Disclaimer: Cypherlabs isn’t a site partner but they were so kind to send us a review sample as soon as the unit was available. Mike does sell Cypherlabs in his store.
I was really excited when I learned that the American Cypher Labs was releasing a new unit. We’ve been big fans of the Cypher Labs products from the start and we’ve reviewed them all (Solo, -db & R).
Intro
Cypher Labs, for those who don’t know yet, makes devices that extract digital data from your (i)device so you can bypass the internal (limited) DAC part of your player. The original SOLO could only be used with iDevices and then later they launched the –R (refreshed, new DAC chip) and the -dB that could also be used with your pc. In the past Cypher Labs had a partnership with ALO Audio that made the amps to go with the units. For some reason both companies went their own way and so Cypher Labs decided to make a new unit, the Theorem 720 DAC.
The Unit In General
The new Theorem goes one step further. Not only is it a portable DAC but it also has an amplifier built in just like the competition from Sony PHA-1, Centrance Hifi-M8, Vmoda Vamp/Verza and Fostex HP-P1. But that’s not all: the Theorem can be used with iDevices, pc, Mac and Android devices: one unit to rule them all! The new unit uses the same DAC chip as the –R and –dB, the AKM 24 bit DAC model 4396. The built in amplifier, unlike the Centrance Hifi-M8, doesn’t have any sound toggles and only offers a Low-Medium and High gain setting.
The Theorem weighs 0.3 kg and measures 120 (136 with the volume knob) x 29 x 64 mm, making it the biggest Cypher Labs unit yet but overall you will be carrying a smaller stack as before because you won’t need an external amp anymore. One of the most eye catching features of the Theorem is its battery life. A full recharge takes 3.5 hours but it will last 18(!) hours when using an iDevice, because it charges them, and even more(!!) with Android, Mac and PC. You can use the unit whilst charging but the only downside is you will always need the Cypher Labs charger as the unit does not charge through USB. Oh, and the charger is US only, so you will need an adapter (something I feel should have been included for the price).
The Theorem has a balanced + Single Ended output for your headphones and has a Line-Out in case you want to use the DAC with an external (desktop) amp. The volume button/power switch is pretty big but it is smooth and has a great feel to it with lots of grip. Right next to it is the mini-usb connection which sometimes, depending on the cable you use, makes it not that comfortable to change the volume.
The Cypher Labs Theorem 720 comes with a full load of accessories: a low profile USB-mini-A sync cable with right angle connectors, a USB A to USB mini-B cable (for computer), an 8pin to USB mini-A cable, a small USB female A to USB male mini-A adapter and a USB micro to USB mini-B cable (for Android). You’ll have all the cables you need to get started immediately, no need to wait for your aftermarket cable! Next to that they also included the famous Cypher Labs straps to bundle devices for travel and an embossed leather pad to protect devices when bundled. Phew, that’s a lot!
Build quality, as usual, is top notch and it feels pretty solid. While charging the unit can get warm, especially when in use but it’s nothing to worry about at all.
The Unit’s Dac Part
Like I mentioned the DAC chip used is still the AKM 4396 and it sounds even better than the Wolfson one in the original CLAS. The AKM limits iDevices to 16/48 and delivers 24/192 from Pc, Mac and Android. The USB implementation is Asynchronous and to use it on your pc you will need to install a driver you can download from the Cypher Labs website. The DAC chip itself recognizes what source you’re using so no worries there.
I’m a big fan of the CL DAC sound and while I won’t go into too much detail again on how the DAC sounds (check the –dB & -R reviews linked above) I can only applaud it again. You get a whole lot of detail, a large sound stage and the clarity is enormous. Combined with the fact that it is revealing and always stays musical and not dry or analytical makes it a winning combination to my ears.
It’s so good in fact that I, besides on the go, have even been using the Theorem as a full sized DAC at home combined with my desktop amplifiers. Of course it isn’t at the level of say the Rein X3 or Violectric V800 but it is damn close. While the Fiio X3 is a good portable player I keep going back to the iPod + CLAS setup for on the go: the quality just is so good and hard to beat. (Check our portable player discussion as well)
The Unit’s Amp Part
I’m not really sure what internals have been used for the amplifier part and I haven’t opened up the box either to check that out, it looks to be some sort of secret for now I guess, just like the Wolfson DAC chip was a secret in the original CLAS SOLO.
The Theorem 720 offers you not two but three gain stages making it ideal for all kinds of headphones. Except for the LCD-2 and the HE-500 for which I used Medium gain (yes it drives them perfectly) I used Low gain for all my other headphones I’ve been using recently. Power wise the Theorem delivers 205mW@32Ω, 320mW@50Ω, 68mW@300Ω and 34mW@600Ω and so it doesn’t dethrone the Hifi-M8 but the Theorem has all the power you need. So how does the biggest new feature of the Theorem, the amp, sound?
The main characteristic of the amplifier is its neutrality from top to bottom. It doesn’t color the sound anywhere in anyway and it has a good sound stage, it is very spacious and airy. You get a very clear and detailed sound on a very black background. The Theorem doesn’t have warm sound but it is very musical. You don’t have any “sound settings” on this unit like the Hifi-M8 has and I can image some people finding it to lack a little bass. Bass is nicely detailed and tight but it doesn’t have the most body. Overall a very coherent sound that isn’t fatiguing and that lets you hear everything there is to hear.
A maybe negative point of the Theorem’s amplification part is that it was developed for over the ear, full size headphones and that in my case unfortunately results in hissing when using sensitive IEMs. It’s something you have to keep into mind when you’re looking for a HiFi DAC/Amp combo. Whenever I use it with my Cosmic Ears BA4F (review soon) I combine it with either the JDSLabs C421/C5 or the iBasso D-Zero. So yes, you’ll still be carrying around a 3-way stack if that’s the way you want to go. Mike’s unit doesn’t seem to make any noise with sensitive IEMs which is a good thing, maybe my unit is a pre-production unit although I have seen other mentions of the hiss.
Conclusion
The DAC part of the Theorem is absolutely wonderful and it has been completed with a very good sounding neutral amplifier and all that in one gorgeous looking unit made out of quality aluminum. Unless I’m not planning on using my IEMs, I’m only taking the Theorem with me, the combo is that good to leave the rest at home, but even at home I really love it with the Audez’e LCD-2.
Prices of these types of units are on the higher side and the Cypher Labs Theorem is no different. It costs $899 which is a lot of money but you get a great portable DAC/Amp combo that works with pc, Android, Mac and iDevices. It’s worth its price to me.
Mike’s Impression + pictures are on the next page
Steven
Always like the tag-team reviews, hope you can bring it back for HiFi-M8
I think taking the external amping question further, if you are going to external amp more often than not then there are far wiser ways to spend money! This should only be a primary consideration if you want the all-in-one solution
My imo. Portable audio pricing increasingly trending upwards has hurt my brain :p
Mike
I don’t know if I’m going to do a formal review of the M8? To be honest I didn’t quite like the sound when I heard it and I’ve expressed that on my first impression article. It had the technicalities but I didn’t think that the musicality aspect works, at least for me.
http://www.headfonia.com/centrance-m8-lx-brief-impression/
TRUE on the external amp, though nonetheless I do think that some people would still ask questions, if only out of curiosity, so it would be good to talk about that aspect briefly. Still this is the one box portable DAC/Amp that I’d go for right now. It’s so good in my opinion that the ADL X1 (I sell those too) is almost getting no love.
Agree on the pricing as well. That seems to be the trend of the headphone industry these days though. A bubble in the headphone industry is building up?
Steven
Would actually be saving up for the Theorem if there was balanced line-output also, making it the COMPLETE solution :p
Will see what audio world looks like after RMAF / Canjam 2013!!
Mike
Yes I wonder why no balanced line out. That should be an easy addition.
Patrick
Hi,
I just bought a Theorem 720 in an attempt to put an end to my search for THE portable player. I am wondering if I should go with android or Ipod as a source for it. I’d love to listen to high resolution files and that means I should go with android but I don’t know which player to choose.
Any suggestion?
Thanks a lot!
Mike
The Ipod is more reliable.
Have tried it with a few different Androids, it seem they all need an additional software to work.
thibault
Hi,
Does the Theorem 720 work with all ipod classic gen ?
L.
It works with the Classic 160GB (2009)
Patrick
Hi guys,
I’m looking for headphones to pair with my theorem. I have 500$ to spend. Any suggestions? I listen to jazz, fusion and classic rock.
Thanks in advance!
dalethorn
I ordered the new closed Shure 1540 without any info at all, and I expect it to be good – Shure made a point that the 1540 will actually have bass, where the 1840 was weak.
I also use the B&O H6 (new green color) and the B&W P7 – both excellent sounds.
dalethorn
I ordered the new closed Shure 1540 without any info at all, and I expect it to be good – Shure made a point that the 1540 will actually have bass, where the 1840 was weak.
I also use the B&O H6 (new green color) and the B&W P7 – both excellent sounds.
L.
Thanks Steven, we didn’t really plan a double review this time but it just happened.
I listened to the M8 before and while is has a fuller body and leaner bass, I couldn’t say the sound quality of the M8 could reach the Theorem’s quality, neither DAC or Amp
George Lai
Great review guys. One great feature it has retained from the CLAS is the immense battery life, which is a huge plus over the M8. I can live with the hiss on IEMs since I don’t use IEMs though as stated by the first poster, Steven, the price is too high, especially since I don’t intend to use the Android part. An interesting addition to the market nonetheless.
Mike
I edited my part on the impression with sensitive IEMs.
L.
Interesting to see you also found an iem that hisses. It’s such a shame really, the Theorem could have been perfect but now it loses some points
L.
thanks George. I always found the CLAS battery life to be to short. I agree that if you just need the idevice part, it’s rather expensive. But for someone like me I love the possibility to switch from iDevice to pc to … 🙂
George Lai
CLAS battery life short? Do you mean the original one? I thought it was on par with my CLAS-R.
L.
Well it’s not short, but it always died on me on the train during the week. This Theorem can last me a full week. How awesome is that!
George Lai
It’s a sign, Lieven, that it’s time to replace your Solo v1. At least that’s the theory, or theorem!
L.
I’ve got both now, but I think I’ll be keeping the SOLO for a second portable rig.
Hi, my name is Lieven, and I’m an audio gear addict…
😉
George Lai
Audioholics Anonymous.
L.
If only I had the time to start that, I’d make lot’s of money from all the subscription fees 😀 Get them hooked here and treat them in AA later 😉
L.
And thanks George! In enjoyed writing it too, it’s always easier if you love the unit.
Anthony
Hi Mike
I have been looking for a dac+amp upgrade to replace my HP-P1. How will you compare the two in terms of sound quality? Will the Theorem be a step up ?
Thanks Mike
Mike
Overall yes. Sound signature is a bit different, the Fostex more mid oriented with softer bass and treble. The Theorem more lively more dynamic.
Amp is more powerful on the Theorem.
Technicalities also better on the Theorem.
Anthony
Thanks Mike. The extra power and dynamic sound signature is exactly what I want in the new dac+amp. Will check out the Theorem tonight. Thanks for the review once again. You are the best
Mike
You’re welcome and thanks!
Johan De Spiegeleer
Mike,
Possible hiss with sennheiser ie800?
Thanks
L.
Headfonics reported NO hiss with the IE800. Lovely iem too!
headfonics
Oh I actually only reported no hiss with UM Merlins but hiss with Audiofly IEM’s – Merlins are rated 108db and Audiofly 118db. Sadly never tested an IE800 on the 720.
L.
Really? Where did I read that then, hmm. Thanks for dropping by!
headfonics
I think we should collect db ratings and types of drivers to get a better idea of what hisses and what does not – my initial theory of a DB ceiling could be blown out of the water easily if someone said a 108db or less hisses.
Mike
No hiss with the IE800. Small hiss with my 1964 V6S
Audi Ar
‘hmm more lively more dynamic’
maybe from this description , it would be great for rock music mike ?
Mike
It’s awesome for Rock.
Audi Ar
thx for the answer mike 😀
Mike
You’re welcome. 🙂
Ahmad Parapat
Honestly, sometimes i don’t want to read this web. because make me curious and want to do more and more experiment with some audio device and software. and since your suggestion always work for me, its really make me more interested and enjoyed this hobby even my wife screaming if see the device price, 😀
Good Jobs Mike and Lieven, nice review..
L.
Thank you Ahmad!
John Clare
Yes, thanks a lot Mike and Lieven. Now I have another bill to hide from my wife. Grrrr…
Mike
Haha you’re welcome John
John Clare
Just got it today. Going from original solo + national + Beyer DT770 AE to this with the same cans is a nice upgrade. The charging of my ipod and included cables are great.
Mike
Good to hear that John. 🙂
Ahmad Parapat
how its pairing with Beyer DT770 AE ? i am very curious. cause i want to sell my matrix mini portable and change its to theorem since its working with idevice.
George Lai
I scan my bills.
George Lai
Just to pick up on Lieven’s point, I think the charger, which Cypher Labs has confirmed is identical to that which came with the Solo-R, is already commensurately small. Witness the ginormous brick of a power adapter that comes with the Centrance M8. The fact that it has the US 2-pin power plug keeps it small as you’ll probably want to bring along a multi-plug adapter anyway when you travel – to charge your other USB devices, iDevices, etc. So, small charger huge battery life versus big charger short battery life? I know which I’d take.
L.
If only it came with a EU plug 😉
L.
The more I listen to the Theorem, the more I love it. The amp part really grows on you, it’s wonderful
George Lai
Time to re-do the household budget, Lieven. Again.
Johan De Spiegeleer
Lieven,Mike
Which option gives best s.q. with sennheiser ie 800 andhd 650 and if connecting to analog classé amp(hifi installation)
1/ i pod classic +theorem
2/astell&kern 120+ ie800 or hd650
3/i pod classic+soloR/alo national
4/i pod classic+continental
Much hear difference between 16bit/44 ( i pod) and 24bit/96 (a&k120) ?
For upgrading buy the theorem for existing i pod or buy a&k 120?
Thanks
Mike
Hi Johan,
The difference is not so much on the bit rate 16/44 to 24/193 but more on the quality of the encoding..you’ll be surprised how much of a difference digital to analog conversion makes.
Since you’ll be driving the sennheisers directly, I suggest going with the theorem.
Eli Segal
Hi,
Today I’m using iPod Classic with SR-71A amp and I really enjoy this setup, would the Theorem be a big step up for me?
Or should I go with a high end player?
Thanks,
Eli
Mike
Hi Eli, yes its a big step up. The Theorem IS a high end player
L.
That might seem easy said, but the SQ really is high end and the device is much better then a lot of desktop devices. Hence the high price.
Patrick
Hi Mike,
What is the best choice of headphones to pair with the Theorem? HD-650, HE-500 or LCD-2?
Thanks a lot!
Mike
The LCD2 and HD650 are good. I haven’t tried the HE500
Patrick
Hi Mike,
Do you think a good dac can equal the quality of a good turntable?
It’s a hot debate and i’d love to know your opinion about it.
Thanks a lot!
Mike
Never equal.
The question with turntable is:
1. Finding the music you listen to on Vinyl.
2. Not being able to take it outside the home.
3. Heavy maintenance required, keeping everything clean and dust free, etc.
Now dollar to dollar sound quality, I think the digital source is naturally more resolving and more detailed. A $1K turntable (+phono stage) really is nowhere as detailed as say a $1K DAC. You need some $20K turntable to really get the micro details. However with turntable you do hear that analog sound, even with a $300 turntable which a $3K digital source still doesn’t reproduce well.
A $20K turntable set up however blows any digital set up I’ve heard even the dCS set up.
Patrick
Can you hear a difference between a 16/44 vinyl rip and the same rip at 24/192?
Mike
I’ve never done a vinyl rip, but I think with Vinyl it’s not so much about depth and sample rates. The problem has always been more on the noise, click and pops.
Mike
Never equal.
The question with turntable is:
1. Finding the music you listen to on Vinyl.
2. Not being able to take it outside the home.
3. Heavy maintenance required, keeping everything clean and dust free, etc.
Now dollar to dollar sound quality, I think the digital source is naturally more resolving and more detailed. A $1K turntable (+phono stage) really is nowhere as detailed as say a $1K DAC. You need some $20K turntable to really get the micro details. However with turntable you do hear that analog sound, even with a $300 turntable which a $3K digital source still doesn’t reproduce well.
A $20K turntable set up however blows any digital set up I’ve heard even the dCS set up.
L.
LCD-2 does really good with the Theorem. HE-500 is ok, but nothing extraordinary. I haven’t tried the HD650 yet but I should. The HE-400 is also very nice with the Theorem
George Lai
Dang. I’ve got those headphones that pair well but no Theorem.
L.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/685535/fs-cypher-labs-theorem-720-dac
Or buy it new from a Cypherlabs dealer!
Patrick
The HE-400 and the LCD-2 are at the same level with the Theorem?
Wow!
L.
No one said that Patrick.
Patrick
So I should go with the LCD-2 then 🙂
Mike
Or the LCD-X which is where the new hype is going.
And it really is good. I definitely prefer the X over the 2. EXCEPT my first gen LCD-2 which I think is badass. 😉
Likewise the X sounds better than the 3 on some set ups. Amazing.
Review coming up
John123John
aw yeah!
L.
I doubt I’ll prefer it over my awesome LCD2.1
George Lai
Especially not after giving them new ear pads and headband.
L.
I had a good teacher! 😉
Eli Segal
How would AK100/X3+SR-71A combo compares with iPod+Theorem?
I really like the sound of the SR71A and I’m worried about the hissing
Mike
It should be comparable but well the sound is different. I think I’d go for the Theorem rather than the AK100+71A. The Fiio X3 is not as resolving as the AK100 or Theorem DAC.
Johan De Spiegeleer
Mike, the i pod classic(7 gen) can take max 24/48 resolution .Can the theorem handle the 24bit/48 music from i pod classic and play’s in that resolution?
Thanks
Mike
Hi Johan,
Sorry I really haven’t tried the classic on 24/48. Are you sure it does 24/48 (the classic)? I’ve always thought it’s 16/48.
Johan De Spiegeleer
Yes Mike, i tried it and it’s possible When playing I pod you hear the difference with same music in 16/48 I think it take’s and play’s 24/48
Johan De Spiegeleer
I forgot to mention in form alac
Mike
Okay thanks!
Eli Segal
Did you guys noticed any imbalance issues in low levels?
L.
Yes, when paired with a head or earphone that only needs a small turn on the dial unfortunately
Johanes a.f
Hy L. How about sensitive iems pluged to balanced output? Is it still hissing?
L.
I wish I could test that for you but I don’t have balance iems
dalethorn
Is the gain set to Low?
Sergio Capoeira Acanne
Hi!!! Thanks for the review. And what do you recommend headphones for Theorems, full and closed. In the price range – without restrictions and to $ 1000?
L.
LCD-2 does really good on the Theorem, really nice combo. I have a feeling it does great with the Alpha Dog too. Those are my 2 top pics for closed and open, both orthos
Sergio Capoeira Acanne
Thanks for the reply, I have already booked headphones Final Audio Design Pandora Hope VI.
Do you think there will be no problems?
L.
I wasn’t too blown away with them, never tried them on the Theorem though
L.
I was listening to the Theorem yesterday in balanced mode with the Inear StageDIver 2 and it was really good. The sound between balanced and non balanced isn’t that different imo, but I only listened for 10 minutes or so
Minh Hoang Nguyen
Hi Lieven and Mike ! My Theorem has just arrived. I’m so happy by how the sound it is! I think it need to burn some days for sounding better. Now i use Senn HD580 and ATH-AD900 with it. My question is that does it can drive Beyer T1 and how the sound if Theorem pair with T1 because i’m intend to buy T1 next month! Thanks and best regards !
L.
I’m afraid I don’t have a T1 one but it does very nice with the T90. It’s a great unit, I’m sure it will handle the T1 just fine.
Zeppie
Hi! Just want to know your thoughts. Which is better, a stand alone theorem or solo -dB + Duet combo pairing it with an ipod classic 7th gen. Hope to here from you guys..
L.
Hi Zeppie, both are good but it depends what headphone you will be using with it. For IEMs go Duet.
Zeppie
Hi L! Thanks for thr feedback. Hmm ill be just using a pair of VModa m100 and a pair of iem for now. But then im planning to get an LCD-XS soon and ill be using either of the setup and im thinking which setup will be giving my headphones more quality music.
L.
They’re both very good. You certainly can’t go wrong with the SOLO + DUET in that case, but it is the more expensive option + it is a double/tripple stack.
Zeppie
3 stack rig is not a problem and about the budget maybe i can stretch it out as long i can be happy with both headphones that i will be using for the long run.. If i were to ask you L, do you have any suggestion to be paired with a SOLO? I’ve read your review on the Duet and just wanted to ask, did you pair it with the Solo original or with a -dB? Because we know we cant go balance using a Solo original + duet. Please correct me if im wrong..
L.
I used a SOLO, so no balanced. I don’t find the Duet to sound that different in balanced mode anyway. You can get a SOLO second hand cheap these days too.
Zeppie
Ow really? For real? There is no difference? But what is the advantage and disadvantage of both CLAS? Im already thinking getting a Solo original but i thought if i do full balance it give more good SQ..
L.
I didn’t say there was no difference but not a lot. balanced helps prevent channel imbalance. If you can afford a -dB, then I would go for that one, that leaves you the option on SE or balanced. Combined with the Duet you can’t go wrong for IEMs or Full sized headphones
George Lai
I’m not even sure my left and right ears are channel-balanced!
L.
Mine aren’t, that’s for sure
Zeppie
Ahh.. Ok i got it.. Maybe i can give it a try both first to hear.. Thank you so much Lieven! So much help! I guess even i get whatever of the 2,it will be still good! Thank you so much!
Zeppie
One thing, is it still advisable if i get the -db if I will not be using its balance out? Coz like my headphone vmoda m100, ill be just using the SE..
L.
The big advantage of the -dB is that it can be used as a PC dac as well
Zeppie
Ahhh.. Ok now thats a big advantage that can be useful.. Thank you so much L!
L.
Let us know what you finally got?
Zeppie
Sure ill let you guys know!
Sergio Capoeira Acanne
Hi , I have a pair of headphones and Theorem : Pandora Hope VI and Sennheiser HD -700 . David from Cypherlabs I wrote that Duet + Solo and the Theorem is very similar in quality , I read somewhere that some options are a little better at the Еheorems and some in Solo+Duet
I can only say , very good product Theorem, the main thing now find good headphones.
My Pandora are 8 ohms and there is a small noise.
Headphones HD-700 hav e 150Om, and there is no noise (well, there is almost no ))) . David told me headphones with low resistance can have a small X + Solo noise.
The advantage is that having separate X and separately Solo you can combine it with other products , such as I want to buy headpower from STAX SRM -002 , and I could use it with Solo ( and it is lighter and smaller than the Theorem ) .
Disadvantage that it will be necessary to carry chargers for X and Solo, and together they are heavier more than Theorem.
L.
Thanks Sergio
Zeppie
Wow! Thanks for the very detailed feedback! I was really thinking what to get.. Thanks for this.
Sergio Capoeira Acanne
We must help each other, to our money we got, what we really need))))
Zeppie
Yes sergio thats also my worries.. I wanted to spend wisely that will cover all my needs.. :))
Tibor
Hi! How would you compare it to Alo Audio International+ ? I am looking for a portable setup, I tried Fiio X5, but didn´t like the sound compared to my Meridian Explorer. I assume that both International+ and Theorem 720 are on another level than Explorer (and Fiio of course), right? Thank you for your answer 🙂
Nathalie
Hello H-men !
I’d like to buy a portable setup to listen baroque music in my bed.
It must be able to driver full size headphones : I own HD650, HD700 and will probably buy high impedance headphones in the future.
I thought the Theorem would be a nice solution for my needs, after reading your article and your comments.
Now, I have to choose a DAP to orchestrate things. It must be able to run a Qobuz app (so Android or iDevice) as I have a subscription to this Hi-Res music service.
We have a Sony NWZ-ZX1 at home (but saddly, it’s not mine). I do like it (it’s unable to drive my phones alone, of course, except the low impedance ones, like Fidelio L2, Custome One Pro …).
My question : as the Theorem includes its own DAC, does it matter if I buy an expensive DAP like the NWZ-ZX1, or will the inferior Sony F887 be enough ? Will it change the sound out of the theorem if it’s only used as an interface ?
And if I may : do the Sony have an edge over iDevice ? (output quality, Hi-Res files capacities, or in matter of synergy with the Theorem)
Thank you very much for your help ! I keep on discovering a new world through Headphonia, and I do appreciate the time you spend helping new hears like mine to find acoustic happiness.
It’s always a great pleasure to read you !
P.S : If you have other suggestions for my bed setup, please feel free to let me know.
dalethorn
I don’t generally look for the highest fidelity for bed listening, since the tonality laying down isn’t the same for me as when sitting up. I have several large and small headphones, and they all sound a little bit different when laying down. I do want good quality sound, but for bed use I could get by with any device that runs the app, and then just add the Theorem or comparable DAC.
Nathalie
Thank you for your answer.
After listening to the ZX1 a few nights, I think I’m pretty happy with the way it sounds. So, This is what I’m considering now :
-ZX1 + Alo The International
-F886+Cypher Labs Theorem 720
-Ipod Touch+ Cypher Labs Theorem 720
Or, as I will probably buy Oppo HA-1 very soon, just choose the cheapest alternative and try iBasso DX90, see how it drives my headphones.
As a beginner, it’s hard to choose with very few points of comparison, but the steps before buying are interesting.
dalethorn
Those are a lot of very different choices. I had the little ALO Island for a while and I think it’s a very good amp, so the International should be even better. But in any case, I recommend to keep things simple as possible – complex systems with multi-components work well only on the desktop. iPod Touch with 720 sounds ideal, or just a good DAP from AK or HiFiMan. I think you will see if you have the chance to test 2 or 3 different *systems* that they each have their own unique sound. It’s unavoidable, and so I have learned to just enjoy each as much as I can.
Nat PML
You were right, I’m trapped : I bought the Oppo HA-1 for my desktop, with ESS 9018. I love it : I hate harshness, so I was worried a Sabre DAC would not suit me, but Oppo’s version is very musical, and soft.
So I bought DX90 for bedtime. I think it’s very good, very detailed and clear, a great value for the price, I like the very simple UI too, but this time, it’s just too harsh for me, I’m very sensitive to trebles.
It made me understand the importance of the DAC chip implementation.
It also made me feel like “tasting” many sounds, as every system is different, like you said.
I now want to find something really satisfying.
Bought 2 portable amps (Fostex HP-V1-made me want to get a desktop tube amp), and ALO the National, and I couldn’t believe my ears : the differences brought by an amp !
So … I think I’m trapped. Curiosity is here, probably for long, I now want to try some good implementations of the best DAC chips to know which sound is for me, and get a few good amps. I blame Heafonia 😉
More seriously, I actually thank Heafonia, and friendly users like you, because it’s a marvelous trip.
So I’m back to the Theorem ! I’m thing about replacing the DX90 by Hifiman HM-802 (seems great for voices, and should please me more, as I’m looking for something darker, and analog) but I will probably buy an ipod soon, because I need the online streaming services.
I wonder if someone has been able to compare the 720’s sound to the Fostex HP-A8′. Are there any similarities ? One of them will introduce me to AKM chips.
dalethorn
Just read a lot is my recommendation, because sometimes the jump to a new chipset isn’t as simple as the chip comparisons – the implementation sometimes adds more components and the sound isn’t what you expect. Usually the simplest amps are smaller and less powerful, so not always the best choice. But given what you’ve explored so far, I’m thinking separate DACs and amps are a better way to go, so you know what the amp is doing separate from the DAC. Or for the combination DAC/amps you have now, try running the DAC into a different amp. I am always surprised how many obviously different sounds I find that way.
Sergio Mejia
Hello, help me with this questions please: I listen to rock and hard rock and I plan to buy the senn HD700, which is more convenient Bottlehead Crack + ¿economic dac or amp / dac (eg Theorem 720 Cypher Labs DAC)?
The music I listen through a Dell laptop.
Thanks for your comments
Headfonia_L.
Crack + DAc for Sennheiser
Sergio Mejia
Do you think the Senn HD700 are great for listening to rock and roll?
Headfonia_L.
They wouldn’t be my first choice for rock. I’d go for an LCD2 but the HD700 is a GREAT headphone. For rock maybe look into the HD600 and HD650. Most prefer the 600 for rock, I prefer the 650
Sergio Mejia
What economic DAC you recommend it without sound quality is lost with Bottlehead Crack and the HD700?
Headfonia_L.
StonerAccoustics, Fiio, Resonessence, ALO, etc…
Faisal` .
Would love to see a head-to-head comparison between this portable DAC/AMP, Chord Hugo and iFi Micro iDSD. Tried the Audeze lineup along with Hifiman HE-560, 500, Sennheiser HD-800 and the Fostex TH-900 first time ever. For me it was down to LCD-XC and the TH-900 as I am more into electronic music and some classic as well. TH-900 faired best for me with some amazing deep bass impact and vastness of the sound for a closed back, a notch better than the LCD-XC. The seal and seating of the XC were significantly better though. I am thinking of going for the TH-900 and will be needing an excellent portable DAC/AMP combo to pair it with my Note 3/4 android phone. Theorem 720 and Micro iDSD are considerably cheaper than Hugo and it remains to be seen how these three compare with each other. Would love to hear others’ experiences, opinions and suggestions on these especially if someone use them to drive their TH -900 with them.
Headfonia_L.
I have the Theorem, and will do a Hugo and ifi review over th next few months. I have listened to all 3 and they are all great
to me Hugo>theorem>Ifi
Faisal` .
Hugo> Theorem> Ifi … This seems to be going in descending order based on the prices of these units. Hugo sounds to be outrageously expensive. I will look forward to your review and comparison of these. For now, what would be your pick of these for pure musical pleasure with closed back headphones (such as LCD-XC or TH-900) if we put the technical accuracies, neutrality and price aside for a while ?
Thanks.
Headfonia_L.
The Theorem 720, awesome all in one unit
José Julio Cuairán
Why do you prefer the Theorem 720 about the iFi Micro iDSD? What is superior in Cypher Labs model?
Headfonia_L.
Musicality, smoothness and timbre
Dave Ulrich
Wish I had a 720 handy.
socks mk2
Opinions on using the cypher labs theorem 720 ($699) to power my Fidelio X2’s and powered monitors coming from a schiit modi+asgard 2? I think it will satisfy my needs albeit at the expense of losing an active pre-amp. I can use my schiit sys for volume control on my powered monitors since the 720 can’t do it native. I would be using the 720 almost exclusively as a desktop setup. Potential future headphone purchases include the LCD-2/2.2F and HE-560 if that helps.
My 720 setup would look something like:
PC -> USB -> 720 headphone out -> X2.
PC -> USB ->720 line out -> 3.5mm M to 2x RCA Y-splitter -> schiit sys (passive pre-amp) -> powered monitors.
Alternatively, I’m looking at the violectric v100 w/ built-in DAC ($1000). Do you think the v100 would outperform the 720 enough to be worth spending an extra $300? $1000 is really stretching my budget already, but if there is something clearly better at a price that is just slightly higher I would consider saving up a little more. Please let me know what you think. Thank you in advance.
dalethorn
I can’t say about the amps. The advice you’d get from the reviews here would likely be based on simple configurations. Some of what you describe has a lot of cable connections, and that tends to erase some of the quality you’re paying for. I would use a switchbox or splitter to run certain tests, but not for critical listening. My opinion is, whatever you buy, connect it as directly as you can and with the shortest best-quality interconnects you can get.
socks mk2
Thanks for the tip. The v100 w/ built-in dac would be an all-in-one without anything else required.
My v100 w/ dac setup would look like this:
PC -> USB -> v100 -> X2 or Powered Monitors.
That is definitely more direct and with less connections. Maybe I’ll be able to justify the extra expense. If I didn’t have speakers, both would be connected identically. A used v100 or v200 w/ built-in dac would be great for me, but coming across one for sale is going to be a challenge.
ro
I have read L’s comments regarding the Theorem matching well with planars, and I can at least confirm it’s fantastic paired with the LCD-X. I’m sure other amps are able to achieve slightly more powerful low frequency performance, but when taken as a whole from top to bottom, it doesn’t make me regret the (ridiculously) steep price of the LCD-X.
Also, in case anyone else is using the Theorem with an iPad Air, just a tip – charge the iPad to 100% and then use with the Theorem which will then just provide a trickle charge. Otherwise the Theorem will struggle to charge a device that it really can’t provide enough juice for and will end up heating up and having its battery drained rather quickly.
Ant
Hey doods, great review! I really dig your reviews. The atmosphere of this website is very honest but also fun! i have a theorem 720 which i really enjoy and im thinking about adding a pico slim for iems. I was wondering if anyone can compare the sound of the pico slim ti the 720. Other then the hiss, are there any significant differences? Thanks!
Headfonia_L.
Thanks. I’m not that familiar with the slim, I listened to it a long time ago
Ant
Hey thanks for the reply.
Johan De Spiegeleer
Hello,What’s difference sound quality se or balanced connection(mini xlr) with sennheiser hd 650. Stock cable or sennheiser balanced cable ch 650 s(+adaptor kobiconn)?Thanks
Headfonia_L.
In general balanced gives you more detail, depth and a more spacious sound with a larger sound stage. Body and impact (bass and mids) usually gets less
alexander
Hello, H-man
I just wonder how does it sound compare to the Lisa 3 amp
alexander
And also which one is batter compare to [ cypher lab algo solo db+ alo rx3b
skarlet syquia
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http://goo.gl/RF0Vdv. Its pretty easy to use. I think you can get a free trial if you ask for it.Yannis
Is Theorem a good amp for T90?
Lieven
Yes, I like it
Yannis
Do I need to modify the T90 cable to use the Theorem balanced output or single ended is just fine? I am looking for an amp to calm the highs down without killing the sound stage. I heard T90 on Crack and didn’t like its somewhat intimate sound stage though everything else was perfect.