THE REVIEWS
ads
Subscribe to our newsletter.
Sign up with your email address to receive news, updates, and our free quarterly magazine—AudioKeyREVIEWS!
IBASSO AMP9 MODULE REVIEW
The iBASSO AMP9 module is unique in that it utilizes “high current vacuum tubes” for power generation. The tube in question is the sixth generation, Korg and Noritake Nutube vacuum tube, which clearly reflects the “old is new again” adage. And, in this respect, the AMP9 module brings an analog sound signature as opposed to an analog-like sound signature.
IBASSO IT00 REVIEW
The IT00s renders a very coherent tuning from top to bottom with good air on top, a clear, engaging midrange. and a taunt, impactful bass. There is a warmth that wells up from the bass the nicely textures the midrange and vocals without smearing or obscuring detail.
IBASSO AM05 REVIEW
The AM05 renders an extended, clear, sweet voicing with quite good resolution, tone and timbre. And it does this in a very musically engaging and transparent way. It should definitely be noted that in single-ended mode the AM05 is imbued with a dollop of warmth.
IBASSO DX220/AMP1 MK II REVIEW
We were initially going to review only the iBASSO DX220 as aligned to the AMP9—a tubed module wherein there was great consensus that it would fall within our “sound niche.” But then we took a cursory listen to the iBASSO DX220 with the prix fixe AMP1 Mk II card with several headphones/IEMs, well, ‘it was on!’