I’m looking for my first DAP. I know that iBasso is for more powerful headphones, and possibly not needed for someone like me… yet. I’ve always been interested in the audiophile world and have tested quite a few headphones. I have used HD 6XX’s, MoonDrop Blessing’s before returning.

But between these two, how is the software on both? Is there a noticeable difference in audio tonality/soundstage between the two? I would be using this for services like Tidal, Apple Music, and offline Flac files.

I generally like warm sounding audio, with deep and thumping bass. I do INTEND to utilize Bluetooth and the 3.5mm jack as well. I listen to a lot of rock, EDM and hip-hop. I want something with a wide soundstage and “fun” sound. And want to be able to hear more detail than an iPhone. I know the Hiby r4 has plugins, which entice me but hearing about the crashes in the UI is a bit of a turn off.

I am a newb in the audiophile world but plan to be using balanced headphones on these when I can get them a little after new years. Just looking at my options right now before making any major decisions: and these two appeal to me most - and know the price different is hard to compare. But curious about those who may own both who can offer some insight. I don’t really like the design of the Eva at all - otherwise it would be a consideration despite the higher specs.

If anyone has used both or owns both - are the differences just on the software/RAM side and being able to drive more power hungry headphones? And is the sound/software 250$ dollars different given they’re close in CPU specs ?

TLDR: is the software/dac inside and build quality a 250$ difference from the R4 for a first dac? And do both work well with Bluetooth if I don’t have any of my headphones nearby on both? Also is the regular r4 that laggy compared to something like the DX180? If anyone has both, can they chime in on the differences to price ratio? Thanks!

I about to buy my first DAP. I was about to buy the HiBy R6 III 2025 until a friend of mine told me that I should go for the iBasso DX180. I never owned a DAP before and I live in a country where I cannot try the devices myself. I listen mostly to metal and rock music. So I am so confused and I need someone to help me choose. Any thoughts?

Which one would you buy in 2025?

I'm able to get both for the same price. I listen to mostly electronic music (ambient/trance/house) and plan to pair it with the Hifiman Edition XS, and sometimes I would be using my Bluetooth earbuds. I also use streaming apps like Apple Music so OS stability is important. On the other hand, lack of battery life and portability are not dealbreakers for me. As a bonus, it would be great if the screen has little glare and is optimized for watching movies.

Other DAPs I'm considering are Shanling M3 Ultra and Fiio M21, but their screen sizes make them less attractive. Also Shanling is using Android 10.

Personally, which would you choose and why?

I'm looking to upgrade from my A&K SR25MkII, to either the iBasso DX260, or the Hiby R6 Pro II.

I'm leaning towards the iBasso, but I'm a bit concerned that the sound signature will be too close to what I currently have. Any advice you you folks have would be greatly appreciated!

I am planning to buy my first dap, currently I have doubts which one to buy between those two. My budget is $600, which one has better sound? Which one has better quality? Is there any other dap in that price range that is more worth it? Thank you very much for your help!

I am confused in between HiBy R4 vs iBasso DX180 vs Shanling M3 Ultra.. The budget is flexible upto 600$.. I was planning for the Budget master HiBy R4 but some users have faced noise issues, heating issues and also after sales support issues.. iBasso xd180 is the other choice i am looking at also Shanling M3 Ultra but i don't know the user POVs regarding these two...

Everyone is welcome to share their opinion and help me choose one....

Not sure which one to get, the m11 looks good but its already 2 years old. I want something with tidal that I can download, and have an aux for my iems (my phone doesn't).

Hi all,

I’m looking to go from an iPhone with Hiby FC4 and S12’s to a DAP, my question is what are the main differences between something like a Hiby R4, Sony A306, iBasso DX170 (yeah 180 is coming) and something midrange like an A&K SR25.

I will mainly be streaming Apple Music (with SD of about 80gb), but I don’t want anything sluggish like the things I’ve seen about the Sony A306, I don’t want to get frustrated and disappointed by an entry level and wish I’d just spent an extra £200 on something mid.

I have a budget of £300 so I don’t know if I should get a used midrange, or new entry level 🤔

Thanks in advance.