#donglemadness
Вставка
- Опубліковано 3 сер 2024
- Full review of Cayin RU7. Latest flagship dongle from Cayin offering the exotic 1 Bit Resistors Array DAC
Addendum: I may have been mistaken in my understanding of the DAC classification for RU7. Both RU6 and RU7 are Resistors Array DAC, but it is specifically mentioned by Cayin that RU7 is a "Fully Balanced Resistor Networks, Discrete 1-Bit DSD DAC" and RU6 "24 Bit Discrete R-2R". But they are both definitely Resistors Array DAC as opposed to Delta Sigma. I apologize if I have caused some confusion on this subject, I should have dug a bit more on the finer details. Thanks
Sections:
00:00 Intro
02:40 Specifications and R2R 1 Bit Tech
09:13 Power
17:46 Features
19:12 Line Out!
22:29 Sound
27:13 Comparisons
36:36 Sound & Timbre Comparisons
38:43 Wrap-Ups
Shot On:
- Canon EOS R6 Mark2
- Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L USM (Primary)
- ATOMOS Ninja V (Canon CLOG3 BT2020 ProRes 4.2.2 4K50P)
My Tidal Version Playlist:
tidal.com/browse/playlist/ba3... - Наука та технологія
To cloear up the RU7 DAC architecture: RU7 is Delta Sigma, but only Delta Sigma 1bit as opposed to the usual Delta Sigma 24bit, which basically means the Delta Sigma phase construction is "smoothened" by 24 layers of the Delta Sigma algorithm as opposed to the "raw" 1 bit layer. The reason why Delta Sigma needs to be smoothened is because it is very fault prone. But the usual 24bit Delta Sigma is very unlike this 1bit Selta Sigma which is created from resistors as opposed to an integrated circuit. That is what makes it special. So in fact, this is an anti-miniuaturized version of Delta Sigma DAC.
Thanks for this. I will pin your statement for everyone to read. Sharing good knowledge like this is what we should foster more.
I have heard on other UA-cam sites that delta sigma dac chips are phone dac chips with better supporting circuitry. Agree?
You're undoubtedly the top-notch dongle expert on the web! That comparison chart is the best way to compare. Keep up the fantastic work.
Thank you. You made my day!
Addendum: I may have been mistaken in my understanding of the DAC classification for RU7. Both RU6 and RU7 are Resistors Array DAC, but it is specifically mentioned by Cayin that RU7 is a "Fully Balanced Resistor Networks, Discrete 1-Bit DSD DAC" and RU6 "24 Bit Discrete R-2R". But they are both definitely Resistors Array DAC as opposed to Delta Sigma. I apologize if I have caused some confusion on this subject, I should have dug a bit more on the finer details. Thanks
As usual, another very good Review. I always look forward to watching them, because you take enough time to test and measure the products you present to us. Always with a serious attitude and a smile that shows you love what you do. THX.
@@exexgr6897 Thank You🙏
No problem we cannot thank you enough for such amazingly detailed and honest review which is rare in this sector !!
No problem it's not like there's a lot of these types of devices they are pretty unique right now
What cable did you use on the Final A5000 to test the 4.4mm? Can you share the link please?
Eagerly waited for this review, Great job Andy! I really really like my RU7 :) very powerful and analogue sounding.
Enjoy!
hands down, you are the best when it comes to head to head comparisons. keep it up Andy!
Thanks Christos, you have great weekend there!
Totally agree
Now waiting for good deals on the RU6 with the RU7 out! Another great thorough review as always my friend. :)
My pleasure
I'm so very happy that UA-cam's algorithm put you in my video suggested feed today. You've gained a new subscriber. I'm new to IEM's and Dongle Dac Amps. But already bitten by the bug. And your reviews of both the Cayin RU7 and the L&P W4 I've found most informative. Love your in depth comparisons too among other top Dac Amps. I'm getting the Cayin RU7 as a result. Though I'll probably get the L&P W4 as well. I primarily use IEM's, though have the Hifiman Sundara and have pre-ordered the Focal Clear set. Either of these Dac Amps will work great for my needs. Looking forward to your future videos.
Thanks! you have a great day there :D
Thanks for the wonderful review Andy. Been waiting for this since the unboxing video.
You're welcome
Excellent review, Andy! I'll stick with my RU6 for now but will keep my eyes out for a good deal on RU7 👀
Thanks! :D
Great review! It's really nice they added a proper line-out to the RU7. I do most of my listening at my desk though so I wonder if something like a Modi Multibit 2 is better for that application.
Thanks. That LO is such a treasure for me
Thanks again for the great reviews, I took the plung right now! Got the dc04pro!
Enjoy!
I am pretty happy with my Questyle M15 but this RU7 DAC/Amp is tempting. Thank you for the comparisons it helps to get an idea of the sound "flavor".
Glad to help!
Excellent review, thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for this great review
My pleasure!
I personally think that dongle DACs reach its limits at this point of time (every DAC in its own price segment) so until something spectacular comes up in the future I'm good with my precious tier RU6,M15 and don't bother tier DC04PRO,FC4.
Thanks Andy for yet another great review.
I believe so. The apex of small form factor is pretty much happening already with the likes of RU6, FC6, RU7, W4, DC04Pro, M15, DACport HD etc. It is nigh impossible to expect this sort of quality if we look back 5 years ago. And thanks!
Hi Andy,
Your reviews are simply tops ! I hope you like doing them. you gave this RU7 and the dacport HD all 10/10 for sound. I was wondering what your ratings for sound would be for that other one that you like so well ovidius B1 ?
B1 would be 9.5/100 overall for sound if I am to put a rating on it. I still love the ethereal sound of B1
Excellent analysis
Thank you!
Although I am not audiphile, I find your reviews very helpful, especially comparsion bit. These DACs are expensive products and often you cannot try before buy so these comparisons are very helpful in making decision. Thank You.
Thank you!
Detailed and Excellent review Andy...Did you notice any difference in the line-out funtion 3.5mm and 4.4mm, having different vrms?
Thanks. The thing is, the sort of amps I have will already be optimal with anything above 1 VRMS, especially my Electrostatic Amp for the Shure KSE1500, so it will actually pick up micro distortion if I push it above 2 Vrms. But I see the need to use 4.4mm 2.4 VRMS if you are feeding Power Amps or full fledged Class A, where it will make some difference in terms of sound authority, otherwise for most amps, the 3.5mm SE is perfectly fine and will be as equally amazing
I have been waiting for this review for almost a month and was bit angry with you 😅 thank you so much...lots of love from Kerala India
My pleasure 😊
Thanks for the advice.
No worries!
Thanks Andy, your videos have me having my own little dongle battles at night.
I can't understand why it took so long for the engineers to begin to engineer a more Organic, Analogue sound into their chips.
And if the Dacport is the best, why did they ever divert from it.
I can't find the Dacport HD, It's out of stock everywhere.
Anyway, i like to think that your ear for sounds has helped push this boom for a return to Organic Analogue that is currently going on.
I look forward to seeing how well they do it the next time.
I saw that you rated the iFi iLink as very high on the analog scale
I have it , i just haven't taken it out of the box... I was wondering if it is as good or nearly as good as the Go Bars version of analog sound. I know It won't be as good in other areas.
It has a resolution and Image placement that i feel the fc6 lacks.
And i hope, Big time, that the NEXT Paw s3 is even more analog.
It feels like its almost there but not quite.
The Fc6 When you get a track with a nice strummed or picked guitar, with meticulous mixing and mastering of course, is so exquisite...
Its like it sort of Tickles the Ears!
The Ru7 and Fc6 and to some degree the Go Bar, has brought life back to my listening sessions.
And when I say Life, what i mean is me having Face offs between all the Dongles.
Thank you Andy, for truly improving the quality of our lives
and of our favorite hobby!
PS: is the Ovidius B1 really worth it for an Organic sound lover? I worry that the impedance dampner that you have to use with it affects it's soundstage.
If i wanted to buy a few more Organic Dongles, which one's would you recommend? Besides the Ru6/Ru7/Fc6/IfiGoBar, the Paw s2 and the Dc04pro and of course the Dacport HD, which i cannot find?
Which ones besides the above one's are out there that are very Analogue? The Ovidius B1?
I know it looks strange to see me say "besides these 10 dongles". I think I might have an obsession.
Anyway, if you find time to answer the last question, at least (if not the others) then thank you
If not, an even bigger thank you, for that means that you are working on a new video!
Thanks Kurt for your kindness and generosity. The key thing is, people have different preferences towards sound presentation. Some like it very Hi-Fi like what W2/W4 and M15 offers, some even like it outright pristine clinical like E1DA 9038. And some, like us, prefer more on natural analog presentation. I can understand this. Ultimately what works for our ears the only thing that matters.
DACport HD I believe is still available from CEntrance directly, you can check their website, last time I checked they have new stock in.
iFi Go Link is indeed organic and analog, but ultimately it lacked resolution which Go Bar has.
Ovidius B1 on the other hand, has similar sound presentation to Cayin RU7, with a bit more of ethereal air to the the way it handles dynamic, but B1 is also notoriously noisy with sensitive stuffs, so if you driving hybrids or anything under 32 Ohm, the floor noises can be bothersome (but no issues for me personally). I love B1 until today. B1 also behave similarly to RU7, of which it will always resample to 96K via the Quad AKM, where RU7 will always resample to DSD.
For now, organic sounding dongles as you already mentioned, you can also consider Hidizs XO and S9 Non Pro, but they may be considered as outright warm sounding. XO lacking resolution similar to GO Link.
Not many outside what is already mentioned that I would consider organic, perhaps you can also consider Apogee Groove, that one is amazing too.
Cheers
Thanks Andy !
I bought the Ovidius B1, the Link BAL and the apogee Groove.
So i will see how those are!
Hey, since i can ask you and since we have a similar taste, i have never been into IEM's
I bought the BEOYX winter off of you saying it was a favorite of yours.
However I was about to buy the planar, the DUNU TALOS 14.6mm.
Which one has more of an organic sound and timbre?
Which IEM , besides that very expensive one, the Shure something or other, which one is your go to for organic analog sound for well recorded rock and roll?
Or maybe your top 3 iems
I love a wide soundstage with a precise imaging of where the instruments are, Plus enough of an organic timbre with the decay and such.
Like i love when i hear an electric guitar strummed or an acoustic guitar strummed, and have the timber tickle The ear.
So far only the GoBar , the Ru6 and Ru7 and the Fc6 do that with my Hifimann Edition Xs planars.
If you have any iem's that you think would fit the bill, in the 0-400 range(but hopefully in the less than 200 range,) i would definitely appreciate it
@@kurtfinguerra1712 DUNU Talos can be a bit more clinical with the sound, analytical. Some people even say it sounded sharp especially if you are sensitive to Treble. But for me personally I love DUNU Talos. For organic and analog sound, I would say Kinera Idun Golden and SeeAudio Bravery AE hits it closer. But my favorite No.1 now is Final Audio A5000 alongside BQEYZ Winter. All of these IEMs that I mentioned are in my Top 5. But if you really want solid analog sound, then check my video on Venture Electronics SIE, that thing is super smooth organic and I use it regularly too
Excellent, I really appreciate the Response!
I received the Winter today and will be trying them out. The Bone conduction interests me, as I like it when i feel the shimmer of a guitar strummed, and i wonder if it will help achieve that.
I hope that I am able to enjoy iems.
I cannot imagine soundstage coming from such a small thing....
Do you have any IEM'S that score a 10 on your soundstage ranking? Besides that Shure that must be an amazing sound.
That's it, i didn't think that i was going to Burden you with another question, but i was wrong... :(
@@kurtfinguerra1712 The widest soundstage I have ever heard from an IEM is Final Audio A5000, headphone like headroom impressions, and of course 2nd to that is Tanchjim ZERO
Great review as always.
Edit: Sorry, my bad! A short circuit in my reasoning mixed SACD with AudioDVD, AudioDVD is the high-definition answer to the CD. and they are both multi-bit. SACD are newer and are using DSD and are indeed 1-bit.
[Incorrect: But the SACD format is just a high-definition answer to the CD. They are both multi-bit formats.]
1-bit/single-bit/bitstream was initially Sony's alternative CD DAC that instead of using a multibit DAC, which processes the data 16-bit/44-1KHz, used a DAC chip that decoded the data one bit at a time but at a much higher frequency to compensate for the asynchronicity that would be the result of this. The idea was that it was cheaper to produce and gave higher sound quality.
When Bitstream arrived in the early '90-ties (I believe) I didn't like it because despite the sound being resolved and fluid, it also had a thin character that for me made violins and other instruments sound much too synth-like. I went for quite an expensive Denon CD player with a multi-bit DAC to avoid that.
I believe the issue here is that the format should be decoded the way it was recorded. If not, artefacts are introduced. At least in theory. But today DSD is a 1-bit/bitstream format that can reproduce very high quality. And DACs have improved quite a lot over the years, which is very evident in cheap DACs, and I don't know how much audible difference there is today.
Thanks for this. I am learning more and more
@@donglemadness Hi! I just added an important correction to my post: Edit: Sorry, my bad! A short circuit in my reasoning mixed SACD with AudioDVD, AudioDVD is the high-definition answer to the CD. and they are both multi-bit. SACD are newer and are using DSD and are indeed 1-bit.
Thanks for putting me onto the Tanchjim Tanya ✌🎧👍
And thank you for your generosity and kindness Freder, you have a great day ahead there!
Great and comprehensive review of RU7. Also just purchased it and have been using it with my Samsung S23 Ultra (that's where all my High Res audio DSD, DXD, FLAC files are stored) plugged into the Car's 3.5mm Auxiliary In. It performs, just as you said. It sounds phenomenal for such a simple lightweight portable DAC. Question, is there a way to provide even better DAC for this application like using a small battery powered Mini-Desktop DAC (Mojo 2, Hugo 2, iFi Gryphon) that might even provide an even better sounding solution. The Car has a Mark Levenson 17-speaker stereo sound system installed. Keep up your great reviews. Love your Spreadsheets !
Thanks. If you haven't seen it, perhaps you may find the answers in my other video on how to get the best of your DAC/Dongles. The key factor is to allow any external USB DAC the full power of your S23 which runs on legitimate USB 3.0 PD without any Android SRC limitations (by using USB Exclusive mode), and that actually gives you performance similar to when connected to a PC
Good choice of music ❤
Good review in my opinion!
Glad you enjoyed it
Wow 36:38 you have no idea how helpful this graph is mate. Thanks for this man. Would you mind describing the soundstage of dc04 pro to the flagships like ru7. Is it intimate compared to it. Thank you
Thanks. DC04Pro is already wide open sounding and compared to W4 or RU7, it is pretty much on par I would say
Another amazing review! Nice to know that Dacport HD have even more analogue sound than RU7 , could you comment on the soundstage airiness compared to the RU7
Thanks TC. Soundstage I must admit RU7 does it better. For now the masters of soundstage would be RU7 and W4, followed closely by iBasso DC04Pro, THX Onyx and xDuoo Link2 BAL
@@donglemadnesshow about RU6 compared to the above?
@@tc9929 In the video I mentioned the comparison between RU7 and RU6 [, please watch it
Hi Andy, excellent review as always. I already own the RU6, would it be necessary for an upgrade to RU7 for the line out function? Or do you think i can still stuck with RU6 for connecting it to an amp?
Thanks. Yes you still can do it manually. But I do feel that RU7 dedicated LO is more resolving and detailed, not by much as compared to RU6 emulated LO, but enough. The biggest appeal would be the more open sound which RU7 improved from RU6
@@donglemadness Thanks!
Hi @AndyAudioVault, thanks for your review. Iam happy to know that my FC6 still have the most analog sound. I thought that RU7 would smash the FC6, but at least in sound it does not. One question, can the FC6 be used as a line out as the RU 7 ? This is nice feature.
No worries, to be fair I would say that both FC6 and RU7 are already operating at the highest level of quality among many and the nuances that sets them apart will boil down to preferences and perceived listening sensitivity too, but yes I think FC6 is the most analog sounding among them all. However for LO usage, I will openly say that RU7 is the absolute champ in this regard, FC6 was optimized more to operate on its own
@@donglemadness Thanks Andy
Interesting, RU7 appears to address some of RU6’s ‘caveat’. For example, I find RU6’s soundstage so-so, likely due to not bright treble, RU6 is also a bit weak in the power output and lastly, the 6 is a bit coloured. Base on your review I think the RU7 is a worthy upgrade. FC6 is just too expensive without 4.4mm termination for that slightly better sound over RU7. Also nice that you showed this chart on sound and timbre tuning, I now know why I sold my M15. Too my ears it’s just too artificial sounding and the mid treble is pushed way too far for the comfort of my ears. Thank you Andy!
You're welcome!
In Fact, the low current consumption is due to the small number of resistors (1 Layer(Serie) for 1 Bit instead of Multi-Layer(Parallel) for Multi Bit) used in the 1-bit DAC.
The 128 resistors of R7 are in series, which can cause noise even at low volume.
In the multi-bit DAC, the resistors are in parallel. This allows the signal to reach higher volumes before distortion sets in.
explain more simply please..
does that mean the ru7 has a downside to sound quality due to its design ?
@@M0N0XS no. he screwed up by saying 1bit instead of 24 bit. It's no wonder nobody understands. This is a good dac if you want dsd conversion. if you want r2r, get ru6.
thank you for your answer. this tool is not a friend for cellphones and tablets because it drains the battery a lot compared to its competitors. yes, it's better to choose something else like ru6 or hiby fc6
Nice Mayhem shirt! If you had to choose between this Cayin or the Hiby HC6, which one would you go for?
Thanks. You mean FC6?, if FC6, that's my daily driver that I use the most together with DACport HD. So I guess the choice is clear for me if I am forced to pick just one over the many that I have
Hi Andy, I really appreciate your #donglemadness review, being a dongle enthusiast myself.
This review of your RU7 makes me want to upgrade my RU6, especially for the sound stage. One thing you didn't mention is the resolution/detail retrieval of the RU 7 vs RU 6 - I have a CFA Ara and it's very resolving.
Would you say the RU7 is a sizeable upgrade over the RU6 in terms of details? Thank you for your help in advance.
Thanks. RU7 and RU6 both are already exceedingly resolving, so on that element RU7 is pretty much on par with RU6, both already operating at highest quality can be expected in dongle form factor. And yes RU7 offers more open and wider staging, that alone is a good improvement in my view
@@donglemadness Thank you! I'll be getting the Ru 7 tomorrow
Enjoying the best IEM sound I've heard with your rec's of Megatron and dc03....how much better is this expensive gear ? , if Megatron is a 1 in a 1 to 10 what number Ru7 ?.... happy with that old school analogue sound from the. Megatron for a while .
The tuning is different for DC03Pro which is more of modern less analog but vibrant and flowing. Megatron is similar to RU7 but I will say that Megatron does have some issues with floor noises and RU7 does it cleaner. The direct upgrade for Megatron is Prime DAC
@@donglemadness yes agree, when I listen to Cream or Crosby, Stills,Nash, don't mind that noise floor, for modern dance/ trance music prefer to listen on the dc03
Hi Andy, thanks for the informative video, could you recommend a dongle that paired well with the Campfire Solaris pls? I have a fiio btr5 and it sounded abit too sharp for me, when I used UAPP app and switch to bit perfect mode its abit better but still quite sharp, Im looking for a more neutral sounding dongle or anything that is less sharp than the fiio. Thankyou very much ❤
For the natively bright Solaris, I would recommend something like HIBY FC6 or CEntrance DACport HD. Or at least iFi GO Link or Hidizs XO
@@donglemadness thanks alot Andy for replying, I can’t seems to find the hiby fc6 but go with the cayin ru6 instead to try out the r2r chip, and I absolutely love it, paired very well with my solaris
Interesting review. Which kind of in ear monitor you can suggest to pair with Cayin RU7 Dac? Thanks
As noted, RU7 is neutral and transparent, which means it works practically with anything and synergize with anything. But since you asked for recommendations, I recommend Hidizs MP145 or Final Audio A5000
Thanks for a good review.
I have an IPhone and an Android phone with usb 2.0 PD. Do you think either will be able to power this or a Dc04pro well ? Is it better to use a battery powered dongle like BTR7 ? (I use IEM and HD560s).
Not sure about iPhone as I have stopped using iPhones since 2021. But Android with PD 2.0 will do as fine especially if you use HIBY Music App with USB Exclusive mode, then you will get 100% of what RU7 can offer
It performs really well even when driving headphones, but adding an amp can make the soundstage wider! I only used the 3.5 line out because my amp only have rca input, still sounding nice anyway.
Absolutely, as I mentioned, I use 3.5mm for my Electrostatic Amp and it worked like a charm
I use an Astell&Kern PA10 with mine. The soundstage is much larger, and it gives better imaging and dynamics.
i mean gr and astell specifically
true its kind of wider and better positioning
good balanced portable amp perfectly match m17 and down, for ibasso and up i suggest cayin
There is no competition when it comes to price/performance, the dc04 pro takes the crown
@avonmoremilk1958 does this offer 60% more sound improvement, then i am wrong
Just got mine, and I now understand what you meant by “analog.” I’ve using iFi Gryphon with LCD-X, but the RU7 makes my LCD-X sound very organic (for the lack of a better word) with Apple Music. I tried LO with the Gryphon, but the sound seems to lose a bit of that analog quality.
After trying so many DACs, these things tend to show, the differences and nuances that gives character to different devices, but most of the time it is not so obvious if you don't compare them side by side. And that's how I would described it too, the way you said it :D
Hi Andy,
Thanks for the detailed review. Much appreciated.
However your never mentioned about the DSD modes used during your review as there are noticeable differences between DSD64, 128 and 256. Would like to hear the breakdown between those 3 modes.
My pleasure, I didn't mention the differences because I have always set it to max at 256 upsampling and pretty much happy with it
Sweet Oakley eyeglasses. 👍🏻
Hi. Would you say that either the RU7 or the FC6 is more relaxed in the shouty high mids? I tend to be a bit sensitive to increased energy in these frequencies. Thanks.
Both are equally similar in this regard, smooth and flowing, never shouty. I think for this element, it is always better to start with finding the right IEMs or headphones that does not emphasize the Pinna region or upper Mids since you are sensitive to it, because normally those characteristics often starts with the attached listening devices
@@donglemadness Thanks again. That's very helpful.
Thanks for the review! Can you compare RU7 and Fiio K17? What would you prefer?
I will always prefer the more analog sound of RU7 over the enhanced dynamics of KA17 personally. Thanks!
@@donglemadness thanks for sharing, man! Have no chance to try, so your comment makes sense to me.
Hi Andy, will you review the Quloos mc01se? So curious about how it compares with Ru7.
At the moment no. But hopefully I can get one to test. Thanks
I was actually thinking of selling my RU-7 to get an M15 or an RU-6 (which they say is more immersive?). Good thing I watched this review before doing something that I would regret as did with my Mojo2. I appreciate this review. I'm not selling my Ru-7 anymore. Thanks so much Andy! You saved me. LOL
Also, can you also talk about the sound stage depth and imaging on these? Coming from a Mojo2, it was a very 3D sounding stage. I just didn't like that it is battery powered. But I've been trying to find a dongle that comes close to it sound wise. It was also very analog sounding (to my ears at least) unlike the delta sigma DACs. Hoping to get your thoughts on this. Thanks again Andy!
Thanks. I haven't had the opportunity to try Mojo2 yet so hard for me to compare with RU7. But if you mean being holographic on top of being one of the most open and wide sounding dongles now, RU7 is good with spatial imaging, that's holographic to my ears with the equipment I use
@@donglemadness yes being holographic is what I meant. Would u say it is more holographic than any of the other dongles compared in this video? At least with your gear and ears 😁
Been using it on low gain, maybe I should switch to high gain like what you did in these comparisons.
What are your thoughts on the Astell & Kern AK HC3 Dongle Dac? I own this dac and think it sounds incredible.
I wish I know. Haven't tried it yet
hi andy, do you have anywhere online that you put the 1 to 5 star rating tier list you used to have on the website?
There will be a Google Doc list I upload soon. Thanks
Hi Andy, Good evening. Have you tried the new Moondrop moonriver 2ti dac/amp ? My budget is under 200$. I'm confused between this & ru6.
No, not yet. Soon I hope. Thanks
Thanks for the response. Will wait for your review.
Morning Andy from the UK. This is a question about the RU6 but I do think it's relevant. Regarding volume management is it best to max out the volume on the host in my case a windows 11 PC and volume adjust on the RU 6 or vice versa?
Morning. Yes, for any independent volume dongles or DAC, always 100% on the Windows/Host/Android side, then just control the volume on the dongle/DAC, that's the best way
Great quick response as ever , thank you
Hi Andy!
Would you recommend the M15, Link 2Bal or Ovidiis B1?
So far im.using the Sony A55 DAP with mrwalkman firmware and loving it. It just lacks power when it comes to harder to drive headphones.
Sony DAP has always been special with the sound and the closest one that I can think of that matches it would be Ovidius B1. And B1 will definitely satisfy your need for sheer power
@@donglemadness Hi Andy! Just got myself a campfire andromeda V2. Will there be high noise with the Ovidius B1 paired with the andros? (as it has high output power andros are super sensitive)
I also got a L&P W2 to pair with the andros. I will say it pairs really well but tends to make them a bit darker compared to my A55 DAP. But the bass is very enjoyable almost sounds like a dynamic driver!
@@farhanasif8295 Not a good idea to use B1 with Andromedas, that IEM is ridiculously sensitive and are meant to be used with weak sources. You want B1 if you have something that has low sensitivity under 100 dB or above 32 Ohm. B1 is in fact perfect for magnetic planars and any IEMs that scale well with power, Andromeda is not one of those. But W2 will fare better with that sort of IEMs
Boss, I need your advice. I bought the Fiio KA13 based on your review and it sounds great. Now I saw this Cayin Ru7 which costs more than 3 times the KA13. I don't mind paying the money if there is a noticeable difference. Will the RU7 have a wider, spacious and more 3-D sound with better separation when compared to KA13? Worth it to get the RU7? Thanks.
Yes, there's difference, RU7 sounds more open, airy and wide sounding. Layering and separation too. On top of it, RU7 is even more analog sounding than KA13
@@donglemadness thank you very much boss. Appreciated. 🙏🙏
Hello, I bought the Arya Organic and find the timbre a bit harsh. I use the Ifi go bar. Do you have a dongle recommendation to calm the treble?
You would probably like something like Lotoo PAW S2 or even iFi Go Link if you are se sensitive to energetic highs
Hey Andy, in your analog/hi-fi Scale (1for analog and 10 for hi-fi sound), which number would you give to Xduoo Link2 Bal and for Ibasso DC03 Pro?
DC03Pro is hovering closer to Hi-Fi sound by 3 points. Link2 BAL is 5 points closer to Analog
Hi Andy, how does the RU7 compare against the Lootoo S2 in terms of sound?
S2 has a softer approach to the sound energy meaning RU7 is faster with the transients. Otherwise they are fairly great for being highly resolving and detailed
Hi Andy, I acquired a Senns HD660s2. Usually drive on M1 Mac laptop or a android phone. and use Apple's lossless music streaming service. I don't need a separate AMP right if I get RU7 to drive my cans? I want to avoid any desktop set-up. Have a DC03 Pro, based on your review, which is great for my IEMs, but just about manages with 660S2 - and I can feel the need for more power to make the headphones sing as they say. Would RU7 do that? And when you mention about the battery, let's say I have it connected to the USB of my laptop, which is also connected to power, there is going to be no drain at all right. THe 5 hours factor that you mention comes only when connected to phone. Most important question is this: Will it work like a proper amp and make my HD660s sing with its sound signature? (I feel since 660S2 are organic natural referency sound, this could gel well) Please do reply when free. Too many choices, in particular DC04pro, (but going by your review, RU7's tone/timbre and soundstage seems better) and am a touch confused!
Yes, RU7 would be suitable for your usage. So does DC04Pro and I already mentioned the differences between those two so it boils down to preferences now.
Thanks! Will decide. Suddenly so much choices in this dongle space. These 2, then recently launched, and by the looks of it pretty powerful, TempoTec Sonata BHD Pro, Tanchjim space ... great to have choices finally. I will decide between ru7 and the tempotec Sonata BHD Pro.
Hey Andy! How u doing, mate? Andy, in your sound scale from 1 to 10 (1 being analog sound and 10 being hi-fi sound), where does the Ibasso DC03 Pro sits?
DC03Pro is hovering closer to Hi-Fi sound by 3 points. Link2 BAL is 5 points closer to Analog
@@donglemadness Thank you, Andy!
@@donglemadness By this, attached to an AMP, I like more of a hifi sound, because now I preffer the DC03 Pro of these two that I have. (A few months ago, I prefferred Link2Bal, but at that time I did not have an AMP)
Ciao Andy! I wonder if it's possible to use RU7 dongle and charge the phone at the same time. Maybe using a split usbc adapter, but i'm not sure it will work fine. 🤔
Yes, if you can find a split cable or hub which will allow you to plug in another USB C to charge
Hi @AndyAudioVault I'm already holding RU6. Do you think I should upgrade it to RU7?
If you want wider staging with a bit more sense of space, yes RU7 does it better
Hey Andy. Does this have the interface noise the RU6 has? I have the RU6 I love the sound but once I connect it to my phone interference noise comes in. Its so annoying I can't stand that.
When connected to my phone and with 3G/4G signal on, from time to time I get RF interferences from most dongles the more powerful they are, RU6 seems to pick it up more, mostly due to cable shielding. RU7 seems less likely to pick it up. But then the same can be said of HIBY FC6, L&P W4 and a few others, especially when the phone is trying to switch or search for signals. It is annoying but that is given when using your phone as a DAP. Most people simply turn on Airplane mode when critical music listening is needed, I did that too frequently
Using Spotify Premium+Smartphone+Sennheiser IE 600/900
Which Dongle would you prefer ?
M15 or RU7 ?
Thank you for your interesting videos
My pleasure. I would still pick RU7 if I have to choose between those two, due to my personal preferences towards analog sound which RU7offers. But really I have stopped using Spotify altogether because I have found that the rendering from them can sound a bit hollow in density and some even exhibit artifacts, I would use Deezer or even Tidal instead
Hello Andy.. I have dc04pro already.. Do you think I should upgrade to RU7? Thank you Andy..
I personally think it would not be much of an upgrade, DC04Pro is already on a level which competes directly with RU7 one to one. Of course RU7 has some things that DC04Pro don't have. like true Line Out etc. But sound wise we are talking about small differences which is determined by subjective preferences
Andy thanks for this detailed review from this cayin dongle. A long time I was looking for the Fiio m15s dap because I was wanting a separate music player. I need a new phone probably it will be the Samsung note s23 .So probably not more money to buy a Dap .Al what you comment about this Cayin ru7 dongle sound wise is what I am looking for. Do you know the sound from Fiio m15s? If I want the same sound quality like the Cayin ru7 with a Dap, I must think in what price class and which one? I have Shure 846 iem, s and the Senheiser 650 headphone 🎧. Greetings Christiaan from Brazil.
Thanks Christian. I have never tried M15, but yes if you have HD650 then RU7 is very well suited to drive it, for as long as you use the 4.4mm BAL side of RU7. And RU7 is assuredly capable of synergizing with practically any IEMs
@@donglemadness Thanks for the quick response , the only question if I buy a 800 /1250 us dollar dap I get a better quality than the Ru7 ?
@@brasilchris1 That's not a guarantee. I have sold off 3 DAPs with a combined value of $2500 in favour of dongles, the only DAP I use now is the Sony PCM-D100. Tons of great dongles now offer great substitute for DAPs
@@donglemadness Okay thanks again for your replay. 🙏
Line out features is big for RU7
does it sound way better than the Questyle M15i? Also is a balanced cable for shure se 846 safe to use or is it to loud?
I have no idea, I don't have M15i to compare
Hi, if it’s not much to ask, how does moonriver 2 ti compare to ru7? I have them both in cart, with a limited budget, which one should i go for?
RU7 is superior to MR2 by 5% overall, both are already excellent. If you have the budget to get RU7 then get RU7
Andy could you please suggest betweent ibasso dc04 pro vs astell&kern hc 2 vs fiio ka5
I haven't tried HC2 so I can't speak for it. But between KA5 and DC04Pro, I will always pick DC04Pro over many others
Hello Andy, I hope you are well. If the RU7 gets 6 for Power Efficiency, why does the iBasso DCO4Pro receive the same score when its battery drain is 9 hours compared to the RU7's 5?
There's a bit of confusion there because the time when I reviewed DC04Pro, I compared the power drain efficiency with DC03Pro directly, of which utilizing the same DACs and from the same family, obviously DC03Pro has better efficiency, as such I was influenced by the outcome of that comparisons
@@donglemadnesshey Andy, thanks so much for another detailed and well done review! Do you mind reviewing all your previous scores for the still-currently-popular dongles which are over 4 stars in a standard scenario, and put them into a shared excel file to everyone as your ranking reference? Sorry I know it’s a lot of work but it would super helpful for your audience to choose dongles in future. Thanks a lot in advance!
@@StevenL717 Thanks. I would love to do that when I have the time
Hello great review
Please can you tell me witch of this dongle have more body and dark warm sound and more bass and laid back vocals and tamed highs to make them sound good for poor recordings and tamed brighter sound headphones? I try r6 and ifi go bar and have more bass and body from ifi then cayin ru6...but don t try the other in your list...please tell me off which of this 5 candidate suits best for me...ifi go bar,RU7,M15,ibasso dc04pro ,xduoo link bal2..? Which of this have fuller bass and vocal no in your face and tamed highs....i search the most warm dark fuller sound...?
You talking about FC6 and DACport HD, as you can see in the scores, both scored perfect 10 with note weight and density. But they are not dark/warm either, just richer than most others, but relatively uncolored. A great DAC should always strive to be neutral and transparent. To achieve what you want, changing the listening IEMs or headphones will be more effective, keep the sources as neutral as possible. On the other hand, you should try consider Astell & Kern PEE51 or Tempotec Sonata BHD (the old one), they would provide warm rich coloration to the sound perhaps will work for you
@donglemadness
Thanks
Can you tell me which of ibasso dc04pro and xduuo link 2 bal and cayin ru7,ifi go bar have more bass and more laid back vocal...i don t like vocal to forward in face but rather little more distant? Which of this have more distant vocal and more body?
@@nikokomac3185 All of them are neutral sounding so they don't boost bass, or suppress mids. But if you need Bass then out of the ones you mentioned, get iFi Go Bar then because that' the only one that add Bass
Did a power efficiency test with my S23 ultra today! Wi-fi and gps on, phone volume 100%, RU7 3.5 90/100 high gain dsd256, streaming ALAC（Apple Music） running my AKG K702~9:50 100%>16:00 49%>18:50 24%>20:00 13%>20:50 0% when I checked the phone😢，I guess the battery died out between 10.5～11hrs on my S23 ultra.😇
That sound about right with higher mAH or higher efficiency later model batteries. My Sony Xperia 1 iV scored pretty much similar to yours, only my Xiaomi Mi9T managed to do it under 5 hours
Andy, keeping aside Sony phones. If you have to recommend a phone for Audio between S23 Ultra and iPhone 14 Pro Max, what would it be? atleast based on what you have seen and learn't though you might not have used it
S23 definitely. iPhones are just not suitable for external DAC usage, with so many limitations and weak USB power feed. Many top dongles that offer high power will run erratically on iPhones if they run at all. With USB 3.0 from modern Android phones, from the likes of Sony Xperia or Samsung Galaxy series, external DAC attached to these phones will operate on par to be expected when connected to PC, provided that you use USB Exclusive mode from HIBY Music App or UAPP bitperfect. Check my earlier videos on how best to use dongles, that should help too
@@donglemadness Wonderful Thanks a lot Andy
Hello Andy,
I still try to find out which is more suitable dongle to match my HD600. Which do you suggest me between FC6 and RU7? Confused about those two dongles for my HD600? Ord should surpass and check something like mojo 2 or desktop option (which I do not prefer).
Thanks for all
For HD600, I personally prefer the denser sound of FC6 (which is similar to DACCport HD), but RU7 on the other hand offer wider sense of soundstage, taking this into consideration, you make your choice on what's more important to you.
@@donglemadnessyes I know s a bit tricky as HD600 have not soundstage so will benefit from RU7, but a tube like dongle will suit more I guess. Do you believe can FC6 match mojo 2? Is it worth to pay extra for mojo 2 or FC6 will be satisfied. Thanks for all
@@donglemadness Do you know if FC6 can be connected to an external amplifier like RU7. And can FC6 match mojo 2? Does it worth to pay double the price for Mojo 2 or FC6 is a very good option for HD600? I am afraid that due to power will not drive good enough my HD600
@@Nordi1_0745 Mojo 2 focuses more on analytical technical sound approach and to me I will always prefer the more natural and analog sound of FC6, while still being technically competent at it. But of course those who crave extreme details will say that Mojo 2 is what you want
Hi i'm a novice to dongles. I pre ordered a k17 weeks ago after watching your review but it hasn't arrived due to manufacturing delays. I've since read that there are software issues with it. Would you have any other recommendations? I'm using an Iphone and mostly with Oppo pm3's thanks
If you already ordered it, then you should wait for it. I know there has been words exchanged about software issues but really I think it is not as severe as one might think. I have one KA17 being tested now and I can say I face no such issues, especially now it has updated FW released earlier today. So just go ahead and get your KA17
@@donglemadness hi thanks ever so much for the quick reply, i'll take your advice and just wait for the KA17 now I know more about it. Cheers and greetings from London.
Hello,
I want to preserve that neutral sound.
Which IEM and Headphones to use?
Thanks in advance
The very best when it comes to being neutral uncolored would be Etymotic ER2SE, ER4SR, Kinera Idun Golden for IEMs. The rest are all colored in a way or another to make things a bit more exciting. For headphones if you looking for transparency and neutrality, then it is AKG K701 or K501, again, most other headphones are intentionally tuned to be colored to offer some flavors (because neutral stuffs tend to sound very flat)
Andy Is RU7 has enough power to drive Hifiman edition XS headphone?
yes it should
Bro just wanna check with you issit worth paying more if I already own DC04 pro? or just stick with DC04 pro?
Worth it if you looking for more analog sound. But remember on many things these are all already the top crop dongles among many so you already have an amazing dongle with you
I have the DC04 pro, RU6 and RU7. RU6 would probably compliment the DC04 Pro better, since it's more analog sounding than the RU7 (at the sacrifice of some driving power and technicalities). RU7 sits between them in terms of presentation style, but it has a the best soundstage and the handy line out.
@@donglemadness noted bro, thanks for the comment, cheers
@@arthurkillen396 Thanks alot bro for the reply, appreciate that, after reading ur comment, I might consider RU7 as I prefer a better soundstage dongle with line out.
@@arthurkillen396thanks for the comment. I have DC04pro and was thinking to upgrade to RU7. Now think it might not be that much of an upgrade.
Andy, can you contact Cayin to confirm whether or not the R7 is an R2R DAC?
I am clarifying this as well, because I may have misunderstood the labeling on my part. Thanks
is there any way to use this with a streamer that has a coax? (lets say a Wiim Pro for example)
To my knowledge, RU7 does not support Digital output like a COAX
Hello can i adjust the volume under windows pc or only hardware buttons ?
Yes you can. What I would recommend is to max out on PC and allow RU7 to manage all of it
Hi Andy, can you explain what is analog, natural sound as compared to digital sound?
I have been asked of this a few times so I will offer you the same one I have posted before, it will be easier had you experience the analog era especially when vinyl, cassettes and tubes were the only thing we had to play with. All these devices do not have digital element to the sound output, literally everything was analog, from the recording, mixing, mastering and playback. Many would say that those eras of sound would appear lacking technicalities with the sound output, and they are not wrong. Only after the emergence of CD when the technical aspect of sound becoming more prominent and the chase for technical precision intensified, however in that process, more often than not, the resulting output itself becoming a bit more obsessed with clarity, resolution and transparency that some element of what makes music musical are lost. Welcome to the Hi-Fi era, where technicalities are treasured more above everything else. When I say analog sound, I refer to this natural organic sound reminiscent of that literal analog era. So does this mean being analog is not Hi-Fi? absolutely not. As demonstrated by many properly tuned gadgets which understand balance, we have the element of natural organic sound fused with the precision of Hi-Fi tuning, best example would be HIBY FC6 or CEntrance DACport HD or headphones like Sennheiser HD600. IEMs like Etymotic ER4S is purely Hi-Fi, exceedingly resolving and transparent, but almost devoid of analog touch to the timbre itself (I am a hardcore user of ER4SR). I hope this makes some sense.
@@donglemadness Thank you very much, yes I was confused if I buy FC6 which is the most analog sounding dac, does that mean I loose the hi-fi element completely. But you answered exactly that. Thanks a lot!
I have another query regarding this, how do you feel the soundstage would be when HD 600 is used with FC6?
@@pritambanerjee7172 Admittedly FC6 sound presentation is more forward as to be expected of R2R DAC sound characteristics, so while it is open sounding, RU7 or W4 offer wider sense of staging for HD600
Just wondering if it can play DSD files in Foobar2000 ? Does it need Asio drivers with Windows OS ?
Yes you will need Cayin USB drivers and ASIO to play DSD, just like any other DACs on PC
Hi Andy, This is not R2R, but a 1 bit all to DSD DAC
Perhaps I may have confused, as both are definitely Resistors Array tech
No. 8 Features (Filters,Gain, MQA) etc..is there MQA support for RU7?
Sorry, that's a common template for features in the Excel file, I should have adjust it because obviously RU7 does not have MQA and Filters
With dynamic presentation, do you mean how loud it's going to sound? I mean dynamic range?
No, nothing to do with loudness. I was referring to the spectrum of how different layers of sound spectrum, of how tidy they are, of being cohesive and fluid they are conveyed to make up the dynamic range
Please review the new JCally AP20. Dual CS43131, 2.5, 3.5, 4.4, claimed 330mW at 32ohm. 50$ !
It's battery powered but looks pretty portable.
Definitely I am interested in that one too
Is the dacport hd still available? I cant seem to find it.
CEntrance stopped making new ones since late last year. And all stock are sold out
Could you give examples of the best "Hi Fi Sound" (or more into this realm) dongles under 150$?
There's a lot to choose from. Fosi Audio DS1 is one of them, so does AKLIAM PD4
@@donglemadness which one drains less battery? 😀 (i was actually expecting you to suggest fiio ka5 or ka13)
Hi andy, the fc6 is on sale for $118. Is it still worth it to get now?
It was already worth it at normal retail price, at $118 it is a steal and a sin not to get one, the champion of #donglemadness
@@donglemadness thank you andy. I was debating on getting it or not. Lol
Im using this 4.4 line out to my burson amplifier. Oh my! It makes better sound than my shiit bifrost 2 dac! My 800s bass is better. It sounds more open and details, especially classical music. It is surprising. I dont know how i feel after the honeymoon period though. I will keep using it a while.
Crazy right?
@donglemadness Yes. It is crazy! I'm listening to Sonny Rollins's 'way out west' now. This is the best jazz instrumental sound!
I appreciate your videos, the work behind and your passion but please buy a good microphone
Thanks. Been trying many MIC, the search goes on
Just bought this as my Aune yuke stopped working after 2 weeks
Hopefully it will work better for you
which one would you recommend to drive ZMF Atruim Closed and Senn HD800S
RU7 is one of them. It has sheer power and finesse. Of course there's also CEntrance DACport HD and practically any of the 5 Stars rated will do the job as great
@@donglemadness appreciate the fast response! I was so close to buying the ifi go bar before watching your video and I'm so glad I did more research. I already own a cayin HA-6A tube amp and I'm very impressed with build and sound quality. So Cayin would be a no brainer for me with dongles.
@@donglemadness RU7 just came in and they power the zmf atrium closed well! thank you so much!
Trying to decide between iBasso DC04 Pro and Cayin RU7. Regarding the iBasso, can it be used with iPhone (seems as if there is not an iOS app, wonder if you must have the app to use this). Also, the price difference is significant. Thoughts?
Can't go wrong with any of them. Both I believe can run on iOS. But DC04Pro does not have iBasso UAC App for iPhones, so you will not have the ability to adjust it like what can be done in Android. I have stopped using iPhones since 2021 due to the constraints it has with high powered dongles, so beyond 2021 I really have no idea how it is faring now
I didnt even know such a dongle existed...
hello...is also good for gaming and movies no delays?
Yes, no lag or delays
How is RU7 sound compare to fiio BTR7 and Hiby FC4?
I haven't tried BTR7 so I don't know. FC4 is less analog sounding and also not so wide open airy as RU7, but it is technically great too
@@donglemadness thanks brother did you tried ibasso DC06?
If yes how is it sound compare to FC4?
I left a comment and questions and it disappeared! anybody know why this would happen?
No idea, at least I can see this one
How good is the Cayin RU7 when compared to Xduoo Link2 Bal?
It is an improvement in terms of overall resolution and imaging from RU7 vs Link2 BAL, also the tonal balance for those preferring more analog sound which does not sacrifice analytical elements. So yes, RU7 is a step up from Link2 BAL
@@donglemadness Interesting. Thank you for the feedback.