Josh, I just wanted to thank you. Not only for your content but for truly leading me down this rabbit hole. After watching almost all of your videos I decided on getting the Monoprice THX AAA Monolith and a pair of DT 1990 Pro. I've honestly never known music like this before, I'm re-listening to my entire collection and find myself literally disappearing for hours into the music. I just wanted to say thank you and keep up the amazing channel and content.
@@NeatFreq dude I really wanna try out the pandas but I'm not ready to drop another $600 yet. Just got some hifiman 400i planar headphones and they sound awesome so I'm liking that planar tech. Probably sounds super clean on the Pandas.
Did you add any eq for your 1990s at all? Just curious if you have any tips for setting them up on the amp. I honestly haven't messed with the eq at all, but I bought some dekoni elite hybrid pads for those headphones.
Honestly, DT1990 are pretty boring. and i am typing this while wearing and listening to the sound demo with them... There's better out there, my dude. 1990's are nice, but no soundstage at all. I had Hifiman Deva for 4 days, and i am sad when i had to send them back again.
For anyone wondering about the songs used (in the order they were played): 1 - LeDorean feat. King Sis - Rendezvous 2 - ??? 3 - Mindme feat. Mia Pfirrman - Walking on a Tightrope 4 - Adriel Fair - Oscillation 5 - Do You Really Wanna Be In Love by Frigga
One item of note: It's BOTH dual DAC and dual THX modules. Each chipset pairing handles a single channel and then brings them together. It's in part what makes it unique
finally!!!! Thank you for making me feel less guilty on my first ever amp/dac purchase. I got this a couple of months ago, and have been in love with this ever since :)
This review was literally everything I needed to hear to pull the trigger. Please do more reviews like this, I thoroughly enjoyed the sound test portion and that had the biggest influence.
The dirac mode uses a widening algorithm, these algorithms usually increase gain on stereo elements. If a bass is mono, wich a lot of basses are, it won't increase the gain. This is why the bass on some songs seems a lot lower.
I have had my joutenheim for 3 years now and I love it. I pair it with Genelec speakers and DT1990 headphones and have never been left wanting for anything more.
Discontinued unfortunately , no new version being made by Monolith 😞. My one an only dac/amp since Feb 2021, the EQ was a life saver . (HD6xx/HifimanEXS/Tidal)
I actually have this amp and I also bought the THX 789 and I returned the THX789. I found this one really awesome for gaming and music and the THX789 sounded too boring and felt like less features. So yes this amp is awesome :)! Finishing Final Fantasy 7 Remake with this amp + arya = godlike audio.
DIRAC on the 788 is meant to emulate an ideal listening room and emulate a speaker system. It can blend left and right channels in a way that emulates speakers in a room. This makes it ideal for some tracks mastered using speakers. If you listen to any music where there are instruments that predominantly play out of one channel it makes listening to music through headphones much more enjoyable. A great example is the 2015 remaster of Space Oddity by David Bowie. DIRAC does wonderful things to songs like this.
To my ears dirac increases depth. The center image is pushed foward. Left and right are pushed back, but at the cost of width. It's like a cone pointing forward
or an accountant taking the piss. it's a joke don't you get it? it's not supposed to sound good,it makes stupid people buy it since it has a unique feature.
@@CrisMertens lol no. not unless the mic has its own power. the inputs on a headphone dac amp do not send out electricity which is required to run the microphone's transducer.
Sample Tracks (Song - Artist) 9:15 Rendezvous - LeDorean ft King Sis 10:00 Blues Manouche - Vendla 10:29 Walking on a Tightrope - Mindme ft Mia Pfirrman 10:53 Oscillation - Adriel Fair 11:24 Do You Really Wanna Be In Love - Frigga
Been using this for over a year now and it's been flawless and a truly outstanding piece of kit. Awesome DACs and super hp/pre amp; I run the entire living room hifi on it. Lots of inputs and can switch line or hp out. Awesome set of shelf and PEQs + Dirac and DRC is handy for movies late at night on speakers. Also the digital inputs are very forgiving- the AES inputs will also accept PCM (and vice-versa) so you can load it up with digital sources.
I own this Monoprice THX DAC AMP. Also own the RME ADI2 FSR. The RME has a far more complex range of options and a confusing UI to go with it. The Monolith is a lot more easier to use. If the Monolith had Bluetooth and a remote, I think I would rather have - for the money- 2 monolith instead of 1 RME. But it doesn't. So for me and my uses and locations, having 1 of each makes sense. Headphones used are Sennheiser HD6XX & 800S. Also Audeze LCD-2, XC, MX4, 4. They all sound great on both units.
I took your advice and went with the Monoprice 887! I was trying to decide between the THX 789 amp and the Monolith. Just arrived today and I'm blown away. It was an addition to my Modi 3 + Magni Heresy. Wanted to see if there was a significant difference between the 2 and the difference is massive! Absolutely loving how we can get 2 different completely different listening experience with the DIRAC feature. Going through my music library trying out all of my headphones with this new AMP/DAC and could not be any happier! Thanks for your reviews!
Iv'e had this DAC/AMP for about a year now, and had a chance to use most of its features, but I have never had a reason to use the DRC compression feature on it... until now Iv'e been watching a series and the volume varies WILDLY between dialogues and sound effects and music , to the point that I found myself adjusting the volume every 30 seconds. The effect is very noticeable when you adjust the variables, but at the same time its subtle, it doesnt constantly reminds me that it's active. You set it up and then its just doing its thing. It sounds contradictory but that's the best way i can describe how it sounds to my ears. I actually thought I would never use it, but yeah, its actually so useful right now. I dont think anyone would buy this amp based on this feature, so I guess this is mostly for the people that already bought it and are looking at videos after the fact. Its a niche feature that almost nobody ever uses, but yeah, it exists, its good, and who knows, maybe you will some day run into some poorly mixed movie or series and remember this post
Great review. I do have a few if you can help out. 1) what would be good closed headphones to pair with this? 2)what software are you running on your computer? 3)What equalizer software would your recommend? 4)what songs were you playing? Love your upgrade path for the product. Thanks Sebastian
Get the topping DX7 Pro and you get this + more power + bluetooth + less background noise + a remote control + a 4.4 balanced output. On many sites and tests had become near the king. I will have it with me soon. :)
I've gotta admit, your description of the DIRAC, and then being able to hear exactly that first hand in the review itself as you switched it on and off was a very nice and useful addition. Great review.
The 788 is the total package. I got mine and don't see anything need to get anything else. I use the EQ and really like it, it doesn't overwhelm me with a million way to adjust like a lot of programs do, it just lets me pick a few ranges to fine-tune, which I think is perfect.
Your mileage may vary with the DIRAQ feature depending on the song. This first time I really heard it making a major impact was on the Song "Walk this Way" by Aerosmith. The opening classic guitar riff with Dirac off sounds like it's playing on the left side of the ear cup... but when you turn on DIRAQ that guitar Riff sounds like it's on the top left side of your head. It's really cool if you switch back and forth as you can really hear what DIRAQ is doing. I've had the Monolith for like 2 years now... and still haven't figured out and tried the EQ function. I'm not sure it's worth the effort
Great balanced (haha) review. Love this review format, it covers all the bases perfectly. Instant subscribe for me. I scored this Monolith at an unbeatable price on Amazon Canada after exhausting all the other options. Despite a few shaky reviews the overall consensus is that this packs a killer punch for the price. I definitely concur. It's clean as hell, powerful as all get-out and just pure and unadulterated (unless you want it to be). The lack of remote is the only real issue I think, but many HP amps don't have them anyway it seems. Most solid state amp lovers will really enjoy this. On a side note - considering the lack of options in Canada without breaking the bank (importing Schiit or JDS is just too pricey, JDS Canadian dealer is still getting set up and wont ship for at least a month), there are somewhat competitive Topping and SMSL etc. offerings but nothing quite combines all into one package at this price point. IFi has a couple too but most are a couple hundred more dollars in Canada. Secondary market is another option but no warranty that way. The Drop THX 789 amp itself is also currently available around $500 on Amazon, but still needs a DAC to match it.
@@Florianski Issue there is that Toppings have a rep for crapping out or having annoying issues pop up within a year or two. They're sort of the Hifiman of the dac/amp world.
This product that was reviewed is not as good as the thx aaa 789 or the other stand alone monoprice thx amp. You're better off getting separates than getting this combo unit.
It was nice to hear you mention the Heresy. I just bought the Heresy/Modi stack and i do love it, but really wanted the 789, I went with Schiit for 3 reasons..1. Price 2. Made in America 3. Rep. I have been into home theater and higher end audio (Marantz...Rotel...Bowers and Wilkins) for almost 30 years but i am new to higher end headphone audio so did not want to spend $320 on the 789. That being said i still watch these reviews and really want a AAA THX amp so it was nice you mentioned Heresy as one of a few setting the bar. I am sure i will get one some day. Oh my headphones are SHP 9500...HD 58X...Porta Pro's...KPH30iRB's...KSC75 (The Koss Holy Trinity lol)...Sony WH1000XM3's...And my old Sony 7506's
I've had this THX amp for quite some time...connecting a Berydynamic DT 1990 Pro & T5 3rd gen. Also, imo the AKM DAC is a big improvement compared to ESS Sabre....the combo of THX/AKM really provides a great hp experience. The amp is so good, I connect the RCA output jacks into my Parasound P7 pre-amp @ 0.00 dB. The THX improves the entire system, especially the sub frequenies...tighter bass.
Got mine for 350 used not a scratch. I love it. Even with my iems I trade the hiss for the the extra power, since I mostly listen to electronic music it doesn't bother me. Going to collect some headphones and iems, and maybe a pair of speakers. Dac and amp are in check for now 👍
I have been part of a FiR Audio m4 and m5 tour in the past, but I'm still looking forward to your impressions and review. To me, it was very underwhelming, but YMMV of course. Good video as always Josh !
Something important to note. The AD10 DAC and the THX788 have the same metal finish. So that look really good together if you want a driverless DAC and optical out into the THX 788.
I’ve had mine for about 6 months and the DIRAC is cool but it’s more of a toy than a tool. As for the volume knob once you get into the speed at which you turn it as compared to how it react on the unit you can turn it up and down fairly quickly. If you have your headphones at -35 dB and need to go to the line out at zero dB it’s a pain in the butt to do. Then you need to hit menu, scroll to settings, hit enter twice, scroll left or right for output mode, then hit menu twice to go back to volume. Yes it’s that many steps.
Hey Joshua, have you ever experience connectivity issues with this AMP/DAC unit? I found myself having to shut the unit off and turning it back on when I lose the audio signal. Weird since the PC still sees the AMP/DAC connected.
Really didn't like the Dirac, it feels way more compressed and the added "soundstage" isn't enough to justify to loose the punch and the "realness" of the music. But glad it's an option tho !
Joshua, you're one of the best tech reviewers for audio-related products. I enjoy your descriptions of stuff from the audiophile world, filtered and packaged into more palatable servings. Keep this up!
Great review! I own it and can tell the Dirac is turned on half the time. Most of the time I start a new album, I test if Dirac turned on is better or not. And it really depends. What I feel is that Dirac gives a "coherence" in the imaging. Everything is more centered, so there is a lost of wideness, but it feels right at the same time. Besides, Diracs seems to add a reverb, and sometimes it feels metallic and artificial. It feels like you have to choose between resolution (accuracy, hifiness) or coherence. In short it really depends. I can say that most of the time, my Electro is "Dirac on" and my Jazz is "Dirac off". But still, there are exceptions.
It's hard to explain, but the DIRAC demo seemed to me to take anything channeled (where one channel is more prominent than the other) and exaggerate it, giving it a bit of a v-shaped sound, while mono stuff is more centered and given almost the opposite sound curve, if that makes sense, it's like highs and lows are separated, and mids are trended towards the stereo middle more, gives a nice soundstage boost, but I can't fathom how that's working at all - since it seems to put the vocals right in the middle, and everything else is shifted left or right a bit to give a wider soundstage. Thanks for the review Joshua. Really informative.
Josh, you should note that the RCA output isn't line out, it's pre out. I myself use a Jotunheim as an all-in-one solution for both desktop monitors and headphones and this thing has tempted me for a long time, but the Jotunheim is still the only DAC/amp that features balanced pre outs. Whether that matters is a different story, but it's worth pointing out.
Frankly I can not think about any other device regardless of price range that I would use instead of this for HD800S. With everything else you'd have to tinker with external software or DSP to get HD800 sound universally great for all genres.
Worth upgrading from the magni/modi? Currently only use AD700's and X2's but looking to eventually transition into some HD660's or Sundara's for clean listening/gaming, and maybe something like LCD's ot dt1990's for heavier/warmer music or moods.
Josh you nail the background music EVERY TIME. It makes sense though, provide audiophile audio for your primarily audiophile audience? Glad I wrote that down by the way, because I could never say that "a gain".
Got the monoprice thx aaa887 because I already had a Dac. After watching this I kinda wish I had spent the extra 50 bucks on this for the features. Just ordered the Arya today based largely on your reviews and about six months of reading tons of articles and forums, a-b comparisons, other reviews, blah blah blah.... Anyway; I would like to know if you think getting a balanced cable like the Periapt you mention would make a significant difference in quality over SE with the 887 . Thanks by the way , your reviews have been very helpful...haven’t steered me wrong yet, can’t wait for the Aryas !!! Keep up the great work Josh, much appreciated !
Thanks for the review Joshua, I've just ordered one :) , along with some balanced cables. BTW, the monolith is on sale today at monoprice; but to get it to Switzerland, I had to add in hefty shipping charges.
Dirac sensaround is great for gamin, and increasing soundstage to make whatever your listening to appear more speaker like, ie forward projection of sound etc. It was supposed to make it sound like you were listening to a pair of speakers if I'm not mistaken. I love mine, owned this amp for a year now and no looking back.
I’m glad I found this review. I recently became an audiophile due to various 3D sound platforms and I really wanted to find something that can do that to all my music.
Don’t know what took me so long to subscribe you. Been watching your reviews past couple of months eyeing a good Amp and decided to buy THX 789 last weekend. Keep good stuff going. Cheers!
maybe I have been unlucky but I have almost always have some kind of issue with Monoprice products. The Monolith 788 quit for no reason, a glass shelf showed up with no legs, the second shelf had extra legs, and the m300 planars buzzed in the right channel immediately, I opened them up and the entire driver had let go and shifted. The only product I had work well was the Liquid Spark... everything else has been an issue.
Thanks Joshua This video helped tons. Just one honest question I have. I am looking more for using this with my PC and TV most home entertainment Do you feel this would work since I live in an apartment I use headphones about 95% of the time? If not this Dac what would be a better option for Home Entertainment I do love the THX. Thanks again for your videos....
Great video as always Josh! This certainly seems like an appealing all in one solution, however I do have one question. You talk a lot about the excellent detail and clarity of the THX AAA amps, but how much do you need to spend on headphones to actually take advantage of them? Do you think it would be better to purchase a cheaper DAC/AMP and put the extra cash into superior drivers if one is budget conscious?
Yes. In terms of how much they effect the sound I think the order is like this. Headphones > Music choice > Amps > Dacs > all the extra bits. \ Headphones over music because I think people should listen to whatever they want. It will almost always sound better on good headphones.
@@JoshuaValour and by far the most important thing in the chain is the quality of the recoding. A good recording on a cheap headphone will always sound better than a bad recording on the best headphones.
Dirac mode sounds a bit like the Carver Sonic hologram. It's a signal processor that they included in some of their pieces back in the day. They also produced a small stand-alone unit. It worked by sending a little bit of anti-right in the left signal and a bit of anti-left in the right signal thereby supposedly creating clearer stereo image between a pair of loudspeakers. Oddly enough the effect was still apparent even with headphones but to a lesser degree.
SO Dirac.. Paul Dirac was one of the greatest physicists in the 20th century. His last name is pronounced De - rahk, with the "i" pronounced like the "i" in kit, so the first part of his name would almost be pronounced like Dih - rahk. I'm positive that Monoprice named this technology as a tip of the hat to Paul Dirac, so please don't pronounce it Dee - rack if you can help it. Sorry to be a pronunciation snob. Great vid on a great product as always. This new dac/amp will replace my Khadas Tone Board and Liquid Spark stack within a year or two :)
I'd still love to see you review the RME ADI-2 dac if you can get your hands on one! Not necessarily to see if it's a better value, but how it compares in terms of features and sound compared to this and other dac/amp combos
Good point, their similarities is why I've been considering both and there's no doubt the monoprice is a better value. It's already got a thx amp that is as you've said probably better than the one on RME. But if one was to get a RME they could always pick up a 789/887 if it was still within budget. Then the 788 would be an even better value though compared to a RME/789 pairing. On the flip side the RME/789 pairing would offer even more features than a 788 (besides the absence of Dirac)
I dislike that it forces everything through a a/d converter prior to amplification which means its a 'dead end purchase' in that even if the amplification is still excellent, you cannot upgrade the dac itself as it will always be used. Trying to decide between jott/d70 stack and this and the performance/price makes this monoprice a winner but the upgradability makes me still continue to give the jott/topping stack a look. What say you guys?
@@nickpelayo3172 I guess the point is that "good enough" will change as new dacs are released and allow for better conversion (or perhaps I would want to experiment with an r2r dac down the line) It certainly does shut down that path of exploration which is a huge part of audio for some (myself included) I guess the question boils down to is the money saved by going with an all in one now worth the potential waste down the line of having no reasonable way to use the device. This requires taking into account the used market and also the idea of using a balanced dac/headphone amp as nothing more than an rca out dac down the line when better dac only devices undoubtedly exist at the price. All that said I do keep coming back to wanting an all in one solution and perhaps future me can deal with the downsides. :)
@@dmtphone I do agree with you on the upgrade path. It is a smarter idea to buy separate components that each can be replaced but if you want something small with fewer cables and only one power outlet thia monoprice dac/amp is a fantastic purchase. I also have an audiogd nfb11 and a small su8 paired to two different tube amps so I do like to play around but I am a budget shopper and believe in the factor of diminishing returns when it comes to audio gear.
Newbie here.. Would this be a good choice to run from my PC to run to a set of HD800s? Would the usb connection be the way to go for a PC connection? Thanks for the content.
Great review ! For $500 budget, will you recommend buying this THX DAC+Amp or Drop THX 789 which don't have a DAC? So does having the in-built DAC makes a big difference? I am planning to drive songs off my Desktop, even RUclipss. Recently Topping D90 DAC-AMP is out, is that comparable to this DAC-AMP? please share your thoughts.
I have seen this excellent review and it prompted me to buy the Monolith, my first headphone dac/amp ever. Listening through BD DT880 Pro (250ohm) I am really happy - thank you Josh. Question: which powered speakers would you or anyone in the forum recommend as good pairing for the unit. Purpose: all kinds of music. Thanks.
Just got a nice paycheck because of some overtime. Really tempted to get this of the SH-9 and a dac. I currently have a topping a30/d30 and have HD 6xx, sundara, and some other less expensive headphones. Also have Sony 1000 xm4 soe whatever but don't use those for the sound quality but for their other features.
I agree 100% on the XLRs. I care more about this unit as a DAC than as an AMP. I could justify the $500 to work it both my headphone system and stereo but not having the XLR's as an output turns this into a deal breaker. It would be cool if we could petition Monoprice to make this value adding modification.
Just a question. Sorry if it sounds dumb, I am pretty new in all this. If I buy this, even though it is a DAC/amp, can I use it as just an amp and then buy another DAC that is better
I don't know if it's been fixed, but I heard from others that there were issues when using this unit with a separate dac. Apparently, this dac/amp doesn't properly amplify the signal when fed through its analog input. I might need some additional confirmation from people who own this model though. Edit : Oh yeah, there's also people in this comment section who are claiming the same thing. Seems like the signal input from a separate dac is not able to bypass the 788's own dac.
Sounds great here anyway with THX.! 10:16 Dirac Sensaround on (on) sounds flicker & shriller. (absorbent environment) On (off) for less decorated spaces. Sounds 🤔 yes also super after all THX makes you happy. Probably on 'off' my preference. Beautiful such a set. Hats off super pioneers of THX 👌🏼🫶🏼-it Klink hier sowieso al lekker met THX. 10:16 Dirac Sensaround op (aan) klinkt flakker & scheller. (absorberende omgeving) Op (uit) voor minder aangekleden ruimten. Klinkt 🤔 ja ook super immers THX daar wordt je blij van. Waarschijnlijk op 'uit' mijn voorkeur. Prachtig zo'n set.chapeau super pioniers van THX 👌🏼🫶🏼-it
great review as always. You should really have a look at the project audio S2 line. Pre Box S2 Digital with a Head Box S2 for example. Those tiny boxes are amazing!
Hi Joshua, great review. You mentioned that you would like the device to have a balanced output instead of a input, and I agree with that, since it would be great to power a set of speakers with it. Is there a device out there that would tick all the boxes ? - single unit AMP/DAC - multiple digital inputs - line/balanced ouput for headphones & speakers - it doesn't cost an arm and a leg :D Keep up the good work.
im using the HD800 and it sounds good on both, dirac puts stuff more to the middle but tbh i think the dirac base was better somehow, with dirac things become more like dolby atmosish. Tbh honest dirac function on a pc would lift PC games alot in somé kind of 3d kind of way more over head. I liked the Dirac, dont forget that they are one of the best auto calibration on AVR:s NAD,Arcam use them
DRAC would be great for cinematic/ambient sounds, but maybe not so good for those very clean directionally detailed tunes and songs with punchy tight base. Great review, I am convinced to get this and not spend the extra on a Drop THX 789 + separate DAC.
Great video, as always! I have a question which may be ridiculous, but here we are...how do you feel the DAC side of this compares with a decent DAP? Specifically the Fiio M11 but any comparable DAP would do as a comparison. If I am delighted with the M11 sound through my gear, would this represent a significant improvement? Or is it more for people with a computer and no DAC?
Thank you for the review. I am pondering adding headphone equipment, and this is probably the best logical choice. But I like Schiit, and especially their team that I have heard in interviews, so it makes a tough decision for me. Money is less of an issue than a self-imposed limit on how stupid I want to be!
for 50$ you can get a used dragonfly that will render mqa, this won't. getting a dac amp combo is not wise since you will probably want to upgrade the dac at some point. no mqa,no free firmware updates like you can get with any audioquest,ps audio or ifi product. as a headphone amp the 789 is sterile and lean make sure you have the warmest sounding headphones and good luck!
Hi bro! awesome video. May I know how do i connect this to my goxlr audio interface? Is it advisable to use this for gaming? Kindly need your help/advise bro.
I’m planning on getting the dt1990 pro headset and only have a Scarlett 2i2 audio interface. You think I need an amp? To be more specific what should I upgrade in order to enjoy and capture all of the 1990 pro headsets audio power to mix and master music?
How about compare to Fiio K5 pro? I can not tell sound difference. $150 vs $500 ( except EQ & filter options ) They are using same AKM 4493 DAC. I tested with DT-770 250ohm, HD-58X. Maybe my headphones are not good enough or my ears are not sensitive. Let me know. Thank you!
Im a beginner in the audiophile hobby. I got myself HD600 for my first purchase of dac and amp, i hesitate on THX 788 or magnius/modius and Element 2. ill only use it with headphones and id like the option that will last the longer. Wich one you would suggest me ? Thank you
So, I'm just starting out. Recently got a Fiio K5 Pro and HD 6XX. Software features aside, would I hear much difference in overall quality if I got this unit to drive the 6XX instead? Or are there major diminishing returns/negligible gains for the extra $350?
This for $500 or the Drop 789 and a used Grace SDAC for $355? Which would you choose? More power with the 789, but more features and it's all-in-one with the monolith. Can't decide which way to go.
Your “things liked/not liked” approach really works for a feature rich product like this. Thanks!
Josh, I just wanted to thank you. Not only for your content but for truly leading me down this rabbit hole. After watching almost all of your videos I decided on getting the Monoprice THX AAA Monolith and a pair of DT 1990 Pro. I've honestly never known music like this before, I'm re-listening to my entire collection and find myself literally disappearing for hours into the music. I just wanted to say thank you and keep up the amazing channel and content.
Ayy good choice. Exact same setup I got. First audiophile setup I've purchased. Sounds so clean with this setup.
@@nathanpickering6742 I've recently added a pair of Panda wireless too and love them also. THX is the way to go
@@NeatFreq dude I really wanna try out the pandas but I'm not ready to drop another $600 yet. Just got some hifiman 400i planar headphones and they sound awesome so I'm liking that planar tech. Probably sounds super clean on the Pandas.
Did you add any eq for your 1990s at all? Just curious if you have any tips for setting them up on the amp. I honestly haven't messed with the eq at all, but I bought some dekoni elite hybrid pads for those headphones.
Honestly, DT1990 are pretty boring. and i am typing this while wearing and listening to the sound demo with them... There's better out there, my dude. 1990's are nice, but no soundstage at all. I had Hifiman Deva for 4 days, and i am sad when i had to send them back again.
For anyone wondering about the songs used (in the order they were played):
1 - LeDorean feat. King Sis - Rendezvous
2 - ???
3 - Mindme feat. Mia Pfirrman - Walking on a Tightrope
4 - Adriel Fair - Oscillation
5 - Do You Really Wanna Be In Love by Frigga
Thanks man. I kept this tab open for 3 days to "shazam" those songs when I get a chance.
2- Blues Manouche by Vendla
@@codykrzyzaniak8164 thanks
One item of note: It's BOTH dual DAC and dual THX modules. Each chipset pairing handles a single channel and then brings them together. It's in part what makes it unique
A comparison with Topping DX7 Pro would be interesting, since both is 2 in 1 dac/amp desktop solution
I second this!
Really having a hard time deciding between those two
finally!!!! Thank you for making me feel less guilty on my first ever amp/dac purchase. I got this a couple of months ago, and have been in love with this ever since :)
Random question: Can plug an XLR mic into one of the rear balanced XLR analog inputs?
This review was literally everything I needed to hear to pull the trigger.
Please do more reviews like this, I thoroughly enjoyed the sound test portion and that had the biggest influence.
I have been using this bad boy since it came out. Absolutely fantastic regardless of price. This dac/amp is a beast
How do you like it now? I'm thinking of pairing this with the Monoprice M1060 cans. My use case is music listening, PC and records, and PC gaming.
@@gingerman5123 I still use it all the time. It isn't the most powerful amp but it gets the job done for most of my headphones
The dirac mode uses a widening algorithm, these algorithms usually increase gain on stereo elements. If a bass is mono, wich a lot of basses are, it won't increase the gain. This is why the bass on some songs seems a lot lower.
Good to know. I will do some more research into it and possibly make a video about it.
@@JoshuaValour We, gamers, want to know more about it, as we seek staging for our headphones, remember 😂
Listening to the demo it definitely is pulling up the side channels a bit as you describe.
theres a paid DTS and Dolby app in Microsoft store isn't it?
plus this is activated on FPGA, so its execution is more better than software based system
Just got one second hand today in the mail after i saw your review. Awesome dac/amp, very excited to own one! Great reviews, keep up the good work!
ordered mine yesterday because of his review as well!! Enjoy!!!!
@@VOByRobbins Totally worth it. Enjoy as well.
I have had my joutenheim for 3 years now and I love it. I pair it with Genelec speakers and DT1990 headphones and have never been left wanting for anything more.
Do you have with DAC ? But it’s sad it doesn’t have optical input
The THX Amp just dropped to $299 maybe this will drop to $399 now. At least that is what I am hoping for.
Drue would be so awesome!
But that Drop THX 789 is ugly !
@@nicktan4530 in fairness tons of audio stuff is ugly.
@@nicktan4530 That's an opinion
@@ron2291 No not really. The older massdrop THX 789 is beautiful plain jam.
Discontinued unfortunately , no new version being made by Monolith 😞. My one an only dac/amp since Feb 2021, the EQ was a life saver . (HD6xx/HifimanEXS/Tidal)
I actually have this amp and I also bought the THX 789 and I returned the THX789. I found this one really awesome for gaming and music and the THX789 sounded too boring and felt like less features. So yes this amp is awesome :)! Finishing Final Fantasy 7 Remake with this amp + arya = godlike audio.
How does the thx work for gaming
@@josephm3615 feels like you are at an actual stadium surrounded be loudspeakers and depth depending on which game you play.
DIRAC on the 788 is meant to emulate an ideal listening room and emulate a speaker system. It can blend left and right channels in a way that emulates speakers in a room. This makes it ideal for some tracks mastered using speakers. If you listen to any music where there are instruments that predominantly play out of one channel it makes listening to music through headphones much more enjoyable. A great example is the 2015 remaster of Space Oddity by David Bowie. DIRAC does wonderful things to songs like this.
To my ears dirac increases depth. The center image is pushed foward. Left and right are pushed back, but at the cost of width. It's like a cone pointing forward
or an accountant taking the piss. it's a joke don't you get it? it's not supposed to sound good,it makes stupid people buy it since it has a unique feature.
Listening to this review through a THX dac amp and nodding at every single point made by Josh.
Random question: Can plug an XLR mic into one of the rear balanced XLR analog inputs?
@@CrisMertens lol no. not unless the mic has its own power. the inputs on a headphone dac amp do not send out electricity which is required to run the microphone's transducer.
@@jillianangell2570 no clue. try it and let us know
Item has been discontinued :( Any other comparative DACAMP at this price? Preferably with EQ?
Sample Tracks (Song - Artist)
9:15 Rendezvous - LeDorean ft King Sis
10:00 Blues Manouche - Vendla
10:29 Walking on a Tightrope - Mindme ft Mia Pfirrman
10:53 Oscillation - Adriel Fair
11:24 Do You Really Wanna Be In Love - Frigga
thank you kind sir
Been using this for over a year now and it's been flawless and a truly outstanding piece of kit. Awesome DACs and super hp/pre amp; I run the entire living room hifi on it. Lots of inputs and can switch line or hp out. Awesome set of shelf and PEQs + Dirac and DRC is handy for movies late at night on speakers. Also the digital inputs are very forgiving- the AES inputs will also accept PCM (and vice-versa) so you can load it up with digital sources.
Really awesome sound demo to give a hard, demonstrable description of the Dirac Sensaround feature! Such a considerate inclusion for a review!
I own this Monoprice THX DAC AMP. Also own the RME ADI2 FSR.
The RME has a far more complex range of options and a confusing UI to go with it.
The Monolith is a lot more easier to use.
If the Monolith had Bluetooth and a remote, I think I would rather have - for the money- 2 monolith instead of 1 RME.
But it doesn't. So for me and my uses and locations, having 1 of each makes sense.
Headphones used are Sennheiser HD6XX & 800S. Also Audeze LCD-2, XC, MX4, 4.
They all sound great on both units.
by 'Monolith' you mean 'Monoprice', which is the short for the amp/dac this video review is about, right?
I like the sound-demo that you did, great review once more, KEEP EM COMING JOSH!
I took your advice and went with the Monoprice 887! I was trying to decide between the THX 789 amp and the Monolith. Just arrived today and I'm blown away. It was an addition to my Modi 3 + Magni Heresy. Wanted to see if there was a significant difference between the 2 and the difference is massive! Absolutely loving how we can get 2 different completely different listening experience with the DIRAC feature. Going through my music library trying out all of my headphones with this new AMP/DAC and could not be any happier! Thanks for your reviews!
nice! which headphones are u usin it with? currently stuck between many options of DAC/AMP combos xd
I liked the coming soon segment at the end. :) It builds up excitement.
Iv'e had this DAC/AMP for about a year now, and had a chance to use most of its features, but I have never had a reason to use the DRC compression feature on it... until now
Iv'e been watching a series and the volume varies WILDLY between dialogues and sound effects and music
, to the point that I found myself adjusting the volume every 30 seconds.
The effect is very noticeable when you adjust the variables, but at the same time its subtle, it doesnt constantly reminds me that it's active. You set it up and then its just doing its thing.
It sounds contradictory but that's the best way i can describe how it sounds to my ears.
I actually thought I would never use it, but yeah, its actually so useful right now.
I dont think anyone would buy this amp based on this feature, so I guess this is mostly for the people that already bought it and are looking at videos after the fact.
Its a niche feature that almost nobody ever uses, but yeah, it exists, its good, and who knows, maybe you will some day run into some poorly mixed movie or series and remember this post
Random question: Can plug an XLR mic into one of the rear balanced XLR analog inputs?
Great review. I do have a few if you can help out. 1) what would be good closed headphones to pair with this? 2)what software are you running on your computer? 3)What equalizer software would your recommend? 4)what songs were you playing? Love your upgrade path for the product.
Thanks Sebastian
Did you ever find out what song it was?
Excellent video and seriously, props to you on your b roll and presentation as usual.
i bought this amp last year !, I love it , a bit pricey , for a beginner but, still worth the purchase
'
Get the topping DX7 Pro and you get this + more power + bluetooth + less background noise + a remote control + a 4.4 balanced output. On many sites and tests had become near the king. I will have it with me soon. :)
I've gotta admit, your description of the DIRAC, and then being able to hear exactly that first hand in the review itself as you switched it on and off was a very nice and useful addition. Great review.
The 788 is the total package. I got mine and don't see anything need to get anything else. I use the EQ and really like it, it doesn't overwhelm me with a million way to adjust like a lot of programs do, it just lets me pick a few ranges to fine-tune, which I think is perfect.
Your mileage may vary with the DIRAQ feature depending on the song. This first time I really heard it making a major impact was on the Song "Walk this Way" by Aerosmith. The opening classic guitar riff with Dirac off sounds like it's playing on the left side of the ear cup... but when you turn on DIRAQ that guitar Riff sounds like it's on the top left side of your head. It's really cool if you switch back and forth as you can really hear what DIRAQ is doing. I've had the Monolith for like 2 years now... and still haven't figured out and tried the EQ function. I'm not sure it's worth the effort
Yeahhhh! I've been waiting for a review like this!
It would be the best Dac/amp ever if I could buy one haha
Great balanced (haha) review. Love this review format, it covers all the bases perfectly. Instant subscribe for me.
I scored this Monolith at an unbeatable price on Amazon Canada after exhausting all the other options. Despite a few shaky reviews the overall consensus is that this packs a killer punch for the price. I definitely concur. It's clean as hell, powerful as all get-out and just pure and unadulterated (unless you want it to be). The lack of remote is the only real issue I think, but many HP amps don't have them anyway it seems. Most solid state amp lovers will really enjoy this.
On a side note - considering the lack of options in Canada without breaking the bank (importing Schiit or JDS is just too pricey, JDS Canadian dealer is still getting set up and wont ship for at least a month), there are somewhat competitive Topping and SMSL etc. offerings but nothing quite combines all into one package at this price point. IFi has a couple too but most are a couple hundred more dollars in Canada. Secondary market is another option but no warranty that way. The Drop THX 789 amp itself is also currently available around $500 on Amazon, but still needs a DAC to match it.
SMSL SU-8v2 ($250) + THX AAA 789 ($300) = $550 budget endgame combo. The DAC on the SMSL measures extremely well and has a lot of cool features too.
Topping d50s paired with smsl sp200 costs the same, measures just as good, but is much smaller and has a bluetooth receiver
I would get the sdac instead and save some money
@@Florianski Issue there is that Toppings have a rep for crapping out or having annoying issues pop up within a year or two. They're sort of the Hifiman of the dac/amp world.
This product that was reviewed is not as good as the thx aaa 789 or the other stand alone monoprice thx amp. You're better off getting separates than getting this combo unit.
It was nice to hear you mention the Heresy. I just bought the Heresy/Modi stack and i do love it, but really wanted the 789, I went with Schiit for 3 reasons..1. Price 2. Made in America 3. Rep.
I have been into home theater and higher end audio (Marantz...Rotel...Bowers and Wilkins) for almost 30 years but i am new to higher end headphone audio so did not want to spend $320 on the 789. That being said i still watch these reviews and really want a AAA THX amp so it was nice you mentioned Heresy as one of a few setting the bar. I am sure i will get one some day.
Oh my headphones are SHP 9500...HD 58X...Porta Pro's...KPH30iRB's...KSC75 (The Koss Holy Trinity lol)...Sony WH1000XM3's...And my old Sony 7506's
I've had this THX amp for quite some time...connecting a Berydynamic DT 1990 Pro & T5 3rd gen. Also, imo the AKM DAC is a big improvement compared to ESS Sabre....the combo of THX/AKM really provides a great hp experience.
The amp is so good, I connect the RCA output jacks into my Parasound P7 pre-amp @ 0.00 dB. The THX improves the entire system, especially the sub frequenies...tighter bass.
Got mine for 350 used not a scratch. I love it. Even with my iems I trade the hiss for the the extra power, since I mostly listen to electronic music it doesn't bother me.
Going to collect some headphones and iems, and maybe a pair of speakers. Dac and amp are in check for now 👍
I have been part of a FiR Audio m4 and m5 tour in the past, but I'm still looking forward to your impressions and review. To me, it was very underwhelming, but YMMV of course. Good video as always Josh !
Something important to note.
The AD10 DAC and the THX788 have the same metal finish. So that look really good together if you want a driverless DAC and optical out into the THX 788.
I’ve had mine for about 6 months and the DIRAC is cool but it’s more of a toy than a tool. As for the volume knob once you get into the speed at which you turn it as compared to how it react on the unit you can turn it up and down fairly quickly. If you have your headphones at -35 dB and need to go to the line out at zero dB it’s a pain in the butt to do. Then you need to hit menu, scroll to settings, hit enter twice, scroll left or right for output mode, then hit menu twice to go back to volume. Yes it’s that many steps.
Hey Joshua, have you ever experience connectivity issues with this AMP/DAC unit? I found myself having to shut the unit off and turning it back on when I lose the audio signal. Weird since the PC still sees the AMP/DAC connected.
In my case all good on 2 different PC's with same drivers in Win10/Win11. But for some reason on an Ipad pro the audio is much lower in volume.
Funny i listened to you're sound demo of this device on that device! LOL
Random question: Can plug an XLR mic into one of the rear balanced XLR analog inputs?
Really didn't like the Dirac, it feels way more compressed and the added "soundstage" isn't enough to justify to loose the punch and the "realness" of the music. But glad it's an option tho !
I can understand that. It really seemed to be hit or miss. HE1000 it was awesome with from time to time. Arya and Fir M5 almost never.
@@JoshuaValour its benefits are a lot more consistent with movies and games. Sometimes older recordings and soundtracks.
Joshua, you're one of the best tech reviewers for audio-related products. I enjoy your descriptions of stuff from the audiophile world, filtered and packaged into more palatable servings. Keep this up!
Great review! I own it and can tell the Dirac is turned on half the time. Most of the time I start a new album, I test if Dirac turned on is better or not. And it really depends. What I feel is that Dirac gives a "coherence" in the imaging. Everything is more centered, so there is a lost of wideness, but it feels right at the same time. Besides, Diracs seems to add a reverb, and sometimes it feels metallic and artificial.
It feels like you have to choose between resolution (accuracy, hifiness) or coherence.
In short it really depends. I can say that most of the time, my Electro is "Dirac on" and my Jazz is "Dirac off". But still, there are exceptions.
the went for ifi "3d" effect but didn't have the engineering chops to pull it off properly.
It's hard to explain, but the DIRAC demo seemed to me to take anything channeled (where one channel is more prominent than the other) and exaggerate it, giving it a bit of a v-shaped sound, while mono stuff is more centered and given almost the opposite sound curve, if that makes sense, it's like highs and lows are separated, and mids are trended towards the stereo middle more, gives a nice soundstage boost, but I can't fathom how that's working at all - since it seems to put the vocals right in the middle, and everything else is shifted left or right a bit to give a wider soundstage. Thanks for the review Joshua. Really informative.
@joshua valour I totally agree with your review, great job. I love this amp, I use it as my benchmark dac/amp for my review channel.
I wish you all the luck with your channel David!
if other's are reading this, go subscribe to David!
@@JoshuaValour Thank you very much. I truly appreciate you saying that. I love your channel by the way, excellent material and video production.
Any idea why it's discontinued? It's such a good DACAMP for its price. Any news they'll be releasing a new version of it?
AKM factory burned down.
Josh, you should note that the RCA output isn't line out, it's pre out. I myself use a Jotunheim as an all-in-one solution for both desktop monitors and headphones and this thing has tempted me for a long time, but the Jotunheim is still the only DAC/amp that features balanced pre outs. Whether that matters is a different story, but it's worth pointing out.
Frankly I can not think about any other device regardless of price range that I would use instead of this for HD800S.
With everything else you'd have to tinker with external software or DSP to get HD800 sound universally great for all genres.
Worth upgrading from the magni/modi? Currently only use AD700's and X2's but looking to eventually transition into some HD660's or Sundara's for clean listening/gaming, and maybe something like LCD's ot dt1990's for heavier/warmer music or moods.
Josh you nail the background music EVERY TIME. It makes sense though, provide audiophile audio for your primarily audiophile audience? Glad I wrote that down by the way, because I could never say that "a gain".
Got the monoprice thx aaa887 because I already had a Dac. After watching this I kinda wish I had spent the extra 50 bucks on this for the features. Just ordered the Arya today based largely on your reviews and about six months of reading tons of articles and forums, a-b comparisons, other reviews, blah blah blah.... Anyway; I would like to know if you think getting a balanced cable like the Periapt you mention would make a significant difference in quality over SE with the 887
. Thanks by the way , your reviews have been very helpful...haven’t steered me wrong yet, can’t wait for the Aryas !!! Keep up the great work Josh, much appreciated !
How do the HD660s sound paired with this DAC/AMP??
Thanks for the review Joshua, I've just ordered one :) , along with some balanced cables. BTW, the monolith is on sale today at monoprice; but to get it to Switzerland, I had to add in hefty shipping charges.
Dirac sensaround is great for gamin, and increasing soundstage to make whatever your listening to appear more speaker like, ie forward projection of sound etc. It was supposed to make it sound like you were listening to a pair of speakers if I'm not mistaken. I love mine, owned this amp for a year now and no looking back.
I’m glad I found this review. I recently became an audiophile due to various 3D sound platforms and I really wanted to find something that can do that to all my music.
Don’t know what took me so long to subscribe you. Been watching your reviews past couple of months eyeing a good Amp and decided to buy THX 789 last weekend. Keep good stuff going. Cheers!
Yeah I bought it because of his recommendation and it’s the best thing that I’ve bought for my headphones.
Jonny Appleseed what headphones do you use it with? I have 6XX and planning to buy Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro.
maybe I have been unlucky but I have almost always have some kind of issue with Monoprice products. The Monolith 788 quit for no reason, a glass shelf showed up with no legs, the second shelf had extra legs, and the m300 planars buzzed in the right channel immediately, I opened them up and the entire driver had let go and shifted. The only product I had work well was the Liquid Spark... everything else has been an issue.
Are you planning to review and talk about the cambridge audio dacmagic 200m ? Or talk about MQA? Loving your reviews...keep up the great work.
Thanks Joshua This video helped tons. Just one honest question I have. I am looking more for using this with my PC and TV most home entertainment Do you feel this would work since I live in an apartment I use headphones about 95% of the time? If not this Dac what would be a better option for Home Entertainment I do love the THX. Thanks again for your videos....
Given that the prices are so similar, what are your thoughts of this versus the Schiit Modius/Magnius stack?
Great video as always Josh! This certainly seems like an appealing all in one solution, however I do have one question. You talk a lot about the excellent detail and clarity of the THX AAA amps, but how much do you need to spend on headphones to actually take advantage of them? Do you think it would be better to purchase a cheaper DAC/AMP and put the extra cash into superior drivers if one is budget conscious?
Yes. In terms of how much they effect the sound I think the order is like this. Headphones > Music choice > Amps > Dacs > all the extra bits. \
Headphones over music because I think people should listen to whatever they want. It will almost always sound better on good headphones.
@@JoshuaValour and by far the most important thing in the chain is the quality of the recoding. A good recording on a cheap headphone will always sound better than a bad recording on the best headphones.
Dirac mode sounds a bit like the Carver Sonic hologram. It's a signal processor that they included in some of their pieces back in the day. They also produced a small stand-alone unit. It worked by sending a little bit of anti-right in the left signal and a bit of anti-left in the right signal thereby supposedly creating clearer stereo image between a pair of loudspeakers. Oddly enough the effect was still apparent even with headphones but to a lesser degree.
Dude your videos are fire. LOVED the sound demo!
SO Dirac.. Paul Dirac was one of the greatest physicists in the 20th century. His last name is pronounced De - rahk, with the "i" pronounced like the "i" in kit, so the first part of his name would almost be pronounced like Dih - rahk. I'm positive that Monoprice named this technology as a tip of the hat to Paul Dirac, so please don't pronounce it Dee - rack if you can help it. Sorry to be a pronunciation snob. Great vid on a great product as always. This new dac/amp will replace my Khadas Tone Board and Liquid Spark stack within a year or two :)
I'd still love to see you review the RME ADI-2 dac if you can get your hands on one! Not necessarily to see if it's a better value, but how it compares in terms of features and sound compared to this and other dac/amp combos
Would be interesting. This thing is almost a budget RME ADI-2
On a side note, I have seen measurements of both, and the headphone output seems to be better on this 788. The DAC better on the RME.
Good point, their similarities is why I've been considering both and there's no doubt the monoprice is a better value. It's already got a thx amp that is as you've said probably better than the one on RME. But if one was to get a RME they could always pick up a 789/887 if it was still within budget. Then the 788 would be an even better value though compared to a RME/789 pairing. On the flip side the RME/789 pairing would offer even more features than a 788 (besides the absence of Dirac)
I dislike that it forces everything through a a/d converter prior to amplification which means its a 'dead end purchase' in that even if the amplification is still excellent, you cannot upgrade the dac itself as it will always be used. Trying to decide between jott/d70 stack and this and the performance/price makes this monoprice a winner but the upgradability makes me still continue to give the jott/topping stack a look. What say you guys?
You are right in this regard but how often are you upgrading your dac when the built in dac is good enough
@@nickpelayo3172 I guess the point is that "good enough" will change as new dacs are released and allow for better conversion (or perhaps I would want to experiment with an r2r dac down the line) It certainly does shut down that path of exploration which is a huge part of audio for some (myself included) I guess the question boils down to is the money saved by going with an all in one now worth the potential waste down the line of having no reasonable way to use the device. This requires taking into account the used market and also the idea of using a balanced dac/headphone amp as nothing more than an rca out dac down the line when better dac only devices undoubtedly exist at the price. All that said I do keep coming back to wanting an all in one solution and perhaps future me can deal with the downsides. :)
@@dmtphone I do agree with you on the upgrade path. It is a smarter idea to buy separate components that each can be replaced but if you want something small with fewer cables and only one power outlet thia monoprice dac/amp is a fantastic purchase. I also have an audiogd nfb11 and a small su8 paired to two different tube amps so I do like to play around but I am a budget shopper and believe in the factor of diminishing returns when it comes to audio gear.
Newbie here.. Would this be a good choice to run from my PC to run to a set of HD800s? Would the usb connection be the way to go for a PC connection? Thanks for the content.
Now you covered Monoprice THX 788.
The only thing left is JDS Lab Element II.
Maybe a comparison between them.
Great review ! For $500 budget, will you recommend buying this THX DAC+Amp or Drop THX 789 which don't have a DAC? So does having the in-built DAC makes a big difference? I am planning to drive songs off my Desktop, even RUclipss. Recently Topping D90 DAC-AMP is out, is that comparable to this DAC-AMP? please share your thoughts.
I have seen this excellent review and it prompted me to buy the Monolith, my first headphone dac/amp ever. Listening through BD DT880 Pro (250ohm) I am really happy - thank you Josh. Question: which powered speakers would you or anyone in the forum recommend as good pairing for the unit. Purpose: all kinds of music. Thanks.
Joshua great review like always! Did you hear any buzzing or humming with any headphones? or was this just with IEM's?
Just got a nice paycheck because of some overtime. Really tempted to get this of the SH-9 and a dac. I currently have a topping a30/d30 and have HD 6xx, sundara, and some other less expensive headphones. Also have Sony 1000 xm4 soe whatever but don't use those for the sound quality but for their other features.
I agree 100% on the XLRs. I care more about this unit as a DAC than as an AMP. I could justify the $500 to work it both my headphone system and stereo but not having the XLR's as an output turns this into a deal breaker. It would be cool if we could petition Monoprice to make this value adding modification.
Just a question. Sorry if it sounds dumb, I am pretty new in all this. If I buy this, even though it is a DAC/amp, can I use it as just an amp and then buy another DAC that is better
As long as it has analog input, you can use another dac
I don't know if it's been fixed, but I heard from others that there were issues when using this unit with a separate dac. Apparently, this dac/amp doesn't properly amplify the signal when fed through its analog input. I might need some additional confirmation from people who own this model though. Edit : Oh yeah, there's also people in this comment section who are claiming the same thing. Seems like the signal input from a separate dac is not able to bypass the 788's own dac.
Sounds great here anyway with THX.!
10:16
Dirac Sensaround on (on) sounds flicker & shriller.
(absorbent environment)
On (off) for less decorated spaces.
Sounds 🤔 yes also super after all THX makes you happy.
Probably on 'off' my preference.
Beautiful such a set. Hats off super pioneers of THX 👌🏼🫶🏼-it
Klink hier sowieso al lekker met THX.
10:16
Dirac Sensaround op (aan) klinkt flakker & scheller.
(absorberende omgeving)
Op (uit) voor minder aangekleden ruimten.
Klinkt 🤔 ja ook super immers THX daar wordt je blij van.
Waarschijnlijk op 'uit' mijn voorkeur.
Prachtig zo'n set.chapeau super pioniers van THX 👌🏼🫶🏼-it
great review as always. You should really have a look at the project audio S2 line. Pre Box S2 Digital with a Head Box S2 for example. Those tiny boxes are amazing!
Great review! What's the name of the software equalizer you are using on the PC at time 11:37 and after?
Just bought the mobile one today. 300 is a chunk of change, but it does so much.
Hi Joshua,
great review.
You mentioned that you would like the device to have a balanced output instead of a input,
and I agree with that, since it would be great to power a set of speakers with it.
Is there a device out there that would tick all the boxes ?
- single unit AMP/DAC
- multiple digital inputs
- line/balanced ouput for headphones & speakers
- it doesn't cost an arm and a leg :D
Keep up the good work.
@2:30 Wait the Jot has more than just USB. It has balanced XLR in, and RCA in as well as USB.
Really cool and very good sounding sound demo, well done! and nice review
listening through the Schiit Asgard 3 ;)
im using the HD800 and it sounds good on both, dirac puts stuff more to the middle but tbh i think the dirac base was better somehow, with dirac things become more like dolby atmosish. Tbh honest dirac function on a pc would lift PC games alot in somé kind of 3d kind of way more over head. I liked the Dirac, dont forget that they are one of the best auto calibration on AVR:s NAD,Arcam use them
Hi Josh. Love your content..Sorry if this is silly question, but what is your source when testing high end audio ? ripped cd’s or tidal etc ?
DRAC would be great for cinematic/ambient sounds, but maybe not so good for those very clean directionally detailed tunes and songs with punchy tight base. Great review, I am convinced to get this and not spend the extra on a Drop THX 789 + separate DAC.
Do you think it's better this or the 887/d10s combo for the same price?
Great video, as always! I have a question which may be ridiculous, but here we are...how do you feel the DAC side of this compares with a decent DAP? Specifically the Fiio M11 but any comparable DAP would do as a comparison. If I am delighted with the M11 sound through my gear, would this represent a significant improvement? Or is it more for people with a computer and no DAC?
Thank you for the review. I am pondering adding headphone equipment, and this is probably the best logical choice. But I like Schiit, and especially their team that I have heard in interviews, so it makes a tough decision for me. Money is less of an issue than a self-imposed limit on how stupid I want to be!
for 50$ you can get a used dragonfly that will render mqa, this won't. getting a dac amp combo is not wise since you will probably want to upgrade the dac at some point. no mqa,no free firmware updates like you can get with any audioquest,ps audio or ifi product. as a headphone amp the 789 is sterile and lean make sure you have the warmest sounding headphones and good luck!
Hi bro! awesome video. May I know how do i connect this to my goxlr audio interface? Is it advisable to use this for gaming? Kindly need your help/advise bro.
I’m planning on getting the dt1990 pro headset and only have a Scarlett 2i2 audio interface. You think I need an amp? To be more specific what should I upgrade in order to enjoy and capture all of the 1990 pro headsets audio power to mix and master music?
How about compare to Fiio K5 pro? I can not tell sound difference. $150 vs $500 ( except EQ & filter options )
They are using same AKM 4493 DAC. I tested with DT-770 250ohm, HD-58X. Maybe my headphones are not good enough or my ears are not sensitive. Let me know. Thank you!
Hey Josh. Just wanted to know when we can see the full review of the HE1000SE. Thanks.
Coming soonish!
Im a beginner in the audiophile hobby. I got myself HD600 for my first purchase of dac and amp, i hesitate on THX 788 or magnius/modius and Element 2. ill only use it with headphones and id like the option that will last the longer. Wich one you would suggest me ? Thank you
So, I'm just starting out. Recently got a Fiio K5 Pro and HD 6XX. Software features aside, would I hear much difference in overall quality if I got this unit to drive the 6XX instead? Or are there major diminishing returns/negligible gains for the extra $350?
Hello! I'm proud owner of one pair of Sennheiser HD800s... but using a Bravo v2 amp. Which would be the best budget amp? I only use them on my pc.
This for $500 or the Drop 789 and a used Grace SDAC for $355? Which would you choose? More power with the 789, but more features and it's all-in-one with the monolith. Can't decide which way to go.