RMAA results for iPod Classic, Galaxy Nexus, FiiO E7 Options

[skamp]

Here are the RMAA results for the iPod Classic (2009), the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, and the FiiO E7. The iPod was tested via it's Line Out Dock, as well as its headphone out, unloaded, and loaded with Sony MDR-XB700 headphones (24 ohms). The Galaxy Nexus and E7 were tested via their headphone out, loaded and unloaded. Here's a comparison between the 3, loaded with the headphones.

Audiophiles always say that the iPod's LOD outputs a "cleaner" signal than its headphone out; if I'm reading the values and graphs right, that seems correct. I couldn't say whether the difference is audible; one would have to also test the external headphone amplifier that would be connected to the LOD.

Overall the E7 seems superior, while the iPod is a pretty close second in some aspects, especially if you consider the LOD results. Of note is the significantly worse stereo crosstalk result from the Galaxy Nexus.

Edit: I used an old laptop for the recordings. I'm considering investing in a decent USB device. If I do get one, I'll run RMAA again.

This post has been edited by skamp: Apr 26 2012, 21:09

[skamp]

I followed these instructions and I measured the output impedance of the O2 at 0.5Ω, the Clip+ at 0.5Ω, the iPod Classic at 5Ω, the Galaxy Nexus at 12Ω, the EMU 0204 USB at 23Ω and my laptop at 71Ω.

[elfary]

This thread is really interesting for me.

As a user of an iPod Classic 7G (MC297LL) bought in New York back in 2009 now it's being about time to think about the battery. Being in Europe at this time if i go the Apple route they will provide me with new iPod (EU capped). If i go my way i will have to open the iPod and risk the whole unit working condition.

Since i only listen thru multidriver balanced armatures (Westone UM3x and Shure SE420) when i want to do critical listenings i always amp the line out with an iBasso T3 (To get rid of the 5ohms of output impedance of the hp out).

Hence my main concern would be if the line out port is capped. It does not seem likely judging from the rmaa.

My secondary concern would be if from a subjetive point of view is there any QUALITY difference that is audible in the output of the stock 7G versus the Rockboxed 7g.

Since the Westone UM3x are really sensitive i don't think the volume cap will affect me even with soft recordings. And the SE420 at high volumes are not enjoyable from the hp out because the output impedance brings more forward the "already mid forwarded" sound of the SE420 transducers. But if quality is worse then i might go the risky DIY route to replace the battery.

BTW your last iPod Classic loaded RMAA was made with the unit running stock OS or Rockboxed?

Thanks a lot for all your work Skamp. Really appreciated.

This post has been edited by elfary: Dec 14 2012, 11:11

[skamp]

Hence my main concern would be if the line out port is capped. It does not seem likely judging from the rmaa.

My former measurements indicate that it is not.

My secondary concern would be if from a subjetive point of view is there any QUALITY difference that is audible in the output of the stock 7G versus the Rockboxed 7g.

There is none, except for a proper EQ with Rockbox, as opposed to EQ presets on the original firmware, that sometimes induce heavy clipping.

BTW your last iPod Classic loaded RMAA was made with the unit running stock OS or Rockboxed?

Rockboxed.

[elfary]

Hence my main concern would be if the line out port is capped. It does not seem likely judging from the rmaa.

My former measurements indicate that it is not.

My secondary concern would be if from a subjetive point of view is there any QUALITY difference that is audible in the output of the stock 7G versus the Rockboxed 7g.

There is none, except for a proper EQ with Rockbox, as opposed to EQ presets on the original firmware, that sometimes induce heavy clipping.

BTW your last iPod Classic loaded RMAA was made with the unit running stock OS or Rockboxed?

Rockboxed.

Thanks a lot for all the input. I guess i could live quite well with a capped unit.

If you find the time to measure with the current gear the stock output it would be the ice on the cake.

And in any event thanks a lot and merry xmas!

[skamp]

Thanks a lot for all the input. I guess i could live quite well with a capped unit.

To be clear, Rockbox removes the volume limit.

If you find the time to measure with the current gear the stock output it would be the ice on the cake.

I will if I ever switch back to the original firmware again. The only difference is probably just ~6 dB less dynamic range.