dbstechtalk
May 25, 20244 min read
FX Audio FX03 - Is a $50 Mini USB-C DAC Good Enough?
External DAC's in the sub $100 range are hard to come by but a $50 DAC is rare. My experiences with these budget friendly DAC have been...

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External DAC's in the sub $100 range are hard to come by but a $50 DAC is rare. My experiences with these budget friendly DAC have been...
A few years ago Tin Hifi released the T5 which was met with mixed opinions. I personally enjoyed the T5 and even to this day still find...
Simgot has a lot of options available in the budget ranges of the IEM universe. A lot of the Simgot offerings feature a single DD driver...
Five or six years ago I purchased a Fiio A5 portable amplifier. I loved that little amplifier and it went with me everywhere. Over the...
In-Ear Monitors come a dime a dozen these days. There are so many options to choose from but every now and then one will come along that...
When I think about Creative SoundBlaster, the first thing that comes to mind is gaming gear. I don't really think of an audiophile...
Comparing audio products is one of the most challenging and misunderstood aspects of this hobby. Everyone seems to have a different opinion on how comparisons should be done. Some insist on strict volume matching, blind A/B/X switching, identical source chains, identical rooms, identical moods — even identical weather conditions. These approaches have their place, but they do not reflect how most people actually listen to music. More importantly, they are not required to hea
🎧 Garbage In, Garbage Out: What Makes an Audiophile‑Quality Listening Experience “Garbage in, garbage out” was a common phrase in my household growing up. It usually wasn’t about music — it was about life choices and how the quality of what you put in determines the quality of what comes out. But the same principle applies directly to audio. If the source is compromised, everything downstream will be compromised too. Before going any further, a quick note.I’m not a professio
"Honest opinions & reviews on audio related gear in a simple, basic way; limited edits, no flashy b-roll; not bloated with tech/spec...
I’m often asked how I review products: Do I use specific music? Do I burn in gear? Do I measure anything? Do I follow a set routine? The short answer is yes — I follow the same structured process for every product I review. Years ago, I posted a video walking through my method (cringe warning… it’s an old one): https://youtu.be/UkSnoZZNyYc?si=39ZEn41-Uf5O7By2 Since then, the core of my process has stayed the same, but I’ve refined and adjusted the details over time. This upd
Semi-Closed headphones are a rare breed. I find them to be intriguing and most of the time they are more similar to an open-back...
The audiophile community is filled with passionate, dedicated individuals who pursue the finest audio reproduction possible. They take pride in their systems, value sound quality, and enjoy sharing their experiences. As the number of audiophile reviewers continues to grow, however, it has become increasingly difficult for viewers to distinguish genuine expertise from personal opinion. The reviewing landscape is more crowded and competitive than ever, prompting a fair question
It appears that having a target curve is now essential for conducting an audio review. Honestly, I haven't given them much consideration. However, a target curve does have its uses, so I've created one for you to see. As an audiophile, I seek an accurate, reproduction of real life instruments and vocals. I enjoy critiquing each listening moment, dissecting the music through the gear, listening for naturalism and realism. My personal preference is in line with this target curv
I am concerned! Very concerned!! This view is NOT pointed at anyone in particular but at the audio community as a whole. The audio...
Ribbon Candy is unique and has always intrigued me. From the way it is made to the taste it produces. Ribbon Candy starts off as warm...
Reference isn’t about price — it’s about performance. Every so often, someone will comment that my reference gear looks “entry‑level” or “pedestrian.” And honestly, I understand why it might appear that way at first glance. I’m not surrounding myself with $10,000 DACs or exotic boutique amps. I’m not chasing prestige pieces or building a chain meant to impress. But here’s the truth: Price doesn’t determine reference quality — performance does. What matters in reference gear i
Digital Audio Players come in all shapes and sizes and with all sorts of options. Searching for a DAP to purchase can be a daunting...
Playing music loud is something that we all have done and experienced at one point or another in life. Who of us hasn't pushed the volume...
Music is all around us and there are so many artists, songs, and genres to choose from; options seem endless. Everyone listens to...
Honest - Is the quality of being fair, truthful; free of deceit and untruthfulness. Soundstage - Ability to accurately portray size,...
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