Schiit Modi+ www.schiit.com/products/modi-plus Schiit Magni + www.schiit.com/products/magni-plus Schiit Loki Mini + www.schiit.com/products/loki-mini-3 Support the Channel by Shopping on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK Cheap Audio Man Store Front shop.howl.me/cam Join the best hifi community out there! patreon.com/cheapaudioman TRY ROON roonlabs.com/r/RTmYWdCP9kitqouBa5pcIw Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5
I'm old school and new to class d , but started watching your vids and subbed , I just got a fosi bt 20 AS today and hooked it to some old 3 way Sony 's out in the shed , I really like it and it made the Sony's really pop , nice !
One of two things that improved my cheap system it was the Modi+ which really cleaned up my sound coming from my PC, and Bellari EQ which turned my speakers into something amazing. My cheap audio system: PC source, Modi+ Dac (129), Aiyma A07 (50) with rolled OPA 1656 OP amps (20), Bellari EQ 570 (119), Jamo S803 speakers (80-Clearence!), and Jamo S810 subwoofer (99-Clearence). Thanks, cheapaudioman, it sounds amazing!
Really grateful for a company like Schiit. They have made audio fun and enjoyable, for really cheap money. They have such a wide arrangement of great products, and the more you listen and add on, you really start to see the effort and the thought process they have committed to and have accomplished. Schiit, as a company, has been truly a gateway for the desktop audio industry. BTW, the Vali++ and Modi Multibit 2 combo is so inexpensive for it's cost/performance level, that I feel guilty for spending so much money on higher end gear. Not to say I didn't enjoy it though. 😁
I just don't get your clickbait titles. Schiit dethroned ? By who ? You are not comparing their products to the newer generations from other manufacturers!
@@xScurn True...but..I don't know. How about just be honest and make better content ? And it is a big deal as if the title is not indicative of the content than it can be a waste of time to watch it.
@@CraciunAlexandruGh I mean if you count less than 5 minutes to find out the video isn't necessarily what it says it is as wasted time, then I guess that's your opinion. Personally I wouldn't call that a big deal. I don't know you but I doubt your time is THAT valuable. But you're right, in a perfect world, clickbait wouldn't exist, but the fact that it does exist at all means that if you aren't doing it to some degree, you're putting yourself at a disadvantage. If this is your career, you want every leg up you can get (within reason) just like a normal career.
@@jonathana.4187 "no" without providing comparisons to other budget gear. OP was correct. As a side note, I'd love for him to do an ABX test with Modi 3 vs any transparent DACs costing 5-10 times as much and see if he can tell which one is which. Still haven't found any youtube influencers objectively demonstrating that these "differences" are noticeable and can be repeatedly spotted blind.
I’ve had my Modi/ Magni/Loki combo from its first gen about 10 years ago or so now, and it’s seriously the best money I ever spent in audio. They work just as well now as the day I bought them, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
Schiit is hands down one of the best value for money you can possibly get. My first separate was the Vidar 1, which I plugged to my Marantz SR7015, immediately noticeable improvement. Now I have a SMSL SU10, plugged in to a Schiit Freya Plus, out to the Vidar and the sound is incredible. I recently borrowed a Parasound Hint 6, a $3,200 integrated, and my Schiit/SMSL combo stood up to it with no problems, and to my taste, it came out on top. If anyone is looking into the Schiit Freya Plus, I recommend getting the premium matched from Schiit, and adding a 1950s or 1940s RCA 6SN7 tube. I've tried many of the popular combos (sylvania included), but none comes even close.
I had a Sr7400 with a mm9000. Replaced by Saga+ and Vidar 2,and a few smsl ps100's for optical sources. The Marantz was quickly forgotten. It got his ass kicked by the Schiit, big time.
I use the Modi+ and Loki+ into my receiver and I'm pretty happy with them. The Loki might be my favorite of the bunch. The USB interface on the Modi is seamless. I can plug in a Mac, PC, Android phone and it just works.
Gotta love Schiit! I bought a Mani phono stage, then a few weeks later a Freya Noval preamp. They really improved my modest, entry-level system (VPI Scout, B&K ST 202 AMP, Vandersteen 2C, etc.)
I used to listen to music from my phone or laptop through a couple of headphone amps, a Fiio E9 and a Bravo V2. The sound was muddy compared to listening with my Denon home theater amp. I had assumed it was due to the cheap amps I was using. After all, they were about 1/10 of the price of my Denon. I then bought a Modi+. All I can say is wow. What a phenomenal improvement! My non-Denon setup now sounded significantly better than through the Denon. I then added a Schiit Lyr3 and a Wiim Mini to further improve my sound. If you doubt that high end hifi sounds better than standard stereo stuff, it’s worth the $140 for a Modi to discover the difference.
i started out using USB-C with my modi+ but i changed to optical for my PC setup. i like the optical interface MUCH more sounds better works better in my opinion, but the USB-C was incredibly impressive, i have never had a device work so easily on USB out of the box like that, and i am an IT Systems engineer lol
I still rock my JDS labs OL DAC, thing just works. Optical and USB inputs, green front LED, front power button, and little black switch button to select between inputs. Oh, and they manufactured a little Easter egg on the motherboard where you can solder your own DIP switch to select between the AKM built in filters. Probably the best budget DAC ever made, in my opinion. Not a fan of the newer JDS DACs as they use plastic housings and touch switches over physical buttons.
Hi Randy, digging the Seamaster! I have an original from 1994 that will be 30 years old next year, still runs perfectly. I'll have to start watching out for what's on your wrist moving forward.
I have a Modi 3 ,Magni Heretic, Loki Mini and the Sys....i have to say i love this stack.makes everything sound so much better and bigger..have my comp and walkman hooked up to it. the Sys lets me switch between them.. buy them all \MM/
GRRRRREAT! (To be said in a 'Willie the Gardener' Scottish accent). Really useful video review as I'm helping my oldest son to put together his first wee system. Cheers, Randy! Hope you & your family are well. all the best, G. in Japan (ex-Scotland)
I have a “storage unit hi if”. An early 2000s era Harman Kardon 3380 receiver that I used to power outdoor speakers, a pair of Wharfedale Diamond 10.2 speakers, a Wharfedale WHD8 Sub, a JVC TD V541 cassette, a TEAC CD P650, and a UTurn turntable. But the sound drastically improved with the Schiit Loki, Modi+ and Bellari SE560 enhancer. These 3 low dollar add in’s make a huge impact. I should be able to avoid spending more money on audio at least until my daughter graduates.
Thanks for your video! I bought the Schiit Modi 2 Uber and Magni 2 Uber around 8 years ago and they still sound amazing. I'm planning on buying the latest models soon, really a great company with great devices.
Sounds pretty nice but I'm very happy with my Jds Labs Atom amp+ with a Sennheiser GSX 1000 for a pretty convincing surround sound. All that driving an aria stealth pretty perfect for movies, music and games.
I'm still using an original Modi, and it's still doing a great job after 6-7 years. I also use an old Mani for my phono preamp, and it still kicks butt. I've owned about 7 pieces of Schiit, and never had any problems from any of them.
I've never owned a external DAC, when I get my tax check, I'm pulling the lever and getting one. I just got a wimm mini and I want to try a new DAC with it. Thanks CAM ! Awesome video.
Schiit Modi & tell us what you think you hear LOL - be careful down this rabbit hole, the walls are slippery ... but I am confident you will find musical joy. Just remember DACs don’t need to be changed like underwear.
I loved these. For what they cost, they are very much worth it. I started with a MAGNI and a MODI. I then upgraded to the DODI 2 or 3, I think, and the Vali 2; you can tell an improvement, especially with good cans. I upgraded to a MODIUS and MAGNIUS over a year ago and now I am upgrading the MAGNIUS amp to a MIDGARD and I plan to buy a LOKIUS EQ. With that said, I didn't have to upgrade. I would have been perfectly happy with my previous desktop setup with the MAGNI and MODI. So, if you're on a budget, get these. They're the Schiit!
Well, I can’t comment on the other items in your sandwich there, but I watched the video because I wanted to see what you’d say about the Modi+ since I have one, and I can’t disagree with anything you brought up about that thing.. I think you nailed it in terms of Its value; if a person wants a good switchable DAC without the need for headphone amp, preamp, or any other creature features, and they are on a budget, the Modi+ plus is definitely the way to go, using it’s own supplied power supply. No need for a PSU swap. Sound quality is fine, obsession from DAC enthusiasts notwithstanding. 👨🏻
I used to have a Schiit stack but I replaced it with a JDS Labs Atom+ stack, it's not metal but you can really tell they put that cost savings into the electronics where it counts. Smooth pots with no adjustment noise, sounds amazing, wouldn't go back to a Schiit honestly.
@@edwarddodge7937 Yeah just an unfortunate situation. I read about the issues with Schiit products and I disregarded all of them and of course my first Schiit product is broken on day one. You pay for shipping and then wait 5 days within the US to get it. They offered to pay shipping and replace it but only after I show proof of sending it out. I think I'll just deal with it.
The “Schiit” products remind me of the value products of the late 1970’s and 80’s. Quality plus performance that most people could afford and enjoy. My best example would be Grado phono cartridges, I was using a mid priced moving coil that was sold by GAS (probably made by Denon), wonderful sound until the cantilever collapsed into the body. In the interim I purchased a Grado FTE+1 from Lyle Cartridges in Brooklyn, it was $17. That price to performance ratio to me has never been bettered; but these Schiit products are close. The Vali 3 and Magni Heretic I use are not begging me to replace them. Always good information here, Thanks
Yes. I have a 10 slider ADC SS-112 and I decided that I dont want it to be an amplifier (as if it doesn't introduce enough noise already) and now I can't listen without it (unless listening to my AKG AK52 headphones *$22 at guitar center*), and EVEN BETTER if you cut 31 hz (most speakers dont go that low) it makes it sound WAY better.
I use the Bellari EQ in my little system with the Geshelli stack. For me it's more of a fine tune adjustment than anything else. Plus it has two outputs, so one to the Geshelli amp and one to the Bellari HA540MK2 tube amp.
Thank you Randy for getting me back into listening to music with a nice setup the way it should be. Those small bluetooth speakers like the jbl flip only take it so far. Started watching you just after this past christmas and really enjoy your channel. I don't comment much but thank you! I now have an Aiyima A03 with Moukey 3 way speakers and a cheap vidsonix sub I found on craigslist. This is the setup on my desktop in my office and sounds awesome really rocks!! Then I got the Aiyima T9 with an A07 running a pair of klipsch rp-600m's that amazon had for $330. This sounds really good for no sub but actually prefer the cheaper setup in the office, it really sounds great. Appreciate what you do, been refering you to friends and family using your links as well to purchase items to support. Also went with Tidal and really happy with the different music options they have. Be well! ty Bill
WiiM mini, Modi+/Magni stack, Sundara headphones=a pretty darn happy guy. The eq settings with the WiiM are enough for now but I’m a child of the ‘70s so Loki sounds like an attractive addition.
Thanks to you Randy, I have two Schiit Modi 3 DACs and I love them. I don't need more. I did buy a Sabaj A10h headphone amp and I use it as a remote volume control. Only 75 bucks.
They should offer these as a set for even more savings. That would be awesome. I'm new into this area of audio listening. Your videos are a great help although I must confess I'm still confused a bit. Lol
You are right, they should offer these as a cost-saving set. It does take a lot of time (and money) finding out what dac you like, what sound you like, ie. - warm, bright, holographic, flat, defined, good for acoustic vs electronic, etc. Luckily, dacs seem to retain a lot of their value so you don't lose too much with selling.
Their margins are already pretty tight from what I've heard. It's honestly a small miracle they've been able to keep prices this low and still make them in the U.S. (and with U.S. steel iirc)
I bought a closeout Magni 3+, connected to a Modius hooked up to a Marantz SACD player as standalone headphone station. And a Modi+ & Magni 3+ connected to a desktop computer. More Schiit, a Bitfrost 2/64 installed in my stereo system connected to a Cambridge Audio CXC Transport into a Schiit Freya+ 😎
Just received a Modi + which I ordered in silver to match my five other Schiit mini units, much to my disappointment the Modi + is in a horrible silver grey pebble (rough to the touch) spray paint finish!!!!!! I immediately emailed Schiit and received a terse reply: "I'm sorry but this is the silver finish for this unit. If you have any other questions or concerns please feel free to contact me."
Regards,
Laura Z Needless to say my satisfaction with Schiit has gone down a notch. Keep up your great and entertaining work, regards Gary Chapman
I use an original older Modi DAC hooked up with optical from a bedroom TV into a Loki and then an Asgard amp for headphone tv/movie watching. I love the Loki on this set up as if watching action movies I can adjust the lows for explosions and the mids to accentuate the dialogue range all while watching at night through headphones and not bothering others in the houshold. I just ordered another Modi+ which will be on a secondary PC system running into a Valhalla2 headphone amp I already have. My main Gaming PC I use a HEL2 headphone/dac on that one. And last but not least my main Headphone listening set up is a Gunjnir DAC into a MJONIR 2 headphone amp. Yes, I like my Schiit products, that they are mostly made in the U.S.A. by an American company they ship quickly when ordered and are reasonably priced. And the one time I had an issue sent in for warranty the process was painless and the turn around time from the time shipped to the time repaired and returned was only about two weeks! From my experiences Schiit makes great products and is a fantastic company to deal with!
$129 is a lot of money to pay for a 4 band equalizer. rather purchase a good used vintage multi band EQ. They are easy to work on and I never experienced any noticeable distortion.
I've had the Modi + for over a year now being feed by a CD and the RPi streamer. I use the USB from the RPi and the coax out of the CD. Then to the receiver. DAC is much better than that in the CD player (I can bypass the internal DAC). I listen to mostly streaming and rarely switch the Modi+ to the CD input. This is run through a HK receiver, 80 watts per channel to my reworked JBL (xover and cabinet mods and better tweeter) sounds great. I also have a giant Kenwood KR9600 160 watts per channel from the the late 70's someone gave me. I have it in the bedroom. I wish it had that timer Kenwood has. Monster in weight and size. About 60 lbs. Balance and volume pot a little dirty. I tried to clean it tuner cleaner but it is buried in the cabinet and couldn't get to it without disassembling more that I was comfortable with. I also have a Aiyima T6 pro for a headphone DAC/headphone amp off my laptop. I know you like many of the Aiyima products but never, to the best of my knowledge, reviewed this product and last time i checked not many have. I find it does a great job for a not very big price. I don't recall what i paid for it over a year ago but it was less than $100 for sure.
Hey cheapaudioman, I don't mean to get off topic what what gorgeous 70s/80s receiver lit up in the background is that? It looks like it could be a Sansui or Marantz. I had a hard time focusing, sorry. I can't afford a 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge but hey a beauty like that in the background is obtainable perhaps. Aside from that, Schitt Audio is king and the best bang for the buck anyway and you can't go wrong. Thanks for your videos, they are a good constant reality check in my world!
Schiit rules !!! I'm getting my schiit together. Last week a Lokius EQ. Next week a Freya S, maybe a Freya + ??? Haven't decided yet. Great video Randy, keep them coming. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦🍻🍻🤘🤘🤘
I'm just counting the days until CAM does a Schiit Rekkr review, such a crazy concept... could I really have a "stack" like this for desktop speakers??
I just bought my first Schiit Stack Magni+/Modi. Yes they are powerful, yes they sound good, and the improvement is slight over my crappy UMC22 $40 interface. They can go much louder with no distortion on all my headsets however (objectively better here). For you all reading this, save the $150 and just get a Fiio K5. I spent $300 on my stack. My DT 770 Pro 80 and Edition XS can't even be turned up all the way in Medium gain without blowing my ears so high is not reeeeally needed. Oh yeah and my low gain switch doesn't work straight out of the box from Schiit. They offered to replace it and sent a shipping label, but this is super annoying to do on a brand new product which took 5 days to get to me. I think I will just suffer with my low gain mode dead.
I like the idea of budget Hi Fi, but it doesn't always seem to be the case. I priced out a pre-amp, monoblock set from Schitt, and found that the amp wouldn't work and I had to upgrade. At the end of the day in $Cdn, I realized that for a couple hundred more, I could buy another Rotel/Monitor Audio combo from a Hi Fi shop, and have a second A11 Tribute in a different room. Keep in mind that I still didn't have speakers, a source, or a DAC/BT set-up with the Schitt. Yes there are other ways to go but I just couldn't go that way.
I have several Schiit components, have always loved them. Listening through a Magni right now, HiFiMan HE400i's. I did have one problem child, a fulla schiit that had a very noisy volume pot from day 1, quieted some with contact cleaner, but it was always scratchy. It's 2 years old, and it failed completely the other day. Just quit. Replacing it with a Epos gsx1000 G2. I was tempted to go with the Hel, except for one desired feature the Schiit Hel doesn't do... there's no output switch. You have to unplug your headphones to pass the signal on to an external speaker amp. The Epos has a button to switch outputs. Seems like a real handy thing to have on your desk.
BUDGET system-Audio Bliss - WiiM Mini (Source) -into- Modi+ (DAC) -into- Magni (PreAmp) -into- Ayima A07 (Amp-rolled Sparkos Chips) -feeding- Sony SSCS5 (Speakers) - All based on CheapAudioman video reviews. Inexpensive HiFi ~Thanks Randy!
This made my decision for me. had been looking at the Modi/Magni/Loki stack and wondering if I should do it and then saw this. Done deal, ordering soon.
Love the thumbnail of the video; out of all 🤣 So is there one from that brand that has a USB input and output for Speakers and Headphones, no EQ? Thank you.
I wanted to go with Schiit for my first dabble in hifi (to pair with Sundara), but I wanted something around 200 price range and Schiit gets a bit over that to get in EU so I went for Topping DX3 Pro+ from a local retailer.
I too went for the Topping for the same reason. I also bought a Rotel RDP-980 DAC which only covers 44.1 and 48khz and does not care for USB. Linked to a raspberry pi or the matching Rotel RDD-980 CD transport it blows the Topping away. Viva la vintage!
I love my Schist stack. I'm using it for a Mac setup and it works great with the Kanto yu2's. I am planning to get another stack for my gaming PC soon.
yup. yup. yup. alllllll day long. Schiit for the win! After buying headphones for YEARS i came across one that sounded terrible (HD600) and found out they needed amplification...enter Magni1/Modi1. Game changers. Since then ive bought many many more Schiit products and loved each of them.
i got the modi+ from schitt (their newest one) it is amazing at like 120-140$ (i cant remember what i paid lol) i teamed it with an A07 at first but i went with a08. i like the A08 MUCH more than the 07. Since the A08 has tone control it works way better and i too like the VU meter lol. i think its the perfect desktop/pc setup. i will probably be getting the schitt EQ at some point too.
Since you already have the AO7, just for fun, get yourself a T7 and a pair of GE5670 5 Stars, power the A07 with the A08 brick and have a listen. IMHO much better than the A08.
Been meaning to ask... What DAC is on top of your BEAUTIFUL receiver in the background? I have a Kenwood Eleven II that was recapped and brought back to life! Looking for a great (kinda) budget DAC.
Something else needs to be highlighted about Schitt audio. Their customer support. I need a new preamp for my Hafler 9130. I emailed them on a rainy Saturday morning while sitting by the fire drinking coffee. I needed to know if the Saga + would work with it , in regards to input impedance. I expected to hear back Monday or Tuesday during regular business hours. Much to my surprise I got a human.Not automated response in a couple hours, from Cailin saying that he would forward my question to their “tech support team for set up advice” The next morning,(Sunday) I got a answer from Tom saying yes it would be compatible. This really blew my mind The fact that me, an overfed long haired leaping gnome would receive such a quick response. So rare to have such an experience these days
So one thing to keep in mind that your viewers are international. So when buying a cost effective Schiit 299 US dac. It actually costs $500 Canadian by the time shipping and duties are paid. Was that the best value ? Probably not 😀
Great video, always very interesting and useful. One quick question: would it make sense to hook up a Schiit Modi to my Rotel A11Tribune CD player and turn it into a transport?
You already have the cd player. If it doesn't sound bad then why change it. Also if you're going to upgrade consider saving for something you'd think is really special.
I was a total Schiit fan boy - had Modi, Magni Heresy, Loki and a SYS. But... but... excessive rca's and limited inputs just didnt suit my changing set-up. Now have a Topping dx3 pro + as my DAC and input selection (x2 coaxial, optical, USB and bluetooth) and A50s my headphone amp - which happens to have balanced. Less parts and more inputs. But... I do Miss my loki - so I'm likely going to buy one for Schiits and giggles.
Yeah. Now, that you defended the Schiit Magni (3+) this much, I listened to it again, trying to identify why I don't like it. I absolutely agree with you about the Loki (Mini+), I am happily twisting it on a daily basis, but not about the Magni. Magni is pretty powerful, it can drive 300 ohm Sennheisers the same way as the approx. 6 ohm, very high current original Verum 1 to the ear bleeding extremes, but when I was listening to it, I found it somehow irritating and tiring. Many times I wanted more base trying to raise the volume, but my ears were already hurting, and I didn't feel full, punchy enough base. At the same time, it is somehow "sibilant". And not only at the high or highest freqs, but at middle freqs as well. Sometimes it is so strong, that I began to wonder about that the Magni generates white noise like patterns to the tracks here and there. :) And the same time (or just because of the previous) its sound is somehow raw compared to other amps. Finally I found for example the topping L30 and the xDuoo MT-602 better than the Magni 3+. At least for me. And I still feel like that, but the listening of today made me think of another thing. I'm not sure, but now I think that maybe the Magni 3+ technically better than the other mentioned two, but listening to real (everyday) music, it's more times better what the other two amps do. Somehow the music is more rounded and smooth with those. Maybe the Magni 3+ is more detailed than the others, but maybe the less is more considering real music. But who knows, maybe those sibilances and white noise patterns and other strange artifacts in the music are not in the tracks that way how the Magni 3+ shows them. (Those effects are displayed less with the other two amps.) At least, how I was able to observe it. Maybe the Magni 3+ is the more hi - fi but maybe the other two amps are the more audiophile. Isn't it ?
I've thought about going with a stack so many times but the Fiios K9 Pro ESS has been so amazing, I don't feel the need. I have it running my powered Kanto desktop speakers, my Focal headphones and my Monolith subwoofer all beautifully.
I have brand new Schiit stack and wish I saved the $150 and got a K5. High gain mode is unnecessary even on Edition XS and the difference in sound quality is so marginal I have to A-B 10x in a row to other devices to hear a difference. It's there but it's subtle and will drive you crazy. My Behringer UMC22 all in one interface is about 85%-90% of the Schiit stack and that thing costs $40. It drives my headphones to adequate volumes and like I said the SQ is too close for comfort.
Schiit Modi+ www.schiit.com/products/modi-plus
Schiit Magni + www.schiit.com/products/magni-plus
Schiit Loki Mini + www.schiit.com/products/loki-mini-3
Support the Channel by Shopping on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK
Cheap Audio Man Store Front shop.howl.me/cam
Join the best hifi community out there! patreon.com/cheapaudioman
TRY ROON roonlabs.com/r/RTmYWdCP9kitqouBa5pcIw
Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF
Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9
Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt
Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH
amzn.to/3GkNaop
CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K
apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P
massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5
I'm old school and new to class d , but started watching your vids and subbed , I just got a fosi bt 20 AS today and hooked it to some old 3 way Sony 's out in the shed , I really like it and it made the Sony's really pop , nice !
One of two things that improved my cheap system it was the Modi+ which really cleaned up my sound coming from my PC, and Bellari EQ which turned my speakers into something amazing. My cheap audio system: PC source, Modi+ Dac (129), Aiyma A07 (50) with rolled OPA 1656 OP amps (20), Bellari EQ 570 (119), Jamo S803 speakers (80-Clearence!), and Jamo S810 subwoofer (99-Clearence). Thanks, cheapaudioman, it sounds amazing!
Were you able to bring bring back some of the midrange detail on the 803's with the Bellari?
@@wilsua Yes! That is what made it such a remarkable addition!
Get a PCIE USB card powered by your PSU and watch the sound get even cleaner.
@@mariodrv Thanks!
Really grateful for a company like Schiit. They have made audio fun and enjoyable, for really cheap money. They have such a wide arrangement of great products, and the more you listen and add on, you really start to see the effort and the thought process they have committed to and have accomplished. Schiit, as a company, has been truly a gateway for the desktop audio industry. BTW, the Vali++ and Modi Multibit 2 combo is so inexpensive for it's cost/performance level, that I feel guilty for spending so much money on higher end gear.
Not to say I didn't enjoy it though. 😁
I went to my local high-end audio store several years ago to compare and ended up taking a Schiit. It was a great decision in the moment. No regrets.
I consider Schiit today to be on par with Dynaco of yesterday. Another "historic" company that provided a gateway to so many for getting into hifi.
I just don't get your clickbait titles. Schiit dethroned ? By who ? You are not comparing their products to the newer generations from other manufacturers!
11:41
its his job lmao he has to make money somehow. if he doesnt have a lil clickbait he puts himself at a disadvantage. not the end of the world dude
@@xScurn True...but..I don't know. How about just be honest and make better content ?
And it is a big deal as if the title is not indicative of the content than it can be a waste of time to watch it.
@@CraciunAlexandruGh I mean if you count less than 5 minutes to find out the video isn't necessarily what it says it is as wasted time, then I guess that's your opinion. Personally I wouldn't call that a big deal. I don't know you but I doubt your time is THAT valuable. But you're right, in a perfect world, clickbait wouldn't exist, but the fact that it does exist at all means that if you aren't doing it to some degree, you're putting yourself at a disadvantage. If this is your career, you want every leg up you can get (within reason) just like a normal career.
@@jonathana.4187 "no"
without providing comparisons to other budget gear.
OP was correct.
As a side note, I'd love for him to do an ABX test with Modi 3 vs any transparent DACs costing 5-10 times as much and see if he can tell which one is which.
Still haven't found any youtube influencers objectively demonstrating that these "differences" are noticeable and can be repeatedly spotted blind.
I’ve had my Modi/ Magni/Loki combo from its first gen about 10 years ago or so now, and it’s seriously the best money I ever spent in audio. They work just as well now as the day I bought them, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
Schiit is hands down one of the best value for money you can possibly get.
My first separate was the Vidar 1, which I plugged to my Marantz SR7015, immediately noticeable improvement. Now I have a SMSL SU10, plugged in to a Schiit Freya Plus, out to the Vidar and the sound is incredible. I recently borrowed a Parasound Hint 6, a $3,200 integrated, and my Schiit/SMSL combo stood up to it with no problems, and to my taste, it came out on top.
If anyone is looking into the Schiit Freya Plus, I recommend getting the premium matched from Schiit, and adding a 1950s or 1940s RCA 6SN7 tube. I've tried many of the popular combos (sylvania included), but none comes even close.
I had a Sr7400 with a mm9000. Replaced by Saga+ and Vidar 2,and a few smsl ps100's for optical sources. The Marantz was quickly forgotten. It got his ass kicked by the Schiit, big time.
You have single handedly help me put together my entire audio setup. Thank you for making such informational videos
I use the Modi+ and Loki+ into my receiver and I'm pretty happy with them. The Loki might be my favorite of the bunch. The USB interface on the Modi is seamless. I can plug in a Mac, PC, Android phone and it just works.
Would you know if it works with an iphone?
Gotta love Schiit! I bought a Mani phono stage, then a few weeks later a Freya Noval preamp. They really improved my modest, entry-level system (VPI Scout, B&K ST 202 AMP, Vandersteen 2C, etc.)
The main thing I love about these is that they're made in America, I always buy American made stuff when possible if it's good quality.
Wow, so misled by the click bate. :'( Why does the new Modi now have a wider sound stage?
That Kenwood that Just Audio gave you has to be the best looking receiver, ever! Can't stop looking at it!
I used to listen to music from my phone or laptop through a couple of headphone amps, a Fiio E9 and a Bravo V2. The sound was muddy compared to listening with my Denon home theater amp. I had assumed it was due to the cheap amps I was using. After all, they were about 1/10 of the price of my Denon. I then bought a Modi+. All I can say is wow. What a phenomenal improvement! My non-Denon setup now sounded significantly better than through the Denon. I then added a Schiit Lyr3 and a Wiim Mini to further improve my sound. If you doubt that high end hifi sounds better than standard stereo stuff, it’s worth the $140 for a Modi to discover the difference.
The Lyr 3 is a righteous amplifier. It’s my end-game amp.
i started out using USB-C with my modi+ but i changed to optical for my PC setup. i like the optical interface MUCH more sounds better works better in my opinion, but the USB-C was incredibly impressive, i have never had a device work so easily on USB out of the box like that, and i am an IT Systems engineer lol
I still rock my JDS labs OL DAC, thing just works. Optical and USB inputs, green front LED, front power button, and little black switch button to select between inputs. Oh, and they manufactured a little Easter egg on the motherboard where you can solder your own DIP switch to select between the AKM built in filters. Probably the best budget DAC ever made, in my opinion.
Not a fan of the newer JDS DACs as they use plastic housings and touch switches over physical buttons.
Hi Randy, digging the Seamaster! I have an original from 1994 that will be 30 years old next year, still runs perfectly. I'll have to start watching out for what's on your wrist moving forward.
I plug mine into a power strip and use that as my on off. The Schiit products sound really good and to me sound great when run balanced.
agree about difference between current and previous modi versions.
Am so glad to see usb-c finally.
I have a Modi 3 ,Magni Heretic, Loki Mini and the Sys....i have to say i love this stack.makes everything sound so much better and bigger..have my comp and walkman hooked up to it. the Sys lets me switch between them.. buy them all \MM/
Schiit Rekkr review please! I need to see how that stacks up against the class D amps Fosi Audio, Aiyma etc.
I hope you review the Gjallarhorn soon
with our without the catalyst? :)
GRRRRREAT! (To be said in a 'Willie the Gardener' Scottish accent). Really useful video review as I'm helping my oldest son to put together his first wee system. Cheers, Randy! Hope you & your family are well. all the best, G. in Japan (ex-Scotland)
same to you, my friend
I have a “storage unit hi if”. An early 2000s era Harman Kardon 3380 receiver that I used to power outdoor speakers, a pair of Wharfedale Diamond 10.2 speakers, a Wharfedale WHD8 Sub, a JVC TD V541 cassette, a TEAC CD P650, and a UTurn turntable. But the sound drastically improved with the Schiit Loki, Modi+ and Bellari SE560 enhancer. These 3 low dollar add in’s make a huge impact. I should be able to avoid spending more money on audio at least until my daughter graduates.
I wish they made these in red, green, and brown so I could truly say this is my hamburger Hi-Fi setup!
Shoulda talked about the Magni Heresy also. Hope we’ll see a comparison video soon!
Thanks for your video! I bought the Schiit Modi 2 Uber and Magni 2 Uber around 8 years ago and they still sound amazing. I'm planning on buying the latest models soon, really a great company with great devices.
Been running a modi for my PC audio for years now. Love the things that Schiit does
Sounds pretty nice but I'm very happy with my Jds Labs Atom amp+ with a Sennheiser GSX 1000 for a pretty convincing surround sound. All that driving an aria stealth pretty perfect for movies, music and games.
any chance you'll take a look at the schiit rekkr?
I use my Modi with various CD players and love it. It always blows minds when I tell people I use a CD player with an external DAC lol.
always ?whats a dac? didnt know myself until c a m laid it out for me. another reason to say thanks!
I'm still using an original Modi, and it's still doing a great job after 6-7 years. I also use an old Mani for my phono preamp, and it still kicks butt. I've owned about 7 pieces of Schiit, and never had any problems from any of them.
I've never owned a external DAC, when I get my tax check, I'm pulling the lever and getting one.
I just got a wimm mini and I want to try a new DAC with it. Thanks CAM ! Awesome video.
Your world will be changed forever 😎
Schiit Modi & tell us what you think you hear LOL - be careful down this rabbit hole, the walls are slippery ... but I am confident you will find musical joy. Just remember DACs don’t need to be changed like underwear.
@@zenithcric1171 I do both once a month 😂
How do you do a DAC with powered Sub?
I loved these. For what they cost, they are very much worth it. I started with a MAGNI and a MODI. I then upgraded to the DODI 2 or 3, I think, and the Vali 2; you can tell an improvement, especially with good cans.
I upgraded to a MODIUS and MAGNIUS over a year ago and now I am upgrading the MAGNIUS amp to a MIDGARD and I plan to buy a LOKIUS EQ. With that said, I didn't have to upgrade. I would have been perfectly happy with my previous desktop setup with the MAGNI and MODI. So, if you're on a budget, get these. They're the Schiit!
Another option which i think is actually slightly superior, at least in my own sound prefrences is the Cambridge Audio Dac Magic 100.
Well, I can’t comment on the other items in your sandwich there, but I watched the video because I wanted to see what you’d say about the Modi+ since I have one, and I can’t disagree with anything you brought up about that thing.. I think you nailed it in terms of Its value; if a person wants a good switchable DAC without the need for headphone amp, preamp, or any other creature features, and they are on a budget, the Modi+ plus is definitely the way to go, using it’s own supplied power supply.
No need for a PSU swap. Sound quality is fine, obsession from DAC enthusiasts notwithstanding. 👨🏻
I used to have a Schiit stack but I replaced it with a JDS Labs Atom+ stack, it's not metal but you can really tell they put that cost savings into the electronics where it counts. Smooth pots with no adjustment noise, sounds amazing, wouldn't go back to a Schiit honestly.
Yeah the knob on my new Magni kinda sucks TBH. And the low gain is straight up broken out of the box.
@@drewmorg. 5 year warrantee though. And I just had some work done on a Jotunheim 2 that got fixed and shipped back in just over a week.
@@edwarddodge7937 Yeah just an unfortunate situation. I read about the issues with Schiit products and I disregarded all of them and of course my first Schiit product is broken on day one. You pay for shipping and then wait 5 days within the US to get it. They offered to pay shipping and replace it but only after I show proof of sending it out. I think I'll just deal with it.
The “Schiit” products remind me of the value products of the late 1970’s and 80’s. Quality plus performance that most people could afford and enjoy. My best example would be Grado phono cartridges, I was using a mid priced moving coil that was sold by GAS (probably made by Denon), wonderful sound until the cantilever collapsed into the body. In the interim I purchased a Grado FTE+1 from Lyle Cartridges in Brooklyn, it was $17. That price to performance ratio to me has never been bettered; but these Schiit products are close. The Vali 3 and Magni Heretic I use are not begging me to replace them.
Always good information here, Thanks
Yes. I have a 10 slider ADC SS-112 and I decided that I dont want it to be an amplifier (as if it doesn't introduce enough noise already) and now I can't listen without it (unless listening to my AKG AK52 headphones *$22 at guitar center*), and EVEN BETTER if you cut 31 hz (most speakers dont go that low) it makes it sound WAY better.
I use the Bellari EQ in my little system with the Geshelli stack. For me it's more of a fine tune adjustment than anything else. Plus it has two outputs, so one to the Geshelli amp and one to the Bellari HA540MK2 tube amp.
Thank you Randy for getting me back into listening to music with a nice setup the way it should be. Those small bluetooth speakers like the jbl flip only take it so far. Started watching you just after this past christmas and really enjoy your channel. I don't comment much but thank you!
I now have an Aiyima A03 with Moukey 3 way speakers and a cheap vidsonix sub I found on craigslist. This is the setup on my desktop in my office and sounds awesome really rocks!! Then I got the Aiyima T9 with an A07 running a pair of klipsch rp-600m's that amazon had for $330. This sounds really good for no sub but actually prefer the cheaper setup in the office, it really sounds great. Appreciate what you do, been refering you to friends and family using your links as well to purchase items to support. Also went with Tidal and really happy with the different music options they have. Be well! ty Bill
I bought the Schitt Trilogy for myself at Christmas. Very happy with it all. Good review here.
WiiM mini, Modi+/Magni stack, Sundara headphones=a pretty darn happy guy. The eq settings with the WiiM are enough for now but I’m a child of the ‘70s so Loki sounds like an attractive addition.
Just added the Modi 3, a definite improvement. Now on to a Emotiva BassX 7.
I use a modi as the DAC for my Stax electrostats and love it (USB).
That Kenwood in the background really looks great in your videos.
I have Sennheiser 58X Sennheiser gsX 1000 and my EQ is Dolby Access. For me im going for all in one . Gaming, shows , movies , music .
Thanks to you Randy, I have two Schiit Modi 3 DACs and I love them. I don't need more. I did buy a Sabaj A10h headphone amp and I use it as a remote volume control. Only 75 bucks.
They should offer these as a set for even more savings. That would be awesome. I'm new into this area of audio listening. Your videos are a great help although I must confess I'm still confused a bit. Lol
You should not concern yourself so much with the pursuit of happiness, and focus on the happiness of pursuit
@@scrubbyjanitor1704 There is no happiness in pursuit. It only leads to fleeting thrills followed by dissatisfaction and addiction to consumerism.
You are right, they should offer these as a cost-saving set. It does take a lot of time (and money) finding out what dac you like, what sound you like, ie. - warm, bright, holographic, flat, defined, good for acoustic vs electronic, etc. Luckily, dacs seem to retain a lot of their value so you don't lose too much with selling.
That's OK. I've been doing this over 30 years and I still grt confused sometimes, too. Just enjoy the music!
Their margins are already pretty tight from what I've heard. It's honestly a small miracle they've been able to keep prices this low and still make them in the U.S. (and with U.S. steel iirc)
I bought a closeout Magni 3+, connected to a Modius hooked up to a Marantz SACD player as standalone headphone station. And a Modi+ & Magni 3+ connected to a desktop computer. More Schiit, a Bitfrost 2/64 installed in my stereo system connected to a Cambridge Audio CXC Transport into a Schiit Freya+ 😎
I just received my modi multi bit, sounds surreal on vintage system,
ADCOM 5500
ADCOM 500II
JBL L-7
Highly recommended 👌🏻
Just received a Modi + which I ordered in silver to match my five other Schiit mini units, much to my disappointment the Modi + is in a
horrible silver grey pebble (rough to the touch) spray paint finish!!!!!! I immediately emailed Schiit and received a terse reply: "I'm sorry but this is the silver finish for this unit. If you have any other questions or concerns please feel free to contact me."
Regards,
Laura Z
Needless to say my satisfaction with Schiit has gone down a notch. Keep up your great and entertaining work, regards Gary Chapman
You must go for the quad baconator too. Thumbs-up to product review choice and enjoyable mild pace. How's the speedwoofer test going!?
Hi Randy! I just added the Modi 3+ to my vintage Realistic receiver setup, running the Wiim Mini though it optically . . . I'm a happy camper! 🥳🥳🎆🎆
I use an original older Modi DAC hooked up with optical from a bedroom TV into a Loki and then an Asgard amp for headphone tv/movie watching.
I love the Loki on this set up as if watching action movies I can adjust the lows for explosions and the mids to accentuate the dialogue range all while watching at night through headphones and not bothering others in the houshold.
I just ordered another Modi+ which will be on a secondary PC system running into a Valhalla2 headphone amp I already have.
My main Gaming PC I use a HEL2 headphone/dac on that one.
And last but not least my main Headphone listening set up is a Gunjnir DAC into a MJONIR 2 headphone amp.
Yes, I like my Schiit products, that they are mostly made in the U.S.A. by an American company they ship quickly when ordered and are reasonably priced.
And the one time I had an issue sent in for warranty the process was painless and the turn around time from the time shipped to the time repaired and returned was only about two weeks!
From my experiences Schiit makes great products and is a fantastic company to deal with!
Merry Christmas
PC>Modi+>Onkyo M-282>Dayton dsp500 plate amp>12" Ultimax> Sony scc5sccs bookshelfs
Sounds good to me, not super expensive, I'm happy.
Love my Loki+. Highly recommend! 😎☠️🏴☠️
$129 is a lot of money to pay for a 4 band equalizer. rather purchase a good used vintage multi band EQ. They are easy to work on and I never experienced any noticeable distortion.
Thanks as always for your time, effort, and great review. No Schitt in my setup, yet, but there is still loads of time to modify and break the bank. 😂
it aint free as a wise man once said. personaly i broke the dam bank on my emotiva pre and power amp. just a working man like everyone else!
I'm more interested in that Marantz receiver in the background.
Great video as usual. I'd love to see a Vidar 2 review from you! My audio rack is already full of Schiit and I want more.
USB allows an independent clock. Any other interface means the clock has to trail the master.
How does Modi+ compare with Modi 3+ in terms of sound quality?
I've had the Modi + for over a year now being feed by a CD and the RPi streamer. I use the USB from the RPi and the coax out of the CD. Then to the receiver. DAC is much better than that in the CD player (I can bypass the internal DAC). I listen to mostly streaming and rarely switch the Modi+ to the CD input. This is run through a HK receiver, 80 watts per channel to my reworked JBL (xover and cabinet mods and better tweeter) sounds great. I also have a giant Kenwood KR9600 160 watts per channel from the the late 70's someone gave me. I have it in the bedroom. I wish it had that timer Kenwood has. Monster in weight and size. About 60 lbs. Balance and volume pot a little dirty. I tried to clean it tuner cleaner but it is buried in the cabinet and couldn't get to it without disassembling more that I was comfortable with.
I also have a Aiyima T6 pro for a headphone DAC/headphone amp off my laptop. I know you like many of the Aiyima products but never, to the best of my knowledge, reviewed this product and last time i checked not many have. I find it does a great job for a not very big price. I don't recall what i paid for it over a year ago but it was less than $100 for sure.
thanks for the info - I'm gonna pair a stack with my HD6xx
Hey cheapaudioman, I don't mean to get off topic what what gorgeous 70s/80s receiver lit up in the background is that? It looks like it could be a Sansui or Marantz. I had a hard time focusing, sorry. I can't afford a 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge but hey a beauty like that in the background is obtainable perhaps. Aside from that, Schitt Audio is king and the best bang for the buck anyway and you can't go wrong. Thanks for your videos, they are a good constant reality check in my world!
Schiit rules !!! I'm getting my schiit together. Last week a Lokius EQ. Next week a Freya S, maybe a Freya + ??? Haven't decided yet. Great video Randy, keep them coming. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦🍻🍻🤘🤘🤘
I'm just counting the days until CAM does a Schiit Rekkr review, such a crazy concept... could I really have a "stack" like this for desktop speakers??
I recommend using a “power bank” rechargeable battery for pure DC volts! And you can still take it with you when you’re out and about.
I really enjoyed this review. When do you think you'll be reviewing the Schitt Rekkr?
Howl does it stack up against the S.M.S.L SU-1
I just bought my first Schiit Stack Magni+/Modi. Yes they are powerful, yes they sound good, and the improvement is slight over my crappy UMC22 $40 interface. They can go much louder with no distortion on all my headsets however (objectively better here). For you all reading this, save the $150 and just get a Fiio K5. I spent $300 on my stack. My DT 770 Pro 80 and Edition XS can't even be turned up all the way in Medium gain without blowing my ears so high is not reeeeally needed.
Oh yeah and my low gain switch doesn't work straight out of the box from Schiit. They offered to replace it and sent a shipping label, but this is super annoying to do on a brand new product which took 5 days to get to me. I think I will just suffer with my low gain mode dead.
I have this exact setup with a SYS. Pretty much end-game for my needs.
I like the idea of budget Hi Fi, but it doesn't always seem to be the case. I priced out a pre-amp, monoblock set from Schitt, and found that the amp wouldn't work and I had to upgrade. At the end of the day in $Cdn, I realized that for a couple hundred more, I could buy another Rotel/Monitor Audio combo from a Hi Fi shop, and have a second A11 Tribute in a different room.
Keep in mind that I still didn't have speakers, a source, or a DAC/BT set-up with the Schitt. Yes there are other ways to go but I just couldn't go that way.
Love my Loki+ and Mani 2 Schiit mini stack. My standalone DAC of choice is the Geshelli J2 though.
I have several Schiit components, have always loved them. Listening through a Magni right now, HiFiMan HE400i's. I did have one problem child, a fulla schiit that had a very noisy volume pot from day 1, quieted some with contact cleaner, but it was always scratchy. It's 2 years old, and it failed completely the other day. Just quit. Replacing it with a Epos gsx1000 G2. I was tempted to go with the Hel, except for one desired feature the Schiit Hel doesn't do... there's no output switch. You have to unplug your headphones to pass the signal on to an external speaker amp. The Epos has a button to switch outputs. Seems like a real handy thing to have on your desk.
BUDGET system-Audio Bliss - WiiM Mini (Source) -into- Modi+ (DAC) -into- Magni (PreAmp) -into- Ayima A07 (Amp-rolled Sparkos Chips) -feeding- Sony SSCS5 (Speakers) - All based on CheapAudioman video reviews. Inexpensive HiFi ~Thanks Randy!
This made my decision for me. had been looking at the Modi/Magni/Loki stack and wondering if I should do it and then saw this. Done deal, ordering soon.
Luv the Kenwood from JA looks great sitting on the shelf,,,always fun to watch ,,,and yep ,,a good EQ can change a lot ,,,
Thanks for mentioning what else besides headphones that they will work with. It’s rarely mentioned.
Randy your are just as important as Schiit! Absolut great content this time and all the time.
Love the thumbnail of the video; out of all 🤣
So is there one from that brand that has a USB input and output for Speakers and Headphones, no EQ? Thank you.
I wanted to go with Schiit for my first dabble in hifi (to pair with Sundara), but I wanted something around 200 price range and Schiit gets a bit over that to get in EU so I went for Topping DX3 Pro+ from a local retailer.
I too went for the Topping for the same reason.
I also bought a Rotel RDP-980 DAC which only covers 44.1 and 48khz and does not care for USB.
Linked to a raspberry pi or the matching Rotel RDD-980 CD transport it blows the Topping away.
Viva la vintage!
I love my Schist stack. I'm using it for a Mac setup and it works great with the Kanto yu2's. I am planning to get another stack for my gaming PC soon.
yup. yup. yup. alllllll day long. Schiit for the win! After buying headphones for YEARS i came across one that sounded terrible (HD600) and found out they needed amplification...enter Magni1/Modi1. Game changers. Since then ive bought many many more Schiit products and loved each of them.
i got the modi+ from schitt (their newest one) it is amazing at like 120-140$ (i cant remember what i paid lol) i teamed it with an A07 at first but i went with a08. i like the A08 MUCH more than the 07. Since the A08 has tone control it works way better and i too like the VU meter lol. i think its the perfect desktop/pc setup. i will probably be getting the schitt EQ at some point too.
Since you already have the AO7, just for fun, get yourself a T7 and a pair of GE5670 5 Stars, power the A07 with the A08 brick and have a listen. IMHO much better than the A08.
Schitt. Still the budget king. And maybe the best choice for gear for us who listen to audio in our home offices.
Been meaning to ask... What DAC is on top of your BEAUTIFUL receiver in the background? I have a Kenwood Eleven II that was recapped and brought back to life! Looking for a great (kinda) budget DAC.
You are a great insight into this world of hi fi! Thank you
Something else needs to be highlighted about Schitt audio.
Their customer support. I need a new preamp for my Hafler 9130. I emailed them on a rainy Saturday morning while sitting by the fire drinking coffee.
I needed to know if the Saga + would work with it , in regards to input impedance.
I expected to hear back Monday or Tuesday during regular business hours.
Much to my surprise I got a human.Not automated response in a couple hours, from Cailin saying that he would forward my question to their “tech support team for set up advice”
The next morning,(Sunday) I got a answer from Tom saying yes it would be compatible.
This really blew my mind
The fact that me, an overfed long haired leaping gnome would receive such a quick response.
So rare to have such an experience these days
100% agree, regarding Schiit’s customer service. I needed it once last year and they took care of the problem immediately.
So one thing to keep in mind that your viewers are international. So when buying a cost effective Schiit 299 US dac. It actually costs $500 Canadian by the time shipping and duties are paid. Was that the best value ? Probably not 😀
Great video, always very interesting and useful. One quick question: would it make sense to hook up a Schiit Modi to my Rotel A11Tribune CD player and turn it into a transport?
You already have the cd player. If it doesn't sound bad then why change it. Also if you're going to upgrade consider saving for something you'd think is really special.
I was a total Schiit fan boy - had Modi, Magni Heresy, Loki and a SYS. But... but... excessive rca's and limited inputs just didnt suit my changing set-up. Now have a Topping dx3 pro + as my DAC and input selection (x2 coaxial, optical, USB and bluetooth) and A50s my headphone amp - which happens to have balanced. Less parts and more inputs. But... I do Miss my loki - so I'm likely going to buy one for Schiits and giggles.
Great video Randy , I wonder how miodi against the ifi zen face. Regards mark
If you plug the modi into a PC/laptop with 100W USB3, you don't need a 5V power brick for it. I have the modi and Magni in a stack and its great.
FYI it's not pronounced "Sch-kitt", their website says "Yes, it's pronounced exactly like you think"
I have a brother in the US and ask him to buy me SCHIIT HEL 2E and I love it. SCHIIT Products are really good.
Yeah.
Now, that you defended the Schiit Magni (3+) this much,
I listened to it again, trying to identify why I don't like it.
I absolutely agree with you about the Loki (Mini+),
I am happily twisting it on a daily basis,
but not about the Magni.
Magni is pretty powerful,
it can drive 300 ohm Sennheisers the same way
as the approx. 6 ohm, very high current
original Verum 1 to the ear bleeding extremes,
but when I was listening to it,
I found it somehow irritating and tiring.
Many times I wanted more base
trying to raise the volume,
but my ears were already hurting,
and I didn't feel full, punchy enough base.
At the same time, it is somehow "sibilant".
And not only at the high or highest freqs,
but at middle freqs as well.
Sometimes it is so strong,
that I began to wonder about that
the Magni generates white noise like patterns
to the tracks here and there. :)
And the same time (or just because of the previous)
its sound is somehow raw compared to other amps.
Finally I found for example the topping L30
and the xDuoo MT-602
better than the Magni 3+.
At least for me.
And I still feel like that,
but the listening of today
made me think of another thing.
I'm not sure, but now I think that
maybe the Magni 3+ technically
better than the other mentioned
two,
but listening to real (everyday) music,
it's more times better what the other two amps do.
Somehow the music is more rounded and smooth
with those.
Maybe the Magni 3+ is more detailed than the others,
but maybe the less is more considering real music.
But who knows,
maybe those sibilances and white noise patterns
and other strange artifacts in the music
are not in the tracks that way how the Magni 3+ shows them.
(Those effects are displayed less with the other two amps.)
At least,
how I was able to observe it.
Maybe the Magni 3+ is the more hi - fi
but maybe the other two amps are
the more audiophile. Isn't it ?
I've thought about going with a stack so many times but the Fiios K9 Pro ESS has been so amazing, I don't feel the need. I have it running my powered Kanto desktop speakers, my Focal headphones and my Monolith subwoofer all beautifully.
I have brand new Schiit stack and wish I saved the $150 and got a K5. High gain mode is unnecessary even on Edition XS and the difference in sound quality is so marginal I have to A-B 10x in a row to other devices to hear a difference. It's there but it's subtle and will drive you crazy. My Behringer UMC22 all in one interface is about 85%-90% of the Schiit stack and that thing costs $40. It drives my headphones to adequate volumes and like I said the SQ is too close for comfort.