Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • The Serenade Wireless uses HIFIMAN's Hymalaya Pro R2R DAC, which uses a new FPGA algorithm that brings its THD rate to -6dB .0012%
  • Up to 4000mW balanced and 2800 mW unbalanced for Headphone Amplifier Output
  • Excellent detail and clarity
  • Wide sound stage and very good depth

Product Considerations

  • The wireless WiFi feature takes some time and patience to set up properly
  • The advertised wireless setup was not as intuitive as expected

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. HIFIMAN EF400: Serenade has more inputs and outputs, is more refined, and has a higher end feel and sound due to the Himalaya Pro DAC
  • Vs. HIFIMAN EF600: It has similar inputs/outputs and the same DAC, but the Serenade sounds and feels more refined

Takeaway: The Goldenwave Serenade Wireless can be a great addition to an audiophile collection because of its detail and power to drive headphones, while also seamlessly integrating into a home setup. Its versatility and relaxed sound signature make it a solid choice for someone looking for an overall warm sound signature with high-resolution audio.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Goldenwave Serenade (Wireless Version)

reviews

[{"title":"HiFiMan Goldenwave SERENADE - Unexpectedly Good!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k93ryHTgW-g","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"HiFiMan Goldenwave Serenade - Head Amp, Preamp, DAC, & Streamer Review - Do-it-all Stack-in-a-box","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWvcZm3n6wY","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"HIFIMAN (GOLDENWAVE) SERENADE - HEADPHONE AMP/DAC (FULL REVIEW) (4K).","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4D3e7IZwjR8","source":"MajorHiFi","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"HiFiman Goldenwave Serenade Wireless Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/hifiman-goldenwave-serenade-wireless-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Hifiman Goldenwave Serenade Amplifier Review","link":"https://www.headphonedungeon.com/hifiman-goldenwave-serenade-amplifier-review","source":"headphonedungeon.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Dimensions: 11.8″ × 2″ × 10″ (300 × 50 × 250 mm)
  • Weight: 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg)
  • DAC: Hymalaya Pro R-2R ladder DAC (dual PCM1704K approach, FPGA-enhanced, THD 0.0012%)
  • Balanced: 4000 mW @ 32 Ω, 760 mW @ 300 Ω
  • Single-Ended: 2800 mW @ 32 Ω, 510 mW @ 300 Ω

Inputs:

 • USB-B: PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD64–256

 • Coaxial & Optical: PCM up to 192 kHz, DSD64/DoP64

 • LAN / Wi-Fi Streaming: PCM up to 768 kHz, DSD64–512

 • RCA analog

Outputs:

 • Front: 4-pin XLR balanced, 4.4 mm balanced, 6.35 mm single-ended

 • Rear: XLR and RCA preamp outputs

  • DAC Performance: Frequency Response 20 Hz–20 kHz; THD+N 0.0015%; SNR ≈110 dB; Channel Separation −120 dB
  • Power Supply: 50 W toroidal transformer with ~30,000 µF filtering and multi-stage regulation
GOLDENWAVE SERENADE (Wireless Version) — Compact Desktop Streaming DAC/Amp with R-2R Warmth and Class A Power.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • HIFIMAN offers a wide range of headphone models, varying in tonality from warm to neutral to balanced, allowing for different listening preferences and catering to various audiophile tastes.
  • The brand is known for their "Stealth Magnet" design which reduces wave diffraction turbulence to lower distortion and improve transparency.
  • They incorporate planar magnetic drivers in many of their headphones, known for their speed, detail, and impactful bass response.

EDITION XS:

  • Positioning: An entry-level headphone offering compact design and affordability.
  • Description: Features stealth magnets design with a frequency response from 8Hz to 50kHz and low impedance for basic home or portable use. Compared to the mid-range options like AUDIVINA and HE1000SE, it provides essential performance for smaller rooms.

AUDIVINA:

  • Positioning: A mid-range headphone balancing clear audio performance with a reasonable price.
  • Description: Uses refined driver technology to deliver a natural sound signature and balanced frequency response for typical home listening setups. Compared to the simple approach of Edition XS and the more precision-focused HE1000SE, it offers enhanced detail while keeping costs moderate.

HE1000SE:

  • Positioning: A mid-range headphone engineered for improved clarity and dynamic range.
  • Description: Offers an extended frequency response from 8Hz to 65kHz and higher sensitivity for clearer audio reproduction in critical listening. In contrast to AUDIVINA's balanced performance, HE1000SE emphasizes precise tuning and a robust build.

SUSVARA:

  • Positioning: A high-end headphone crafted for immersive and detailed sound reproduction.
  • Description: Incorporates advanced driver engineering that extends its frequency range from 6Hz to 75kHz, supporting a wider and more open soundstage. Compared to mid-range models like HE1000SE and AUDIVINA, it offers broader performance and refined tuning.

SUSVARA UNVEILED:

  • Positioning: A premium headphone representing the pinnacle of the brand's lineup.
  • Description: Features cutting-edge materials and driver technologies that produce exceptionally detailed sound across its wide frequency spectrum. When compared with SUSVARA and other models, it delivers superior engineering and an expansive performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
13
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
286
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
92
Founding Year
2007

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
HIFIMAN
EF6
1599
1599
/
5
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Specifically designed to drive the power-hungry HE-6 planar magnetic headphones.
  • Boasts 5 watts Class A per channel, providing massive output power.
  • Delivers a wonderfully lush and smooth sounding presentation.
  • Offers a clean and neutral tonality.
  • Exceptionally well-rounded in terms of genre selection.

Product Considerations

  • Lacks balanced circuitry option.
  • Does not include a remote control.
  • The buttons feel loose.
  • The lateral heatsinks can get quite toasty to the touch if played long enough.
  • The EF-6 arrived without a power cord.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Schiit Lyr: The EF-6 stays noticeably cooler after an hour or so of usage.
  • Vs Schiit Mjolnir: The EF-6 edges out the Mjolnir for smoothness, the Mjolnir would be the closest for power, though tonally it is a bit brighter and more dynamic than the EF-6.

Takeaway: The EF-6 is a great choice for those seeking a powerful and versatile amplifier, especially for demanding headphones like the HE-6, with a smooth and engaging sound signature. It is a worthwhile investment for audiophiles seeking a high-quality listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
HIFIMAN
Goldenwave GA-10
1599
1599
/
3
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Spacious and balanced-sounding presentation, especially on the X-Axis
  • Works well with a wide range of headphones and IEMs
  • Robust build quality and design
  • The GA-10 is an amp that has both warmth and emotion in its sound performance, suitable for listeners who pursue sound atmosphere and naturalness

Product Considerations

  • Lacks a pre-amp output
  • Potentiometer dial does not have a huge amount of resistance
  • Other competing tube amplifiers offer a weightier low-end
  • The case and volume dial get quite warm during usage
  • The finish is prone to scratching and fingerprints

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs AURIS Audio HA2-SE+, the GA-10 sounds slower, thicker, and warmer, while the HA2-SE+ sounds cleaner, faster, livelier, and more clear

Takeaway: The Goldenwave GA-10 is a great value tube amplifier, built well, easy to use, and easy on the ear. If musical sound performance is desired, the GA10 is worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
iFi
iDSD Diablo 2
1299
1299
/
25
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
  • Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
  • A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
  • Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
  • The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
  • Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
  • The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
  • Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
  • Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound

Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Ferrum
OOR
2094
2094
/
9
Reviews

When our HYPSOS won an EISA award in 2021, we knew we were on the right track and went on to follow our dreams of delivering the best possible audio gear we could think of. When we learned OOR was chosen by the honorable EISA members as best Headphone Amplifier of 2022-2023, all our dreams came true. As did HYPSOS, OOR is a ground-up design without precedent, created from a profound exploration of analogue audio in its purest form. Understated looks married with sophisticated power delivery and amplifier technologies, delivering ultra-low distortion, huge dynamics and unrivaled detail. For those who want to go even further in unleashing unheard musicality, OOR is, of course, designed to pair perfectly with the HYPSOS Hybrid Power System.

Ferrum Audio, a Polish hifi brand, stands out for its unique HYPSOS power supply that combines switching and linear designs for better performance, and its OOR headphone amplifier's rare quad-mono configuration that easily drives demanding headphones like the Hifiman Susvara. Their Wandla DAC features custom digital filters developed with HQ Player and uses a proprietary ARM-based platform called SERCE to reduce signal paths, both uncommon features in DACs.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Compact size compared to competitors, allowing for easy integration into desktop setups
  • The OOR outputs 8 watts of power at 60 ohms and 1.6 watts at 300 ohms, making it one of the most powerful headphone amplifiers ever made
  • Low gain setting is silent with sensitive IEMs
  • Employs a fully discrete class AB amplifier; there are no op-amps used

Product Considerations

  • Simultaneous use of the balanced and single-ended preamp outputs with the main headphone output is an inconvenience
  • The unit gets quite warm after a few hours of use—recommending a well-ventilated area
  • Powering on the unit requires going from balanced to single-ended

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Benchmark HPA4, OOR felt considerably more alive, fleshed out, and natural sounding
  • Vs Flux Volot, the reviewers felt that the OOR was more visceral sounding
  • Compared to Fluxlab Acoustics, the OOR is a warmer and more soul-infusing amplifier and it never wants to be linear or flat
  • Vs Flux Lab Acoustics Volod, it was easily bigger sounding, easily more impressive sounding, just more layered

Takeaway: The Ferrum OOR is a powerful amplifier in a small package, and it is built with great attention to detail. It has an engaging sound with a touch of warmth.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Ferrum Audio, a Polish hifi brand, stands out for its unique HYPSOS power supply that combines switching and linear designs for better performance, and its OOR headphone amplifier's rare quad-mono configuration that easily drives demanding headphones like the Hifiman Susvara. Their Wandla DAC features custom digital filters developed with HQ Player and uses a proprietary ARM-based platform called SERCE to reduce signal paths, both uncommon features in DACs.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Chord Electronics
Mojo 2
650
/
Released
2022
The British designed and built Mojo 2 is the most advanced portable DAC and headphone amplifier in the world today. Winner of Best DAC (£300-£500) in the What Hi-Fi? Awards 2022, the Mojo 2 is entirely engineered around a powerful, custom-coded FPGA processor and benefits from several unique technologies.
Check Amazon
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
  • Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
  • Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
  • Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail

Product Considerations

  • The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
  • Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
  • Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated

Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
xDSD Gryphon
599
/
Released
2021
On the desk or in your pocket, be ready for anything. Packed with award-winning features and functionality, the xDSD Gryphon takes the best tech from our desktop DACs to create a portable DAC/Amp that can rise to any challenge.
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iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
  • Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
  • Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
  • The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle

Product Considerations

  • The user interface is not very intuitive
  • Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
  • The OLED screen can be difficult to read
  • Battery life is around six to eight hours

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
  • Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
  • Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
  • Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound

Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
aune
S17 Pro
699
/
Released
2023
Check Amazon
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Fully balanced technology, with balanced inputs and outputs.
  • Delivers powerful amplification, with up to 7.5 watts of power, capable of driving a wide range of headphones, including hard-to-drive models.
  • Features a linear power supply with a large transformer and capacitor bank, providing a stable and powerful power source.
  • Provides two current modes (50mA and 100mA) to tailor the sound tonality, allowing users to choose between a more forward/analytical sound and a warmer/fuller sound.
  • Employs an R2R network for volume control, ensuring channel balance even at low volumes.

Product Considerations

  • Runs quite hot due to its Class A amplification, requiring adequate ventilation, with chassis temperatures potentially reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, and the unit may switch from 100mA to 50mA mode if it overheats.
  • High power output might not be ideal for very sensitive IEMs, potentially limiting volume control flexibility.
  • The preamplifier output is always active, meaning it doesn't mute when headphones are plugged in, requiring caution to prevent damage.
  • The LCD display cannot be dimmed or switched off, and the red color of the 100mA mode may appear washed out.
  • Some report volume slots are not regular or have large jumps, and/or that the remote control can be buggy.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Topping A90 Discrete: The S17 has a richer sound, wider soundstage, and easier dynamics, especially in 100mA mode, placing it in a higher tier.
  • Vs. Topping A90D: The S17 Pro is capable of even stronger dynamic swings, with a slightly cleaner and less cluttered soundstage.
  • Vs. Violectric V222: The Aune S17 Pro is more 'tubey' and warmer sounding than the V222.
  • Vs. HIFIMAN EF600: The Aune S17 has better volume control, higher dynamic range, better driving power, and better resolution.

Takeaway: The Aune S17 Pro is a powerful and versatile headphone amplifier that delivers rich, detailed sound, allowing listeners to experience music in new ways. With its balanced design and flexible current modes, it can enhance a wide range of headphones and audio setups.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
EarMen
CH-Amp
559
/
Released
2023
Introducing EarMen CH-Amp, a desktop fully balanced headphone amplifier designed to deliver exceptional audio performance and enhance your music listening pleasure. With outstanding features and a robust linear power supply unit, CH-Amp sets a new standard in desktop audio amplification.
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EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very clean, smooth, and enjoyable sound without harsh edges or digitization
  • Plenty of power for a wide range of headphones and IEMs due to its 3.8 watts into a 32 ohm load
  • Comes with a linear power supply that provides clean power and minimizes noise
  • Includes a remote control that can also control the matching DAC
  • Offers versatile connectivity with balanced and single-ended pre-outputs, as well as multiple line inputs

Product Considerations

  • 4.4mm connections are used for balanced input/output, which may require purchasing new cables if existing XLR cables are already owned
  • The VU meter on the front of the device may not be very useful for normal listening levels
  • Settings are not held when the amplifier is turned off
  • There is noise in headphones when the unit is turned off or on from standby mode

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Burson Audio Soloist 3XP: Champ provides more body and weight to the sound, while the Soloist 3XP offers greater space and separation

Takeaway: The CH-Amp is a compact and versatile amplifier that delivers a clean and enjoyable sound, making it a great choice for those looking for a high-quality listening experience. Its ability to pair well with a variety of headphones and IEMs makes it a worthwhile addition to any setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Feliks Audio
ECHO 2
943
/
Released
2022
Your introduction to tube sound – even entry level means high quality at Feliks Audio
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Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Unique and engaging musical experience, even with some hard-to-drive headphones
  • Natural, fluid, musical sound with a bit of warmth, superb soundstage, and resolution
  • Exceptional detail for the price category and low distortion
  • Great build quality and a pleasing aesthetic, being hand-built
  • Also works as a preamplifier for stereo setups

Product Considerations

  • Not designed for planar magnetic headphones or for low impedance headphones
  • May sound brighter, with lower bass quantity and precision, with low impedance headphones
  • Tubes are consumables and will burn out after a couple thousand hours of use
  • The power switch is located on the back, which some may find inconvenient

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs SPL Audio Phonitor 2 amp—Echo 2 provides a more refined experience
  • Vs Hagerman Tuba—Echo 2 has better driving power and clarity for high impedance headphones
  • Vs Audio-gd Master 19—Echo 2 has a more natural tonality and deeper soundstage for high impedance headphones
  • Vs Violectric HPA V340—Echo 2 has a more magical musicality and a smoother presentation for high impedance headphones
  • Vs Burson Soloist 3X Performance—Echo MKII leans towards a slightly more relaxed sound, while Soloist leans into a more forward aggressive one, and the Soloist has stronger treble extension

Takeaway: The Feliks Audio Echo 2/MKII is a great tube amplifier for those who appreciate engaging and emotionally rich listening sessions, especially with high-impedance dynamic headphones. This hand-built amplifier offers a unique musicality and adds warmth and depth to music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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