The Shanling M8 has been announced, and it looks to be a very impressive portable audio solution. With all of the latest specs and packed with features, the Shanling M8 is definitely a DAP to look out for.
The M8 adopts a brand new system of interchangeable headphone sockets, developed by Shanling themselves. This system makes it possible to provide all the needed connection standards, while keeping cleaner looks and a better optimized internal design. Four different options are available and come supplied with the M8 – 2.5, 3.5, 4.4 and 3.5 pro.
With a massive 7000 mAh battery, the M8 can manage up to 14 hours of continuous playback once fully charged. The M8 also comes with a bigger, brighter and sharper screen than their previous models – for an even better user experience in all conditions.
The analogue circuit of the Shanling M8 was designed around a pair of high-performing AKM flagship DACs, with in house developed I/V conversion stage and fully balanced amplifier. Offering reference class performance, while keeping to Shanling’s smooth, pleasing and slightly warm sound.
Qualcomm’s Bluetooth 5.0 chipset assures stable connection and low latency. And the best sound quality is achieved thanks to the support of advanced Bluetooth Codecs.
Cleer have certainly been busy, and have announced a range of new products at this years CES – Including true wireless earphones, noise cancelling headphones and a smart speaker. Here’s what we know so far.
Cleer Ally Plus II – Noise Cancelling True Wireless Earphones
An update to the previous Ally Plus, the Cleer Ally Plus II has a planned release for March 2021, and they come with some impressive specs and features.
10mm Graphene Drivers
11+22 Hours Battery Life
Adaptive Noise Cancelling with Feed Forward & Feed Backward Technology
This is a brand new model for 2021. The Cleer Roam NC will be Cleer’s entry level noise cancelling true wireless earphone model. With a planned release in April, and and SRP of only £59.99 – this is definitely a release to look out for.
Packed with impressive features, the new Cleer Enduro ANC wireless noise cancelling headphones look to be a winning combination of price and performance. Release planned for February 2021.
40mm Ironless Drivers
60 Hours Battery Life
Active Noise Cancelling + Ambient Mode
Custom EQ and ANC Control via Cleer+ App
New Qualcomm QCC5126 Chip
SRP: £149.99
Cleer Crescent – Smart Audio Speaker
We are very excited about this one. The award winning Cleer Crescent smart speaker looks stunning, and with features including Google Assistant, unique room settings and a dynamic listening experience thanks to the 10 speaker drivers – the Crescent looks to revolutionise the smart speaker. Planned to be released January 2021.
Unique 8 Linear Array Full-Range 40mm Drivers
plus 2 Back Firing 3.3″ Woofers
High-Res Audio Streaming
Unique Room DSPs – Stereo Widening, 3D and Room Fill
What’s the difference between Noise Cancelling and Sound Isolating?
It’s easy to confuse the benefits of noise cancelling with sound isolating headphones. This is easily done, as essentially they are both doing something similar but in very different ways. Because of this you want to make sure you choose the right headphones for your situation – this article will help clear things up for you.
Noise Cancelling
Noise cancelling headphones can reduce the amount of low frequency hum or ambient sounds reaching your ear drums. This can make it possible to listen to your music without having to raise the volume excessively, or even help you get some good sleep on a long journey – they don’t cancel out all noise though. They are useful for people who travel a lot, especially by plane or train as the engine noise can become a nuisance. These headphones use active noise control to cancel out low frequency noise so they will need power; usually using batteries or USB power. Depending on the model of headphone, if the power runs out one of three things will happen:
The noise cancelling function will stop running but you will still get sound from the headphones.
The sound will completely cut off, you will need to change batteries/recharge to use the headphones.
The noise cancelling will stop running and if the speakers have high impedance (require more power) then the sound you get will be faint.
A good example here is the B&W PX5, they are a Bluetooth wireless headphone that feature active noise cancelling (ANC) technology.
Sound Isolation
Sound isolation is a term used for headphones that block out external noise and reduce the amount of sound leaking for others to hear passively (without power), and this is achieved by their build quality and materials used. Most closed back headphones or in-ear isolating earphones do this, and some will do it better than others. Lots of things can improve isolation such as leather ear pads, a good in-ear seal, heavy clamping force (tight fit on the head), acoustic treatment in the ear cups and even the shape and material of the driver housing. A prime example being the Shure SRH840, these have no noise cancelling but for everyday use they block out enough outside noise, making them great for noisy environments.
Summary
Noise cancelling is great in theory, and for long journeys on planes it can be very effective, however it does have its drawbacks. In solving one problem, it creates another, and this is noise and lack of dynamic range in some senses. The other thing to note about noise cancelling is it is only effective against constant background noise, and does not help with sudden loud noises. So it has its uses, but for most people, especially those wanting the best sound, noise isolating headphones are the only logical choice. The company will have put time into tuning the housing to reduce resonance, along with experimenting with different pad materials, to bring you the best sound and isolate unwanted noise.
What is the difference between Open and Closed headphones?
Looking for a new pair of headphones can be very confusing, there are so many to choose from – how do you know you are getting the best for your money?
There are lots of things you can look at when deciding, and the main place to start is whether you will benefit from Open or Closed Back headphones. It’s easy for some people to say that one is better then the other, but this isn’t the case – it really depends on how you will use them. If you are looking for a pair of headphones to commute to work with then an open back design won’t be ideal, unless you want the whole carriage to listen to your guilty pleasures. So here is a quick run down on the differences between Open and Closed back headphones.
Closed back headphones
The main benefit you get from a closed back headphone is sound isolation, this reduces the amount of sound that leaks out for others to hear and it also helps block outside noises so they won’t interfere with your listening. This is something that is very important when using headphones in public e.g. commute to work, travelling or even at home with other people in the room. Generally closed back headphones have a narrower soundstage (compared to open back) but you tend to get a punchier sound with heavier bass from a closed back headphone. One downside of closed back headphones is that your ears can get warm very easily, especially compared to open backed headphones – using velour earpads instead of leather can reduce this but this will reduce the amount of sound that is isolated.
These headphones certainly don’t isolate sound, being open back the sounds comes out from them like mini speakers – some more than others. They will also allow you to hear what’s going on around you, so this won’t be ideal for noisy environments. The benefit from this is that you get a very natural sound, your ears will keep cool due to the air flow and they give a wide soundstage – this is particularly good for live recordings as you really feel like you’re right there. Being open backed you will sometimes notice a loss of bass compared to a closed back alternative, however the bass has a more natural feel to it because the driver housing is vented so the sound can breathe.
The best question to ask yourself first is “how will I use these headphones?” and from there you will know whether to go for open or closed back. So if you’re using them at home and there won’t be anyone else around then open back will be a good place to look, but if there is a chance that you will also want to use them on the odd commute to work – then overall a closed back will be the most suitable.
Simply put, every device that allows you to plug in headphones has an amp built in. The amp takes the audio signal and boosts it, allowing us to hear sound through the headphones. Amps don’t only boost volume; they can add and improve qualities like soundstage and separation. Adding an amp to a setup can also bring extra warmth or clarity. This all depends on the quality of the amp and how it has been designed. The reality is that most people won’t need an external headphone amp. That’s not to say that they wouldn’t benefit from one, though. Smartphones are now a very common music source, and with the technology getting better and better, they do a decent job of delivering good quality sound to most portable headphones and earphones. There are plenty of headphones designed to be used with mobile phones and other low powered portable devices. These headphones generally have a low impedance of up to 32ohm, and high sensitivity of around 100db, so they are very easy to drive and are more likely to go louder. Remember though: not only do amps add extra power but they can also improve the quality of the sound. So, once you start looking at higher quality headphones, improving your amp will start to make more sense as you will want to get the most out of them. No matter how good your headphones are, the sound quality will be limited by how good the amp is.
How to choose a headphone amp
If you’ve decided to go for a headphone amp, you now need to decide which one to go for. There are many to choose from, and they go for anything between £20 to £2000 and more. Amps can be split into two main groups: portable and desktop. If you want to add some power to your phone or laptop, then you will want to look for a portable amp. These amps can be charged, and will run off batteries, making them ideal for using on the move. They are also small in size, and there are some out there (like the Shanling UP4) which can connect to the source wirelessly using Bluetooth.
If you only use your headphones at home, or intend to use headphones that are particularly hard to drive, then you will probably want to go for a desktop amp as they are generally more powerful. Not only are they more powerful, they also tend to have a larger amount of inputs and outputs, making them very versatile. They will need to be plugged it at all times, so will need a power socket to work. As amps can bring their own character to the overall sound quality, it’s worth making sure you choose wisely and pick an amp that will compliment your headphones. For example, if your headphones have a warm or bassy sound then it’s a good idea to go for a neutral or bright sounding amp. This also works the other way around; a warm sounding amp will complement bright headphones and help to balance the sound out.
Get in touch!
If you have any questions about choosing the right amplifier then please feel free to comment below! We’ll be happy to offer advice on this.
A guide on how to buy the right headphones for you
We get to try out more headphones than most, so this article is where we at Hifiheadphones share some of that experience with you. In a simple world you could buy a set of ‘known brand’ headphones at a certain price point and expect to receive a product that you can be happy with. In other words, you may think that spending a certain amount on headphones will guarantee that you get a product you will like. Unfortunately with headphones it can be a little more complex.
In this headphone buying guide is a quick summary of some of the major factors when purchasing a pair of new headphones or earphones.
Audio Quality
The first question asked by many people when buying headphones and earphones is “Do they sound good?”. It’s also often the most difficult question to answer. We human beings are very subjective creatures. What is described by one person as “precise and detailed” will be “lacking in bass and clinical” by another. What one listener likes another will find irritating.
The best advice we can give is to do plenty of research and try to understand what you are purchasing. Search the Internet for reviews of the headphones you like the look of – we have plenty of product reviews in our Blog as well as on our Youtube Channel. Ask for advice on forums where people discuss headphones such as Head-Fi or AVForums. You will likely find plenty of information and opinions, often from different points of view. If you make your headphone or earphone purchase with good knowledge of what to expect it’s less likely you will be disappointed.
Design and Aesthetics
High up the list for many people is the looks and aesthetics of the headphones. After all you will have to be wearing the headphones you choose on your head for all to see! Unless you plan to use your new headphones alone at home then it’s likely you will be interested in how they look. Of course the quality of sound is also near the top of most lists, but with such a wide selection of good headphones to choose from it’s also likely that you will want your headphones to reflect your style.
Manufacturers such as Audeze and Campfire Audio have really gone to town with the styling of their headphones and earphones. These brands have a unique look with a wide selection of stunning designs.
If you are looking for headphones that look a little more sophisticated and refined then Bowers & Wilkins‘ range of headphones are a good choice. While only relatively new to the headphone market in the UK, it’s not without reason that B&W are quickly becoming market leaders. B&W’s selection of headphones look stunning and perform equally well. The B&W PX5 headphones are a highly recommended set of stylish portable wireless headphones with a rich, clear sound.
Ease of Portability
If you are going to be travelling or moving around with your headphones or earphones then the size, weight and ability to pack away (fold or collapse) may be important to you. There will also be the choice of going wired or wireless, and with the rise of True Wireless earphones – convenience has become a very popular feature.
Many travellers and commuters like the in-ear earphone type as wired ones can easily be wound up and put into a pouch or pocket, and wireless models tend to come with their own cases that make them easy to carry around. Sound isolating earphones have the added benefit that they can cut down outside noise by up to -20dB, which can be a godsend when travelling on a train, bus or underground. The SoundMAGIC range of sound isolating earphones is a good place to start. Also worthy of mention is Final, Shure and Etymotic who all have a good range of the in ear sound isolating variety.
If wireless is your thing, then True Wireless earphones are the way to go for portable use. These earphones have ditched the wires so there’s no risk of tangled cables getting in the way. We highly recommend Lypertek True Wireless earphones, and the award-winning PurePlay Z3 is a great place to start for under £100.
You will also find a good selection of headband headphones that collapse or fold for stowing away when needed. The SoundMAGIC P22 for a great budget wired option or the B&W PX5 wireless headphones are a superb example of quality lightweight travelling headphones that fold away for transporting.
Sound Isolation vs Noise Cancelling
When listening to your headphones will you need to block out external noise, or do you need to prevent your music from annoying others around you? Ask yourself where, when and how you will be using your headphones.
If you will be listening to your headphones in an office or on public transport you will probably want to keep your music to yourself. In this case you will want to avoid open-back ear cup designs. Although open back headphones are often sonically superior to closed back headphones the sound leaks out and people around you will be listening to a tinny version of what you are listening to – very annoying indeed.
If you travel on buses, trains or planes you might be thinking about noise cancelling headphones, but you may also want to consider in-ear sound isolating earphones instead as they are often able to reproduce a clearer more accurate sound. The extra electronics between your audio source and your ears means that noise cancelling headphones often colour the sound and reduce the clarity.
Closed back headphones tend to passively isolate sound very well without the need for batteries and the noise cancelling technology, and the Dan Clark Aeon 2 Closed Back would be a good audiophile option. If you travel a lot, then active noise cancelling (ANC) headphones like the B&W PX7 would be worth considering as they do a very good job of blocking out the sound of low frequency engine hum.
DJs and studio engineers also have a unique set of requirements when it comes to selecting headphones. A good set of DJ headphones should normally provide maximum isolation from outside sounds, so that you can concentrate on the mix you are putting together. Whereas a studio engineer may be more interested in being able to reproduce a good stereo sound image with sonic clarity and may not be so interested in sound isolation.
Summary
When it comes to purchasing headphones there are so many options and possibilities, but at the end of the day your choice will be down to a few key factors. Factors such as budget, design and whether or not you want sound isolation may be more significant than trying to find headphones with the best audio quality possible.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions on 01903 768 910 or you can email us on support@hifiheadphones.co.uk
Our pick of the 10 best digital audio players for all budgets and uses
We know how important it is to find the right player; whether it is for your mp3 collection, hi-res music or streaming apps such as Tidal or Spotify.
Whether you call them DAPs, players, music players, portable players, mp3 players or anything else, this is the post for you. We’ve gathered our picks for the best digital audio players that you can buy!
If you fancy getting better sound on the move, but don’t want to add a large device to your setup – the Shanling M0 could be just what you’re looking for. This tiny player delivers top quality Hi-Res audio and can be used in two different ways. The SD card slot allows you to store your own library of tunes, from mp3 to DSD – it can handle it all. The M0 can also act as a Bluetooth amp and DAC for your headphones. So, if you prefer using Spotify or Tidal on your phone, then wirelessly connect to the M0 to boost the audio quality while using an interface you are comfortable with.
Stepping up the game, Shanling UP4 builds on its acclaimed predecessor Bluetooth headphone amp UP2 with balanced output for better sound and more power. All the features of UP2 have been retained and improved upon in the UP4 extracting the best possible sound and listening experience from your pocket. Powerful, wireless high-resolution audio that supports all major codecs in a fully portable design.
Shanling Q1 packs abundant audio performance into pocket-sized magnitude with this newest addition to their portable audio player range. Compelling features of the Q1 include aptX Bluetooth, lossless file playback and headphone amplifier and DAC functionality. Shanling Q1 is a highly advanced digital audio player with a multitude of features to make portable listening in high-fidelity effortless.
Shanling’s impressive M2x is our choice for under £200. The impressive build quality and easy to use software makes the M2x an enjoyable experience. Sound quality is well balanced and clean, with superb detail retrieval. Then the addition of Tidal streaming via the app, opens up the listening possibilities.
Once again FiiO have taken the hailed X5 to the drawing board and upgraded key elements and design features to create the X5 3rd Gen digital audio player. Now equipped with two top-tier DAC chips, one for each channel. Part of a new generation of high-quality 32-bit DACs, they are able to supports all PCM and DSD audio formats with stunning accuracy and detail.
New realms of high-resolution portable listening are within reach with the iBasso Audio DX150 digital audio player. Armed with advanced dual USB chipset and driver, the DX150 audio player is a talented device that can act as a stand-alone high-performance USB DAC. Running on Android OS optimised for audio, the DX150 avoids the usual sample rate limitation and allows for installation of third-party applications.
Shanling has long flexed its muscles in the portable audio player scene, and M6, the latest digital audio player offering takes its place at the top of Shanling’s Hi-Res audio player line-up. M6 is the first Shanling audio player to run Android OS and is armed with Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless Audio certification taking your audio to the next level.
A&norma sets the standard of Hi-Fi audio for novice listeners. The SR15, the first model of A&norma, is the beginning point of the Hi-Fi Audio experience that allows you to enjoy the philosophy and technologies of Astell&Kern, which is accoladed by audiophiles around the world. The A&norma SR15 uses two audio DAC chips for a Dual-DAC setup. These chips are known for their use in Home Hi-Fi systems which offer greater presence compared to the inferior DAC chips designed for mobile devices.
A step up from the successful M6 digital audio player, Shanling introduces the upgraded M6 Pro with improved design and audio elements. This new version has more power, more connections and more sleek design. Armed with Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless Audio certification the M6 Pro audio player takes its place at the top of Shanling’s Hi-Res audio player line-up.
KANN CUBE is the second model of the KANN line, which focuses on high fidelity with powerful output and low noise. The newly designed powerful amplifier and audio circuitry have been strategically implemented to offer a very low noise floor, even with its massive power output, making it an Audio Powerhouse capable of driving the most power-hungry headphones.
Here is our guide for those looking for earbuds on the smaller side. We have found that a lot of people require smaller fitting earphones without wanting to compromise on sound quality – the list below all have small housings, perfect for smaller ears.
The design of SoundMAGIC’s TWS50 means that they are one of the smallest and most comfortable True Wireless earphones we have tried. A popular combination of comfort and top sound quality,
If you’re looking for the pro touch, then Westone is the brand to go for. Their compact sized UM Pro 10 is a single balanced armature driver IEM, bringing a neutral sound with crystal clear detail and perfect balance.
Etymotic are hearing experts, and their earphones are the best when it comes to isolation – helping to block out external noise. The ER2 SE and XR earphones are small in size and use a single dynamic driver and deliver the cleanest sound you’ll hear. SE for more clarity, XR for more bass.
We started with Final, so we’ll end with Final. The f7200 is one of their more unique designs, with a fit that will suit the smallest of ears. The f7200 is also a superb sounding earphone too, silky smooth and engaging with depth and clarity.
Our pick of the best headphones for running to motivate your outdoor workout or in the gym
True Wireless earbuds have become the go-to choice for fitness users, whether its running, gym use, outdoor workouts or just going for a nice long walk. For this list, we decided to include a range of different earphones and headphones to suit all your needs from wired, wireless, Bluetooth and True Wireless – we have you all covered from as little as £20.
The Final E500 is not a typical sports earphone, yet they have features that come in handy for your daily run. Firstly, they are the best value for money earphones we have tried. At just under £20, nothing else we have listened to in this price range comes close to the sound achieved from the E500. They are also very small, which means you will get a great fit and the E500 is less likely to fall out of your ears when sprinting towards your personal best.
To help you push through and motivate a big run, the Flares Jet 1 has the sound to keep you going. Big and powerful bass with crisp, snappy clarity means that music will really pop! These earphones have a big sound, so your favourite running tunes will do their job. The Jet 1 is also built to withstand constant use, with a robust design – you can be sure that they will last and last.
The award winning SoundMAGIC E11BT has been a firm favourite since its release – gaining praise for its design, comfort and most importantly – sound quality. The E11BT is ideal for those wanting a Bluetooth earphone, that prefer a neckband design. The neckband provides added support while in use, then when you’re finished using them – they can conveniently hang down so there’s no need to keep packing them away.
Lypertek’s first True Wireless release – the PurePlay Z3 – exploded onto the TWS scene, quickly gaining awards and the label of ‘best under £100’. Today it is still considered one of the best, and just so happens to make a good running partner too. ThePurePlay Z3 has a few standout features which will come in handy during your workout such as 70 hours battery life (including the charging case), IPX7 waterproof rating for those rainy days and audiophile worthy sound quality – to get the most from your tracks.
For those after a more premium feel to their wireless earphones, then B&W has you covered with the PI3. Another neckband design, the PI3 will blow you away with its superb build, design and comfort, with only the best materials being used. Then the sound – using the latest codecs you can be sure that you get your money’s worth. To make these suited to running, there are ear fins included with the PI3, which will improve comfort and provide a secure fit for active listening.
If you prefer a traditional headphone fit instead of in-ears, then the B&W PX5 would be our top pick for running. They are small and fit on the ear – not over and around the ear like larger sized headphones. This means they will be less bulky for running and will stay nice and secure on your head. These wireless headphones have active noise cancelling (ANC), so they will do a great job of keeping you focused on your fitness goals.
Have We Missed Anything Out?
Please feel free to leave a comment below and let us know…
People deciding to work from home is on the rise – and why not? There are lots of perks to be had when working from home, and along with being able to stay in your PJ’s – you can listen to music all day without disturbing the office. Here’s our pick of some the best audio tech that every home office could benefit from.
Lypertek PurePlay Z3
There are many reasons why the Lypertek PurePlay Z3 is a solid favourite for true wireless earbuds under £100, and many of the PurePlay Z3’s features are well suited for use in your home office. The 70 hour battery life means they’re unlikely to die during an important call, and the microphone quality is impressive. The PurePlay Z3 is IPX7 waterproof rated, so they’ll survive if you spill your morning coffee on them and you can give them a full wash if needed – you can even take them into the shower with you! Most importantly, they sound superb with people even describing them as audiophile worthy – so they must be good!
B&W PX7
For the ultimate package, then the B&W PX7 is a complete solution for your audio and isolation needs. These full sized, noise cancelling Bluetooth headphones will give you freedom from wires, able to connect wirelessly to devices supporting Bluetooth. Being B&W, you can expect the sound quality to be up there with the best. The PX7 is energetic and clear, with deep and well controlled bass and a great sense of space. Then the features give you 30 hours of listening, Bluetooth 5, AAC, aptX and aptX-HD codecs and B&W’s leading noise cancelling technology for uninterrupted listening.
JDS Element II
If it’s a desktop option you need, then the JDS Labs Element II will not only bring an audio upgrade – it will look great too. Beautifully designed with a simple yet striking look – the Element II headphone amplifier and DAC will fit into any setup. Historically, JDS Labs has been known for their functional design and great sound – now with the Element II, they have shown that they can make great looking equipment too.
Flare Isolate 2
There will be some of you out there that prefer complete silence when working from home – don’t worry, we have you covered. Flare are leading the way when it comes to hearing protection, and their newest model – the Isolate 2 – is going to be the one we recommend. These are made of aluminium and not only do they do a great job of blocking out unwanted noise – they look stunning too. The Isolate 2 is CE certified and has a high sound protection rating of SNR32, so you can be confident they’ll do a good job.
Campfire Audio Cascade
If you’re not ready to ditch the wires, and you want to listen comfortably with maximum isolation, the Campfire Audio Cascade closed back headphones will do just that. The Cascade is extremely comfortable, which is ideal for wearing for long periods of time while getting your work done. These are closed back headphones, so they will also do a great job of blocking out external noise – allowing you to enjoy your music in peace. Then the sound is what you’d expect from Campfire Audio – engaging, punchy and very enjoyable. The Cascade uses filters which can be changed to suit your taste in sound – allowing you to customise your listening.
Audeze LCD-GX
Those of you who want the very best headphones that can double up as communication headsets may be interested in the Audeze LCD-GX. This is a high end gaming headphone aimed at audiophiles. The attachable microphone will give you superb voice quality and can be used for those all important business calls. Then, when you’re done with work – fire up your favourite game and enjoy the real to life spatial awareness and clarity provided by these all purpose open backed cans.
Final E500
The Final E500 is the ideal earphone for those wanting to upgrade from the ones supplied from your device – without breaking the bank. At £20, these are the best value performers we’ve come across. Sound quality is the E500’s main focus, and their level of detail, separation and imaging challenges models twice the price and more. The earphones themselves are small so they are very comfortable, and the supplied Final eartips will ensure you get a good seal which really helps isolation – blocking out background noise to help you focus.
B&W PI3
If you want some wireless earphones, and true wireless doesn’t appeal to you – then B&W has you covered with the PI3. These hybrid dual driver wireless earphones use a neckband design, and come with all of the latest features including Bluetooth 5, AAC, aptX and aptX-HD codecs, 8 hours of playtime, and very impressive microphone call quality – perfect for those video conferences. The dual hybrid driver setup means you get a 9.2mm dynamic driver and a balanced armature driver inside each housing. This driver combination delivers sound that’s packed with detail and space – with an almost 3D quality.
Kanto YU4
While you’re going to be at home a lot more, you may want to improve your audio setup. The Kanto YU4 is an ideal speaker for desktop use. They are powered speakers, so don’t require a separate amplifier, and they have Bluetooth functionality – so you can connect them to other Bluetooth devices wirelessly. Their compact and stylish design means they’ll fit into most setups and their sound will really impress you. They pack a lot of punch for their size, and deliver a tight and detailed sound. A great all-rounder for those days working from home, and to enjoy once the work is done.
Shanling UP2
Want to go wireless but are not ready to stop using your favourite wired headphones? Fear not. The Shanling UP2 is a Bluetooth headphone amplifier and DAC, meaning that you can plug your headphones in and then connect wirelessly to your Bluetooth compatible device. This is perfect for use with PC’s, laptops, tablets and mobile phones. The UP2 also has a built in microphone, so you can take calls even if your headphones do not have a built in mic. Fully charged you can expect up to 11 hours of playback and the UP2 will support all popular audio codecs including LDAC, aptX, aptX-HD and AAC.
Trusted Reviews Recommend the Campfire Audio Andromeda
Campfire Audio Andromeda design – An eye-catching look
“The size of the soundstage is the biggest takeaway from the Andromeda. It’s impressively wide, with the staging of vocals and instruments excellent. This creates a vivid sense of depth and scale.”
“They’re a confident sounding pair of IEMs, happy to take whatever music you give them, whether fast-paced or more gentle.”
“vocals are backed up by the Andromeda’s impressive feel for the low-end, as well as an equally impressive stereo image that exhibits the Andromeda’s skill in creating an expansive soundstage.”
Andromeda is the accumulation of Campfire Audio’s earphone crafting expertise and with a refresh this leading monitor earphone goes beyond the classic audiophile realm. With a more refined housing, updated Litz cable and stunning premium leather case the Andromeda aims to be the best monitor earphone out there.
Five balanced armature drivers unite in the 3D printed cavity of the Andromeda to transude an unequalled and authoritative sound on all levels. The driver configuration comprises of five BA drivers that include two high-frequency drivers with a Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber, one mid-frequency driver and two low-frequency drivers. Together the drivers deliver a sound that is usually unachievable using traditional configurations.
In this refreshed version Campfire Audio have updated their original silver-plated Litz cable with a stunning smoky jacket that compliments the visual aspect of the new Andromeda. A change to the earhook design on the cable now replaces the memory wire for an even more lightweight and comfortable experience.
For those of you that don’t know, Final is a Japanese audio brand with a long and impressive hi-fi history. Their products all share a similar theme – unique design and expertly tuned sound. With the A8000, Final’s latest flagship IEM sticks to their brief, while adding to it something I’ve never experienced before.
It’s clear that a lot of love and thought has gone into the A8000. The whole experience from opening the box, to putting them in your ears and getting lost in the music is an absolute joy. The earphones themselves are stunning, with polished stainless steel housings shaped in a very modern and striking way. Inside the housings, Final has developed a truly pure Beryllium driver – creating a level of dynamics and definition I’ve not heard from a dynamic driver IEM before. The supplied high purity silver plated copper cable adds to the impressive looks, which is terminated with a right angled 3.5mm jack.
The unique design of the housings are not just for good looks – they also happen to be extremely comfortable. The shape allows the earphones to sit effortlessly in my ears, and with the correct sized tips, getting a good seal is very easy to achieve. Then for added security, Final has supplied cable guides to help the cable stay behind your ears, and reduce cable noise or microphonics if you feel the need to use them.
Final A8000
Along with the cable and ear hooks, the A8000 comes supplied with a selection of different sized Final silicone eartips, an aluminium and silicone carry case, an easy MMCX plug removal tool and spare sound tube grill filters.
Final’s uniqueness doesn’t stop with their design, their sound is also unlike any other brand – IEMs or headphones. This is quite possibly due to the fact that Final develop a lot of their own technology, and they always keep to a certain house sound.
Bass on the A8000 has a natural and live feel to it. It has definition and depth without any of that unwanted bloatedness or distortion. It’s incredibly clean, and manages to add body and warmth where needed. Thanks to the control of the bass, mids flow through with ease and sit high enough in the mix to point out each fine detail. Vocals have a real quality to them, with layers of detail that bring out all of the intricacies and emotions you’d expect to hear only in a live setting. Then the treble manages to create endless space, with reverb trails that go on and on – the treble has a liquid quality that I’ve not heard from an IEM before.
The superb treble and overall dynamic sound helps the A8000 deliver a real-to-life soundstage, with depth and atmosphere – putting you close to the action. Imaging is also realistic. Instruments are easily defined and width is just what you’d expect it would be when recorded.
Final’s main competition at this price point comes from the likes of Dita, Campfire Audio and Hifman – and however impressive their high end models are, none have managed to achieve the purity and delicacy that the A8000 brings.
Essentially, it’s going to come down to taste. No matter how good I think they are, if you’re used to a warm or bass driven sound signature, then the A8000 could come across as too bright or harsh in the upper frequencies. For those who favour transparency and clarity, then the A8000 may be the best IEM you’ve ever heard.
Our pick of the 8 Best Digital Audio Players for all budgets and uses:
We know how important it is to find the right player; whether it is for your mp3 collection, hi-res music or streaming apps such as Tidal or Spotify.
Whether you call them DAPs, players, music players, portable players, mp3 players or anything else, this is the post for you. We’ve gathered our picks for the best digital audio players that you can buy!
BEST DAP UNDER £100
1. Shanling M0 – £99
Shanling M0
If you fancy getting better sound on the move, but don’t want to add a large device to your setup – the Shanling M0 could be just what you’re looking for. This tiny player delivers top quality Hi-Res audio and can be used in two different ways. The SD card slot allows you to store your own library of tunes, from mp3 to DSD – it can handle it all. The M0 can also act as a Bluetooth amp and DAC for your headphones. So, if you prefer using Spotify or Tidal on your phone, then wirelessly connect to the M0 to boost the audio quality while using an interface you are comfortable with.
Shanling’s impressive M2x is our choice for under £200. The impressive build quality and easy to use software makes the M2x an enjoyable experience. Sound quality is well balanced and clean, with superb detail retrieval. Then the addition of Tidal streaming via the app, opens up the listening possibilities.
The Cowon Plenue D2 may seem simple to look at, this is certainly not the case though. Cowon are very well known and admired for the sound quality of their players. Bringing life and energy to music, as well as impressive customisation with their well developed EQs. The Plenue D2 is solid and very easy to use, with impressive battery life giving up to 30 hours of HD audio playback.
A new addition to the iBasso family, the DX160 sports an updated design to previous models and the addition of a 4.4mm balanced headphone output. The large touch screen is very clear, with vibrant colours and responsive touch control. As for sound, the DX160 provides a well balanced and organic sound with an emotional quality to it.
5. FiiO M11 – £449.99
FiiO M11
FiiO have really upped their game with the release of the M11. The impressively designed and built player houses some impressive technology. Dual AKM DAC chips and their custom made op-amp helps make the most of the aptX HD, LDAC and LHDC compatibility. Then the flexible headphone connectivity brings 2.5, 4.4 and 3.5mm ports to accommodate all popular jack sizes.
Shanling has long flexed its muscles in the portable audio player scene, and M6, the latest digital audio player offering takes its place at the top of Shanling’s Hi-Res audio player line-up. M6 is the first Shanling audio player to run Android OS and is armed with Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless Audio certification taking your audio to the next level.
We feel that the iBasso DX220 hits the ultimate price and performance point in the higher end of the digital audio player market. The DX220 is superbly built, with solid software and an easy to use design. The dual Sabre DAC chips help to achieve a clean and neutral sound, and the replaceable amp modules provide a level of customisation that is not common at this level.
Astell & Kern were not sure whether it was possible to come up with a product that is different from the SP1000 while delivering the same sound quality, but they decided to take up the challenge so that more people could experience their products’ fidelity. There were many trials and tribulations in making the SP1000, A&K’s best product, smaller. They were determined to not compromise sound quality in the process, and ultimately developed the second A&ultima product, the SP1000M.
Campfire Audio Custom In Ear Monitors – Equinox and Solstice
Campfire Audio is quite possibly the hottest boutique IEM brand out there, already gaining a name for themselves for their superbly built, beautifully designed IEMs with sound quality packed full of passion and character.
Having already become well known for their universal models, Campfire Audio has now released the new Solstice custom IEM – and along with the Equinox, Campfire Audio has two seriously good custom options available.
Superb Build Quality
The build of both the Equinox and Solstice are very similar, with slight detail differences. Both are made with a polished stainless steel housing and then moulded solid black acrylic, for that smooth and comfortable custom fit. The combination of black and silver is unique and very striking. The shape of the back plate is different for each model. The Equinox is circular, and the Solstice is angular – almost hexagonal. Then inside is where the models really differ.
The Campfire Audio Equinox is based on their Atlas universal IEM. Like the Atlas, the Equinox uses a single full range 10mm dynamic driver, and the A.D.L.C. or Amorphous Diamond Like Carbon driver has been tweaked slightly – so there is a touch less thumping sub-bass when compared to the Atlas.
Campfire Audio Equinox
The newest addition to Campfire Audio’s custom range is the Solstice. This time they have decided to draw on the Andromeda model, with 5 balanced armature drivers inside each housing. The Solstice also comes with Campfire’s very own T.A.E.C. or Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber which gets the very most out the higher frequencies.
Campfire Audio Solstice
Both models are supplied with a choice of cables, which can be chosen during the buying process. The standard smokey litz cable options are 3.5mm stereo, 2.5mm balanced and 4.4mm balanced. Then there are two artist options. Both use the smokey litz cable, but the artist version is 18” longer, and there is the choice of replacing the grey MMCX moulds with red and blue moulds for the right and left connectors.
Made-to-fit Perfectly
Being a custom IEM, you can expect the fit to be as close to perfect as possible. Campfire Audio are very confident in their build process, and as long as the ear impressions are done well – the IEMs are made to a very high and consistent standard.
Campfire Audio is aware that custom IEMs are not just for pro users, music lovers use them too. With this in mind, Campfire offers two types of fit – Artist Fit and Audiophile Fit.
The audiophile fit has a shallow seal depth, so they won’t go as far into the ear canal as traditional pro customs do. This makes the IEMs more comfortable for longer listening sessions, and easier to wear for a range of different uses from home listening, to a work commute or studio mix-down.
The artist fit sticks to a more traditional, deeper fit. This is important for pro users as it provides a much greater seal, giving a more secure fit and improved isolation for live settings.
Campfire Audio Equinox
Sound Quality
With the Equinox and Solstice, Campfire Audio has created a custom IEM to suit a number of different needs. For those who prefer a big and luxurious sound, with low end thump and rich detail that’s packed full of smooth layers – then the single dynamic driver Equinox will be the one to consider.
On the other hand, the Solstice is for those who favour transparency and cleanliness. Like the Andromeda, the five balanced armature drivers provide a well balanced sound that leans towards the higher frequencies. Sound comes across effortlessly with an organic and natural feel to it.
Campfire Audio Equinox and Solstice
Having only tried universal versions of the custom range, I can’t go into more detail when it comes to the sound. Saying that, if you already have an understanding of the Atlas and Andromeda models, then that will give you a very clear idea of what to expect from the Equinox and Solstice customs. And we will be holding the universal version of both the Equinox and Solstice – so you could always book a demo with us to try them.
Final Thoughts
Here’s where I normally mention the competition, and even though brands like 64 Audio, Ultimate Ears and JH Audio are all making some of the finest pro IEMs out there – none are doing what Campfire Audio has managed to achieved. Not only is the design of the Equinox and Solstice completely unique – breaking the all too familiar mould of custom IEM design. They also offer a lot more than their competitors. Whether you’re a musician or music lover, there’s an option for you. And I’m not aware of any other high end custom IEM brand making a single dynamic model – this is definitely something that Campfire Audio has perfected.
Our pick of the Best DAC and Headphone Amplifier for all budgets and uses:
Not to be overlooked, a good quality DAC and amp can do wonders to any setup. We have seen huge growth in interest towards DACs and amps, so it makes sense that we put together our favourite headphone amplifiers and DACs to help make that decision easier.
Whether you want to use them with your TV, computer, laptop, smartphone or hifi system. We’ve gathered our picks for the best DACs and headphone amplifiers that you can buy!
BEST DAC / AMP UNDER £100
1. Shanling UP2 – £79.99
Shanling UP2
The Shanling UP2 is the perfect way to bring added power and audio quality to your smartphone, tablet or computer. Using Bluetooth, the UP2 will connect wirelessly to your phone – or any Bluetooth compatible audio device – and thanks to the on board dedicated headphone amplifier and high quality Sabre DAC chip – you’ll be able to get high fidelity audio wherever you go.
JDS Labs has mastered the art of making high quality amplifiers and DACs at affordable prices – and the Atom is their most impressive yet. For just over £100, the Atom desktop headphone amplifier will drive any headphone you throw at it and will bring improved soundstage, depth and dynamics to your setup. All in a neat and tidy desktop design.
This one’s for the purists out there. On the outside, the Periodic Audio Ni seems like a very simple and basic headphone amplifier – plug it into your source and you’ll soon see that it most definitely isn’t simple or basic. This amp brings added power, punch and improved dynamics to whichever device it gets used with. Those that really appreciate good sound will love the Nickel.
The xDSD from iFi Audio is a portable amplifier and DAC that can connect to your audio source wirelessly. So if you like to use your phone, but want to plug in some high quality headphones – then the xDSD will allow you to get the most from them, without adding more cables. The xDSD will take over the amp and DAC roles, so you will know that you’re getting the best sound no matter the source device.
If it is a desktop option you need, then the JDS Labs Element II will not only bring an audio upgrade – it will look great too. Beautifully designed with a simple yet striking look – the Element II will fit into any setup. Historically, JDS Labs has been known for their functional design and great sound – now with the Element II, they have shown that they can make great looking equipment too.
BEST DAC / AMP UNDER £1000
6. iFi Audio Micro iDSD BL – £599
iFi Audio Micro iDSD BL
For the ultimate amp and DAC solution, look no further. The 2 Burr-Brown DAC chips provide a solid foundation for the custom op-amps, which help to deliver an impressive amount of fidelity and power. Using sensitive IEMs? This amp/DAC handles these superbly, with no noise or distortion. Whether used on a desktop or on the move – the iFi Audio Micro iDSD BL does it all… really well.
