Thank you for this review. I definitely admire your ability to be so articulate in your descriptions and explanations. You really help me to understand an experience that can only be captured with my ears.
I think this review missed some important information about the fact that you can install the Google Play Store which allows you to install just about anything (perhaps an IOS user that is not familiar with Android?). It supports all regular Android streaming apps including Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music HD, RUclips Music, TuneIn, etc. as well as Audiobook apps like Audible and Smart AudioBook Player. It works flawlessly with all of these, something I can't say about the Hiby or Fiio DAPs that I have owned. The interface and wifi perform like a good Android phone. And it does have the Android version of the Mango player for all your local music so that switching to the Mango OS is not necessary. Of course, you can also install other popular Android audio players like Neutron or PowerAmp if you wish. For me the DX300 is my end game DAP.
Hey Precog, nice review. Already saw it on the website yesterday. This DAP looks absolutely amazing but the price is just insane. And if you're looking at the lower priced models, there is always some kind of compromise. I am currently looking at all kinds of DAP and none of them really speaks to me. Really difficult to decide.
This community complains about pricey non-audiophile headphones that sacrifice quality for consumer features. And while I share a lot of those sentiments, the high-end DAP market seems to be no different. I have never had as much anxiety as when I've been purchasing a new DAP (normally because something failed on my current one). Is the output terminal going to break? Will outputs just suddenly stop switching when using different connections? Will battery life suddenly fall off a cliff? Will there be some OS or button bug that's constantly interrupting listening? Will I put a beefy case on this and still have the screen edges chip from just taking it in and out of my pocket? And if any of these issues are covered under warranty, how many months will I be without a DAP when sending it overseas to be fixed? My advice is do not take any reviewer's assessment of a DAP seriously if they haven't owned it and used it regularly for at least a year.
Hiby new r6 its really good for the price, Shanling M3X would be my choice for budget android dap. If ur looking for non-android budget dap I really like the Hidizs AP80 pro + DH 80 combo.
@@Samuell1124 Thanks. I've looked at some of these already. Maybe I just start a list with pro and con and then decide. I mean, they are probably all good, but it's about features, form factor etc.
@@skengasaurus And if you used a DAP for years and want to recommend it to anyone it's already outdated. Looking for a DAP seems more complicated than looking for IEM or Headphones, although they are more important than the device itself. Maybe I just buy some decent USB-C Dongle like a Shanling UA2 and sacrifice performance and features for comfort and convenience.
@@SmashKuro Funny thing. Today, months after the single-ended output on my M11 Pro abruptly stopped working, and couldn't even be remedied by factory resets, it suddenly started functioning again when restarted it following a totally drained battery after merely 5 hours of use with efficient IEMs. I can only conclude that the most basic features you pay for also require burn-in. I am happy to report that the single-ended output has returned with newly impactful bass that doesn't bleed into the midrange, rich, euphonic mids that have a truthful quality without being too forward and exceptionally resolving highs which somehow remain smooth and non-fatiguing. I also could detect a slight increase in depth...though not width. However, this could've been placebo from the argument I had with my wife about the lack of perceivable differences in my expensive gear and how I've lost all ability to acknowledge even her most basic needs. As these weren't listed features, but ones that I am now benefitting from, I will be sending FiiO a complimentary $650 for this DAP punching so far above its weight.
Love my DX300 personally I use the NOS filter 😮 the only possible issue for perspective buyers is if you use it as either a USB Dac or Bluetooth Dac there's annoying latency, not an issue for me but if you game or use it to watch movies etc from your Mac or PC it'll fcuk you right off....just a heads up.
Great analysis. I have a DX160 budget but currently have a Sony A55. Is the 160 a significant sonic improvement over the A55. Your comment about relative improvement is interesting. There is little on Ibasso on RUclips on the sites I am familiar with. Thank you
Ty for the review! great video too. Im in the market getting my first DAP. Im in the battle between DX300 and M11 Ltd. Been reading reviews on both devices. So far i am liking what im reading about DX300. Im only afraid for future support for this device. I mean, this is not a CHEAP DAP compare to half price M11 Ltd. My question is should I get this now? or wait for the AMPs (changeable) to come out or M17? Im worried about spending too much money, only to find out after 1 year using DAP become irrelevant compare to what I am seeing (last generation daps), getting less support not only on hardware but software too. If im getting this device, i want it at least good for 3 yrs or more. I know we get better technology every year. But what i am saying is "no point to buy another DAP, because this year (2024-iBass0 DX600) its not much or little difference from iBasso DX300 (hardware/software). For example iPhone 10max compare todays iPhone 12 (little difference when it comes to performance to my understanding), that is why im still rocking iPhone10 max 512GB. TY!
@@ferryjunigwanmurdiansyah4307 i agree. Question: while charging your dx300. Does your plug get too hot? Mine does using regular non-fast charge.. after 10%,, plug auto shut, have to replug back in.. is that normal?.. dx300 is turn off while.charging... use my dx300 at least 2-3hrs per day and in loving it, worth every penny.... i dont charge my dx300 untill gets down to 10-15 % what ever come first (2 different battery inside) almost at the 4th day.
@@pinoylanggaming9449 i dont own dx300 (only tried) so i cant comment on that. As for my m11 plus, no issue with charging plug nor the m11 plus itself.
Hello. I am in the process of choosing my first hi-fi player, many reviews and reflections put me in front of such a choice Ibasso dx300 vs Cayin N6ii E01. The Cayin is praised for its drawling, engaging sound, as is the e01 board with amplification circuit capability - two different sounds in one. The Saber 9038PRO is also intriguing. The R01 board also came out with a reserve for the future. Ibasso dx300 looks more modern + replaceable amplifiers, with possible future updates. The player is a stylish new generation, stuffed with technology. It is praised for its detail and scene. Does it really surpass the cayin in terms of sound? I would like to get a gadget for a long time and that would not tire me with long listening and get a WoW effect)) Headphones are now hifiman sundara.
How do you find the volume knob? does your unit have a small movement before volume changes, as in you can wiggle it back and forth a couple degrees without changing volume?
I wish they made a DAP with front facing speakers put regular android on it and at that point I can basically ditch my smartphone. Like seriously in an era where smartphones don't have headphone jacks they should just make DAPs into smartphones geared primarily for music and movies. It would solve me having to carry a portable dacamp or a DAP
The Asus ROG Phone 5 seems legit and might meet your needs. I strongly support the ROG Phone 5's multimedia efforts but I'm not a fan of it's "gamer" design language, rounded screen edges and lack of microSDXC expansion. I prefer the designs and more rectangular screens of the Xperia 5/1 flagships and the Galaxy Notes. If only the SONYs had more output power. Heck, even their DAPs are weak. You might be satisfied with the Xperia flagships if you only use efficient iems.
Oddly enough I thought the pairing between my Andromeda 2020 and DX300 were a great pairing lol. At least with the Amp11mk1 module and I don't have hissing
I realize it’s not an apples to apples comparison, but, in your opinion, is the price of this justified when comparing only sound quality to something like an iPhone or Galaxy S phone with Apple dongle? The DAP is obviously the better choice for over-ears, but for IEMs alone, does it make sense to drop over a grand on a DAP?
No, DAPs are niche products. If you can get away with using a dongle and are happy, then I’d probably stick with that. I’d only recommend a DAP if you want to get that last leg of enjoyment out of your listening experience with IEMs.
for IEMs and lower impedance overears I compromised and bought a fiio BTR5 that I use with my phone and am super happy with it better and more power than standard dongle
A phone with some kind of portable DAC/amp attached to it would be a thousand times better. DAPs don't really get software updates like phones do so you'll eventually be stuck with an outdated player.
I think it's a substantial upgrade, but it also depends on your preferences. If you like a more analytical, lean sound, then I'd recommend sticking with the DX160.
It's a big upgrade for sure, the screen is bigger so album art display is huge, modular amps, the sound itself is accurate, dry and expansive to describe it shortly.
tbh you are not gonna notice the difference between the sound, they are daps after all and from the same company so it would be even harder to tell the difference in sound, upgrade for rhey way it looks and how fast the dap is not for the sound
Thanks for the review. What are the definable audio differences between the 4.4, 2.5 and 3.5mm ports with the same iem/headphone and appropriate cables? Can a usb type C OTG cable be used to transfer audio files rather than connecting to a laptop for file transfers? Thanks
Hey, I talk about this briefly in the written review: I’m sure some will also wonder whether using the 3.5mm port versus the 2.5/4.4mm balanced ports makes a difference. I will say I *prefer* the balanced ports; however, whether they actually sound better is a different story. The balanced ports provide more juice than the 3.5mm port which makes volume matching difficult and, as we all know, music just sounds better when it’s played louder.
Iam looking for an entrence into the audiophile world but i have no knowledge about hardware at all. Would the ibasso dx300 be a good choice for me? Iam willing to spend that amount of money + some more for decent headphones (i would need some guidence when it comes to headphones aswell.. currently iam using sennheiser hd25 on a daily basis, they were a nice upgrade from my old asus headphones but i feel like theres alot of room for improvement)
Start with a less expensive DAC/amp setup that's meant for your desk or computer. This is a portable device. If you're just starting out, I recommend the hd6xx and an atom stack, or a hifiman Sundara 2020 and an iFi stack. You can go way more high end of course, but it's hard to know what you like if you're new. If you want closed-back, look into the akg k371, for more expensive you can also confidently get the drop Aeon x closed.
@@TheHEADPHONEShow thanks for the advise! The stacks look like a way to go, but i was really looking for a portable device since i am travelling alot :)
I am on day 2 with this beautiful looking and sounding DAP and I have run into an issue playing some WMA files, They play with high levels of distortion. I am working with iBasso directly and they commented this morning that some WMA files that have DRM protection cannot be played on the Mango app/OS. However that same WMA file that is sitting on an SD card inside of the DX300 plays well with the HiBy app that I downloaded onto the DX300 through the Google Play Store. Kind of curious. It is an annoyance that I have to delete this files and work around the file management and downloads. Has anyone else experienced this issue ?
playing TIDAL with this DAP, how's the sound ? is it incredible or just similar to any expensive smartphone ? edit : aaahh nevermind. you just make a video without answer to any questions..
Why the F everybody who's reviewing high end DAP listening IU? I never understand IU being so overrated. Her company own the Korean main music streaming chart and most of her songs are always stays top ranks and that's not fucking fair.
Thank you for this review. I definitely admire your ability to be so articulate in your descriptions and explanations. You really help me to understand an experience that can only be captured with my ears.
I think this review missed some important information about the fact that you can install the Google Play Store which allows you to install just about anything (perhaps an IOS user that is not familiar with Android?). It supports all regular Android streaming apps including Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music HD, RUclips Music, TuneIn, etc. as well as Audiobook apps like Audible and Smart AudioBook Player. It works flawlessly with all of these, something I can't say about the Hiby or Fiio DAPs that I have owned. The interface and wifi perform like a good Android phone. And it does have the Android version of the Mango player for all your local music so that switching to the Mango OS is not necessary. Of course, you can also install other popular Android audio players like Neutron or PowerAmp if you wish. For me the DX300 is my end game DAP.
It’s in the written review, but glad you’re happy with the DX300 :)
Thanks Mr. Sponsor
Can it play videos?
I find it amazing how DAP reviewers can describe sounds into words
It is an amazing DAP with excellent performance both in terms of sound and User Interface.
Could you tell comparisons with wm1a? Would it be worth upgrading if so? Ty
Hey Precog, nice review. Already saw it on the website yesterday. This DAP looks absolutely amazing but the price is just insane. And if you're looking at the lower priced models, there is always some kind of compromise. I am currently looking at all kinds of DAP and none of them really speaks to me. Really difficult to decide.
This community complains about pricey non-audiophile headphones that sacrifice quality for consumer features. And while I share a lot of those sentiments, the high-end DAP market seems to be no different. I have never had as much anxiety as when I've been purchasing a new DAP (normally because something failed on my current one). Is the output terminal going to break? Will outputs just suddenly stop switching when using different connections? Will battery life suddenly fall off a cliff? Will there be some OS or button bug that's constantly interrupting listening? Will I put a beefy case on this and still have the screen edges chip from just taking it in and out of my pocket? And if any of these issues are covered under warranty, how many months will I be without a DAP when sending it overseas to be fixed? My advice is do not take any reviewer's assessment of a DAP seriously if they haven't owned it and used it regularly for at least a year.
Hiby new r6 its really good for the price, Shanling M3X would be my choice for budget android dap. If ur looking for non-android budget dap I really like the Hidizs AP80 pro + DH 80 combo.
@@Samuell1124 Thanks. I've looked at some of these already. Maybe I just start a list with pro and con and then decide. I mean, they are probably all good, but it's about features, form factor etc.
@@skengasaurus And if you used a DAP for years and want to recommend it to anyone it's already outdated. Looking for a DAP seems more complicated than looking for IEM or Headphones, although they are more important than the device itself. Maybe I just buy some decent USB-C Dongle like a Shanling UA2 and sacrifice performance and features for comfort and convenience.
@@SmashKuro Funny thing. Today, months after the single-ended output on my M11 Pro abruptly stopped working, and couldn't even be remedied by factory resets, it suddenly started functioning again when restarted it following a totally drained battery after merely 5 hours of use with efficient IEMs. I can only conclude that the most basic features you pay for also require burn-in. I am happy to report that the single-ended output has returned with newly impactful bass that doesn't bleed into the midrange, rich, euphonic mids that have a truthful quality without being too forward and exceptionally resolving highs which somehow remain smooth and non-fatiguing. I also could detect a slight increase in depth...though not width. However, this could've been placebo from the argument I had with my wife about the lack of perceivable differences in my expensive gear and how I've lost all ability to acknowledge even her most basic needs. As these weren't listed features, but ones that I am now benefitting from, I will be sending FiiO a complimentary $650 for this DAP punching so far above its weight.
Yasss. IU is queeeen
IU's Lilac album. A man of fine music tastes 😉
please review the iBasso DX320
Hi :), so the kinera nanna 2.0 also propably wont be a good pairing with this dap?
Based on your playlist, I bet you will like Yorushika. Especially Elma (2019) album.
👌👌👌
thanks for the rec! :)
Great review! Can anyone provide a sound comparison to Chord Mojo?
what are the avanges of having a 2nd battery for the dap?
Nice review! Is the bass of the DX 300 really tight and textured or more smooth and rounded?
Do you think that DAP's like these, who can also operate as DAC, is as good as a stationery DAC and receiver for high end IEM?
Love my DX300 personally I use the NOS filter 😮 the only possible issue for perspective buyers is if you use it as either a USB Dac or Bluetooth Dac there's annoying latency, not an issue for me but if you game or use it to watch movies etc from your Mac or PC it'll fcuk you right off....just a heads up.
same with my m11 pro. nbd it's only an audio product
hope u can do a DAP shootout for different price tiers
Looking for a comparison to new ibasso dx240 in terms of sound quality... :)
Great analysis. I have a DX160 budget but currently have a Sony A55. Is the 160 a significant sonic improvement over the A55. Your comment about relative improvement is interesting. There is little on Ibasso on RUclips on the sites I am familiar with. Thank you
Ty for the review! great video too. Im in the market getting my first DAP. Im in the battle between DX300 and M11 Ltd. Been reading reviews on both devices. So far i am liking what im reading about DX300. Im only afraid for future support for this device. I mean, this is not a CHEAP DAP compare to half price M11 Ltd.
My question is should I get this now? or wait for the AMPs (changeable) to come out or M17?
Im worried about spending too much money, only to find out after 1 year using DAP become irrelevant compare to what I am seeing (last generation daps), getting less support not only on hardware but software too.
If im getting this device, i want it at least good for 3 yrs or more. I know we get better technology every year. But what i am saying is "no point to buy another DAP, because this year (2024-iBass0 DX600) its not much or little difference from iBasso DX300 (hardware/software). For example iPhone 10max compare todays iPhone 12 (little difference when it comes to performance to my understanding), that is why im still rocking iPhone10 max 512GB.
TY!
I own Fiio M11 Plus Ltd and spec-wise, both m11 plus and dx300 are solid options for 3 years use. Trust me theyre amazing
@@ferryjunigwanmurdiansyah4307 i agree. Question: while charging your dx300. Does your plug get too hot? Mine does using regular non-fast charge.. after 10%,, plug auto shut, have to replug back in.. is that normal?.. dx300 is turn off while.charging... use my dx300 at least 2-3hrs per day and in loving it, worth every penny.... i dont charge my dx300 untill gets down to 10-15 % what ever come first (2 different battery inside) almost at the 4th day.
@@pinoylanggaming9449 i dont own dx300 (only tried) so i cant comment on that. As for my m11 plus, no issue with charging plug nor the m11 plus itself.
@@ferryjunigwanmurdiansyah4307 Ok thank you
Hello. I am in the process of choosing my first hi-fi player, many reviews and reflections put me in front of such a choice Ibasso dx300 vs Cayin N6ii E01. The Cayin is praised for its drawling, engaging sound, as is the e01 board with amplification circuit capability - two different sounds in one. The Saber 9038PRO is also intriguing. The R01 board also came out with a reserve for the future. Ibasso dx300 looks more modern + replaceable amplifiers, with possible future updates. The player is a stylish new generation, stuffed with technology. It is praised for its detail and scene. Does it really surpass the cayin in terms of sound? I would like to get a gadget for a long time and that would not tire me with long listening and get a WoW effect)) Headphones are now hifiman sundara.
Hi Precogvision, how do you compare the ibasso DX300 to the Cayin n6ii with the R01 module? Which one do you prefer for overall sound quality?
what does the bt support/sound, does it support smart playlists (from itunes)?
Hey, what about PowerAMP app? Did u test them?
How do you find the volume knob? does your unit have a small movement before volume changes, as in you can wiggle it back and forth a couple degrees without changing volume?
I wish they made a DAP with front facing speakers put regular android on it and at that point I can basically ditch my smartphone. Like seriously in an era where smartphones don't have headphone jacks they should just make DAPs into smartphones geared primarily for music and movies. It would solve me having to carry a portable dacamp or a DAP
The Asus ROG Phone 5 seems legit and might meet your needs. I strongly support the ROG Phone 5's multimedia efforts but I'm not a fan of it's "gamer" design language, rounded screen edges and lack of microSDXC expansion. I prefer the designs and more rectangular screens of the Xperia 5/1 flagships and the Galaxy Notes. If only the SONYs had more output power. Heck, even their DAPs are weak. You might be satisfied with the Xperia flagships if you only use efficient iems.
@@daviz2068 the ROG phones aren't even available at normal carriers where I live which is a big sad
Oddly enough I thought the pairing between my Andromeda 2020 and DX300 were a great pairing lol. At least with the Amp11mk1 module and I don't have hissing
I realize it’s not an apples to apples comparison, but, in your opinion, is the price of this justified when comparing only sound quality to something like an iPhone or Galaxy S phone with Apple dongle? The DAP is obviously the better choice for over-ears, but for IEMs alone, does it make sense to drop over a grand on a DAP?
No, DAPs are niche products. If you can get away with using a dongle and are happy, then I’d probably stick with that. I’d only recommend a DAP if you want to get that last leg of enjoyment out of your listening experience with IEMs.
for IEMs and lower impedance overears I compromised and bought a fiio BTR5 that I use with my phone and am super happy with it better and more power than standard dongle
A phone with some kind of portable DAC/amp attached to it would be a thousand times better. DAPs don't really get software updates like phones do so you'll eventually be stuck with an outdated player.
@@DEALUX ? thousend times make gou ap lagy because is new and or ios version need more power etc dap dont have issue with that
I believe the filters only work connected via USB not through the pin jacks?
I have a u12t + dx160 combo too. Will this be a big upgrade?
Long time no see Saitama.. Enjoy your combo! ❤️
I think it's a substantial upgrade, but it also depends on your preferences. If you like a more analytical, lean sound, then I'd recommend sticking with the DX160.
It's a big upgrade for sure, the screen is bigger so album art display is huge, modular amps, the sound itself is accurate, dry and expansive to describe it shortly.
tbh you are not gonna notice the difference between the sound, they are daps after all and from the same company so it would be even harder to tell the difference in sound, upgrade for rhey way it looks and how fast the dap is not for the sound
@@renbanhart.s
Wrong, you can clearly hear differences between the DX200, DX200 MAX and DX300, they all have different tunings and dynamics.
IU!! 😍😍
My question is how long to take turn the unit on .. my dx200 start up take up to 30 seconds which is terrible waiting time to play first song 😳
Thanks for the review.
What are the definable audio differences between the 4.4, 2.5 and 3.5mm ports with the same iem/headphone and appropriate cables?
Can a usb type C OTG cable be used to transfer audio files rather than connecting to a laptop for file transfers?
Thanks
Hey, I talk about this briefly in the written review: I’m sure some will also wonder whether using the 3.5mm port versus the 2.5/4.4mm balanced ports makes a difference. I will say I *prefer* the balanced ports; however, whether they actually sound better is a different story. The balanced ports provide more juice than the 3.5mm port which makes volume matching difficult and, as we all know, music just sounds better when it’s played louder.
How does it compare to sony NW-WM1A
For iems mostly
Can you review FIIO M15 DAP?
what headphones would people use with this?
Iam looking for an entrence into the audiophile world but i have no knowledge about hardware at all. Would the ibasso dx300 be a good choice for me? Iam willing to spend that amount of money + some more for decent headphones (i would need some guidence when it comes to headphones aswell.. currently iam using sennheiser hd25 on a daily basis, they were a nice upgrade from my old asus headphones but i feel like theres alot of room for improvement)
Start with a less expensive DAC/amp setup that's meant for your desk or computer. This is a portable device. If you're just starting out, I recommend the hd6xx and an atom stack, or a hifiman Sundara 2020 and an iFi stack. You can go way more high end of course, but it's hard to know what you like if you're new. If you want closed-back, look into the akg k371, for more expensive you can also confidently get the drop Aeon x closed.
@@TheHEADPHONEShow thanks for the advise! The stacks look like a way to go, but i was really looking for a portable device since i am travelling alot :)
They might as well add calling capabilities. If they do, I will only buy daps no more phones
What’s the name of the music track at 0:25?
Sawano Hiroyuki - Cry
Just searched for it... Sounds very different!
Hi. Which are the best headphones for this player? 1-3 models please. Thanks
Let's go! #sawano #aimer
I bought this as a weapon to use on my neighbor. =)
does it play Apple Music?
Can you use the eq and the filters in the android OS?
You mean outside the Mango app? I believe the EQ and filters are confined to the stock app.
@@Precogvision that sucks but I wonder if there are any good EQ’s you can use outside of a streaming service
Would Airpods Pro work with the IBasso dx300
Thanks Christopher appreciate that.
Anyone found a way to totally disable the side buttons?
I am on day 2 with this beautiful looking and sounding DAP and I have run into an issue playing some WMA files, They play with high levels of distortion.
I am working with iBasso directly and they commented this morning that some WMA files that have DRM protection cannot be played on the Mango app/OS. However that same WMA file that is sitting on an SD card inside of the DX300 plays well with the HiBy app that I downloaded onto the DX300 through the Google Play Store. Kind of curious. It is an annoyance that I have to delete this files and work around the file management and downloads.
Has anyone else experienced this issue ?
Hi Tom, was iBasso able to resolve this issue for you? Thanks.
that dial is a monstrosity in design terms
t h i c c DAP
499 tops
playing TIDAL with this DAP, how's the sound ? is it incredible or just similar to any expensive smartphone ?
edit : aaahh nevermind. you just make a video without answer to any questions..
Why the F everybody who's reviewing high end DAP listening IU? I never understand IU being so overrated. Her company own the Korean main music streaming chart and most of her songs are always stays top ranks and that's not fucking fair.