Will the W2 also sound better subjectively? Or is the improvement only to be found in numbers and measurements?
What would improve for me as listener with sensitive IEMs if I changed from the Hidizs S9 to the L&P W2?
Thanks!
Thanks for the great feedback. Exactly what i fear for windows...i might wait a little then (im also on iphone).
What's your take purely from an audio quality standpoint?
So... Subjectively speaking (I insist on subjectively just to avoid crucifixion), it's not perfect, but it is... very good. Neutral a bit mid forward - maybe, detailed, best soundstage depth (3D for some) in dongle department - among : iBasso DC03 and 04, Hidizs S8 and S9, E1DA 9038GS3 and 9038D, L&P W1 and W2. Dynamic, very nice layering. But... If it's very good on IEMs, not the same level on some full sized headphones. I don't own very sensitive IEMs, but I read a lot of feedbacks saying it's dead silent. I was initially very impressed (and still am), but I see myself switching very often to AKM S9 because... the bass texture and and presence (not bloated, not very forward, not bleeding on mids, just thick, natural, and soooo good). In fact it's the only dongle who gives me good bass on (EQed) Hifiman Sundara and 400i 2020. Layering is also very nice on S9, less detailed than W2, and less soundstage depth. I got in Europe AKM S9 for 80€, W2 for 290€ (shipping included). Is W2 3.5 times better than S9 : absolutely not. But still, probably a winner, depending on your tastes and what you're looking for. For now I think keeping S8 - absolute bargain considering the SQ for money (also pretty good bass, very annoying impedance detection and loose volume buttons, worst provided cable ever), AKM S9 (love it), and W2.