My review process

I believe that a product for everyday use should be properly engineered so besides it’s audio properties, it should be comfortable, durable and functional. That’s why during my review process I pay close attention to product build materials, design, ergonomics, fit, comfort, and usability.

I think that audio sources (DAC/AMP/DAP) matter. But, their impact on the sound in many scenarios is minor, unless you are dealing with a situation when your source doesn’t have enough power to drive your headphones or has problems delivering a clean audio signal.

I don’t believe in burn-in and that it significantly influences headphones and IEM sound, so I attribute any perceived changes in sound to my brain and ears adapting to the new sound and getting familiar with it.

I don’t believe that cables influence headphones and IEM sound. However, I believe that the well-built cables can improve ergonomics and improve the comfort and usability of headphones and in-ear monitors (IEM).

My listening methodology

I usually spend around 10 hours with a new audio product to make my initial impressions. During this period, besides the sound, I also pay attention to product design, build, accessories, usability, functionality, fit and comfort. Then I go anywhere between 20 to 40 additional hours of testing and evaluating the product.

I also make sure to use the stock accessories (cables, ear tips, ear pads, etc) when possible. In the case of IEMs, if I can’t achieve a proper fit & seal with stock ear tips, I’m using replacement silicon ear tips from Spinfit, Final and DUNU.

To conduct my listening sessions, I use FLAC and DSD files with Roon, Foobar2000 and HQPlayer and lossless streaming with Tidal and Apple Music.

Portable sources:

  • FiiO X7 MK2 DAP (with AM3A amplifier module)
  • iBasso DX170 DAP
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max with FiiO KA17 (wired)
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max with Qudelix 5K / iFi Go Blu (Bluetooth)

Desktop sources:

  • MOTU M2 Audio Interface
  • S.M.S.L. RAW-MDA1 DAC/AMP
  • S.M.S.L. SU8s DAC + SMSL SH8s amplifier
  • Topping E50 DAC + Topping L50 amplifier
  • Schiit Modi 3 DAC + Magni Heresy amplifier

I also avoid listening at very high volumes, rarely going above 85-88 dB, so keep that in mind if you prefer listening louder. When possible, I also do direct A/B comparisons between different audio products that I have at hand.

Last but not least, my musical tastes are very diverse. I’m listening to a lot of genres of music, from jazz, classical, and acoustic to EDM, rock, and metal.

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