Sugar_FreeBut what about the Amp on the X1S? I haven‘t tried balanced yet with my X7S. Would it really be a noticeable differenc? I don’t really notice a sound difference listening between the X7S and my Micca Origen+ although I’m using the Micca DAC in either case.
Sugar_FreeI bought my X7S used for $225 Canadian. It certainly has lots of power. I tried it on high gain and it was plenty loud with the dial at 9 o’clock. The X7S does get pretty warm though so I can’t leave it on all the time. Perhaps a standalone DAC like the Topping D10 would be a better way to go.
Mark_MYeah, I've heard the X7S is pretty powerful. I would look around on forums and find people's impressions for a X7S/X1S combo. Might be worth the money.
Sugar_FreeYeah perhaps it would be. One thing I noticed on the X1S is that it has no gain switch. The X7S has three gain options which are adjusted on the bottom of the unit. If I bought the X1S it would be at least $300 Canadian. Plus the $225 I already paid for the X7S and that's $525. That's a lot of money for a DAC/amp combo. At least for me it is.
Mark_MIt is. Are you really dissatisfied with your current setup though? With your current setup, I don't think you're going to be benefiting all that much simply by upgrading to a better DAC.
A X7S/X1S might be a great combo but I don't think you'll be benefiting a lot.
Sugar_FreeNo perhaps not. I've tried running the X7S directly from my Macbook Pro via the 3.5mm jack on my MBP. Sound is pretty good to be honest but I do think the Micca DAC is better. The confusing thing is that the volume knob on the Micca controls both the headphone out and line out. There is a switch to control which output is used so there's no need to unplug from one or the other on the Micca. It's just knowing where to set the volume on the Micca and simply adjust on the Aune. The Micca is on low gain and the Aune is on medium gain.