Bundle
Inside the box
The iBasso DX220 box is clearly one of the biggest ones you can get when buying a DAP.
So what do we have?
- the iBasso DX220
- the AMP1 MKII amplifier module
- a thick mono jack to Cinch for coaxial output
- the infamous burn-in cable
- screen protection
- a leatherette case
- a Quick Start Guide (omg)
Even if not amazing, the box alone gives this a nice and premium feeling that everyone should crave for. It’s the exact antagonist of the iPhone box.
Modules collections
Like FiiO, iBasso has a full range of amplifier modules. Each one offers a different type of sound, power consumption, and layout. The DX220 comes provided directly with an AMP1 MKII.
If you want to know more, check our iBasso DX150 review where we compile all the existing amplifiers compatible with the DX220/DX200/DX150.
Let’s just talk about the new modules, the AMP1 MKII and AMP9.
AMP1 MKII
The AMP1 MKII is the default amp provided with the iBasso DX220, it offers a complete layout of : 1x 3.5mm headphone output, 1x 2.5mm balanced headphone output, 1x 3.5mm line output.
I didn’t find a big difference compared to the first generation, apart from the glass panel.
Since it’s the default one, I don’t know the price but I’m pretty sure it cost around 149$/€ as a standalone.
AMP9
The AMP9 is the first amplifier module carrying the Nutube vacuum tubes from Korg. Simply said, it makes the iBasso DX220 a tube amplified player such as the Cayin N8. If not powerful, this module should give aficionados the unique sound of tube, with low impedance headphones and earphones.
This module only supports a 3.5mm Single-ended output, so no balanced headphone for you.
Price ? Around 249$/€ which is a bit hefty compared to the other modules.
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fire2368
How would this compare to the SP1000?
John
Comparing to the M11, which a nice player, isn’t in the same range of a player. The DX220 is a TOTL player and with the AMP8 or AMP9 bests my Sony WM1Z.
Shane
Any issues with the Rockchip Soc that people keep moaning about on other forums (shocking, disgraceful for a totl player, etc, etc)
Gary Griffiths
I like the players sound but the battery life is pretty poor. Lovely screen though
Dug Scott
Great sounding player, drives all my headphones and IEMs without any problem. Biggest issue with this player is battery life, I’m struggling to get more than 5 hours playback from a full charge, listening to Tidal offline with wired IEMs, I should be getting 2-3 hours more from a full charge. Seems a common complaint