My FiiO X5 3rd Gen was shipped today and should be at my doorstep on Friday. For $40 more than the M5 I can't see taking both the quality and poor customer service risk along with the big difference in features.
I have the M1 (also from Massdrop) and while it's a neat little device the UI and other functionality issues make it a pain to use at times.
RochambeauxFwiw, my issues were a bit overblown. Yeah, the warranty is a bit vague and the scroll wheel is a bit finicky, but the overall quality and performance of the device is excellent. I'm still very much enjoying my M5, despite the hardware and software quirks. I'd still buy one, knowing what I know now.
PopZeusThe fact that the X5 3rd gen is running Android is worth the extra $40 by itself, at least for me. I'll report back when I actually have it in hand and have given it a run for its money.
RochambeauxFair enough. Personally I think the M5's audio performance puts it in place beyond the competition at that price point to the point I'm willing to deal with the quirks, but that's just me.
RochambeauxOn paper, the X5 3g kinda looks better than the Shanling. But of course, I need to hear how the device actually sounds before making any informed comparison. I'm not into aggressive or peaky treble. I got rid of my DX90 for that very reason. If the X5 can deliver on a smooth yet detailed top end, the feature set alone might have me picking one up for myself. Haha.
I have the M1 (also from Massdrop) and while it's a neat little device the UI and other functionality issues make it a pain to use at times.