Improving Spotify listening

GodAtum · 15 Jan 2014 at 22:08

I listen to Spotify music (Premium) through my iphone 5 and Bose QC headphones. Would a portable DAC/AMP combo be good like the Sony PHA1, NuForce Icon iDo or the upcoming Chord Hugo?

Would upgrading headphones improve the music/ Something like a Ultrasone Signature PRO, T5p or LCD-XC? I mainly listen to RnB, pop and dance.

mattyg · 15 Jan 2014 at 22:09

I'm assuming you've set the quality in spotify

GodAtum · 15 Jan 2014 at 22:13

Yep 320kbps. When connected directly to my amp at home it sound great but is it worth buying more equipment to help?

Yaayuh! · 16 Jan 2014 at 08:03

Most likely won't be worth the money. The DAC in the iPhone isn't bad at all, yes you can get better but IMO it's not worth it unless you need a portable amp to drive the headphones.

GodAtum · 16 Jan 2014 at 09:21

Rossi~ said:
Most likely won't be worth the money. The DAC in the iPhone isn't bad at all, yes you can get better but IMO it's not worth it unless you need a portable amp to drive the headphones.

Would getter better headphones make much difference?

Yaayuh! · 16 Jan 2014 at 09:40

I've always believed that to improve quality of sound, work your way back to the source. (providing the source isn't completely terrible of course

)

Speakers/Headphones --> Amplification --> Processing --> DAC --> Cables, if you're that type of person.

Generally, speakers/headphones will make the biggest difference to sound and quality with the least money spent.

Unfortunately, i can't comment on BOSE headphones, i've generally steered clear of BOSE due to them being overpriced for an over-engineered sound (IMO).

Also, for portable use. If you get a DAC/AMP combo, it becomes less portable and more of a pain. You have 2 things to charge and that slim device you've been carrying around, has just become a brick.

Amraam · 16 Jan 2014 at 11:19

I use Klipsch X10 and a Fiio E07K and the difference is amazing. The Amp/DAC really brings them to life. I don't use it when walking around as it's not that portable, but I use it at work and sometimes at home.