Dysprosium
Senior Member
- Joined
- Jan 29, 2012
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>2nd oscillator
>Gapless playback
>2s startup
>24-bit playback, including ALAC and DSD
>Improved wheel
>ESS9018 x 2
>Amp w/ OPA627 x 2, OPA2107 x 2
Initial impressions from a Head-Fier:
I got to try out the 901s at the product announcement event today.
The scroll wheel and the UI are a HUGE improvement over the original, and the attenuator now offers more steps which is a very welcome change. The unit feels very substantial in your hand since it's all metal now.
Gain is now set in the UI, and the HD/vintage switch is gone too. There's also a separate balanced phone out.
I can't quite remember how the 901 sounded like (sold long ago) but I think the signature is more or less the same with the 901s being more transparent. Anyway it was truly excellent with my Hidition NT6-Pro and I think I would pick the 901s over the Calyx M (and probably the 240, too) any day, based on SQ alone.
By the way the 901s will be sold for RMB 8,999 (S$1,919) with the balanced card, or RMB 10,999 (S$2346) with balanced card and a pair of RE1000 (a dual dynamic custom IEM, a collaboration with Unique Melody)
Existing 901 owners can get their units upgraded for RMB 999 (S$213) but the upgraded unit is not exactly a 901s (no 3s bootup and probably some other features).
According the aforementioned Head-Fier, the mod will have:
1. New enclosure w/ improved scroll wheel and buttons
2. New phone outs
3. New stepped attenuator
4. New analog stage
So you will get the improved sound. The second oscillator won't be included, which is ONLY relevant if you use it as a DAC.
Release date will be after CNY.
Looks like 2015 will be the year for high-end DAPs.
This, X7, Geek-Wave, & perhaps an upgrade to the AK240 (plus some other obscure Chinese brands looking to venture into this market, as well).
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