Topping EX5 or DX5?

[drummerdimitri]

200mW into your headphones should deliver 120dB SPL which is painfully loud.

If they can put out over 130dB SPL, why only be limited to 120dB? Louder is better

 

[NiagaraPete]

On looks alone the EX5 would be my choice. I bought one for my son and he loves it.

 

[drummerdimitri]

WolfX-700 did a proper, high resolution power sweep at 16Ω.
The DX5 clips at around 0.22W at that load:
View attachment 226985

Does this invalidate the tests conducted by Amir if that's the case?

 

[Berwhale]

If they can put out over 130dB SPL, why only be limited to 120dB? Louder is better

Good luck with that.

 

[staticV3]

Does this invalidate the tests conducted by Amir if that's the case?

Amir's THD+N vs Voltage vs Load sweeps have been sketchy in the past and still rarely match his THD+N vs Power graphs.
Wolf's sweeps haven't given me as much reason for doubt yet.
I don't know where the truth lies in this case. I'd have to measure a DX5 myself to tell.

 

[drummerdimitri]

On looks alone the EX5 would be my choice. I bought one for my son and he loves it.

I agree, it looks clean and understated which is my preferred style.

Think I'll just go that route and save 100$ in the process.

 

[drummerdimitri]

Amir's THD+N vs Voltage vs Load sweeps have been sketchy in the past and still rarely match his THD+N vs Power graphs.
Wolf's sweeps haven't given me as much reason for doubt yet.
I don't know where the truth lies in this case. I'd have to measure a DX5 myself to tell.

Interesting. Guess I'll just have to take your word for it. Either way as mentioned above 200 mW or so should get me to around 120dB SPL so plenty loud enough for most listening except for very loud and fast transients usually found in orchestras and live performances.

 

[Berwhale]

Another contender...

SMSL C200 https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/aoshida-smsl-c200-review-dac-amp.36850/

 

[drummerdimitri]

I decided to purchase an SMSL SU-9n DAC for now as I don't need a HP amp currently but in case I do, I will then have the budget for an amp of similar caliber.