The FiiO Olympus E10 Headphone Amplifier is the first statement of value to reach us. Our only wish was for it to include a SP/DIF coaxial input as opposed to the RCA SPDIF output it produces. As such, if this were the case, we would of course choose to power it via USB as a preference, and then use an RCA interconnect to connect it to our reference HP Pavilion PC. At $80.00 CDN it's value status and capability to the user is unpredicted.
We use it lovingly with a pair of AKG K375 in-ear headphones, which it vaults into pure audio. The bass boost is a handy feature, which improves rather than hinders headphone listening at this level, unlike preceding products with this feature. The unit likewise mates well with the AKG K550 headphones, which we also keep for reference and comparative purposes.
The power-hungry AKG Q701 "Quincy Jones Signature", however, will require a higher priced and value amplifier such as iFi's iDAC ($299.00) for full-satisfaction above a medium listening level. Your ears may thank you, however, if you stay. It's quintessential.
We would like to test the FiiO Olympus with the Audeze LCD-3 - it's that good! The sound quality is unreproached, and the brushed aluminum surface, slotted side and panel (front and back) mounting form an unrivaled package, as does the screen printing, lower-gain switch, front bass-boost and high-end binoculars or scope like designed and produced headphone volume control.
For your every-day $1000 computer, why not start with the Olympus, and trade-up when you hit Mount Blanc.
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| FiiO E10 Headphone Amplifier Side View, 2 point perspective. |
We like it a lot.
www.fiio.com.cn
Price: $80.00 CDN / USD .PDF
Value: 100/100
Rating: 67/100
Total Points: 167/200
www.hifiart.ca
We have lovingly deviated from our normal qualitative assessment in sound quality due to the unique competence shown by FiiO in the design, overall, and it's value and fit for purpose. - HFA
2013/11/15 JP
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