My Fiio X1 sounds fantastic. At this price I would not hesitate to get this X5. How good it sounds depends largely on what source files you feed it. If the majority of your tracks are in a basic lossless format, you will be very pleased. If your tracks are in low-bit, compressed formats, save your money and get the Fiio M3.
My X1 sounds best when paired with a headphone amplifier. Don't know if the X5's built-in amp is stout enough to run headphones and buds well without one.
just curious about this device... is it one of those things that only a true audiophile would really appreciate? Like if I'm happy with typical high bit rate mp3 files (128 or 256) would I really need a "lossless" player? and if so, why? just curious
just curious about this device... is it one of those things that only a true audiophile would really appreciate? Like if I'm happy with typical high bit rate mp3 files (128 or 256) would I really need a "lossless" player? and if so, why? just curious
You would only notice the difference in a good listening environment. Listening while on public transportation or walking around will mask any differences. You'll also need good headphones. The original source material must have been well-recorded and then well-encoded. I wouldn't get this to replace a portable mp3 player or using your smartphone. I have a Fiio X1 and I only use it in the house with ATH-M50X headphones. Thing sounds amazing, but is it night and day? No.
Comments & Reviews (4)
My X1 sounds best when paired with a headphone amplifier. Don't know if the X5's built-in amp is stout enough to run headphones and buds well without one.
You would only notice the difference in a good listening environment. Listening while on public transportation or walking around will mask any differences. You'll also need good headphones. The original source material must have been well-recorded and then well-encoded. I wouldn't get this to replace a portable mp3 player or using your smartphone. I have a Fiio X1 and I only use it in the house with ATH-M50X headphones. Thing sounds amazing, but is it night and day? No.
Thank you!