My experience with this is I’ve had 3 different Dac Amps DAC x6 was the first one I had which I did not have any reference to before switching over to a Schiit Magni 3+ and Schiit Modi 3e (Both give plenty of volume). On the Hifiman Edition XS using the DAC x6 the sound was very claustrophobic and warm compared to using the Schiit stack which was much wider and neutral sounding, for me this was a huge upgrade. To add to this I also tried this on a portable DAC Amp which is the DC03 Pro which soundstage sounds closer on the side but a bit sounds warmer. What’s your experience?
I’m a fan of smart spending, but sometimes you have to pay for extra quality that really isn’t there with cheaper stuff. Like I was skeptical about expensive DAPs until I got one, they’re for real. The sound is completely different and I’m grateful I gritted my teeth and spent the money. I still waited to get it used though, no way I’m paying full price.