ALL HYPE? Eversolo DMP-A6 review (vs. FiiO R7, Bluesound Node X)

[@toulcaz31]

Interesting take. What lead me to the Eversolo was wanting a good DAC within $500-$800 range and getting a streamer on top like the Wiim Pro (or something within that budget all combined). But then here was the Eversolo offering all that and a nicely finished and integrated device. The screen, cd ripping and other nice to have features are just cherry on the cake to me. Maybe the R7 also pays for not being reviewed by many DAC reviewers too (at least that I can find).

[@JKadison]

Thanks for including the Bluesound Node X. I purchased mine a couple months before the Eversolo was available. And as others have mentioned I have no need for a screen. I’m sure they’re all within a small degree of separation. Thanks for the honest review!

[@jko560]

Same thoughts here. The X is a great piece of gear and a huge step from my original Node 2i.

[@flashnc]

Same... i have Node Gen3... dont need to go X version.. for me songs play great... 😊

[@R33ADJ]

So nice to have a screen tho…..I know you listen with your ears but your eyes play a big part I recon…not only does it sound great it looks great and I’m all for that

[@steadilyfred]

@@R33ADJbut who can read what’s on that tiny 6-inch screen from two-plus metres away. I much prefer a 12.9-inch tablet at my fingertips for interacting with my device and music library.

[@HevyGee]

I am terribly glad that you chose to review this unit! (insert grateful hands emoji) BTW: I really like the "McIntosh" meters on the HiFi Rose

[@OzSteve]

Great review John. With the Fiio R7 with firmware V2 has VU meters :) I have both the Eversolo and the R7 (with the PSU) I originally bought the R7 for my home office. I love it. I then bought the Eversolo purely to test it. But fell in love with it (only used with Roon, oh and I wish you added some Roon into this review) I have left the Eversolo in my home office (connected to active Focal speakers) and added the R7 to my headphone room as I won't be selling either as I am very happy with both (for the money)

[@elwis74]

Thank you again for the side-by-side comparisons! These gives much better context than other reviewer's hype.

[@sydsM3]

I really wish you took some time to listen to the USB digital output going into a high performance USB DAC. Many people are using it or are contemplating using it as a streaming transport in that manner, and my guess is that a lot of people in your audience would like to hear your opinion in using it in that configuration.

[@richardgadsby6642]

Very much appreciate fair comparisons of products and not "night and day" differences that some reviewers seem to exaggerate. For now, I'm sticking to my Cambridge CXN which really was way ahead of its time.

[@grumpyginger7475]

The ability to direct Apple music to the Eversolo, without using AirPlay, is the deciding factor for me.

[@chrisAclaes]

Yeah, that’s pretty huge. It’s basically like an Apple Music Connect, right? Is there anything else like that, sans Roon?

[@grumpyginger7475]

@@chrisAclaes First I've seen it. Huge plus.

[@NeilLavitt]

@@chrisAclaesif only it was. The closest to this is the Apple TV which is probably not bitperfect and restricted to 24/48.

[@thomasmaguire4074]

@@chrisAclaesThis is 100% an Apple Music Connect which Apple has failed to provide in almost every way. The only things that come close are controlling an Apple TV with an iPad or iPhone. Or controlling an iPhone with an Apple Watch.

[@trebep]

It is like a remote controlled phone that plays Apple Music. Not as slick as a ‘connect’. It sounds awesome. I use it as a Roon endpoint, with Qobuz, with room correction and upsampling. Love it. That being said when I play the native Qobuz app, or the Apple Music app, it sounds incredible without the room correction and upsampling. I am very pleased with the A6. The Fiio looks great as well. Hopefully someone does a video with the A6 and Peachtree GAN-1 as Darko suggested would be a good fit.

[@TheVoicefrombelow]

I'm a bit confused by the testing methodology for the sound quality comparison. You said that you hooked up a cd transport. Was that to test the DAC section of each unit without the streaming section? There was no mention of this particular comparison. It also would have been nice to know how each streamer sounds when hooked up to a superior DAC compared to their internal DAC.

[@FOXMARINA63]

I waiting my Eversolo. time goes on endlessly! Thank you for the video

[@natediaz6690]

Another great review! Explained exactly how it should be. Not stating it's the best, but highlights all the options each component offers so you can decide what component flavor works for you? Sad there are not more reviewers out there like you John! Awesome job again!

[@D1N02]

I found a audio specific power cable made a great difference for my DAC (Aune X8 VIII'th with the optional Aune linear power supply and Sparkos Opamp.). May also be true for the Eversolo. They are not that expensive on the big platforms.

[@eidanelbaz]

Love your review John! I couldn’t agree more. I bought the Master edition Eversolo a week ago, but until today couldn’t point my finger on why I cant connect with it. I kept going back and forth between the Eversolo and a MyTek Brooklyn Bridge II I bought a month ago. Even the the BBII lacks in streaming capabilities and UI, it has a much superior sound stage and sound warmth. I was really disappointed by the sound quality of the Eversolo especially after all these positive reviews out there. It has an amazing UI and the whole user experience is amazing, but sorry to say lack in sound quality and stage. At least on my Marantz AV8805A, Parasound A51 amp and Dynaudio and REL speakers.

[@pc750-V4]

My concern with either is longevity. I like my audio gear to last a while, I try to choose wisely and then use it for years (I mean 10-20 years sort of time) unless it fails of course. These sort of devices being essentially a smartphone/small computer will rely on updates for new services for example which may not happen in a few years time once the next model or two is released. They just seem to be more short term devices (like a smartphone) that need to be changed every few years to keep pace with developments which given the price isnt necessarily easy to do. I realise this is the reality of streaming equipment like this but for now its just not for me... Or at least not this way.

[@loaked3000]

Thats a great point of view I dont think a lot of people consider. $900 is a lot to spend now a days and I think its worth it for this device, but your right, in 5 years will it even be able to run most of those apps? 10 years?

[@lodden90]

This is exactly how I view streamers. I dont think I would buy anything more expensive than the ifi Zen stream or BS Node as I would assume they all pretty much have around a 5 year lifespan unfortunately. Ive been stung by this in the past when I brought a Pioneer NA50 to stream Spotify and shortly afterwards Pioneer stopped support so I got stuck using it with USB from my phone. Im planning on buying a BS Node and then coax out to a decent DAC (qutest or similar) to soften the blow of streamer obsolescence.

[@davidyan5502]

Thanks again for the great review! I'm not sure but I think you were comparing these two units with their internal DACs. It would be interesting to compare them as standalone streamers. It is likely that many folks would want to use them with external DACs.

[@Touringtim]

Fantastic review John but you are costing me fortune. After watching this review I went online and ordered an Eversolo DMP-A6 which should be here by the end of the week. Keep up this excellent content.

[@dropthehammer1360]

Hi, John. The Cambridge CXN V2’s display shows the same when streaming from an iPhone and a MacBook. I contacted Cambridge about this and this is their explanation: AAC is just the wrapper or codec. The transcoding is not done by the CXN, but rather, by the transmitting device - the phone or computer. This is something that is done on Apple's end - the transcoding process is a 'black box' to which we do not have access. If the sample rate and bit depth is showing 16-bit/44.1kHz, then this is indeed the quality being received, albeit in an AAC wrapper.

[@SkullLeader]

Apple Lossless is a form of AAC. Maybe this is what is being transmitted? Would be nice to confirm.

[@tgp-2]

aac is a lossy codec with a max bitrate ~ 1/3 that of cd quality lossless alac or flac ... an aac decoder will often output to 16/44 pcm (as this format is eventually what gets fed to the dac), but it can't turn lossy into lossless

[@tgp-2]

​@@SkullLeader apple lossless (alac) and aac are different/unrelated codecs ... they do share a common container type (mp4) and file extension (.m4a)

[@Krell666]

Great review. My only concern with devices of this type is long term software support and updates.

[@abxaudiophiles]

Really GREAT review!!! Couple months into my DMP-A6 and still loving it.. Great unit that brings a TON to the table.

[@portnaluinge]

Minor thing, but it’s probably worth mentioning that the Eversolo allows for side loading of non whitelisted Android apps should you really want to run something that isn’t currently on that whitelist (although they’re adding new apps at a decent rate). Also the optional remote for the A6 is actually WiFi - it only uses IR for powering the device on. Good fair review though.

[@cameronneville6622]

i have a6 and have sideloaded Plexamp. lovin it

[@eddiecotter7201]

I looked at both units but went with the r7 because it supports headphones but there are some other good reasons too,fiio also made speakers which really compliment the r7(the sp3) in both sound and looks,they have just brought out their first over ear headphones (the ft3)which sound great with this unit and are very good value indeed,they have a very handy remote for this unit(the rm3) which works well,i bought all the above and it all works really well together,sounds great and forms a seamless system,i just need to buy the pl150 now to complete the system,thanks john

[@liamporter1137]

Able to control remotely is one of the key factor for choosing the A6 for me. Convenient is so important nowadays for streaming. Having an internal SSD is great too.

[@burkeknox5992]

To add the Rose 250 would be a great extension of the side by side comparison , great video and thanx as ever

[@PaulG73]

I have three audio masters here not including myself ;) one is a pretty well known guitarist, one is what you would call a modern day sound (manual) decoder and last but not least is what we call a multi musician and everyone of us agreed that the eversolo sounds crisper, cleaner and more importantly not brighter, we hear clarity better in this unit where many times that clarity sounds brighter but not correctly so. Not to confuse anyone but in lament terms clarity can sound brighter. Verdict eversolo is under valued for that we can hear. Cheers BTW thanks for your review and take on these units even if there are some disagreements.

[@chrisbatista2379]

Terrific is every new review from Darko Audio... Better every day 😉 Keep up the great work. Greetings from Portugal 🤗

[@AnotherAnonymousMan]

Wow: I just expected this to perform markedly better than the Fiio sonically! If anything, this has made me re-evaluate the the Fiio... Thanks for the outstanding review, as always!

[@jankrajcik609]

Great review John! Really enjoyed it. Not just for the content but also for how you presented it. Keep up the good work.

[@MikeBear1000]

Thanks for the nice review John! The absence of headphone outputs is an absolute dealbreaker for me... I'm a very happy user of the FiiO R7.

[@jackdelarosa6036]

Well it goes to show how different people have different needs. Great that you are enjoying your FiiO R7. I was considering the FiiO R7 as well. However, I was looking for a first rate streamer primarily to interface to a separate dedicated headphone amp and that’s what the Eversolo DMP-A6 brings to the table. I bought it, got it last week, connected it to my Lake People G-108 headphone amp (a sublime neutral-sounding headphone amp) and the sound coming out of my headphones is first rate. The direct support for Apple Music Hi-Res lossless which is my primary music streaming software was another must for me. The overall functionality, operability, aesthetics and easy of use of the Eversolo DMP-A6 are greasy as well.

[@mike_burke]

@@jackdelarosa6036The exact same reasons I made the exact same decision as well. And no regrets. Thanks for the headphone amp recommendation, as I am looking to upgrade mine 🙏 Cheers!

[@tecno_logico]

thanks, as a note, you can use the eversos internal ssd disk as Roon storage, you just have to add it in Roon by adding the samba address, it works great, fast and sounds great

[@cemmany]

Hi Mate , Can you install Roon core in that ssd and use it as the roon server ?. cheers

[@stuartmitchell1908]

Some good points. I have the Eversolo, and I love it’s form, screen etc. but I use another DAC as the sound is better. As a transport steamer it’s unbeatable

[@stijnvanderlooy5311]

Did you compare as a streamer to others? Can you say something about it?

[@aayotechnology]

Which dac is that?

[@downhillblur708]

That's a lot of $$ to use as a transport! Very happy with a Node with its BluOS as a transport to a Denafrips Ares 12-1 DAC.

[@stuartmitchell1908]

@@stijnvanderlooy5311 I had the CXN v2 before. And that was great too. Bit warmer sound. I can’t really say more than the video describes. Although the CD burning software doesn’t work. Doesn’t expect to burn albums! It’s well built,and smooth in operation. The DAC is great if you like a cool etched revealing sound.

[@stuartmitchell1908]

@@aayotechnology velvet e70

[@chrischamberlin4645]

As a totally blind audio enthusiast, I would like to see a disable touchscreen button in order that I could set the preferences, and then disable the screen so that I don’t inadvertently touch it again or better yet, introduce voice guidance into the touchscreen so that the blind person can use the device. This is fairly simple and as evidenced by Apple having done this for the past 15 years.

[@jimmygup]

I really like my DMP-A6. My main use case is with Roon (Qobuz/Tidal) but I appreciate that I can listen to Apple lossless as well. I use the m.2 drive to store downloaded DSD files from PS Audio, NativeDSD, etc. I just started re-ripping CDs to the m.2 drive in FLAC format in those cases where the music isn’t available via Roon. To do this, I used the DMP-A6’s currently finicky CD app with an inexpensive CD drive attached via the USB external storage port (ASUS ZenDrive Ultra Slim USB 2.0 External 8X DVD Optical Drive). I’m using the DMP-A6’s DAC now. I am interested in how others like its DAC as well as using it with external DAC’s (like in iiWi’s reviews’ video).

[@brandonwinstead5128]

To get Apple Lossless with the DMP-A6 do you have to connect it with your Ethernet?

[@jimmygup]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@brandonwinstead5128 I always use a wired connection. However, as an experiment, I unplugged the ethernet cable and then tried wifi. It still played 24/192 hi-res lossless. Nice! (Btw, I can’t get it to play Dolby Atmos via wired or wifi, similar to what others have reported. Hopefully that can be added but I can use Apple TV 4K, iPhone, etc. for that purpose when the urge strikes me.)

[@AudioTnT]

Thanks for Asus tip. I've tried several CD drives with no or partial success. I compared Node 2i and A6 with a Weiss 204 DAC. The A6 sounded clearer and more detailed to me and my audio buddy.

[@marcomanunta7702]

Well I don't think the Linear Power supply lets you control the fiio from your couch does It?

[@OzSteve]

Great review as always. I myself had the FIIO R7 in my home office. I then added the Eversolo (borrowed) I love the screen (more so for display of art/track) and the A6 sits nicely under my monitor while working. As I have a dedicated headphone setup I ended up selling the R7 and buying the A6 and happy as. While it's a far cry from my main system (Auralic Aries G2) it does the job for what I want and doubt I'll be changing it for some time. I run Focal Alpha 80 Evo's in my home office. Sounds great for the money spent

[@warfam_clan6933]

John, your reviews just keep getting better and better. Over the years I have slowly changed my attitude towards gear and music and how they affect me. This has happened primarily because of watching your videos. I own the R7 with the jade audio power supply and I purchased these because the Eversolo was so hard to get hold of. I am so pleased that it went like this because I couldn’t be happier with the results. My system consists of the r7, Audiolab 6000 t, Chord Qutest with mcru power supply, A bespoke turntable based around rega and origin live. Willsenton r800i 300b, 805 tube amp, Roksan Kandy K2 integrated and power amp, Kef R5 speakers and Magnepan 1.7i speakers. Thank you as always for your knowledge and personal insight into the world of hifi that we dearly love.

[@danab7472]

I’ve had my R7 (and PL50) for a couple of weeks. I agree with everything said in this review. It sounds very good. Compared to similarly priced current gen units the difference might not be might and day, but when compared to the Yamaha WXC-50 I had previously, the difference is very prominent. One thing to mention: the wifi antenna, while discreet and unobtrusive, does not pull down signal very well. It’s far less effective than even my iPhone 13 with case on. If you can’t set it in sight of your router you’ll likely need to use Ethernet to avoid pauses and dropouts in streaming playback.

[@danab7472]

Also. I have not had any software glitches. Runs very well.

[@shkermanshahi]

I added a teddy pardo ($450 USD) LPS to my bluesound 2021, and that opened up and cleared the sound significantly. They all cut the corner on power supply.

[@NeilBlanchard]

There are two companies that make a linear power supply for the Node units. One is called PD Creative, and they are located in Poland. The other is a sibling company of Denafrips, called Beatechnik. They both replace the internal switch mode PS with an "interface" board that has additional filtering and capacitors, and then you use an external LPS plugged into the Node. I have the PD Creative and it does make a significant improvement in the sound quality; as you mentioned. I am also using an LPS on my Geshelli Labs J2S DAC.

[@shkermanshahi]

I have teddy pardo interface for blusound 2021, that is simple wire with no capacitors and a Teddy pardo LPS. The older version of blue sound requires a pd creative like solution from teddy pardo. I am using it with teddy pardo 5v LPS, but even with ifi low noise switching power supply , sounds better than original ps inside blue sound.

[@trebep]

Which one did you purchase for the Geshelli?

[@Dr.Struve]

I have the PD modifikation in my Node 2i, however only with a low noise switching power supply. Made a difference in the sound. More details and more bass.

[@johnnytran1067]

This is a top tier review John. I was a little sceptical about the Eversolo as there is a little too much youtube influencer consistency for it (and for some other products like the Galion). Good to hear it is a fine product.

[@dmac2850]

I had both the Fiio and the eversolo for me the eversolo looks and sounds better in my system Denon 1700 amp with wharfdale lintons. I also tried it with some d300 swan powered speakers sounds awesome with them too so i sent the Fiio back.

[@TPQ1235]

Brilliant as usual John.

[@selvan2379]

As a casual music listener who had been streaming Spotify through my Sony tv connected to Klipsch The Fives, the eversolo represents for me a night and day difference. Even if I'm only using the inbuilt dac in the Klipsch, the eversolo is clearly doing something to the streaming signals, and what i hear is just amazing. And the unit itself looks like a beautifull premium hifi equipment. Very happy with purchase.

[@adsph]

Well done review. Seems there are differences although small. Not to mention subjective. Keep up the great work.

[@taidee]

Masterful work as usual JD, thank you.

[@IRON_PANDA]

Absolutely great comparisons, thank you for the review! For me the R7 WITH the external PSU would be the choice based on this comparison. I will think about it seriously when considering my next desktop upgrade. I was pretty keen about the HDMI on the DMP-A6, but without eArc/Arc, i think it's a hit and a miss from Eversolo when we are talking about living room situations. If i was upgrading something for my living room, it would be the Node X from this bunch. The Node is still one of the best bang-for-buck products out there with the excellent sub management, smartphone integration and HDMI implementation, alas the Eversolo would be the last one for me on this shortlist.

[@ztanizlaf]

Great review, as always! But what about Wiim? If you compare these streamers with Wiim + Chord Mojo 2 ( you can still buy a linear power supply for wiim)? But the A6 and R7 are limited to built-in dacs, what if you take a Chord Hugo 2+ wiim (or any more advanced and expensive dac), how will things be? Thanks ☺

[@Mattiu75]

No, A6 and R7 are NOT limited to their built-in DACs having both a digital output section: coaxial, optical and USB (A6), which allows you connect any external DAC in the very same way you can do with the Wiim.

[@ztanizlaf]

​@@Mattiu75You did not understand the meaning of my question. Why overpay for dmp-a6, if for this amount of money you can buy a better dac, and use wiim as a streamer

[@chrispnw2547]

These devices (while attractive) are dependent on an operating system that may be redundant sooner than expected. Is there any manufacturer committed to Over The Air (OTA) updates to ensure a specific lifetime of usability for similar devices?

[@sunshine242-l4y]

I am not sure I understand the redundant comment. Can you elaborate?

[@Egofileo1]

Great review as usual John. Antoher difference between the 2 contenders, for me, is that the Fio looks and act more suitable as for a desktop installaion, together with a computer, while the EverSolo looks and act as more a regular hifi equipment to be put among the other electronics. My momey will go to Eversolo since I'll have to use it in my living.

[@delvalle9256]

So… Schiit Urd review coming? Looking forward to that review

[@stijnvanderlooy5311]

Thanks for the video. I do think, however, that many of us already have a quite decent dac. And interest in the bluesound x vs. Eversolo is more with respect to them being used as oure streamers. Hopefully a short follow up video adressing this is valuable for many of us. Just an idea. I appreciate your efforts

[@stijnvanderlooy5311]

Oh. I just heard that it might be addressed in a written review

[@kanakmahmud9884]

Di not know about the Node x but, for me, Eversolo is clearly better than Node 2i feeding into same DAC ( Denafrips Ares ii).

[@BobbyBass-x6i]

John thanks for another review. Appreciate the side by side comparisons. Please keep them coming!

[@briantooze3415]

I have been considering getting a PL50 PSU to go with my Fiio K7 (desktop headphone DAC and Amp) but had not seen anyone comment on the potential improvement to the sound quality. Thank you very much for adding it to your review.

[@eddiecotter7201]

From what I've read and seen on KZbin the pl50 does help with improving the sound as it cleans the lines as it were and lowers the noise floor as John mentioned in this video and I saw another video on KZbin that says the same

[@danielc5191]

I had a violinist to come over to my place to tell the difference between connecting the PL50 to the R7 versus no R7 and he told me that the difference can be heard immediately when we connected the power supply to the R7. Personally I felt that it was a 20% increase in performance. To him it was day and night. Mileage might vary. Subjective, but cheap upgrade.

[@divadgnol67]

Thank you for that review. As I'm in the market all of this info helps inform me to make an educated decision

[@buckrogers5331]

Very good review; and very glad you bought the power supply for the FiiO R7. It does make a difference.

[@iJmoney210]

Does the PL50 power supply allow you power passive speakers on the Fiio?

[@buckrogers5331]

@@iJmoney210 No.

[@UlTiReV]

Thanks a lot for the good review as always. Interested to see your take on where WiiM sits in this streamer face off. Take care!

[@fishwinker]

You mentioned that the Eversolo can run as a digital pre amp into your Peachtree GAN digital amp, like the Bluesound Node. Can you say anything about how they sounded when you did that? And I think I'm right that the Eversolo doesn't have an analogue in (or associated ADC) like the Bluesound has?

[@gioponti6359]

What’s the advantage of having another screen on the device, i.e. steps and a good bending down away, whereever the device is, and not - or shall I say in addition to - a display right under my fingertip on my phone or ipad? Plus: Adding a screen, esp a touchscreen, to the device adds a noise source as well, and requires some separation from other power supply pathes. Practical maybe, definitely superfluous and an undesirable combo of more expensive and more noisy, I think.

[@dizzle1119]

I received the Eversolo DMP A6 Master Edition yesterday evening and I'm yet to turn it off. This in an incredible piece of kit. I can't speak on the normal version of the device, but I'm perfectly content w/ the Master Edition. My journey for a streaming DAC ends right here. I'm done with it....

[@UKTonyMagill]

Thanks for this. I'm seeing regular complaints about the A6's software, as if it's not ready for prime time. That's something else to consider against the Fiio.

[@PixelViking]

No software is ever ‘ready’. The Eversolo has received countless firmware updates over the few months it’s been available. They are constantly adding functions and listening to the customer’s comments and wishes on their forum. I for one prefer a ‘work in progress’ with lots of improvements over brands who think that their software is already ‘prime time’… If you don’t constantly change and move on, you’re dead…

[@mobill49]

Great review John! Loving my Fiio R7 with the PL50.

[@mr.b4444]

Thanks, just from what you said about the EverSolo having a slightly brighter sonic personality I would go for it. I currently own a Cambridge Audio Azure 851N and to me it sounds a little dull compared to similar units in it's price range. It's solidly built but I prefer a more detailed sound that tends to lend itself better to jazz and classical. I don't stream, I play FLAC files from an SSD. The EverSolo may be just what I'm looking for.

[@npedrinho]

Hi John! Have you tried the Eversolo as a streamer with external DAC? Do you think it would be a good upgrade from a Roon Rock USB out to external DAC?

[@akila219]

Nice comparison! The Eversolo looks like the HIFI Rose Network Streamer I was listening to my local hifi store here in San Diego.

[@KITFLETCH1]

This video was interesting not least because it goes to the very heart of the value of your assessments: most of us can’t do a side by side comparison and having yours and the frank analysis is enormously helpful though it is still like one of those cooking competitions on TV: better if we could taste it too!

[@kjellhedberg1199]

I still using Embla classic as streamer. Outstanding.

[@Grrrr3FKAGrrrrGrrrrGrrrr]

Interesting insight into Apple Music/AirPlay resolution. Why do Apple have to be so opaque about this?

[@air870]

I was thinking of switching to the Eversolo ( from a RPi - 7" Display + Pi2AES ) after seeing various reviews of the DMP. I did think about the Bluesound but wanted a display. I personally like the VU meters but agree that better ones are needed. I probably will wait a while for the Master edition review with it's better clocks to take a call between the two Eversolos.

[@bradbortner2601]

Nice reviews!I’ve now tested the eversolo and the node X, both feeding usb on a denafrips ares 2 vs the streamer that gets no audiophile love, a sonos port, feeding into an ifi ipure spidif reclocker (also recommended by Darko Audio). My take always are that both the more expensive streamers sound a bit better in terms of dynamics and soundstage. Nonetheless, I sent them both back and kept the port. Why? It came down to software/app integration and ability to choose music with Alexa. People say that sonos software is better, but it is not just a little difference. Because sonos integrates so many streaming services, it is able to allow universal search. That means you can look for a song, and see which services carry it in which versions. The node X’s search makes you search service by service. I believe the eversolo is similar. The other major issue was lack of slick alexa integration. Eversolo has no voice control. The node X has some, which allows you to control the unit, but does not allow the one thing everyone wants from voice control, the ability to ask for a song from a streaming service and have it play. It felt very 10 years ago that it could not. Ultimately, I thought the port feeding ifi pure 2 into a denafrips DAC sounded about 95+% as good as the other two, and its ease of use was just so much better, I could not move on for the sake of family harmony. Other app problems on the NodeX. It has Idageo for classical music (eversolo does not), but it must reside on the app. It does not have the more polished Idageo connect type ability that Sonos does. That means, for either of the more expensive devises you would have to use airplay if you want to use the native app, which reduces sound quality from CD level. There is the reverse issue for Spotify and the bluesound. You can only use Spotify connect, which is probably one of the reasons the node does not have universal search. It’s cool that the eversolo does Apple Music natively, making it one of the few ways to hear apple in high res without jumping through hoops, but it does not include apple’s classical app, and sideloading it is a substandard experience. I never thought I’d say this, but the higher quality of the software user experience on sonos is going to keep me based in that eco system. If they come out with a better streamer, I’ll likely buy it, but I’ve stopped looking at superior tech in streamers with inferior software experiences. My listening system includes a roguesphinx v3, feeding PSB t2 speakers, and a Schiit Asgard 3 feeding focal clear and hifiman sundara headphones. If I want to listen to high res, i can use my oppo 205, but I almost never do. 😮😮

[@gregorydavid5894]

Great job John, while I won't buy either, except maybe as gift to my son, I know which one I would buy and not worry about the decision at all. Grey is now black and white :)

[@jgonzo1995]

I really wish somebody would just release a box with all of the UI and form factor of the Eversolo, the addition of a USB digital out, and the subtraction of the DAC. I'm a ladder DAC guy, I have a very nice DAC that I quite like, I just want a good streaming box that has a nice, big display and can handle Roon, stream Apple, Spotify, etc. to feed the DAC. If the Eversolo had USB out that could push out the high-rate DSD files in my collection, I would buy it anyway, but alas....

[@jgsburnett9532]

The Denafrips ARCE streamer will be out very soon. Designed to go with R2R dacs, and so no built in dac. . No display panel however. If the app is good enough and you use it on a tablet or smart phone I see no need for a display anyway. Eagerly awaiting more information.

[@kanakmahmud9884]

Eversolo does have USB output to external DAC. I am using it to output to my Denafrips Ares ii.

[@KtsStone80]

It has a USB out. Sounds like the written review will cover the quality of the A6 only as a streamer.

[@SkullLeader]

@@kanakmahmud9884 That's the combo I'm looking for. Already have the Aries II being fed via USB from Auralic Aries Mini. Really just want the display and streaming.

[@MisterChibs]

I feel like there's a f-ton of hype behind the A6 and it's nice to see your practical approach on it. One thing that came as a surprise is lossless Apple music. That's invaluable for some. Other than that, it's a streamer with a touch screen, decent DAC, and very specific feature set. Comparing to BS Node you actually loose a lot of functionality (Especially with the GaN 1) having no trigger or Sub out. Having a touch screen is nice in some use cases but like you, I'm sort of lukewarm ont the idea. There is no "Best" streamer under 1k in my books. Just pick whichever suits your use-case best and enjoy. The really interesting part for me was that you improved that Fiio with a linear power supply. Does this also effect sound quality when used as a digital transport only, going through an external DAC? I'm looking into doing this with one of my streamers.

[@brandonwinstead5128]

So would you have to have hook up the Eversolo to an Ethernet to get the lossless streaming function?

[@AudioTnT]

No headphone jack, hdmi ARC, sub out on A6 but I found the dynamics of the A6 greater than Node 2i (better SNR). I don't hear greater HF emphasis but my hearing peaks at 8500 Hz 🙁

[@AudioTnT]

No headphone jack, hdmi ARC, sub out on A6 but I found the dynamics of the A6 greater than Node 2i (better SNR). I don't hear greater HF emphasis but my hearing peaks at 8500 Hz 🙁

[@MisterChibs]

@@brandonwinstead5128 Ethernet is always recommended but if the a6 has wifi, you should still be able to get lossless.

[@MisterChibs]

@@AudioTnT I feel the Node is more versatile but don’t doubt SQ is better on other streamers like the a6. I compared mine with a Lumin U2 Mini and could hear improvements. 🍻

[@gregwawryk1898]

Synergy is most important to me. It's always the one that fits my system. It sounds like the Eversolo fits the bill.Thanks for that the comparative review. 👍

[@stevenyu8182]

Great review! But i wold like to know how you feel about using them as transports? Waiting for the written review.

[@palmito22]

Aesthetic from Fiio is absolutely no go.

[@rabritton1]

Thank you, very interesting and thorough as usual. I am a Roon user and wondered if the relatively new 'Muse' audio signal processing feature could be used to change the native sound quality characteristics of these DACs in a way that is suited to your listening preferences. Some people may be attracted by certain UI and features of these units then put off by sound quality characteristics; using Muse could change the sound quality to match your taste rendering native sound quality less of an issue, leaving functionality alone as the main consideration. I don't have any of these DACs but I have used Muse to correct my otherwise bright and forward sounding system to something more 'easeful' to use your often used term.

[@tinuJ-bd5mo]

Fiio R7, Node X, EVERSOLO A6 orrrr Cambridge Audio CXN V2? considering only sound quality, which one would be the best?

[@stefanneugriemsmann896]

That's wat I really want to know too.

[@Nickhifi88]

Great review👍 I do, however find the product a bit hyped in general, since it’s priced to go. In terms of sound, I wouldn’t compare it to what I would call “next level” like some do. You get value for money, for sure, but the sound quality is not more, than you would expect at this price level in general.

[@macgeek2112]

I checked out the Amazon US listing for the A6... what is a GUGABIT? What is ADUIO? Picking nits here but the rear panel descriptions in the photos give me pause.

[@edwoodsnowden]

Great comparison, just discovered your channel as looking at the Eversolo and how refreshing to see clear concise comparison and information. No waffling or b*llshit! Subbed!

[@starbase218]

Lack or eARC is a deal breaker for me. The Bluesound Node X seems more tempting. Although I appreciate it's a somewhat different proposition. But then I think I like the simplicity of it as well.

[@carloc8763]

I am really glad to hear that the Eversolo has the more satisfying knob feel!

[@t0nyxgq]

Would love a follow up video on the comparison of this with a Wiim Pro + Dac (Chord Mojo 2?).

[@Lingfish-k2g]

I’m happy with Eversolo dmp-A6 as streamer, however the DAC side is not as good. Would you suggest using external DAC, any recommendations a DAC good combination with Eversolo?

[@rickychan9229]

Gustard A26

[@whitehatbob]

FiiO R7's remote RM3 is Bluetooth, not IR as stated, and really works well and does not have to be pointed at the R7 and has ZERO lag with a really clever "mouse" key.

[@JulienBourjault]

Your videos are better and better. Comparing gears should be a must to properly evaluate a product. Impressive work as usual

[@mjim7775]

Great review - many thanks! Slightly irrelevant now that I’ve bought, and any very happy with the DMP-A6, but great to hear that you also rate it! Shout out for a review of the Weiss DAC 204 please!

[@dal2258]

Nice side 2 side comparison John. Now a Silent Angel product needs to be on your radar. I've heard your schedule is empty for the next couple of months 😅

[@2shoestoo]

I received mine yesterday 7/29 all I can say is WOW it’s pretty good

[@stickers6883]

Great review John. Well done. Gday from Perth Western Australia. 👍

[@joenovak6393]

This is my take, why did you initially pass on the Eversolo then your "Subscribers" knocked on your door pleading you for a review? The "Square" design for FiiO R7? FiiO's product line is "square". Then at the end you added a "Liner Power Supply" to the FiiO R7, that's like ordering a Starbucks Frappuccino, then drinking half, then requesting to add Whip cream with sprinkles. Ordered on June 30th and delivered July 14. Eversolo's built, UI, Sound, Software, Normal screen and ease of use are what others should be jealous for the price range. Software updates will make the Eversolo even better and the Meters are for the 70's Retro style as to the gear that was used and is used.

[@johntucker5994]

I really appreciate this excellent review. Very detailed, and your enthusiasm and energy are off the charts....🙂 I am still trying to understand your "elastic dynamics" concept, lol, but I think I get it. Anyway, keep up the good work; and when you do your podcast with Twittering Machine's Michael Lavorgna, make sure to let him get a few words in edgewise, lol. I think Michael is to polite to object...😂 (Seriously, I think that was an episode when you had just gotten some great health news, so I get it!} Love your work and thank you again!

[@johntucker5994]

too not to

[@PhillioDoede]

I really like the looks (including the VU meters on the Eversolo), and how their software works compared to the FiiO. I feel like I'd probably like the sound of FiiO more but the FiiO dosen't look like it belongs with full sized audio gear. What I'd really like to see is Eversolo take the feature set of the DMP-6 and build a pre-amp around it, or make stripped down version that is just a streamer and make a separate pre-amp.

[@AudioTnT]

It's sort of a preamp w volume control and digital inputs. I'd like an analog input (for a phono stage).

[@dariuszsalamon9441]

@@AudioTnT that will digitize your phono signal

[@RogerBergqvist]

I am both fascinated and baffled by these products. How much stuff do you need to be able to enjoy music..? And how do you know which product sounds best..? I guess the last one is up to each, but it's starting to get complicated to buy hifi products. I'm almost starting to get into that zone where I don't know if I dare to trust streamed audio. Does it really sound like a CD or vinyl, or has it been tinkered with... Gadgets are fun, but sometimes I have a hard time seeing the logic. Lately it's become that I play a vinyl at home instead and know that this is decently authentic.

[@Klont123]

Correct me because I don’t know, but isn’t a cd player also just a digital to analog converter?

[@steveking6506]

Im just glad that one of them had a "more satisfying knob feel"! Yep, im a child!

[@gatsby8870]

Hello! Great review. Can you tell me if the Eversolo can cast wirelessly to wireless speakers? I don't want to run a long cable across the room and breakup the asethetic. Thank you so much.

[@pete0121588]

Great review as always but forgive me but I have a long winded question. I’ve recently purchased a Marantz pm7000n as a streaming solution and honestly was blown away by the audio quality. Unfortunately no sooner as I heard how good this unit sounded and only ever owned budget gear beforehand I instantly had doubts that I’d made a error. You see I had £1500 to spend but after reading quite rightly glowing reviews of the Marantz I decided against a audio lab set up. My question is 1 was I wrong and 2 how big a leap is the audio quality depending on the money you pay.

[@jazzgroovedigger]

Thanks John, great video. I think I can install Bandcamp on FiiO R7. Is there a Bandcamp integration on Eversolo? Can it be installed? I know most of your viewers are more interested in Tidal, Qobuz, etc. But what about Bandcamp? What is currently the best device that also supports Bandcamp? I'd really appreciate anyone's feedback or suggestions here.

[@Simplyveej]

This begs the question - what would the Eversolo sound like with a linear power supply, and how would that compare with the FIOS plus power supply.

[@pixym]

Hi, thanks so much for this interresting review. Keep up the great work. 👌

[@annatatar4253]

The problem with an audio device that relies on android is that at some point the company will release new hardware and there's a good chance the older one will be abandoned and they will stop updating it. The same way phone companies abandon older phones. Also if the company goes out of business there won't be anyone to do needed software updates and device could become permanently broken.