ThInKiNg AbOuT PoRtAbLe hI-ReS PlAyEr [but clueless]

Discussion in 'Advice Threads' started by luckybaer, Feb 3, 2019.

  1. luckybaer

    luckybaer Friend

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    SBAF'ers...

    I'm thinking about a portable hi-res player, but I'm clueless about important things of which I need to be aware. I started doing some research, and I found this Sony player on amazon: Sony NWZX300/S. It seems to check all the boxes: DSD and PCM compatible, sturdy aluminum construction, balanced connection as an option (just in case I actually get a pair of 'phones with that connection...), expandable storage (micro sdxc compatible), LDAC for bluetooth (not even sure my Bose does this, but I may pick up a pair with LDAC once I do more research...), etc.

    Is this a good DAP for the money (around $700)? What are similar, reputable alternatives in the same price range?

    It would be nice to relieve my iPhone of portable music duties - I primarily listen to block out noise at work, and sometimes before bedtime to block out the noise at home.

    Thanks.
     
  2. fraggler

    fraggler A Happy & Busy Life

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    Why are you shouting in your title?
     
  3. Ice-man

    Ice-man Friend

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    The sony nwzx300/a is exceptional, especially at it's price point. Gets even better if you're willing to go through joybuy for a fairly substantial discount (long wait time though).

    I used the zx300 mostly with the Andro over the balanced output. Call me thoroughly impressed. I also used the hd650 and hd58x over the 4.4 balanced output and while not as good as it was with the Andro, it was still very enjoyable.

    Hard to go wrong with the Sony DAP.
     
  4. luckybaer

    luckybaer Friend

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    I get loud when I'm perplexed. Is there a way to fix? Fix the all-caps title, that is. I’m beyond repair.
     
    Last edited: Feb 3, 2019
  5. Zhanming057

    Zhanming057 Friend

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    Nominating the Astell & Kern SR15, it doesn't sound better but the AK's Android-based system is a lot more fluid and responsive than the one on Sony DAPs.

    If you hunt for a bit here or on Head-fi, the Questyle QP2R and A&K SE100 are also options that occasionally fall into the $800-ish price range. A lot more power on the QP2R and a more refined signature on the SE100.
     
  6. Merrick

    Merrick A lidless ear

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    Check out the existing ZX300 thread for impressions. I recommend getting the ZX300a from Joybuy and buying a 400 GB micro sd card to go with it, which is far cheaper than buying a new regular ZX300. You’ll wait a month to get it but the cost savings are exceptional.
     

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