Topping E2x2 vs Audient iD4 MKII for HIFIMAN Edition XS — Will It Be Enough?

[drzk]

I just got the HIFIMAN Edition XS, but I’m running into an issue with my current setup. My Audient iD4 MKII sounds way quieter with these than it did with my old Sennheiser HD 560S. The sound feels kind of weak — it’s missing lows and highs and just doesn’t have enough power, even when I crank the volume all the way up.

From what I’ve see, the iD4 MKII puts out around 76 mW into 16 ohms, which might explain why it’s struggling with the Edition XS. I’m thinking about getting the Topping E2x2 instead. According to Julian Krause’s YouTube review, it outputs about 390 mW into 16 ohms — quite a bit more.

Do you think the Topping E2x2 would be a good fit for the Edition XS? Has anyone tried this combo or got any thoughts on how well it drives these headphones?

Also, I’d prefer to stick with an audio interface rather than just a DAC/amp, since I produce music and having everything in one device would be more convenient.

Thanks a lot!

 

[jkim]

I believe you already know the answer. The Topping E2x2 is pretty much the only USB audio interface on the market that is low-cost and with headphone outputs providing that much power. It can supply 2.5 Vrms into 16 Ohms. Shouldn't be a problem driving the Edition XS.