89 inches) that I could find to stick on the S17, which should (I hope) provide enough space for adequate ventilation. The stock feet on the S17 are ridiculously short and small. They probably are inadequate to allow proper heat dissipation and it's one of the few places where you say Aune cheaped out on the S17. Though to be fair, they apparently have used this basic case for their flagship products for a while (it's also used on the S9C), but the S17 really needed/deserved more substantial and taller feet.
Wow, great review man. Too bad it’s completely worthless to me though. As my main, and really my only use for something like this would be as a preamp. And it would be perfect too. Since I only need the one input anyway. ✌️
Me too. Especially as she made her first appearance when he said he keeps his apartment at 24-25 degrees. He should have shown a menopausal woman spontaneously combusting from the extra heat. No kidding, I sit around in t-shirts all day too, but my place is 18-19 degrees when I can help it. I guess my body has gone class A.
1-Is It autosensing for on off switch? 2-Can the display turn itself off? 3-Is It good as preamp? 4-Can i shoot on or off It by using the remote? Thank you very much
Hi, it is great amp, but all 4 answers are NO.. point nr. 3: it has some quirks by volume implementation volume steps nr 52 to 55 no change in volume and then bigger step on 56.. also on first step it can be too loud for quiet listening.. but if you have "normal sensitive" headphones it is really great amp, I love it
I’m lucky enough to live somewhere where our electricity is 100% from renewables, so even though going class A raises the power bill, the environmentalist in me is not concerned
Great review as always. However, one suggestion, you should say your name in each video. I have seen your name in the beginning of the videos, but have always wondered how it is pronounced.
Nice video - EBAY Seller in China not far from manufacturer and spoke with manufacturer in person refunded my money - he wont sell it due to it getting to hot - just a thought
Fantastic review, Bravo, Bravo, Bravo! I know because I have one of these and your description matches what I hear 100%. The difference you describe in sound of strings between 50ma and 100ma is exactly what I hear. I have been waiting for this product a long time. I use it as a headphone amplifier and preamp and in both cases it has a wonderful smooth, luscious 3 dimensional sound that makes you want to listen. I am glad I waited, I almost purchased a Topping A90D.
You may wish to mention that it is an outstanding preamp.
Dont you have the volume issues, mentioned in many reviews, while using it as a pre? What amp and dac are you using with it? Thx in advance
@@korob20080 The volume control is not perfect but I can easily get the volume I want. I use it with an SMSL SU-10 DAC and I can turn the volume of the DAC down if needed. It might be a but harder if you are using a DAC with fixed output but I still think you should be fine. If I would change anything I would make the difference between high gain and low gain larger. That would help a lot.
@@petermartin9494 thx for a prompt reply! Good Dac btw! May i ask if you are using a powered speakers or a power amp in a chain with aune?
@@petermartin9494 see that raises my alarm bells instantly. I currently have a za3 and have had nothing but trouble with it's volume control as the gain is too damned high. So high that with my fixed output 5V Cyan 2 I literally have a range between off and 7:00 to play around with on the dial, no joke. It's ridiculous! So now that I want to upgrade to a power amp I need a pre that can *actually* handle volume control, for real, and it sounds like this one won't?
with a 130 euro Fosi, ok. With a 700 euro unit that claims to be a preamp with "very good" resistor volume control...really? Am I going to have to get an attenuator for my pre in this case?
sorry but this is ridiculously disappointing if true. Even more reason reviewers should actually be covering pre-features of these devices (unless they are channels very focused on headphone listening)
Excellent review. Cool runnings
This should be a worthy amp for your GL2000. I believe they sound much better than on topping. I have two class A amplifiers but none of them gets so much hot. 65 degrees is insane for me. Great review as always.
Did you get a chance to test it as a pre amp to see if it carries some of that tonality to bookshelf speakers?
I love this channel, and his reviews. But he does the same thing that every other channel I watch does. They mention it’s also a preamp, and that’s it. They never test it. Drives me crazy. WTF guy’s? 🤷🏻♂️ Seriously!
Someone could make a whole channel on here dedicated to testing head/pre amps in pre mode I feel. Because no one else does. 🤦🏻
@@amb3cogexactly especially when they have stereo setup right behind them 😂. Zeos is the only one who tests all inputs outputs but then again his "reviewes" are less technical.
@@amb3cogHi I hope I can help. I am currently auditioning an S17 from the excellent UK distributor and I think it is fabulous, in my system probably better than the headphone stages. I have been using an SMSL SP400 for pre-amp into my Audiophonics NCore class D amp which I thought was excellent until now. I don't have golden ears but it is a significantly sweeter, dynamic almost scary at times but with a great soundstage which makes the SP400 sound congested and dull. Edges of notes may be slightly sharper with the SP400 but that is the only area where it improves. The S17 is just so much more dynamic, powerful and separation between instruments is better and not a hint of treble sharpness. I hate to use the phrase musical but it is so sweet and I'm in no hurry to use the SP400. I use a Soncoz SGD1 and a Chord Mojo2 as sources and using the Mojo 2 the combination is spectacular.
Great build quality, simple to use and with 100ma it does get hot but I have never got above 65 degrees as a pre-amp.
I concur with all the TH-cam reviewers. Simply brilliant.
@@datdudeinred Didn’t realize he did that. But I don’t usually watch him. Too long (for my schedule), and too lacking on real world info unfortunately. He is entertaining though. ✌️
@@amb3cogSoundnews does
review video quality and microphone is very impressive, comparing to previous on your marvelous channel :)
Hello! Compared to Ladder Bach purely as a preamp, which sounds best according to your opinion?
Sorry, but is there a place in this video where you compare the S17 to Ladder Bach as a pre amp? If not, could you tell us if you think it is worth getting a Ladder Bach to use as a pre amp for a speaker system if you already have an S17, or is the S17 so good that the Ladder Bach will only yield a minor improvement? Thank you.
What did you figure out?
@@bespey That I don't need a pre amp at all. I use an SMSL Su-10 DAC to control the volume.
Nice review!!
So do you think it easily win vs Chord Mojo 2?
Thanks for the review
I’m using the AUNE X7s 2019 version which I bought as used. Also a class A, no screen and it has an external linear power supply made by AUNE, i love it’s sound.
I wonder what are the differences in sound between the 2. The ability to switch between 2level of transistor current bias sounds cool
had this exact model and the difference is you never go back
How this is performing as a preamp for speaker setup?
Great review 🎉.
What do you think will be a good dac with this amp?
How does it do as a preamp? Same performance as headphone amp? I wish manufacturers could put trigger in/ out in units that can work as preamps. Mad it a lot easier to work with other dacs, amps, etc.
imo dramatic, but technically/ on paper wise not much improvement, lesser still provides everything
As always, very nicely done! Great comparative notes between S17 and Topping A90D (which I own). Means I'll have to sell a few things to save up for S17 - oh no!
itll worth the money since both strong at different areas (high chance of using both alternatively)
Great review as always. Like some others, I'm interested in its ability as a preamp - any experience with its soundstage, detail retrieval and tone/timbre in this capacity? Keep up the great work!
I like it very much as a pre amp. For some reason I enjoy the sound more if I connect it to my DAC single ended rather than balanced.
Many thanks Peter, Have you used it rca in, xlr out? That is actually just what I'd like to do - Chord Mojo 2 into Aune via 3.5mm to rca, then xlr out from Aune into Elac Navis actives. Thanks again for your reply.
@@petermartin9494 could you add some more info? is it feels that class A mode is recognizable in preamp mode?
@@kopczas Yes, it is, just like it is when used as a headphone amplifier.
@@petermartin9494 Very good to know. Thank you for that information. I always liked RCA better anyway!
Thank you for the review! Seems like this is a good amp to settle on for now, confidently knowing it'll beat pretty much all 'mid-fi' amplifiers out there. Got one myself and I'll see if it lives up to the review!
How do you like it ?
I’m green. Green with envy that I haven’t got one of these😅 Nice review.
Sounds like it’s a great device, so thanks for your review. How much better is the headphones amp compared to the one in the SC9 Pro? What DAC would you pair with it? Is the Mojo 2 a good option? Any preference with regard to the headphones you tried with it? Thanks.
ciem scales very well with dacs, youll hear any improvement and still sound solid with budget dac+amps
Compared to the amp on the S9c, the s17 is more full/heavy while still managing to be more spacious (blacker background) as well, treble is a lot better controlled, it does everything significantly better actually, I’d say the stage is the only thing I’d say is similar, everything else the s17 easily wins
what DAC would be the best match with aune s17 pro headphone amp? thinking about getting either Gustard A26 or R26.
I have same question as I ordered S17 Pro and thinking between A26/R26/X26 Pro. I like great subbas and warm but detailed tonality.
Did you end up getting the Gustard/Aune combo?
Recently upgraded to an R26 and now looking for a new amp.
Wondered if you have any experience of the combo?
@@janicejacksonthethird i got a26 + s17 combination. Sounds great. One of the best amp under $1k. However it is hot. Very hot class A amp
It seems like the 50mA mode is a good "standby" mode that won't drive up your electric bill as much?
My favorite speaker amp at the moment, is an AkitikA GT-104. It is "just" 35W @ 8 ohms and ~55W @ 4 ohms - and it sound *far* more dynamic that the two 100W/ch amps I own; a B&K ST-140 and Schiit Vidar.
I believe someone online mentioned 25 vs 35 watt.. 50mA vs 100mA
Another vote for performance as a preamp, is it easy to switch source, does the output mute when using headphones, and of course soud? Thanks for the review, but the preamp question is important as I don't want to buy two products I use speakers and headphones.
Thank you for a very good review
How about it's value proposition as a pre-amp (I just can't get into headphone listening, always prefer the freedom of sound crashing into my room) Just sound quality wise, I don't care about features so much
It is fantastic as a pre amp.
How does this do with IEMs?
Currently using 300ohm Sivga SV023 with xDuoo TA-26 and like it pretty much. Not as detailed, as running from A90D or SMSL VMV A1, but can listen to it much more without fatigue. Should I consider this amp?
The Gustard Audalytic AH90 made me think of tubes. Everything is sweet. It sounds like the Aune is intersting regarding system matching. Naturally because it is also a streamer, I am glad I decided on it instead of the Aune. The Aune can probably drive higher impedance headphones.
Without any sarcasm, I am surprised at your articulation. Even I, a non-English speaker, didn't need subtitles. Thank you for the video!
I've heard he's an English teacher in Serbia.
Hi thank you for the review ❗️ 🔆 How do you think it would sound with Mojo 2 as a dac😉👍
I don't think I ever tried that exact combination, but given that Mojo 2 is a great DAC and this is a great amp - and neither have any specific tonality that would colide with the other one - that pairing should sound very very well.
Thank you ☀️
Hey! Great review! Would you say that since posting it, would you still consider it the best AMP for this price point? If no, what would be other choices? In both cases, what would you say are good DAC pairings with these AMPs? Thanks!!!
Yes. If you like fuller and warmer sound it's still my to go recommendation. If you maybe want something more clean and crisp but slightly colder then Geshelli Labs Erish 3 Pro is a good alternative. But they only sell on the US market I belive.
IIWI, how do the two mentioned products - S17 Pro and A90 - compare in sound performance as Pre-amps?
They basically the same in that regard. I mentioned it in this video (jump at 12 min)
th-cam.com/video/OsQi5ar8Ljs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=t2KPuUx8ilxLV6rA
IIWI,
Thank you very much. Just the info I was looking for.
Kind suggestion:
As others have mentioned, many reviews gloss over the pre-amp aspect of a head-amp/pre-amo. It would be better to fully incorporate this into the product review.
Thank you. You have a fantastic channel.
: )
Which DAC do you use reviewing this.
Great review!! Will you be reviewing the Topping LA90 Discrete soon? There’s quite alot of reviews on it already but I much prefer your take on things. Thanks
Wow! Great review! Thank you Srba! And I'm now waiting my S17 Pro to arrive)) Somehow it is called S17 Raptor, but as I heard, this naming is for China. What DAC around 500$ do you recommend to use with it? Will be a E70 Velvet enough, or should I pay some more for SU-10 or VMV D1SE2?
Musician Draco
@@YTjuanchicod is it multibit dac? Never tried one)
@@Revan83 its an R2R dac, one of the cheapest of its kind, but still better than 99% of the delta sigma/ Sabre dacs
@@YTjuanchicod is it suitable for games and movies, or for music only?
Would the chord mojo 2 do this amp justice? Or would you want a balanced dac? Thanks for the review.
Worth it coming from a Violectric amp? Also considering a Schiit Mjolnir
Your reviews help me a lot and I have the Aune S17 Pro at home, the sound is great, but what bothers me is the volume control. Even at volume 01 I find it too loud. Didn't that bother you? From 09 to 01 downwards there is hardly any change in the volume.
Регулируйте с источника.
off course I love your video,excellent in depth presentation.
I have to point out that you sound different on this video, like your voice is more deep,very detailed but up top the S is very pronounced,never heard it like that.
But yeah,excellent review
Thanks. I was coughing for quite a bit so my throat and voice are still sore. That made me talk with a lower voice and closer mic to compensate. It's interesting you're noticing the difference, you are an audiophile after all. 😀
@@iiWiReviews off course I am, 65 and still hearing if treble is ok or sibilant. But I also know your voice very well, watching all the videos you make.Recently I bought again Modi Multibit so I saw your video and my comments from 3 years . Now I can say it is definitely my preferred DAC ever so I wonder if you ever went back to it? It replaced easily my Ifi Zen One signature.
Are there better soundstage in aune then toppi a70pro?
Yes, it's bigger and more airy.
Thanks for the review! I wish you have tried it in your system as a preamp.
will be troublesome, but im curious as well
schiit jotunheim 2+modius(external) or Aune 17?
For gaming music and movies
For HD800s
I use a balanced connection
How is your streamer and DAC connected? 🙏
Im really inyerested in this product but for a stereo preamp setup.
Does this translate is characteristics on pre amp mode for stereo amp and Speakers?
Quick question, what kinda DAC would you connect with it?
Anyone compared this to Burson Soloist 3x or other?
If it is the same footprint, can you put this on top of a Dac or a Dac on top of this? Or does it get too warm to stack them.
my only interest is if it can make planars sound less clinical/cold, for dynamic drivers I got lovely tubes but for planars I still didnt find a match
Not sure about how much warmth you need. This amp is mostly neutral with some added warmth in a 100mA mode. Take a look at the new xDuoo TA-20 plus too (tube and class A hybrid) if you like tube sound but need one that works with planars. It's not as resolving and spacious sounding as this one but it is warmer and juicier. th-cam.com/video/4tfasZkhUh0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=S_DfJMYzXaP4cbeJ
Nice review! Is there anyway to adjust the balance from Left to Right in the settings? I have a slight hearing imbalance and need that feature alas. Looks like an excellent product!
Are you running a desktop setup?
Then you could use equalizer apo and peace to do the channel balance.
Otherwise I dont know of an amp in that price bracket with this feature.
The phonitor x or the aries have that feature but they are around 2500
Aune x8 Magic DAC made me a fanboy.
Love the opamp rolling possiblity and external linear power supply.
Do you think it pair it well with the S9c pro DAC?
Great review man, thanks. Do you know what’s the actual L/H gain in dB for this head amp? I couldn’t find it in the spec sheet.
I purchased this amp after watching your review, thank you. Just curious, which similarly-priced DAC would you personally pair with this amp for your own system?
Probably Topping D70 pro Octo. It's a great DAC and even better value.
From the title, I was hoping it’s a speaker amplifier. Not. What is the best HDMI 5.1 Audio Converter Decoder for under $700 do you recommend?
Hi. I like your reviews. How does the S17 compare to the A70 Pro? Thank you.
S17 pro sounds richer, bigger soundstage, more resolving.
I'd desperately like to see a review of the Aune S10N, or even better an Aune S10Pro. Is that anything you plan to do in the future?? Thank you
hello , very informativ video , how can in connect the Aune S17 pro to the Eversolo DMP-A6 for headphone listening from DMP, and can i also use the Aune as a preamp and how to connect it , because i think it s better then eversolo preamp, tnx , have a nice day!
Hi. How would you compare this to the burson soloist 3xp? Would it be worth it to get the 3xp for 300$ more (probably 600$ more with the super charger) ?
Which DAC needs to Aune S17pro?
Which DAC did you use for your review and can the unit power 600 Ohms Headphones?
i have same question.
@@MoonerBros best DAC i could find for the S17 is Mytek Liberty Dac II. Next week "the honest audiophile" will review both AUNE Amps incl. Mytek LD II.
@@Hakku1403 thanks a lot!!! will wait for his review
Would love to know how it compares against the Geshelli Archel 3 Pro. Seems like nobody does know. I just can't decide.....
When you compared the A70Pro with the A90D you said you preferred the A90D which I find a little odd as the Aune S17 Pro is a very warm, organic, tubelike sounding amp, in the past you've gave the impression that you prefer a more incisive sound, especially being a fan of many Topping amps, has the Aune S17 Pro changed your tuning preference?
A70 pro is tonally warmer than A90D and I do prefer that warmth. The thing is that A70 pro veils some tone texture and some fine deteils, and also has less air and narrower soundstage compared to A90D. So I prefer A90D as the whole package even though I liked A70 pro's tonality more.
S17 pro is even more revealing than A90D, more dynamic, even bigger sounding, and offers better tonality as cherry on the top. So it's better in almost every way possible.
BTW, in 50mA mode it is tonally very neutral and close to A90D (but better). It's the 100mA one that brings warm and organic sound.
Does this have any function if you only listen to iems?
I remember you asked in another video what's the best way to pronounce their name. Well I think the pronunciation they are looking for is something that is more like the American "On" (maybe the Brits pronounce it the same way we do, I don't know but American is more like "Aww-n"). The actual name of the company in Chinese is pronounced completely differently: something like "Oh Lay Are. "
My first guess at "Aune" would be to say it "Ayy-une"
hey bud i know ths video is 10 months old i bought the Amp just need a good dac to pair it with can you recommend one soon so i can buy one asap haha. price range, use your judgement based on the price and power of this amp, thanks bud!
Hi, Srboljub!
Do you recommend this over the Aune S9C for headphone amplification, without any other DAC?
Also, I would like to pair this with the Meze Empyrean 2 .Do you have anything against this pairing?
If you don't have any other DAC that means you would amplify analog signal directly from your stereo jack on PC or Phone? If that's the case, something with a DAC like S9C is a better choice that would sound cleaner and more revealing.
This amplifier only device is good only when you connect it to a really good source like good DAC or CD player for example.
I haven't had a chance to try Meze Empyrean 2, but just looking at their price I guess we're talking about great and revealing headphones. Maybe I would start with S17 pro and then later add a decent DAC to feed it. Those headphones deserve the best you can give them.
@@iiWiReviews What DAC would you recommend with the S17? Performance-wise, but also maybe aesthetic wise ?
would it sound good if i just use my topping dx7 pro as the dac to pair with it?
Hey mate, I’m currently using s17pro with dx7pro plus and it sounds fantastic. Brings warmth and musicality to topping’s rather cold and analytical sound. Hope it helps
@@consistency1907 oh nice. Tyvm 😊
Im a fan of a good head amp...but if when it has a balanced input and variable balanced output i wanna know how it performs as a stereo preamp for a power amp as well. I hope you do a Preamp review on the unit in the future.
Can you please advise what are the digital to analog converter options for this amplifier. From larger to smaller. From $600 to less.
Topping D70 pro Octo
SMSL SU-9 Ultra
Topping E70 velvet
Will the Topping D70 pro sabre work as well?
It will of course.Octo might be a better value due to its lower price but if you enjoy more forward presentation, there's nothing wrong with Sabre version.
Thanks, very nice device.
The difference in dynamics must be the power supply of the Aune vs. the Topping.
hello
can you tell me where you bought those dark brown diffusors that you have near tv?
ty
Pozz iz Slovenije
Those are Sonitus Bigfusors made in Croatia and I bought them from local distributor here in Belgrade. They come in white or black, I coloured mine in various shades of earthy colors using paint.
@@iiWiReviews thx..so thosesre made of polystyrene not wood?
Yes it's polypropylene but they work very well. I considered wooden one briefly but they are like 5 times the price and much heavier so I ended with these instead.
I only have E30ii and L30ii. How would you rank them in a tier list? 😁
usually it depends if your headphones are capable enough. rule of thumb is to pay about 20-30% of the whole costs for dac/amp and 70-80% of the total price of a setup for the phones/sound transducer. there might be exceptions, as usual your mileage may vary
@@nusu5331 My main is Hifiman HE-X4, and E30 ii and L30 ii combined is twice what I paid for my headphone.
mine usually 1:1:1
like dac : amp : headphones? @@iikatinggangsengii2471
S17 is far above L30
Would be the DAC the bottleneck in the chain if i use a SMSL SU1 (or SMSL D6s)? Maybe SU9n?
S17 pro would ideally pair with a DAC like Topping D70 pro Octo. Something like D6s would work just fine, but in absolute terms S17 pro is capable to reveal more deteils and create bigger soundstage than that DAC is.
Skip SU-9n, it's getting old and it's not such a good option nowadays. D6s is better even if it's more affordable.
How does it sound when used as preamp? Is it similar to the 100mA amp mode?
If this works well too as preamp then it will greatly simplify my setup.
Other reviews have praised it as a pre amp, too. Carrying over the same great tonalty to it's pre outs that it provides through headphones.
@@KXP70 I see that's great! Thanks
Amazing in a nut shell, actually it is my favourite feature. Real shame aune don't have a matching power amp it would make a killer combo.
@thebig476 imagine a pair of Aune class D GANfet monoblocks paired with the S17 Pro. Would be epic I'm sure.
Could you try to get a smsl h300 for review please
Have u tried using it as a pre in ur stereo system?
Yes, shortly, it performs quite OK. Not as good as Ladder Bach for example but very good in its own, and neutral too.
@@iiWiReviews thank you!
So happy with my device, i use xlr cabel to Audeze LCD 2 Classic, no big problem with high temps, 59 C on highest settings after 3 hours, volyme at 30, more then that and its to loud, 30 is max for me, streaming from roon.
What dac is a good match for this amp cause Aune does not have a matching dac
Topping D70 Pro Sabre, Musician Draco, SMSL SU-10 etc. would be great choices. Just know that you shouldn't stack them directly on top of each other, that would be too much heat.
@@iiWiReviews Thx man and yeah that is annoying cause don't have that much space. And how about the X7 pro series you can stack them but less quality off course then.
@@iiWiReviews Well, FWIW, I'm planning on ordering an S17 Pro this week and plan to stack it on top of the Denafrips Ares 12th-1; I really don't have another practical solution. I did already buy the tallest adhesive rubber feet (.89 inches) that I could find to stick on the S17, which should (I hope) provide enough space for adequate ventilation. The stock feet on the S17 are ridiculously short and small. They probably are inadequate to allow proper heat dissipation and it's one of the few places where you say Aune cheaped out on the S17. Though to be fair, they apparently have used this basic case for their flagship products for a while (it's also used on the S9C), but the S17 really needed/deserved more substantial and taller feet.
@@iiWiReviews You didn't mention D70 Pro OCTO. Are there a reason for that?
it has s9c pro. you can add the similar looking clock too. it's supposed to be a pretty good dac.
I found one. Will update as head and pre amp .
WHAT IS BETTER THAN TOPPING А70 PRO OR AUNE S17 Pro FOR ARYA ORGANIC I REALLY HOPE FOR AN ANSWER
I haven't listened to Arya Organic, but S17 pro is a better sounding amp no doubt.
I have this combo - s17pro and Organic.. its great😊
THANK YOU FOR THE ANSWER@@petrpulpytel @iiWiReviews
Does this sound similar to the S9c?
not at all, the gpu analogy is very accurate imo, 1 is impressive gaming gpu able to max everything, other 1 professional 3d designer gpu
Finally, people got the clue if you concern about the sound quality, then the class A is only the way.
Does anyone use this amp with sennheiser hd800s and can give me some feedback .
Does it have enough power to drive these headphones (e.g. 300 ohm)
I love the dry humor.
A hot amp that will melt your heart
Wonderful review! This looks like the best sub 1K amp right now.
Added bonus it can help you heat your house this winter.
I found out another Great feature of this Product. I can open my Beers with the remote 😁
Wow, great review man. Too bad it’s completely worthless to me though. As my main, and really my only use for something like this would be as a preamp. And it would be perfect too. Since I only need the one input anyway. ✌️
Greta made me laugh out loud.
Me too. Especially as she made her first appearance when he said he keeps his apartment at 24-25 degrees. He should have shown a menopausal woman spontaneously combusting from the extra heat. No kidding, I sit around in t-shirts all day too, but my place is 18-19 degrees when I can help it. I guess my body has gone class A.
definitely seems like Topping is in trouble, Aune is coming for them!
@@jazzabana fair point!
I am doubting between this and the Burson Playmate 2 and Fiio A9 Pro.
S17pro is far better by miles
1-Is It autosensing for on off switch?
2-Can the display turn itself off?
3-Is It good as preamp?
4-Can i shoot on or off It by using the remote?
Thank you very much
Hi, it is great amp, but all 4 answers are NO.. point nr. 3: it has some quirks by volume implementation volume steps nr 52 to 55 no change in volume and then bigger step on 56.. also on first step it can be too loud for quiet listening.. but if you have "normal sensitive" headphones it is really great amp, I love it
I’m lucky enough to live somewhere where our electricity is 100% from renewables, so even though going class A raises the power bill, the environmentalist in me is not concerned
Great review as always. However, one suggestion, you should say your name in each video. I have seen your name in the beginning of the videos, but have always wondered how it is pronounced.
Nice video - EBAY Seller in China not far from manufacturer and spoke with manufacturer in person refunded my money - he wont sell it due to it getting to hot - just a thought
One week later there will be a new end-game amp.
I don't think so. I have been waiting for a product like this for a long time, years and years.
More complains with owners over this than other class A amps due to heat and volume control issues. Looking forward to mk2 version.
It would be great to have the names and values of the parts. To be told something like a child irks.
I keep my house at 20-21 Celsius and I still wear tshirts and shorts. I must be cold blooded.
Man I keep my house 68 or 9 f.
I hate the heat:)
Please, call a headphone amp a headphone amp in the title name, and not an amp.
Why?
@@Koopagamelouda
To avoid inducing false expectations. Or: to be more accurate. Or: why not?
I mean just look at the thumbnail pal
@@braydley
And what do we see? A small anonymous box that could be anyting; a dac-amp, an (integrated) amp, a headphone amp..
Misleading Tittle !