XDuoo X3 Digital Audio Player Discussions | Drop

Click to view our Accessibility Statement or contact us with accessibility-related questions

Free Standard Shipping in the US on orders over $99

XDuoo X3 Digital Audio Player

Audiophile

Showing 1 of 127 conversations about:

XDuoo X3 Digital Audio Player

werekong

Nov 9, 2017

I'm looking for a higher performance DAP but small and thin (the smaller the better). The X3 seems a little chunky. I'm considering the Cayin N3, the SONY Walkman A series NW-A35, the Astell & Kern AK Jr. and the Hidizs AP60 (even though I'm not sure that it's much better than the Fiio M3 that I own). Any performance endorsements of any of these or others that may fit my requirements?

A community member

Nov 11, 2017

werekongYou could drop Sony, it is such a disappointment for me, I use it only to warm up phones.

Vote

werekong

Nov 11, 2017

I'm surprised. I have a couple of older less expensive Sony's that served their purpose. Do you have a recommendation from your own personal experience?

Vote

A community member

Nov 11, 2017

werekongI am surprised too, I expected the best from Sony. xDuoo X3 is just amazing sound with all its interface troubles (fixed in RockBox), I am tempted to buy another one, just in case. I also own three (3) FiiO X5ii, i love them greatly and was disappointing by latest FiiO offering, I also use Shanling M1 (did not like M2, may be M3 will feel better), also I own two FiiO X3ii (one for work one for home). Never learned to like Astell&Kern but please mind my preference for classical music and jazz.

Vote

A community member

Nov 11, 2017

i look forward to check Hidizs AP200 and FiiO X3iii.

Vote

werekong

Nov 11, 2017

Besides the Sony's, I own a Hidizs AP100.......great performance & built like a tank (it's flown out of its bike holder onto the pavement (I ride in a park.....no cars)......twice!), but it's bigger than I would like for my main use......on the go & that's why I bought the Fiio M3......hangs from my neck on a lanyard (arm bands are not my favorite). Its the perfect size and I can't complain about performance. However, I'm always looking for my own personal "Holy Grail". I was drawn to the the Astell & Kern AK Jr., because of the the Astell & Kern reputation and smallish size, but I have read reviews that said that it doesn't sound any better than players like the Cayin N3.............it's hard to decide when you don't actually listen to the player, especially when reviews are conflicting.
I did consider the xDoo X3 when I bought the M3, but I thought that it was too chunky .......unlike many audio buffs, I like an equalizer (I don't think that it has one). In addition to the M3 and the Sonys', I also own a Cowon J3, a Cowon D2 or D3 (I forgot which), another really tiny Cowon, & some Sansa players (including three Clips). BTW, my musical preference is Rock and various of its subcategories, especially Garage Rock. Jazz is not my cup of tea. I can listen to classical (for example, Rimsky Korsakov's Scheherazade is a favorite of mine), but I usually don't.

Vote

A community member

Nov 11, 2017

werekongi forgot about my Aune M1s, latest addition, again clunky interface, etc, but what a sound! I stopped looking for a "Holy Grail" concerning sound, FiiO X5ii and Aune M1s are as good as it gets IMXO. FiiO X7 is good too but I do not hear difference with FiiO X5ii and do not need Android. I listened for last couple years from up and down (including A&K 380, iBasso 200, etc.) and learned to trust my hearing not the hype or so called "unbiased" reviews. So far any really good sounding DAP is bulky but for on the move I use Shanling M1, it is really small and I like the sound with Dunu Titan 1 or Magaosi K3 Pro. And Shanling M1 is relatively cheap.

Vote

werekong

Nov 11, 2017

I've seen Shanling on head-fi, but didn't think that they offered a player suitable for my purposes. Based on your post. I just did a quick check of the Shanling M1 and it might be what I'm looking for. If the Fiio X5ii and Aune are as good as it gets in terms of sound, how far beneath them is the M1? Originally, I was probably leaning toward the Cayin N3, and the SONY NW-A35. You kind of turned me off of the Sony. Now the N3 and M1 top the list, with a slight nod to the M1 because it's smaller. You haven't mentioned the N3 so I assume you don't have experience with it. Do you have any other relevant info about the M1?...........i.e. does it have away to attach a lanyard (not a deal breaker if it doesn't, but it would be a plus if it does), does it have an equalizer, how about a "hold" button, etc.?

Vote

A community member

Nov 11, 2017

werekongI was not impressed by N3 at all therefore I have nothing to say. Definitely M1 is other class than audiophile x5ii or m1s but these are not comfortable for mobile use and their batteries yield faster. Still for all the mobile purposes M1 is great and has all the bells and whistles you mentioned and more including good Bluetooth sound. At home I use it sometimes with Lars&Ivan portable tube amp and love it.

Vote

werekong

Nov 11, 2017

I think that you may have sold me. How would you compare the M1 with the Xduoo X3 in terms of performance? Is there a clear difference, or would you classify both as being close? If listening to each blindfolded, could you identify which was which? Thanks for all the info........I appreciate it.

Vote

A community member

Nov 12, 2017

werekongXDuoo X3 more has resolving, more aggressive and more dynamic sound but nonexistent service qualities, m1 has warmer but still pleasant sound and for mobile goals m1 is definitely better that is why I have both:).

Vote

werekong

Nov 13, 2017

If you'd prefer to end this discussion, let me know, but when I find someone knowledgeable I tend to try to pick (over-pick?) their brain. While checking out the m1 further, I saw the m2 which, although a little larger, sounded good from the reviews I saw. But then I remembered that you initially said that you didn't like it, so the m1 remained on top of my list. Then I found a review of the hidizs AP60, a player that I was originally considering, but dismissed because of its relatively low price (in the neighborhood of the price of my fiio M3, so I thought that it probably wouldn't be much better than the M3, if at all). Then I read a review of the AP60 saying that it had the same chipset as the shanling M1. Since the AP60 is about $90, if its performance was close to the M1, I would probably lean toward it not only because of its lower price but also because I own the hidizs AP100 and am satisfied with it . Do you have an opinion on the AP60? What about the M1 and AP60 sharing the same chip-set, is that significant, or or there other important variables to be considered (I have little knowledge of a player's internal components)?

Vote

A community member

Nov 13, 2017

werekongfirstly, the same chip-set does not mean the same realization, FiiO X3ii and xDuoo X3 have the same chip but sound differently, and xDuoo X10 with great Akai chip I did not like at all and gave it away. I like X3ii and X3 but with better interface would give preference to xDuoo with all due respect to FiiO. secondly, final decision is done by listening, no opinion would help - my personal experience. Now I wait to listen to FiiO X3iii and HIdizs AP200.

Vote

werekong

Nov 13, 2017

The info about the chip-set was very helpful. The only way I can listen to both would be to order both, and send back the one I didn't like. Is that what you do? I've never done anything like that before, and it seems like a waste of time, money, and effort to me, especially if bought from two different sources, Amazon and eBay for example.

Vote

A community member

Nov 13, 2017

werekongi do not think it is too big price to pay to send one back as long as you do not like one, but, perhaps, you will love both of them:). I do not rely on only one player, what if one brakes:(

Vote

werekong

Nov 13, 2017

I see your point, but I guess that I'm old school. When I buy something, it's with the intent that I will keep it, not just to preview it. In the case of players and iems as well, I couldn't really justify keeping more than one since I already have what should be enough.....two or three could break, and I would still have a backup.
Having said that, I will consider ordering both the Shanling M1 and Hidizs AP60 and keeping the better value of the two, even though it's distasteful for me to pack up the one I don't want and return it. Do you recommend buying from the same source even if one of the players is cheaper elsewhere, or, if that's that case, from the 2 cheapest sources? Amazon is the only source that I've made returns to and they seem pretty good about it (no restocking fee, no hassle). Can you recommend other sources that also are good with returns? How about eBay?

Vote

Mikehersh

Dec 23, 2017

werekongAK JR is an orphaned device, no updates in a long while. It has weird glitches like occasionally the volume surges to maximum, which is painful and potentially damaging to your hearing. The interface is clumsey and requires a lot of clicking and scrolling. It doesn’t play dsd formats natively, and cannot play them gaplessply or via the wonky bluetooth connection. No WiFi, not easy to use, not great for the price.

Vote

werekong

Dec 23, 2017

MikehershThanks for your comment. I have moved on from the AK JR and now the Shanling M1 is my new purchase target but the the Xduoo X2 also interests me. A small size and excellent sound are most important to me. Any further input on either or both of these will be appreciated.

Vote

FOBean

125

Dec 24, 2017

werekongI have owned the Sony Walkman NW-A35 for about a month now, and I don't see what everyone is complaining about? It took me MONTHS to do the research and finally settle on the Sony Walkman, and I couldn't be ANY happier. It sounds amazing, has around a 30-40 HOUR rechargeable battery (even with my 24/96 FLACs), and is really tiny taboot! On top of that, the Sony NW-A35 can handle Micro SD Cards UP TO 2TB EACH! I don't know of ANY other DAP that can handle a Micro SD Card that huge in the future!
And on top of all of that, I got an extra 4 year warranty for only $40 through Best Buy. So for under $300 total, I'm a VERY satisfied customer so far! Plus I've owned a Sony Walkman since I was like 8 years old (cassette Walkman's back then lol), and I still remember the Sony Pro Walkman that was all yellow that I got for my 13th birthday! All I can honestly say about most Sony products is that they are very well built with cool features and functions, and usually ALWAYS stand the test of time! In fact, my yellow Walkman that's 24+ years old still plays a cassette with zero issues! How's that for the test of time? 😎👍

FOBean

125

Dec 24, 2017

FOBeanOh and I am mainly listening to my 24bit FLACs that I record myself with HQ mics and Recording gear! And I have my FiiO E11k Kilimanjaro 2 HP Amp paired with my new Walkman. Since I don't compress the hell outta my recordings like they do to an artists albums released to the public, I need the FiiO E11K to give me that extra little bit of gain/volume for the absolute perfect listening experience!
But once again, I absolutely LOVE my new Walkman and I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting a small but HQ DAP. I was able to get (2) 128gb SanDisk Micro SD Cards from Sam's Club recently on sale for only $30/each, so for $60, I got the two 128gb Micro SD Cards, and I am a VERY happy camper 🎙️🎧

Vote

Ademarco

Feb 3, 2018

werekongI have the Cayin N3 and it's a mixed bag. The controls are infurating. I picked it because of the Bluetooth so I basically use it in my car. It sounds great and drives all my IEM's no prob. I just hate touching it.

Vote

werekong

Feb 3, 2018

AdemarcoThanks. Other people have criticized the N3, as well..........same with the Xduoo X2 and AK JR . I have yet to have a negative review of the Shanling M1 so I'm leaning toward it.

Vote

View Full Discussion

PRODUCTS YOU MAY LIKE

Massdrop x Sennheiser HD 6XX Headphones

$199

Massdrop x Sennheiser HD 58X Jubilee Headphones

$149

Massdrop x Sennheiser PC37X Gaming Headset

$120

Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX Planar Magnetic Headphones

$139

Massdrop x Koss Porta Pro X Headphones

$29

Drop + EPOS PC38X Gaming Headset

$169

Massdrop x Koss KSC75X On-Ear Headphones

$20

Massdrop x Meze 99 Noir Closed-Back Headphones

$199

Drop + EPOS PC38X Yellow Gaming Headset

$139

Drop BMR1 Nearfield Monitors

$79

Trending Posts in Audiophile

Simthaniel

Rigs

Modded headphones with qudelix at the core

When I received the Qudelix 5K, I had already modified a pair of Superlux HD-681 headphones. I previously soldered my own balanced connections to the drivers, providing multiple ways to connect and...

Apr 14, 2024

Audiophile

Rigs

brothamike

A decent set of IEMs

I am in the midst of a 300 hour burn-in but, I will say I am enjoying how this set sounds so far. Before I received these which was btw late by a few weeks, I purchased a Sony/Kimber Kable MMCX...

Apr 12, 2024

Audiophile

Photos

merrick97

Should I exchange the PC38X for better headphones?

I bought the PC38X headphones FOR GAMING and they are great, but I have NO use for a Microphone since I don't do competitive gaming and I was wondering if there were better headphone options at a similar price without a headphone, where (presumably) more of the cost was put into making it sound better. I also find that my PC38X don't get quite as loud as I would like and I was wondering if a cheap amp like the iFi Go link would draw a little more volume out of my phones. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN6MM822?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details I went with the PC38X since it was considered the best bang for buck headphones. I care most about using spatial apps like DOlby Atmos and DTS Headphone:X. Suggestions are welcome.

Apr 11, 2024

Audiophile

General

LostnAmerica

Sound Signature of the Grell Project.

Wondering what type of sound signature the Drop Grell project headphones will have or trying to attain. Any update would be appreciated.

Apr 8, 2024

Audiophile

Questions

Fabulous

Looking for a gaming/content audio setup

Hello! I'm looking for recommendations on audio setups. I'd be planning on using it mostly for gaming. Preferably I'd like a pair of large closed back headphones since I have a big head and jaw. I'd also like to hear myself through my mic with mic monitoring. As far as budget goes, I don't really have one. But under 600$ would be nice. I can go higher if needed. The audio setup would be connected to a high performance PC. Thank you in advance for any recommendations!

Apr 4, 2024

Audiophile

Questions

1plsd

$10 Drop Coupon Email not sent?

Trying to buy some gear off Drop for the first time. I was told I would receive an email with a welcome to drop $10 off promo. I never received that email. Drop was able to send me emails for my login token and email for Password update. But for some reason the $10 off coupon was never sent to me.

Mar 31, 2024

Audiophile

Questions

Vote

NMPacella

New here

Hello, I just joined, primarily for the audiophile products. Looking at purchasing the NHT C3 speakers for our new living room. Space is about 15 feet wide by 33 long and they will fire long ways. Space is just for general listening, music room with all equipment is downstairs, so hoping they will fill it with sound nicely. Cheers.

Mar 18, 2024

Audiophile

General

Vote

Company

About Drop Studio Student Discount Privacy Policy Terms of Use Cookie Settings

Drop Refurbished

Like-new products you can trust

Drop Rewards

Get $5 for every 500 points you earn! Learn more

Drop Keyboard Club

Become a member and expand your keycap collection

Collaborate With Us

For Brands & Designers

Support

Contact Community Guidelines Help Center Sitemap

Follow Drop