Fiio M23: Longer term impressions | David Poe Album upload removed

Fiio M23. My impressions of it after having it for a few months.

Negatives:
Mediocre specs for the price (Android 10, 720p screen, etc)
Some ground hum/noise when listening on IEMs and the device is plugged in to a charger on Desktop Mode
Zero information from Fiio on the alleged update to Android 12
The sound isn't particularly impressive, more competent/good
I don't like the ergonomics nor the size/placement/design of the volume slider

I'll likely sell the Fiio and swap it out for either the ibasso DX180 or DX260.

YouTube removed my upload of the 1997 David Poe Album. A great track to test how an IEM or headphone deals with vocal sibilance is the track "Moon" from this Album.

[iamvovashvets]

Hey, great video! I'm planning to buy either the M11s, M23, or DX180 soon, but it's really difficult to choose one. I'll wait for the video from you, hoping you will review the DX180. I'm very interested in how you'll describe the differences between those models - m23 and dx180.

[thedar]

If your area supports a chance for you to listen to both the DX180 and the DX260 as I have both, only speaking for me, I found the DX260 way to clinical. and Ironically the DX180 sounded (again to me and to each his own) more analog, leaning to a warm neutral ... I just wished I could have listened to both first before buying.. if you can please do.. happy hunting.

[naren.freakc]

I don't see a reason for choosing a Dap over a dongle with a used or older mobile,
Yes, you get media controls, other than that it's not really practical; less battery life, Chonky, older OS, Slow processor etc.

[PetetheSweety]

I'm pretty sure the noise should only appear with chargers that are not proper electrical isolated. I had a tingling feeling on my FiiO BTR metal case when plugged into a charger without good isolation.

[johnthemagnificent]

M23 sounds superb thru my Hi Fi system

[shahkhan]

nice comparison man....is there any trick to use V60 in high impedance mode when using iems?

[theish]

I could rec getting the ibasso dx300 on the used market. Such a great unit. The swappable amp cards will set you back if you end up liking it. Just s lot of fun and versatility.