The Watercooler-- Impressions, philosophical discussion and general banter. Index on first

Got these now old-school dac amp combos in for some demo-ing. It's insane the performance to form-factor ratio of @iFi audio products.

The Moon 430HAD has a powerful amplifier that drives the Susvara and the TC with aplomb. I still get more holographic stage and perceptibly better treble and midrange detail of my Accuphase e380, but that's that.

In terms of a shoot-out the iFi Pro iDSD is warmer sounding. It's slightly thicker. Bass is more controlled. Overall, the presentation is more on the intimate side of things.

The Moon 430 HAD is a tad brighter leaning. There is also a tad V to the signature especially with crossfeed on. Overall, the presentation is more diffuse, with a more present treble, and a midrange that's just a tad recessed.

I felt my HD800S and Stellia sounded more pleasant on the iFi Pro iDSD.

The Susvara and the LCD5 sounded more enjoyable off the Moon 430 HAD.

Of course, this is comparing amp-dac combos. The iFi DAC is better than the 430 HAD DAC, to my ears. Purely comparing amps, the 430 HAD has the edge, which you would expect given its price.

Sources: Sony DMP-Z1 | Sony WM1ZM2 | Brise Tsuranagi Transducers: Campfire Trifecta + Effect Audio Centurion | Dita Perpetua + Dita Celeste | Aroma Fei Wan (Incoming) + PW Audio Orpheus YT Channel: Amplify Audio Show