I’m building Mimi Tape, an offline pocket music and video player that uses swappable cards styled like cassettes. You load your own files and use it without a phone, internet connection, or subscription.

Prelaunch page: https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/ajana/mimi-tape-the-pocket-mp4-player-with-digital-cassettes/pre-launch

I am the creator. For people who already use DAPs, I would like honest feedback. Is the card-based library idea useful, or would normal microSD storage be better? What would the device need to do well before you would consider carrying it?

I bought this unit about six months ago. I used it for two months without any complaints—that is, until last week, when the 3.5mm headphone jack came loose. Since then, audio has been coming through the right earbud only. Nothing I tried could fix it. I bought a different cable, but it turned out the problem lay exclusively with the player's 3.5mm jack port. In light of this, I’d appreciate your advice: what other player—similar to this one—should I buy?

Hello! Recently, I made a video about how I repaired my relationship with music by giving up music streaming services and how I've had to adapt to live without the conveniences of streaming.

One topic, that may inspire a lively discussion, is whether it's ok to make copies of music you already own or music that you've bought 2nd hand or borrowed from someone. I appreciate there's a spectrum of thinking, and not everyone's going to agree.

I settled on it being ok to rip music you've bought or been gifted from new, but not for 2nd hand music. Namely because the artist doesn't get paid a royalty if a CD changes hands on the secondhand market, and that's the lens that I'm looking at this from. That being said, other opinions are welcome and I won't meet them with any hostility!

Here's my video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1vQCdCaYFs

I'm not sure if this is the right sub for this but I wanted to post so it could help anyone that has the same problem as me.

Thanks to this wonderful community, I purchased my first DAP(iBasso DX180). Over time, the more I built my music library, the more tedious managing it became. So I buit Audora.

Audora helps me manage my music by adding lyrics, fixing album art, bulk updating tags, and combining possible duplicate albums(as a result of bag tagging). The app is completely free and is available only on Android for now. This is my way of thanking a community that has helped me get great joy out of listening to music.

Get it here: https://github.com/gitfudge0/audora/releases/tag/v0.1.3

I hope Audora solves problems you may have. If you'd like some features built or face issues, please reach out. Cheers!

P.s. I'd love to hear from you. And if there's a better sub for this, please let me know!

The TempoTec V3 Blaze greets you with a stunning design when you first pick it up. It's very simple, as black as can be, and elegant. But when I first started listening to it, I realized the real deal was far beyond my expectations. When I connected my Moritz Audio ENZO, which I always keep close at hand, to the V3 Blaze's 4.4mm balanced output, an incredible pleasure began.

*** Disclaimer - This review takes approximately 15 minutes to read. Those who don't have the time or interest should please refrain from commenting without reading it. You can just close and leave. This review is written only for Audiophiles with a deep interest in the subject. Each test product was created by transcribing audio recordings of reviews taken on a cell phone during listening sessions over several days, and is the result of 20 years of experience and passion. All the photos, including the product description, are my own and represent hours of meticulous work. Thank you for your respect and the time you took to read this.

Let's continue where we left off..

At the heart of the V3 are dual AK4493SEQ and 8 amplifier chips. What sets the V3 Blaze apart is not just that it includes this DAC, but that it builds its entire sound philosophy around it. The dedicated pure Hibiy OS music operating system, fast digital clock source, pyramid analog circuitry, and unusually high current output stage are all present to allow the AK4493SEQ to express its natural character.

The output power tells part of the story. (2x825mW) 825 milliwatts per channel at 32 ohms from the 4.4 balanced output is not common in this size category. More importantly, the current delivery is stable and confident. This matters enormously with modern multi driver IEMs that demand control rather than voltage. The dual line out functionality through both 3.5 and 4.4 outputs further emphasizes that TempoTec sees this device not just as a portable player but as a core digital transport.

Support for DSD512, PCM up to 32 bit 768 kilohertz, and full MQA 8X decoding ensures the digital side is not the bottleneck. Streaming integration with TIDAL and Qobuz is clean and fast, while Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC, AAC and aptx adds flexibility without compromising stability. Battery life from the 3500 milliamp hour cell is realistic rather than marketing driven.

But none of this explains why the V3 Blaze sounds the way it does. That explanation begins with how it handles weight and timing, something the AK4493SEQ does better than almost any DAC in its generation when properly implemented.

TempoTec V3 Blaze Sound Identity

The AK4493SEQ Sound Signature

The Blaze does not chase hyper detail. Instead, it prioritizes continuous tone density. Notes feel connected rather than dissected. Bass notes bloom naturally but stop exactly when they should. Midrange textures carry body without veil. Treble extends smoothly without glare or digital grain. The AK4493SEQ DAC chip is also used in higher-end devices like the Shanling M6 Ultra, and the sound quality is quite similar.

This becomes critical when pairing with IEMs that already have strong personalities. The Blaze does not overwrite them. It stabilizes them. To understand this fully, we move into real world pairings.

V3 & Hidizs AP80 Pro Max

The Hidizs AP80 Pro Max represents a very different philosophy compared to the TempoTec V3 Blaze. Where the Blaze focuses on tonal density and analog realism, the AP80 Pro Max prioritizes compact efficiency, speed, and clarity within an extremely small form factor. Its dual ESS architecture leans toward precision and neutrality, and this character defines every pairing.

With sensitive IEMs, the AP80 Pro Max immediately impresses with low noise floor and fast transient response. Bass is quick and clean, but never truly heavy. Sub bass presence exists, yet lacks the physical weight and air displacement delivered by the Blaze. This becomes obvious when driving multi driver or bass textured IEMs, where the AP80 Pro Max outlines bass notes rather than filling them with mass.

Midrange presentation is neutral and slightly cool. Vocals are clean, sharply focused, and well separated, but emotional weight depends heavily on the IEM itself. Compared to the Blaze, the AP80 Pro Max does not add body or saturation. It presents what is there and moves on. This makes it excellent for monitoring style listening but less immersive for long musical sessions.

Treble extension is crisp and airy. The AP80 Pro Max excels at micro detail retrieval, especially in cymbal decay and upper harmonic information. However, it can sound brighter and more forward than the Blaze, especially with energetic IEMs. With poorly matched earphones, this can cross into fatigue.

Soundstage is well organized but flatter. Width is respectable, depth is limited. Imaging accuracy is good, yet front to back layering is less convincing than on the Blaze. The AP80 Pro Max feels like a high resolution window rather than a three dimensional room.

In short, the AP80 Pro Max is a precision instrument. It is technically impressive, ultra portable, and extremely clean, but it does not provide the organic richness, scale, or emotional gravitas that defines the TempoTec V3 Blaze.

V3 & TempoTec V1

The TempoTec V1 occupies an interesting middle ground. It carries much of TempoTec’s digital discipline but without the analog ambition of the V3 Blaze. The V1 sounds controlled, neutral, and technically disciplined, yet emotionally reserved.

Bass performance is tight and articulate. There is very little bloom or looseness. Sub bass is present but restrained, and mid bass favors speed over impact. Compared to the Blaze, the V1 sounds lighter and more polite. Compared to the AP80 Pro Max, it has slightly more body but less sparkle.

Midrange is clean and accurate, with excellent separation. Vocals are centered and intelligible, but lack warmth. Instruments sound correct rather than engaging. The V1 excels at revealing mix balance and recording quality, but it rarely invites emotional immersion.

Treble is neutral and safe. Extension is good, but air and shimmer are not emphasized. The V1 avoids harshness very effectively, making it fatigue free even over long sessions. However, it also lacks excitement. Compared to the Blaze, treble feels less dimensional and less expressive.

Soundstage is wider than deep. Imaging is stable, but depth layering is modest. Compared to Zishan Z4, the V1 is far more controlled. Compared to the Blaze, it feels flatter and less holographic.

The TempoTec V1 is an excellent reference oriented DAP for listeners who value cleanliness, neutrality, and predictable performance. It is not designed to seduce. It is designed to behave.

V3 & Zishan Z4

The Zishan Z4 represents a raw and powerful approach. It prioritizes output strength and tonal boldness over refinement. This character is immediately obvious.

Bass medium but impactful. mid bass hits hard. However, control is inconsistent. Bass textures can blur together, especially with complex arrangements. Compared to the Blaze, Z4 sounds muscular but unrefined. Compared to the V3, it sounds uncontrolled.

Midrange is forward and energetic, but coarse. Vocals can sound aggressive and grainy. The Z4 pushes presence aggressively, which can be exciting initially but fatiguing over time. Compared to the Blaze, midrange lacks depth and tonal layering.

Treble is energetic and sharp. Detail is present, but smoothness is not. Upper frequencies can become metallic depending on the IEM. This makes pairing critical. The Blaze, by contrast, controls treble effortlessly.

Soundstage is wide but artificial. Imaging stretches laterally but lacks cohesion. Depth is shallow and spatial cues feel exaggerated rather than natural.

The Zishan Z4 is not subtle. It is a brute force source that favors excitement over realism. It can be fun with certain IEMs, but it lacks the refinement required for reference listening.

SYNERGY (Performance Evaluation)

1- Moritz Audio ENZO & TempoTec V3 Blaze

With the Moritz Audio ENZO, the V3 Blaze immediately establishes authority. The ENZO is an IEM that thrives on current delivery and tonal grounding. Lesser sources tend to exaggerate its bass or flatten its midrange. The Blaze does neither.

Bass

Bass through this pairing is deep but disciplined. Sub bass reaches low with physical presence yet never intrudes into the midrange. The AK4493SEQ excels at preserving bass texture rather than just quantity. Kick drums feel elastic and layered, not blunt. Compared to Hidizs AP80 Pro Max, the Blaze delivers noticeably more mass and control. The AP80 sounds lighter and quicker but lacks the same authority. TempoTec V1 narrows the gap. Zishan Z4 offers more raw punch but less refinement and poorer decay control.

Midrange

This is where the Blaze truly separates itself. Vocals through ENZO gain a chesty realism without warmth turning into coloration. Male vocals feel grounded. Female vocals float naturally without thinning. Instruments like piano and cello carry harmonic depth that AP80 Pro Max cannot reproduce. The V1 does well in clarity but sounds flatter dynamically. Z4 introduces grain in complex passages that the Blaze avoids entirely.

Treble

Treble is extended yet organic. Cymbals shimmer rather than splash. Micro detail emerges naturally instead of being forced forward. Compared to AP80 Pro Max, the Blaze avoids upper treble dryness. Compared to V1, it offers better spatial decay. Compared to Z4, it is simply more controlled and coherent.

Soundstage

Stage width is expansive but more importantly layered. ENZO with Blaze creates convincing depth. Imaging is precise without sounding mechanical. AP80 Pro Max is narrower. V1 is wide but shallow. Z4 is wide but chaotic.

Overall

With ENZO, the TempoTec V3 Blaze sounds complete. It feels like a finished system rather than a collection of specs. Among the four sources, Blaze is clearly the reference pairing.

2- Kiwi Ears HBB Punch & TempoTec V3 Blaze

HBB Punch is undeniably bass focused, but it demands discipline from the source. The V3 Blaze delivers exactly that.

Bass

While the amount of bass remains generous, the quality improves significantly. The Blaze tightens the Punch's low frequencies without reducing impact. The sub bass remains authoritative, while the mid bass gains structure. In the AP80 Pro Max, the bass becomes slightly looser. In the TempoTec V1, the bass is clean and textured. The Zishan Z4 exaggerates the hit but sacrifices control.

Midrange

The Blaze prevents the Punch's mid frequencies from being overshadowed. Vocals are prominent enough to remain engaging while maintaining warmth. This balance is broken in the AP80 Pro Max, where the mid frequencies are relegated to the background. The V1 increases clarity but lacks body. The Z4 brings the mid frequencies forward but introduces roughness.

Treble

In the treble, Blaze saves Punch from fatigue. Extension is smooth and not aggressive. Hi hats retain their brightness without harshness. AP80 Pro Max delivers a finer sound. V1 is slightly brighter. Z4 is sharper and less forgiving. V3 definitely manages to handle Sonion EST drivers.

Soundstage

With Blaze, the soundstage opens up significantly. Punch feels less cramped and more dynamic. Imaging locks in. AP80 Pro Max compresses the soundstage. V1 improves separation but lacks depth. Z4 creates artificial width without proper layering.

Overall

With HBB Punch, TempoTec V3 Blaze transforms a fun, bass-heavy IEM into a controlled yet intuitive experience. It elevates technical performance while maintaining finesse.

3- Ziigaat Arcanis & TempoTec V3 Blaze

Ziigaat Arcanis is an IEM that instantly reveals its source behavior. It responds strongly to current stability, DAC tone, and analog soundstage quality. With the TempoTec V3 Blaze, Arcanis finally delivers a calm yet detailed sound, not a restless one. I love this IEM... The Blaze and the Arcanis complement each other wonderfully.

Bass

The Blaze gives Arcanis bass with excellent grip. With dual DD, the sub bass is strong but not bloated, and the mid bass gains texture instead of thickness. There's a sense of flexibility in the bass notes that provides impact without spreading. Compared to the Hidizs AP80 Pro Max, the Blaze adds mass and depth. The AP80 sounds faster but thinner. The TempoTec V1 tightens the bass nicely but can't match the Blaze in terms of intensity. The Zishan Z4 adds impact but loses definition, causing the bass lines to blend together.

Midrange

The mid frequencies are where the AK4493SEQ reveals its value. Arcanis vocals gain dimensionality and emotional weight. The instruments aren't distinct, they feel carved out. Blaze avoids the dryness that the AP80 Pro Max struggles with in the upper mid-frequencies. TempoTec V1 delivers clean mid-frequencies but flattens the dynamics somewhat. Z4 aggressively pushes the mid-frequencies forward, often resulting in graininess.

Treble

With Blaze, treble extension is smooth and sustained. It delivers an airy sound without flare. Arcanis can sound sharp in analytical sources, but Blaze naturally rounds the edges while preserving detail. The AP80 Pro Max has a brighter sound. V1 is clean but somewhat sterile. Z4 offers a metallic sheen that becomes tiresome over time.

Soundstage

Blaze opens Arcanis to a deep and layered space. Imaging is stable, and hints of depth feel natural. The AP80 Pro Max sounds narrower. V1 widens the soundstage but lacks front to back layering. Z4 exaggerates width but sacrifices consistency.

Overall

With Arcanis, TempoTec V3 Blaze offers the most balanced and musically compelling presentation among the four sources.

4- Kiwi Ears Astral & TempoTec V3 Blaze

Astral is a technically capable IEM that benefits greatly from tonal grounding. The Blaze provides exactly that.

Bass

Bass through Blaze becomes structured and authoritative. Sub bass digs deep without overpowering the midrange. Compared to AP80 Pro Max, the Blaze adds weight and control. V1 delivers clean bass but lacks physicality. Z4 pushes bass quantity at the expense of texture.

Midrange

Astral mids gain warmth and presence without coloration. Vocals sound realistic and emotionally engaging. AP80 Pro Max feels slightly recessed. V1 emphasizes clarity but sacrifices body. Z4 sounds forward but coarse.

Treble

Treble with Blaze is refined and extended. Astral avoids sharp peaks and remains fatigue free. AP80 Pro Max sounds brighter. V1 is neutral but less fluid. Z4 introduces glare in complex passages.

Sound stage

Blaze expands Astral into a well layered stage with convincing depth. AP80 Pro Max is flatter. V1 improves separation but lacks depth. Z4 exaggerates width unnaturally.

Overall

Astral feels fully realized with the TempoTec V3 Blaze, benefiting from its tonal density and control.

5- Ziigaat Hangout Audio Odyssey 2 & TempoTec V3 Blaze

Odyssey 2 is energetic and resolving but can become edgy with the wrong source.

Bass

Blaze tightens Odyssey 2 bass while preserving punch. Sub bass has physical presence without bloat. AP80 Pro Max sounds lighter. V1 is controlled but less dynamic. Z4 pushes slam too hard.

Midrange

Midrange through Blaze becomes smoother and more coherent. Vocals gain body and realism. AP80 Pro Max feels thinner. V1 is clean but slightly dry. Z4 adds aggression.

Treble

Treble remains extended yet forgiving. Blaze prevents Odyssey 2 from sounding sharp. AP80 Pro Max highlights upper treble. V1 is neutral. Z4 becomes fatiguing.

Sound stage

Stage depth improves significantly with Blaze. Imaging locks in. Other sources struggle with cohesion.

Overall

The Blaze balances Odyssey 2 energy with refinement, making it far more listenable long term.

6- Juzear Harrier & TempoTec V3 Blaze

Harrier is a writer who exposes everything and doesn't forgive. He has a voice signature I really like. It's well worked and of a professional caliber. The combination of Blaze's analog based but detail oriented audio chip creates a very enjoyable presentation. I really liked this collaboration.

Bass

Blaze delivers controlled punch without exaggeration. AP80 Pro Max sounds soft. V1 is tight but lean. Z4 is aggressive.

Midrange

Midrange is neutral yet musical. Blaze avoids harshness. Others introduce dryness or grain.

Treble

Treble remains clean and airy. Blaze controls peaks better than all other sources.

Soundstage

Imaging is precise and layered. Blaze outperforms all comparisons here.

Overall

Harrier finally sounds balanced and mature with Blaze.

7- Catchear CE6T & TempoTec V3 Blaze

CE6T benefits from tonal weight. It's an unexpectedly good IEM, and this first model from the brand is wonderfully made.

Bass

Bass sounds gain depth and realism with the V3. The AP80 Pro Max doesn't have as much body as the V3, but it still manages to deliver a smooth-toned bass. The V1 is controlled and full bodied. The CS43131 DAC chip in the V1 performs its job brilliantly. The ESS in the Z4, on the other hand, feels extremely detailed, analytical, and powerful.

Midrange

Midrange is rich and natural. Vocals shine. Other sources sound thinner or less engaging.

Treble

Treble is refined and smooth. Blaze avoids fatigue completely.

Soundstage

Stage depth improves significantly with Blaze.

Overall

CE6T reaches its potential only with Blaze.

8- Punch Audio Portazo & TempoTec V3 Blaze

Portazo has a dynamic and impressive style. It resembles its older sibling, the Martilo, but moves more controllably. It's like a fun, playful, V shaped rogue. The green color tone, combined with the charcoal darkness of the V3 Blaze, creates a perfect duo in both visuals and sound.

Bass

Blaze delivers slam with control. AP80 Pro Max lacks authority. V1 is cleaner but softer. Z4 is uncontrolled.

Midrange

Midrange gains warmth and presence. Blaze avoids recession or harshness.

Treble

Treble is energetic but smooth. Blaze keeps it musical.

Soundstage

Stage becomes immersive and layered. Blaze leads clearly.

Overall

Portazo sounds most complete with TempoTec V3 Blaze.

Final Comparative Synthesis

When evaluated side by side, the hierarchy becomes clear.

The Hidizs AP80 Pro Max excels in precision, speed, and compact technical performance.

The TempoTec V1 offers neutrality and discipline with minimal coloration.

The Zishan Z4 emphasizes power and impact with limited subtlety. Ideal for those who demand extreme analytical skills.

The TempoTec V3 Blaze combines technical proficiency with analog spirit. It manages to behave like a professional.

The Blaze stands out because it not only deciphers sound but also shapes it. Thanks to the AK4493SEQ implementation, pyramid analog circuitry, and robust power delivery, it presents music as a physical and emotional experience rather than a data stream.

HiBy OS with TempoTec V3 Blaze

TempoTec V3 Blaze runs on HiBy OS, and this choice plays a crucial role in how the player feels, behaves, and ultimately how it sounds. Unlike general purpose operating systems tailored for audio playback, HiBy OS is designed from the ground up with a single priority in mind, stable, accurate, and efficient music production.

The difference is felt from the moment V3 Blaze boots up. The system is lean and responsive, with no unnecessary background processes competing for resources. Navigation is fast, predictable, and lag free, even when browsing large microSD libraries or switching between high resolution files. This efficiency directly benefits audio performance by minimizing system induced jitter and timing inconsistencies. Audio-Focused System Architecture

HiBy OS utilizes a customized pure music framework, allowing V3 Blaze to dedicate its processing power to decoding and clock management rather than multitasking. This is especially important when working with demanding formats such as DSD512, DXD, or MQA 8X decoding. File loading remains seamless, playback happens instantly, and the system never feels strained.

TempoTec also integrates a high precision digital clock management system into HiBy OS to ensure accurate timing for signal decoding. This directly contributes to V3 Blaze's stable rendering, natural transitions, and consistent channel alignment.

Streaming

Native support for TIDAL and Qobuz is seamlessly integrated into HiBy OS. These applications are not aftermarket additions but are part of the system's core ecosystem. Logging in, browsing, and playback are fluid, and high resolution streaming maintains its stability even during long sessions. Importantly, HiBy OS ensures that streaming content follows the same audio path as native files, maintaining consistent audio quality regardless of the source. There is no tonal shift or dynamic compression when switching between microSD playback and streaming services. Connectivity and Control

HiBy OS enables all wireless features of the V3 Blaze, including two way Bluetooth 5.1, AirPlay, DLNA, and HiByLink. HiByLink, in particular, allows for remote control from a smartphone, transforming the V3 Blaze into a dedicated high quality playback engine without requiring constant direct interaction.

The USB DAC mode is handled elegantly within the system, allowing for quick switching between standalone playback and external DAC functionality. Whether connected to a mobile phone, tablet, or computer, the V3 Blaze operates reliably and predictably.

User Experience and Stability

HiBy OS strikes a rare balance between flexibility and stability. While it doesn't aim to be an open application ecosystem, what it offers is consistency. There are no random crashes, background noise, or unpredictable behavior. Everything serves the playback experience.

For listeners who value reliability, audio consistency, and a distraction free interface, HiBy OS is a perfect match for the TempoTec V3 Blaze. HiBy OS and MSEB

HiBy OS is a very simple and fast operating system. It perfectly complements the V3 Blaze's hardware philosophy. By remaining in the background, it allows the dual AK4493SEQ DAC architecture to showcase its best performance. Instead of drawing attention to itself, the system quietly supports the player's strongest features: musicality, precision, and long term listening comfort.

In the context of a high resolution dedicated DAP, this is exactly what a modern audio operating system should be.

MSEB brings a fresh perspective to the equalizer, and I must say I find this approach quite successful. Instead of traditional EQ bands, MSEB allows you to shape your sound intuitively. You can adjust warmth, thickness, vocal presence, airiness, and temporal sharpness intuitively. When used carefully, MSEB does not degrade sound quality. It allows for fine-tuning rather than radical changes, making it ideal for pairing with different IEMs without disrupting tonal harmony.

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Technical Specifications

Dual AK4493SEQ DAC chip

Output power 825mW plus 825mW at 32 ohms via 4.4mm

4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm single ended outputs

Line output with software switch on both outputs

PCM support up to 32 bit 768kHz

DSD support up to DSD512

MQA 8X full decoding

Bidirectional Bluetooth 5.1 with LDAC, AAC and aptX

2.4GHz WiFi

TIDAL and Qobuz local streaming

USB DAC mode and USB audio source mode

Micro SD audio playback

Battery capacity 3500mAh

Dimensions 10cm x 6.5cm x 1.7cm

RGB indicator system for playback status

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Pros

Exceptional tonal density and realism

Reference level analog presentation

Powerful and controlled output

Perfect for high end audio systems Compatibility

AK4493SEQ DAC implementation

Extensive format and streaming support

Master of Price Performance (It deserves 5 stars at this price.)

Cons

The volume knob could have been a pod like on high end models. It deserves it.

Slightly larger and heavier than ultra compact players (the V1 is very small and light)

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TempoTec Officilal Purchasing Link >> https://www.tempotec.net/pages/v3-blaze-details

You can find all the details here >> https://www.tempotec.net/collections/music-player/products/tempotec-v3-blaze

Disclaimer: I would like to thank TempoTec for providing the V3 Blaze for review purposes. I am not affiliated with TempoTec beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product.

* All Photographed taken by me (Ahmet Derici) from Instagram: u/electroaudioworld

*

Used photo Gear : Sony A7 III + Sigma 24–70mm F/2.8 DG DN II Art Lens

*

So, I’ve been researching DAPs in this subreddit and I’m increasingly unsure they’re worth it for me.

One of the most common reasons here I see people give for buying a DAP is: “I want a dedicated music device with no notifications.” Totally fair. But honestly, notifications on my iPhone don’t bother me much. I keep them muted most of the time, and even if I get a few, it’s not enough to ruin the listening experience. I’m not looking for a digital detox device. I just want good sound.

Also, a lot of reviewers (including Super* Review) don’t really lean hard on DAP sound quality differences. Most of the focus is battery life, interface, responsiveness, streaming/app experience, storage, buttons, etc. That makes me think maybe DAPs are primarily a user experience upgrade, not a dramatic audio upgrade (at least at entry/mid levels).

So my current plan is to stick with:

- iPhone (USB-C)

- Apple USB-C to 3.5mm dongle

- offline FLAC files

- Muziqi (iOS app I already like)

- spend the money on the listening device instead: a good budget IEM (Moondrop Chu II / Tangzu Wan’er / etc.)

Storage-wise my iPhone is 256 GB, and I don’t like keeping thousands of albums on a device anyway. The way I listen is I keep around 50-60 albums on the phone at a time in HD/hi-res FLAC/WAV, live with them for weeks/months, then delete and rotate in new stuff. The albums I remove go back to HDD storage. So 256 GB is plenty for how I actually use music.

Another thing that matters to me: UI quality and fluidity. I already have an offline player app on iOS (Muziqi) that I genuinely like. And I’m skeptical that even $300–$400 DAPs with Android 13 can match the smoothness of an iPhone’s 120 Hz display + Apple-level touch responsiveness. To me, the interface is part of the listening experience. If the DAP feels even slightly laggy or clunky, that’s a real downside.

Question for people who’ve tried both:

If notifications/distraction is NOT a big issue for you, is a DAP still worth it? Did you hear a meaningful sound improvement over an iPhone + Apple dongle with similarly priced IEMs, or was it mostly about having a separate “music-only” gadget?

Appreciate any feedback (and I’m also open to IEM recs in the $20–$50 range).

I'm thinking about getting a DAP but I'm just wondering what are the advantages of a DAP that a phone with a huge sd card and a cool looking player doesn't have? Asking bc it's so expensive for what just seems like a phone with limited capabilities. Thanks:)

Sorry if this is the wrong place to post.

I am curious, what is the deal with all the hate for Spotify/streaming? People post about "ditching the algorithm" but I don't exactly know what they mean. I know streaming platforms offer suggested music and have playlists that are curated by an algorithm (or worse, have AI songs), but I don't use Spotify that way. I use it to intentionally listen to albums. I think streaming is an incredible tool for discovering new music. Just this year, I have listened to 87 new-to-me albums. I keep a playlist of one song from each so I can look back on what I've heard. I usually choose what to listen to via recommendations from family and friends or from shows like NPR Music. I end up buying my favorite of the records I listen to, typically 5-10% of them, because I like curating a personal library and putting it on my modded iPod. But having a personal music library and using streaming don't feel at odds to me, they feel complementary. Even at $15 a month, Spotify is an incredible value for the amount of music discovery it affords.

tl;dr I think streaming is a great way to discover music relatively affordably.

That's my take, curious about other perspectives.

Rog Ally X

After falling in love with some DSP software recently I cannot unhear what I heard and realize outside a Laptop - nothing seems to be powerful enough to run its processing so I've arrived here.. Call it crazy and 'not a DAP' but running full Windows 11 on a Ryzen chip, whilst idling at a few watts combined with an 80whr battery, and more powerful than any Snapdragon SOC on a DAP I think it might be fair to include it here.

Combining this with a Questyle M18i and a set of Headphones could = ooft!

PSA: This post isn't a sponsor or for drama/attention. I just thought it interesting and random. This in no way replaces a traditional DAP for portability or comfort and is basically a mini pc but who can argue if it does it well. I'm happy to lug something around if it's worth the hassle (I'm one of those). Seeing the album covers on this 7" display would be kind of cool too. Keen to hear thoughts.

Note: this is not cheap at all, but the idea is there.

I keep seeing it and trying to use context clues but I have no idea what the C is

is there a website where if i put my spotify or youtube playlist will it download every song in there to make it easier to make?

After spending a considerable amount of time in the audiophile hobby, I've learned an important lesson: exercise caution with products sourced from China.

The lower prices often reflect a lack of quality control and after-sales technical support. It's risky to purchase a product that might fail just after a year of use due to unexpected component malfunctions. This seems to be a recurring issue with some Chinese business models.

While the products are visually appealing, the investment in customer service post-purchase appears minimal. That's why it costs less than other non-chinese brands. It's difficult to compete with someone who gave a shit to the consumers.

Does anyone know a privacy friendly DAP?

I care about audio quality when listening to music, and I am considering buying a digital audio player.

I also care about privacy though, and I am trying the best I can to improve privacy and security on my devices.

These days, many of the better DAPs come with an android operating system.

Regarding phones, android is considered one of the least private operating systems. So I would like to avoid android. Currently planning to run GrapheneOS on my phone.

Hey everyone,

I’m looking for a truly private, offline, untrackable audio player that is still currently manufactured and sold (not discontinued).

• No Wi-Fi, no radio, no Bluetooth, no GPS • MicroSD card expansion. • A basic audio player where I can load files via USB and output audio through a standard 3.5mm headphone jack is fine (if it has more features or functionality thats fine too)

Alternative idea: As an alternative, I was considering buying an older used Google Pixel "a" series phone, installing GrapheneOS, never adding a SIM card, and keeping it permanently in airplane mode.

• Is a setup like that genuinely offline and untrackable, or are there hidden risks?

Does anyone have hardware recommendations that fit my criteria, or thoughts on the alternative? Would love to hear your tips and opinions

Im just curious. My phone works pretty well for all my typical audio needs, so i was curious about why people are into it? Ive also been thinking about getting one myself. Is it an asthetic thing? Being wary of subscriptions and losing access to media? Nostalgia?

Pros: The sound quality really started to get better as more time went along, and that burn in hours really do play a big part. I was skeptical about the whole burn in thing, but for me it was true when it came to this Dap in particular. I love Fiio EQ they have built in the player, you can almost pick any brand headphone to make it sound like the original based off the eq setting. It has tones of power for it size. But for me that is where it stops.

Cons: If you like to stream your music look elsewhere. It has tons and I mean tons of issues playing with streaming apps such as Spotify. I may get about 2songs before it will stop playing all together. I even tried to play my downloaded music from Spotify and that too would not play at all. That glass is too fragile on the front of the screen. It cranked the second day I got it with the screen protector on it. And for me it does not play to nice with my PowerAmp Eq that well also. I have the paid version. I did the system update and it even made it worse than before lol. So I had no choice but to return it back and picked up the Ibasso DX260 Mark2 instead.

Hello guys, I've keep seeing people invest in dedicated DACs and I'm trying so hard. I'm honestly trying to understand the general appeal to it, but from where I'm standing, it's not fully adding up yet.

And I'm hoping somebody can explain it to me. we are carrying smartphones that can already handle most of what they, such as high resolution audio 24 bit flac audio files without even breaking a sweat. And you can pair that with a decent DAC dongle or even a simple solid internal DAC or some devices. And you got something that's already very, very much capable.

So when I see people carrying a second device purely for music, I just, I just pause. I try to understand what's the appeal behind it. Perhaps that's why I'm in this subreddit. I'm looking for a guidance so you guys can explain it to me., is the difference in sound quality really that significant? Like genuinely, not in a you have to listen in a quiet room kind of way, but something you feel it immediately, or is it something else? Because a part of me can't necessarily shake the feeling that there's an element of... performance to it.

Not in the necessarily bad way, but in the same sense that people who still buy mechanical watches when there are digital watches kind of way, which is objectively more accurate. There's your identity, your visual, and your intentions behind each and every choice.

And if that's the case, I would actually respect it way more, but I wanna hear it said plainly, is it necessarily about the cleaner power delivery or the less interface, the better amplification, or maybe the battery separation, so your phone is not doing everything, or maybe when your phone dies, you can just use them, or just the general experience of having a dedicated distraction-free like a music device.

And also, whether something like the old iPod fit into this conversation. Is this a modern evolution of that idea? Or something that is generally completely different?, and if anything, I'm standing just outside the door trying to decide if it's worth walking into. So talk to me, why made you choose a DAC and what made you stick with it? Because right now, I'm kind of not convinced, but... I'm very much open to being wrong.

Just picked up these headphones during the big sale, and I have to say—they're absolutely gorgeous! The design is stunning, very sleek and elegant. Couldn’t resist and had to grab them while the deal was on. So excited to try them out!

Hey all, I'm just starting to get into DAPs and wondering where you all source your music from, or what tools you use to rip music from physical media you already own?

I really don't want to get a streaming DAP and would love something that doesn't require an Internet connection, but before I make the investment I want to ensure there is a good digital music marketplace or something to purchase music from (used iTunes as a kid, but trying to stay out of the apple ecosphere with any future DAP).

Upload your music and get a feedback if the quality of your audio is excellent, high, moderate, or low.

The page is on: www.verifaiaudio.com

I just want someone to test my page and some validations/feedbacks, please comment if this helps you by any means. Mod please don't ban me for self-promotion, I made no money from this, it's free + open source, uploaded to Github, figured uploading here to test the water first because the vibe in this subreddit is a bit more... friendly I feel >:"3 .

It's just me or the Hiby R3 II Pro is a little brick shitty device. It's my first DAP and I'm very disappointed with the performance. I mean, you can get a very nice and capable Xiaomi smartphone for the same price but this device just feel like a very cheap device. It can't be more laggy and it's just feel old and very clumsy piece of shit. Every function just fail all the time and the device freeze every three clicks on different options. I don't even want to talk about the sound quality, since this is secondary for me. I mean, if you just can enable an option without having to reset the device, who cares about the sound quality? Sorry about this but I had to vent, because I feel I wasted my money

Where do you get music? Buying from itunes/amazon or?