How did you match them? By ear?If you don't match them by actually measuring the outputs and getting them within a very tight margin, all bets are off.. especially if you don't double bind compare. It also explains your other observations.. The loudest one usually sound the best.
- When I adjust the USB volume down to match (by ear) the volume of the Aux, it sounds more compressed than the audio without the E30. Maybe even the highs are not as clear.
I don't know.. You bought the thing..Here is my confusion:
Why did I need a DAC in the first place? Look at all the problems it's causing me.
volume level differences mostlyWhy am I getting these audible differences in output with the E30? It's very noticeable that the midrange has increased.
That depends on the definition of "accurate". Judging by the use of a tube amp I bet you should not care about "accurate". It has orders of magnitude more influence on sound signature than a DAC.Is it possible I'm hearing more "accurate" sound now?
What do you expect to get out of it?Would you recommend any different settings/setups than what I've got here?
Once again.. you bought it.. did we force you?No really, why did I need a DAC in the first place?
I really did not like the sound of those R41Ms when I first got them - way too shrill and mids seemed scooped. But with this E30, they sound good enough to not throw out. I think I need to switch over to some other speakers and play around some more (the Overnight Sensations are usually in this audio path) but I was very puzzled by the results I'm seeing here.
If you don't like your speakers.. change your speakers, not the DAC. They are by far the most influential factor in sound.
Best now to just hook it up and enjoy