The Schiitius Stack Ever | Magnius + Modius Balanced Amp DAC Stack!

[@martinshoosterman]

I have a modius, so i just tried it out with my note 8, and I can confirm it does work. And it works without requiring additional power.

[@JoshuaValour]

Awesome. Thanks!

[@mnomadvfx]

Presumably you are powering the Modius with the separate µUSB power port, rather than through the µUSB audio input which is connected to the Note 8 smartphone?

[@martinshoosterman]

@@mnomadvfx no, the phone powers it

[@bassandtrebleclef]

The visual presentation on this video is fantastic. Loved the red glow shots and the unit on top of the sideways Emotiva monitor. Really enjoyed this one!

[@HiFiGOAudio]

Oh god that looks so beautiful, I have previously tried their beginner stack(Modi3+Magni3+) loved that stack too, it was so clean :)

[@randomfrankp]

my man, been looking to up my audio game at my desktop from my M9XX. Still recommend this duo a year later?

[@rohilx9771]

yes!

[@carbonatedsalad4677]

For the price, it’s still one of the best options out there

[@abnormallynormal8823]

Audio gear never really stops being good

[@doorknob3167]

Idk it’s kinda schiit

[@DistroUser]

@@williamlibke2118Schiit sells them under Accessories, PYST cables, been doing that for years!

[@WildfireX]

My question is, why are they still using outdated micro USB, when they could easily just use USB-C and have modern I/O devices

[@siguz6070]

My guess would be cost. I heared the USB-C port is really quite expensive, which is also the reason you won't find it on many budget PC cases. I think Schiit is running pretty low margins on these, so saving a dollar here and there will add up. Personaly I don't mind this, as I plug my dac in maybe once a year. But obviously your use case could be different.

[@jkhmonkey_kfp_pentium_ii_cpu]

@@siguz6070 You would be correct as to why no USB-C. From Schiit Happened when they announced the Modius: "And yeah, we hear you. It’s getting close to the point where we’ll start introducing products with USB-C, but for right now, they’re still a bit dear for a product at the Modius’ price point. We’re really, really, really trying to deliver huge value here."

[@WildfireX]

@@siguz6070 I guess. But I mean are the people that are looking for these types of products, seriously worried about cost? These aren't essential items, they're luxury items, and I just don't think an extra $10 or whatever to put a USB-C dock in there, is going to make me not want to buy it, ya know?

[@jasonalec6573]

@@WildfireX"Luxury" lol I think you mean non-essential but yeah I feel ya

[@WildfireX]

@@jasonalec6573 well I'd say luxury tbh, seen as it's not a basic item you need to live, or even an item you'd get for basic non-essential living like a TV. It's the step after that when you start refining what you have even further. I don't mean luxury in the sense of "oh it's got to cost 5 grand or more" But anyone that's buying these items clearly isn't worrying about money any time soon, and if they are then they're making some poor life decisions. This is an item for a luxury lifestyle.

[@a.a1001]

@0:00 Fear Being Unfelt - Instrumental Version. To whoever was wondering. Quality song!

[@crhulsey56]

thx

[@DarkFire9889]

Just got this stack this week to pair with my HD800's. Absolutely love it.

[@Recolation]

Are you me?

[@DarkFire9889]

@@Recolation Yes

[@benson1608]

I have a pair of HD800's, too but I don't have very much experience in this top tier high end class. So I'm wondering if this dac amp combo is the best solution if I don't want to spend 1000$+ for an amp, but get a very similar listening experience with only very little difference that would cost me at least 500$ more or so.

[@DarkFire9889]

​@@benson1608 It's definitely a solid buy. But remember you need XLR cables to between the dac / amp and a XLR cable to the headphones. (If you want balanced output)

[@TheyRiseBand]

@@DarkFire9889 You can use a Pentacon (TRRRS) to balanced XLR adapter, so you don't have to drop $300 on the Sennheiser cable: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JPGZLTZ/ref=ewc_pr_img_1?smid=AKLBZV1QTRBAN&psc=1

[@markj4066]

Another solid informative review. Enjoy your honesty and laid back style and the length of the review is great. Keep em coming.

[@zippymagee]

Looks so cool in the vertical side by side arrangement be really neat if they made a foot/base thingy to hold them like that.

[@mnomadvfx]

They did for the Modi/Magni combo, I wouldn't be surprised to see them eventually put one out for Modius/Magnius size - especially as both Bifrost 2 and Asgard 3 also fit this width/depth size if somewhat thicker. What I really want is a Modius colour option with a black anodised switch on the front - the basic brushed steel look spoils the black colour scheme with the Modius/Magnius together, same can be said of many black product colour options from Schiit.

[@CosmicPotato]

The Schiit stack is $100 cheaper than the Monolith THX DAC/amp but most people buying this system don't have 2 XLR cables to connect the DAC and amp, so that adds to the cost

[@m4nc1n1]

Separates are ALWAYS better. I just bought the Modius and the Asgard 2. Might pick up the Magnius at some point depending on how the Asgard performs. Got the Modius used for $175 and the Asgard 2 on clearance from Schiit for $119

[@antonhelsgaun]

Micro usb in 2020?

[@chickenpasta7359]

thats where schiitiest part comes in

[@exodusvelo]

not sure what is the problem, we will need to keep micro usb for ever, and this is gonna stay connected no matter what, depends on the user as always i guess, but not such a big deal really.

[@antonhelsgaun]

@@exodusvelo it's no big deal, because it's a stationary device. Why do you think we need to keep it forever?

[@exodusvelo]

@@antonhelsgaun same as mini usb?? I still have a canon scanner, it uses mini usb, and i see no problem with that, it has a cable for it anyways...

[@exodusvelo]

@METhOdhowtoKilLnoObS you are right there

[@EndureTyrant]

I've only ever used their phono preamp for my turntable, but I plan on buying this stack pretty soon. I had a cheap portable DAC + amp combo that died on me recently, and I no longer need the portability, so these are by far the best option I've seen.

[@beanzb_d]

they work really well together. i plan on doing this too but i cant figure out what cables come with each device and if i need to buy any.

[@BenBayle]

Review Request: A bake off between A90+D90 vs SH-9+SU-9 vs Magnius+Modius

[@rossgoosen7269]

I don’t think that they’re comparable - a Topping 90 Stack is ≈$1200, and an SMSL 9 Stack is ≈$750, whereas the Schiit Stack is ≈$400.

[@BenBayle]

@@rossgoosen7269 Totally get it but without being able to have all of these great options on hand to listen too what are you getting for the money? Are the diminishing returns substantial after the SMSL stack or the Schiit Stack? I'm not a fan of buying from a retailer just to return it.

[@larsenth]

Josh, thanks for another excellent review! I was decided on this stack until Schiit launched the new Jotunheim 2 in December. Now I can't decide which amp to go with, Magnius or J2. Hope you'll get the J2 in for a review soon!!

[@kimiko3811]

Can you do a tutorial of how to use a DAC & AMP? Like how to connect them to your pc or other devices Most of the guides only says what is dac and amp but not guide tells me how to use them I DO NOT have a DAC, nor do I have an AMP, I just need some more knowledge so that i know exactly what i will be purchasing

[@nasty__nate_]

Would love to see the same type of review for the Lyr 3 / Bifrost 2 stack!

[@DannerL]

Dang they sent those to you for review, but I have to wait 2+ months to get my stack..

[@GSwiftty]

Review Topping DX7 Pro pls. That might be your new best AIO 500$ device Josh!

[@navinadv]

There are several killer sub $500 devices. SMSL’s SU9, SonCoz’s SGD1, Topping’s own D70BT, and what I think might be the best of all, the Gustard X16.

[@GSwiftty]

​@@navinadv You are right in case of DACs. I am talking about integrated DAC+amp combo device at 500-600$ price tag. In case of DX7 Pro there is nearly no competition rn.

[@Farazao]

Idk... I had one, but the amp section is not really refined. However if you dare to play with the opamps, things can get interesting.

[@navinadv]

@@GSwiftty what about the M500? it’s DAC is based around the 9038 PRO

[@GSwiftty]

@@Farazao Yep amp section is kind of mediocre but swapable and dont forget its fully balanced. They had to cut the costs somwhere. If they put something better there they could have cannibalize their A90 sells tho.

[@ozunkeskin6919]

Joshua we want some iem reviews such as u12t, solaris, lcd i4 and more :)

[@liarandahorsethief5203]

Still pretty new to the hobby, considering upgrading my magni heresy and modi to this and I'm wondering if it will be a notable change in sound. I recently bought my second pair of headphones, the Hifiman Sundara from the Hifiman HE4XX, so that's the hardware I'd be working with

[@danpearson1]

I plug my Modi into my phone all the time! Really handy if you want to quickly listen to some music without turning a computer on.

[@TheIpadfanatic]

Mike Moffat & Jason Stoddard clearly have created an extraordinary audio company, right down to the name. Moffat has talked about his unconventional approach to DAC/Amps. The industry prefers to add Sabre or the once venerable AKM. Moffat tried some industrial chips for applications like medical imaging equipment. Chips never designed for audio, but he liked their precision and he made it work. And it contributes to Schiit's house sound. Fellow audiophiles and enthusiasts. Measurements are not the whole game. Listen first before you judge.

[@varunu4176]

I listen to music connecting phones to iFi Zen DAC using a type c or micro USB to USB female adapter. Works just fine!

[@blakesichel8596]

Why the Magnius over the Asgard 3? I've seen people say the Asgard 3 is better so I was wondering why you would choose the Magnius. I don't have either and I'm deciding between the two.

[@sonixwellness1536]

Great question, which I am now clearer about. The Magnius is designed to be paired with a balanced headphone setup. Josh shows single input here with all of his illustrations. Not good! If you have SE headphone setup, then the Asgard3 is a better choice. Running SE’s thru the Magnius compromises quality greatly. Search Asgard3 review here on KZbin under “Passion For Sound” He brilliantly compares the difference. Asgard3 & Modius with AKG 701’s is brain candy!

[@bigjt37]

Josh, they need to do this more often tho. Just for convenience factor, being, that many of us use our phones and tablets as our go to device a lot of times these days. PC/laptop great. But making more of these dacs phone and tablet friendly, I hope will continue to be the way they go in a majority of products, into 2021. Again, just for convenience, when we don't want to go to PC or laptop..

[@StarvingDragon]

I wonder how these compare to the Jotunheim with the DAC chip in there as well... ie. who needs two boxes on their desk vs one!?

[@PascalDoron]

Any chance you may elaborate why tabletop DACs (for the reference like the modius) are better than portable DACs like fiio's and ifi's?

[@northdakotabeast1547]

Just got this as an intro into the audiophile scene, been running the SHP9500 with a shitty usb dongle-dac for like 4 years. Still waiting on my 6xxs... and balanced cables.

[@stiljohny]

hey Joshua, Bein in UK Schit is not available or it comes with a crazy Import tax attached to it :) Would you have any alternative recommendations for a DAC - AMP stack ? TIA

[@dark7000]

Marantz HD DAC1 does work with an iPad/iPhone too and has a great headphone amplifier. It's 799 though

[@Toschh]

I have it as well! It's really good:)

[@awsan111]

The only down side of this combo (Which would've made it an end game combo) is the SE performance of the AMP specially compared to their OWN Heresy but you can get these two + a heresy for SE and it will be $500 for an insane performance.

[@HirschyB]

Hey, I know this is an old post but still a great combo. Looking at it now. But can you explain. What SE performance is and what this Heresy is, I can’t see it on their website now. Thanks

[@awsan111]

@@HirschyB SE = Single ended or as used by 99% of consumer products while balanced has two dacs + two amps each for each side. The schiit heresy was replaced by the Schiit Magni Heretic

[@LoiteringReaper]

What is the music that is playing in the background? The ambience of the music is very soothing.

[@Sheerobon]

Is this stack overkill for the HIFIMAN Sundara's?

[@careerhobo8023]

I am getting this stack for the Sundara, looks awesome

[@اوابعبدالهاديماجد]

how those compare to something way cheaper like ifi zen dac?

[@phillipnunya6793]

More clarity, especially with dynamic music. Probably better bass clarity in particular.

[@haosheng12]

How does this compare to like a Grace SDAC and 789 combo?

[@halbrakt3457]

I would love to see you review the ifi zen dac v2 and aac combo, I've heard a lot of good things about it and the stack is similarly priced to this schit stack.

[@maybepatrick369]

ur intros are dope

[@sweetjp4886]

How does it compare to the Asgard 3?

[@vladimirk9333]

Very interested

[@sonixwellness1536]

Asgard3 is better if using the SE headphone option. Magnius is designed to be used with XLR balanced cables not RCA. Quality & power is compromised when going SE route.

[@chibbyylol]

Slightly off topic but when you stack them, you'd want the magnius on top correct? Due to modius blocking the vents for air ventilation if that is the one on top great review thanks

[@mehutolkki3232]

Probably to give the amp more grip to the table when you plug and unplug headphones from it.

[@lunarnoctis5924]

Typically amp goes up top since it runs hotter, these run so cool though it doesn’t matter, stack them how you’d prefer.

[@MarcosArancibia]

My Magnius tends to run hot after a good hour of listening. I use my SMSL M9 on top of it, but I move it to the side a bit to make sure I do not block the vents. The feet on the Modius seem to be taller, so that might help with isolation, but my SMSL has very short feet and I don’t want it cooking.

[@lunarnoctis5924]

@@MarcosArancibia you consider the magnius to run hot? How hot is the room you have it in. 65-70 degree room I had mine in would never allow it to get hot, or even warm for that matter. It’s all opamp design so these run really cool and heat was never a worry when I used mine.

[@MarcosArancibia]

@@lunarnoctis5924 Good point...right, so because of the weather down here in Florida, even under A/C, my room temp is around 76F to 78F, and just now running it for 30 minutes brought the Magnius to 92F (although the SMSL M9 itself was running a bit hotter at 95F). I guess because I have it close to my Darkvoice, when I run it SMSL M9 --RCA--> DarkVoice --RCA--> Magnius it gets some additional heat from the Tubes1 feet away. And I also imagine running in HI gain and loud on HD 6xx and HiFiMan Deva adds to the heat too.

[@MrAhuraMazda]

Zen Dac/Zen Can stack (not the Drop version, the $120/$170 one)?? Ive heard mixed reviews on the Zen Can, but I've also heard amazing reviews and I know the Can has great power

[@stevenmishos]

Was very interested in this stack until I read their Magnius FAQ... How do the preamp outputs work? Do they mute when you plug headphones in? Nope. They're on all the time. ... that's a usability issue when sending output to powered studio monitors.

[@jsteer]

Ifi Zen DAC does that too

[@kajetan9550]

Would it be a good idea to connect Modius DAC to some tube amp? I’m buying the darkvoice 336se and don’t know what DAC to choose for it (I’m not an expert...yet;) ) Would really appreciate an answer

[@byversus8227]

does it work perfectly with the arya stealth headphone?

[@lev_anni]

Can you please tell how Midgard is compared to Jotunheim regarding headphone amplification? I like headphone/balance out switch on the front Jotunheim has. Is it worth extra $200? Thinking to get Midgard/Modius combo but this holds me because I don't know if Jotunheim is better (ignoring the fact that it's modular). Thanks!

[@black_n5492]

Would it be a good idea to pair this combo up with the Focal Elex? Or would the THX 789 + Grace SDAC combo from Drop be better? The two DAC?Amp combos are evenly priced

[@ultiwiz7491]

How about Modius & Valhalla on HD6xx & HE5XX?

[@hanfpeter4190]

As a beginner im wondering, do you hear a somewhat significant diefference between 200€ and 400€ stacks or is it just a small difference

[@ashahrokhi]

Would love to hear how the Schiitius Stack compares to a comparably priced integrated DAC/AMP like the SMSL M500 or Xduoo XA-10.

[@MrAhuraMazda]

If you can use an external power brick, especially something with low noise, it does help a ton. If you're already spending $400, a good power supply isnt that much. Ifi makes a great one for $50 but im not sure if it compatible

[@giovandyfernando6459]

Those 3 looking slick yet probably sound great 💯

[@tomriddle2257]

Is this stack the best for that price range for my Arya SE?

[@donvittoriosierra]

I'm noticing that you seem to gravitate towards the magnius more than the asgard 3. Can you tell us what is the dealbreaker on each one that makes the other the better amp?

[@CockatooDude]

I can't speak for sound quality, but I do know that the volume knob on the Asgard feels terrible.

[@WorldView22]

Can you use the signal/power micro USB port only for signal anf the power micro USB port for power (connected to a usb power adapter, not a computer) in order to get cleaner power?

[@satar9]

Do not get this to use for 1/4 inch headphone, use xlr. it's noise floor is incredible. This guy wasn't aware. This stack setup is great for the price, but its not recommended to use it as unbalanced out. XLR is key here.

[@Tigerex966]

Actually it is also superb, without ever touching the balanced ports. It measures well single ended too, after watching many reviews, its is superb single ended as well. try it.

[@_._shinonome_._]

Could I use an XLR cable for the akg k712 pros, just because it uses mini XLR connector on the cable

[@MajorManjuw]

is this setup worth it for just Spotify listening? Thanks!

[@mikecoshan3752]

I run a topping D50s dac though my iPad & iPhone using the Apple lighting to usb adaptor, it’s worked though my mates topping D90 dac & his JDS Labs Atom dac.

[@ramir332]

Should i get modious or modi+ ??? As a DAC. Im super confused about all the damn products they have. I would get modi+ as its cheaper but i also rather spend a bit more if modious has better sound.

[@Ilikemovingpictures]

How would you compare this stack to newer releases like the Zen stack from ifi? Thanks! And, good video review with great cinematography.

[@RonnyC98]

The light grey button matches if you have a black Asgard 3 as it has a grey knob....

[@calvinchann1996]

Not widely or easily available outside of the US.

[@liamsi75]

Hi, the schiit magnius schiit modius are unavailable on their website, and no date announced for disponiblity. So what would be the next duo alternative on the same price tag ?

[@bliiblaablue]

As much as I love the sound from AKM dac chips, I think it would be nice to see reviews with other dacs like the Sabre Dac or Burr-Brown as well as some well known headphone + amp combinations like Sennheiser HD600/650 with a tube amp. There are also some really good cheap budget versions out there like HifimeDiy stuff that can get you started if you're tight on the budget.

[@RealityUntold]

I'm looking for something of this quality that would also work well for movies. Is this setup worth using for movies in an apartments?

[@giga1262]

This stack or the thx monoprice monolith? I saw it for 400 new

[@Jisooee]

Watch his description

[@JPC326]

Any idea how this setup sounds against iFi Hip-dac? For a DT177x-go from Beyerdynamic?

[@MrZiggytwist]

I would argue it sounds 50% better although I have only tested the hip Dac and have never heard 177x phones .

[@CHUCKACIOUS]

I might have missed it. Are you able upload your own EQ presets?

[@simianinc]

Curious to know what you think of the Schiit Vali 2. The tube gives it a colour that the Magnius doesn’t have - but then are you after personality or something more analytical?

[@TomRussell-cy6ll]

HELLO.......really enjoy your channel. was thinking of pairing this stack with Focal OG $890. would this be a good match ?

[@mranthony1886]

How does this compare to the new IEM amp from Schiit

[@paintclown2973]

I have the Modi and magni. Would this be a worthy upgrade?

[@lifeofcurtisc2729]

I don't know much about this sort of thing. So, I want to be the Hifi Sundara, could I get away with using just the magnius to play music on my phone? Do I need the modius as well?

[@Homeaudionl]

the earmen tr amp/dac also plays from an Ipad/computer/iphone

[@Dominari66]

I'd really like to see how you set these up with cables, power and headphones to running.

[@bradd5961]

Hi Josh, what would you suggest for a good pairing with the LCD2 Fazor for under $1000. I'm looking at a dac amp combo as either a single or two-part set up. I lean towards getting the most out of the base side of the LCD2.

[@whitehammer5939]

can you use a magnius with a modi and get decent results welts saving a few macaronis?

[@vladimirk9333]

Joshua, thanks for you video.Consider this stack for Audeze Lcd-2 closeback. Please advice optimal stack Dac±Amp or Combo fotlr my headphons.$500 budger? Thanks a lot

[@iu1191]

Great Video. OK, you have successfully sown confusion 😉 This setup vs Jotunheim (with DAC rather than phono pre-amp). What do you think? I can only buy one setup. My music is on my PC and on my sony walkman and phone. I need several inputs but that is not the biggest issue - I can always find ways around that. I like to play music from my PC. Much of the music I play is ripped from CDs although I am belatedly a Spotify listener who is looking at Tidal but wondering about the cost and the benefit. I have HD650s which I love soooooo deeply. Which is the deal to get in your opinion - and anyone else' for that matter.

[@TrueArt_1]

I recently bought a Modius and Magnius, however my Modius’ power port is faulty. After unplugging and replugging once, the USB power port on the Modius shifted down preventing the cable from being plugged in. After getting the cable to plug in from a downward angle, the DAC will not be recognized or work. I don’t know if this is a common manufacturing issue, but from an initial impression, I’m not sure if I should get another Schiit or another brand to replace my Modius.

[@static7985]

contact them. they should have warranty and be able to replace it.

[@TrueArt_1]

​@@static7985 yes, i got in contact and shipped it over for repairs

[@cemarabdg]

Will this stack power ATH-R70x without external power source? How about HD 6XX without gain? Thanks.

[@gameon9167]

would you choose this stack over the thx 2 in 1 for dt1990s? Some ppl said the thx with the beyers would sound very dry...

[@HiFiInsider]

The amp and Diana color almost matched perfectly. Honestly people should not buy audio products based on measurements. There is no industry standard on how to achieve the results so the numbers won’t tell you how the product will perform playing music.

[@David-kx3xf]

How does this contrast to a jotunheim 2 with a balanced AK4490 DAC module?

[@myxsys]

How does the schiit stack compare to Topping L30/D30 stack? Is there a significant difference in sound quality?

[@TheSatch10]

So I'm new to the audiophile scene, the best headphones I have are the ATH-M50x's. I know what a DAC and an Amp are, but not necessarily what makes one better than another, or why I would need them for my headphones vs using the jack on any given device. Is there a video to help explain this? Thanks in advance.

[@sadeerahmed5748]

can i run the susvara on it, what do you think?

[@sylasoce6376]

wondering what preamp to go with this combo? i was looking at the saga + but im new to all this

[@johnq6123]

Looking for a friend... Currently using powered KRK5's thru onboard from Legion T7i tower. Is it a better option to: A)get Schitt stack (Magni Heresy + Modi 3+) B)adding KRK 10S2 subwoofer? Not a gamer, just KZbin, iTunes, Netflix, etc.. Btw, my cans are Sennheiser HD380, HD598 and Razer Kraken Ultimate for meetings. I also have a Fiio FIE18 Kunlun E1 if that fills the void without shelling out for the stack? TIA!!!!

[@sergeyrozenblat7849]

Joshua, which one would you recommend Sennheiser 800S or Sony MDR-Z1R for this stack? I have the stack, but headphones selection on sale here is limited

[@josefernandez2722]

Hi, thanks for your input Joshua. Which one do you think is warmer sounding between the thx and the schiit stacks? If you had to choose one, which would you choose and why?

[@iitzpower628]

Okay weird question but can it power a 250ohm headset and a 600ohm headset

[@STaKKsss]

okay wait im overthinking this schiit. Will i be able to use beyerdynamic dt 770 pro (250ohm) headphones with this stack since it is balanced??

[@robertoarizmendi9207]

What does balanced means? Do you mean balanced output?

[@sombatone]

They changed the micro USB to USB-Type C in the newer version seems like, which is better

[@jakealexander6046]

Hi I am on a modi 3 and magni stack paired with hd650. Is it worth it to try and use the hd650 with the modius and magnius stack?

[@tonydillinger2553]

so i cant run the magnius with my ps4? am I going to have to get a new laptop or vinyl player to use this amp? I have no idea what im doing. Been using mayflower arc for gaming and listing to music with ps4.

[@tonydillinger2553]

I have some balanced xlr cables coming in for my zeus, what would benefit with this set up better, Fidelio x2 or he400i, both older model.

[@orthosympa6993]

I don't understand why schiit doesn't have bluetooth on their dacs. Ldac codec is absolutely fantastic and super useful when working from home on a company computer where you can't install non work related apps like spotify or tidal.

[@goofyskulls]

Awsome video. would this stack work good with focal clear ? or what would you recomend for that head set.

[@Kaijiro____93]

Is there a difference with DAC and Audio Interface like Motu M2/M4?