Audiophilepure

FiiO deserves commendation for its distinct design language, especially when it comes to its monitors. The FH19, in particular, stands out with its unique aesthetic, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate a natural and visually appealing design. That said, I find the FH9’s design to be sleeker and more refined.

https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1873-hegel-music-systems-h400-streaming-integrated-amplifier

Hegel says the most significant improvement the H400 has over its predecessor is precisely that new digital front end. It uses the same ESS ES9038Q2M converter employed by the H600, though the implementation is different. The new DAC, Hegel claims, offers better resolution and fluidity compared to the AKM AK4493SEQ DAC used in the H390.

Like the H390, the H400 offers more digital inputs than analog ones. These include two coaxial (RCA and BNC) and three optical (TosLink) S/PDIF inputs, a USB port, and an ethernet port. The optical inputs accept PCM audio up to 24-bit/96kHz, the coaxial and ethernet inputs can handle up to 24/192 PCM as well as DSD64 (DoP). The USB input accepts 32/384 PCM data and DSD256 (DoP). The H400 can also play MQA 8X (352.8kHz/384kHz). A single coaxial (BNC) S/PDIF digital output that delivers data at 24/192 is available for those wishing to bypass the built-in DAC altogether. The H400’s digital inputs, except for the USB one, are capable of input sensing, which allows the amplifier to automatically switch to the active source when an audio signal is detected.

The H400 offers the same suite of digital inputs as the H600 does, specified at the same bit depth and sample rate. The two amplifiers differ on the analog front, however: the H400 has one balanced (XLR) and two unbalanced (RCA) inputs, whereas the H600 offers two of each. The H400 also has a pair of unbalanced (RCA) outputs, one fixed and one variable, which are said to have greater gain than those of the H390.

Total isolation in the NARUKAMI ATH-AWKG is not up to other closed designs. Leakage at different levels makes it a more open session. Still, looking at that flaw, the transducer impressed me so much during my listening session with the sheer power of the dCS system, which showcased musicality beyond reproach. The NARAKUMI never felt overmatched and was synergistic.

$4,200 is on par with other top-tier designs. Suppose you’re looking for a transducer of the highest quality that will deliver endless hours of stress-free musicality. In that case, the NARAKUNMI provides everything you want in a high-end headphone with musicality and endless treble and bass extension while recreating the performance music lovers crave. At the same time, it is not that expensive, the NARAKUMI is a winner that will give you a listening experience every time you put it on. Highest Recommendation.