Joined in 2023 
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Work time: PO interface: 8-11 hours runtime, LO interface: 6-8 hours runtime (depends on actual usage) A source is rated based on A/B tests using Andromeda (very sensitive IEM) and E5000 (very insensitive IEM). If one source sounds not as good as the other, I would bump up the volume and give it another try before concluding. This practice aims to mitigate the "louder is better" problem without getting into the issue of "DB vs perceived loudness." This device also supports HiBy UAT, Sony LDAC, and aptX CSR to reduce latency and deliver CD-quality sound wirelessly over Bluetooth connections. These are really good considerations from Hidizs, as more and more audiophiles want the flexibility of listening to HiFi in both wireless and wired modes. The AP80 PRO-X is equipped with dual ESS9219C DAC chips, renowned for their unparalleled dynamic range and incredibly low distortion. With a remarkable +130dB SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio), +121dB DNR (Dynamic Range), and -114dB THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise), this DAC chip sets new standards in audio performance. Supporting 32-bit 384kHz PCM (Pulse Code Modulation), the AP80 PRO-X delivers high-resolution audio with exceptional clarity and detail. It also offers up to 2.0Vrms output with analog gain control, effectively reducing output noise during real-life listening sessions. With these cutting-edge features, the AP80 PRO-X ensures an unbeatable sound quality experience.
One of the most convenient function of HiBy OS — HiBy Link — that allows full remote control over HiBy Music player from a smartphone works great. Album covers, song list, play mode, volume — all major functions can be controlled from a smartphone. Love this function that makes AP80 home audio integration and remote control in such user case very convenient. Soundstage and imaging are average with the AP80 Pro-X. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still one of the best in its current market price. Oftentimes, soundstage does not feel cramped. However, it is noticeable that space is limited, with maybe around 1 inch overhead. Hiby’s MSEB gives you a huge amount of audio customization options. If you can’t achieve the sound you want with EQ, you’ll surely be able to get there with the help of MSEB. The options include: Disclaimer: Hidizs sent us the AP80 PRO-X, free of charge, for the purpose of this review. In exchange, we’re going to give our honest opinion, as always. Today I would like to review Hidizs latest incarnation of very popular AP80 DAP series — AP80 PRO-X. There were couple of revisions of AP80 in the past, mostly dedicated to physical user experience, but AP80 PRO-X inherits the best features of its predecessor (AP80 PRO) and makes a huge leap of completely different nature — Pro version brings balanced circuit with the additional 2.5mm audio output and more power to drive higher loads…Due to the huge number of audio options available through the HiBy software, I completed all my testing and notes with settings ‘flat’ and unaltered unless noted. Custom and preset EQ settings. Should say that the pedometer function was not reliable in AP80 PRO-X, don’t see much changes with the AP80 PRO. My Amazfit GTR2 watches show more steps for the similar period. Therefore, I wouldn’t use this function too much. The rest are working as it should. As a result, the imaging prowess is boosted a little, as the AP80 Pro sounds a little more fluffy and aired out than the others. But, only in Balanced Mode. In standard 3.5mm, it sounds exactly the same to my ear.
Improvements from sources are primarily minor and nuanced, despite my textual descriptions. If you are beginning your head-fi journey, getting different IEMs or earphones would yield more benefits. If you know your gears very well, improvements from sources can be delightful. When you see the written size, it can always be difficult to get an idea of the real dimensions. At least, it's hard for me. That's why when I saw the AP80 PRO-X I was surprised by its small size. I was expecting a similar size to other DAPs in the range I own. But, really, I find it almost tiny. That limits the screen to be bigger. My eyesight is not what it used to be and the lettering, in its large font (you can choose between 3 sizes), is at the limit of my visibility. I'm getting older… Since there are almost limitless combinations of audio tweaks available through the software, I completed all my testing and notes with settings ‘flat’ and unaltered unless noted.
In addition to an all-in-one digital audio player (DAP), the AP80 Pro can function as a USB DAC or transport (source for another DAC), connected via cables or a variety of Bluetooth codecs. It performs flawlessly for me regardless of how I connect it. The HiBy Link connection screen on the smartphone app. I also tested AP80 with Hidizs Seeds IEMs and found that they make a great pair. ATH-M50, sometimes, might emphasize low frequencies and are very straight forward. Excellent for detail analysis and tests but too strict for getting some rest… Seeds IEMs are softer, warmer and smooth. They create the additional fluency while maintaining the same amount of details.
Hidizs has been making DAPs since 2009 when they started work on the original AP 100. Since that time the market has grown by leaps and bounds and we’ve seen Hidizs respond with the AP60, AP200 and their most popular model to date the AP80 which arrived in 2018. Seen couple of interface freezes when scrolling through large list of songs but 99% of other interactions are naturally responsive. Haven’t spotted any FW glitches with the latest 1.0 FW version, neither found any severe bugs or translation errors among function list. If you are using any smarpthones based on iOS or Android — you’d feel like being home. Each feature or program is represented by a separate icon.
Press the heart icon to access My Favorites, Recents and Playlist (Create new playlist, Save playlist, Load playlist). Apart from the outer look, the new Hidizs AP80 Pro-X Copper Edition didn’t change compared to the original one. The glass-faced, aluminum body feels high-end and well-made. It would be entirely appropriate for a far more expensive device to be constructed to this level. The X has a very similar clear and transparent sound to the PRO. This is likely due to the SOC (system on a chip) architecture of the ESS9219C chipset being an evolution of the previous ES9218P. I find the sound signature to produce a neutral and natural-sounding base upon which the audio tweaking settings can build. This further intensifies with Balanced Mode 2.5mm active. And that is directly due to the fact of higher output voltage…a lot more. More power = more firm bass, most of the time. Mids
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