DAC to the Future

[CN211276]

viewtopic.php?p=237400&hilit=Questyle#p237400

Very favourable comments posted about the Questyle desk top on this forum when heard at Canjam. The portable uses the same technology and is liked on HeadFi. Very tempted.

[Fretless]

Heads-up for anyone who is interested in a high-quality Digital Audio Player with DAC-mode and Bluetooth capability (and a great headphone section). The HifiWalker H2 has been superceded by a new H20 model and the older units are now being discounted. Could be on offer at Amazon too in the near future.

https://hifiwalker.com/products/h2

[slinger]

Questyle M15i Review

[CN211276]

Questyle M15i Review

I was not aware of this review, though I have read and viewed quite a few. One said that the M15i is superior to the AQ Cobalt. My interest is in the M12i , which apparantly runs it close for SQ at a far lower price, as I want something smaller to easily fit in my pocket along with the connected phone. I do quite a bit of walking to keep in trim and music is essential when on my own.

[CN211276]

The Questyle M12i did not take long to arrive and connected to my Beyerdynamic Avetho closed headphones which I use for out and about it is a revelation. It sounds better than the AQ DF Red and Cobalt which cost more and wipes the floor with the cheaper DF Black. What impresses me most is the wider sound stage and greater sense of separation. There is also a sense of less getting in the way of the music, similar to what I experience with the hifi systems at home. The AQ dongles, though all sounding different, were definitely adding something of their own. Another plus is the USB C connection. The AQ devices require a connection between male and female USB leads which is cumbersome in comparison.

I could not resist comparing the Questyle with the original Chord Mojo I have had for nearly nine years costing nearly four times as much. The sound could not be more different. Through the Beyerdynamics the top end was recessed, but the music had more authority and weight. The Questyle scored where it came to sound stage and separation. It was swings and roundabouts with my preference being for the Questyle. I made the same comparison with my open Grado SR325es which I only use at home and in this case the Mojo was the clear winner. In comparison the Questyle sounded bright, overriding what ever advantage it might have in terms of openess. The Mojo was designed with a recessed treble to combat bright sounding headphones and this makes it a good match for the Grados. The Questyle will not replace the Mojo at home where portability is not a issue and closed headphones are not required.

I think that the Questyle, partnered with right quality headphones, is something of a bargain at £115. I also think DAC technology has advanced, at least where portable HPamps are concerned. In terms of value for money anyone seeking to move away from bluuetooth to quality has never had it so good. For around £300 the Questyle can partnered with the right headphones and a subscription to lossless streaming.