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antdroid
371
Jul 23, 2020
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I got a review sample of this amp from Linsoul. I haven't written the review yet but it looks very similar in size and looks to the SMSL SP200 THX amp which I used to own. There is no slanted shape like the SP200 that I couldnt stand. There is a now a 4.4mm which works well. Noise floor is very quiet even for my most sensitive IEMs. Tons of power. Sounds like a clean crisp THX amp compared to my other amps. I've been using the Zen DAC to pair with it lately and there's noticeably differences in sound between the two's 4.4mm headphone output. The Zen DAC is must softer and slower transients compared to the AM01 amp. I'll post a review in the very near future. Updates: Subjectively, it sounds like the SP200 FROM MEMORY, and has some of the same issues -- mainly slightly noisy on 4.4mm/xlr (when using sensitive IEMs) and too much volume on the pot at the lowest rungs -- this is mostly a problem with sensitive iems/headphones. Otherwise, it sounds clean, crisp, and has tons of power. It doesn't have the slanted edges. The connectors feel a bit cheap and so does the actual casing, even compared to the SMSL version. The top of the case sags a little bit so fit isn't perfect. Not knowing all the specifics, and just based on listening and appearance, it seems like it is indeed a clone with added 4.4mm jack (which I do appreciate) using cheaper flimsier casing and I'd assume some components inside too.
(Edited)
antdroid
371
Jul 24, 2020
antdroidQuick update - I tried much more sensitive IEMs today - the Empire Ears Wraith - and there is hissing on the 4.4mm and xlr outputs. None of 3.5mm though.
BigBallBag
106
Jul 24, 2020
antdroidIs it still over powered on low gain like to sp200?
antdroid
371
Jul 24, 2020
BigBallBagI'd say it is a bit. I switched my DAC to variable and outputting at 50% so i have more control at amp level.
BigBallBag
106
Jul 24, 2020
antdroidAh ok I have another question, I heard somewhere that running your preamp/DAC/source volume at anything other than line level reduces the quality of the signal. Is this true?
antdroid
371
Jul 24, 2020
BigBallBagI've heard that too, especially using Windows which I believe even developers have said to keep it at 100%, however in practice, I don't think I actually hear any differences. I'm just going to do what works best in my situation and I wish this amp had less power on low gain for IEMs.
KrispeTV
20
Jul 26, 2020
antdroidWould you reccomend this as a serious power and cleanliness improvement over the amp in the zen dac? I've been looking at the drop and smsl thx amps as upgrades but if this will do the trick I'll gladly jump on it...
antdroid
371
Jul 26, 2020
KrispeTVI think it's cleaner sounding than the ZEN DAC's amp. I think they work well together as a duo. There is the same issues in the SP200 -- mainly... too much power on low gain for IEMs, volume pot inbalance at low volume (typical for analog pot), some white hiss noise with sensitive headphones/iems using balanced. Otherwise, I think they sound good with every headphone I've thrown at it, from IEMs to my Arya and Verite. Good for the price, if you are ok with the issues.
(Edited)
KrispeTV
20
Jul 26, 2020
antdroidDoes the imbalance happen across the whole range of the knob? Or is it just certain parts? I care less for the noise floor because I don't use iem's at the desk or any sensetive hp atm
antdroid
371
Jul 26, 2020
KrispeTVSorry I meant at low volume (just at the lower turn on the dial)
KrispeTV
20
Jul 26, 2020
antdroidSo in short, this thing is all power and sensetive stuff is off the table if noise floor is an issue. Correct?
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