Stunning DAC Amplifier

Posted by Shane on 5th Jun 2015

Firstly I should say that I ordered this device from SmartImports as the UK version was a) more expensive b)NOT portable as the UK version has no rechargeable battery!

William was extremely helpful in reassuring me that I wouldn’t fall foul of EU regulations and explaining the export process. In fact I received the item about a week after ordering and at £100 less than it would have cost in the UK – even after import and VAT duties.

Now – the device.

This oozes quality, build, weight, feel , all point to a premium product (which it should be for the price – UK or Japan!)

I have it paired with a NWZ-ZX1 and MDR-Z7 headphones, which the PHA-3 is specifically made for – that is, you are able to use separate outputs for the left and right headphone speakers.

The sound quality is sublime – admittedly its a Sony signature – which you may, or may not like – but as a 50+ guy with ears starting to fail – I would have to say that this is the first time I have truly heard the difference between HiRes recordings and normal Flacs.

Given time, and the, perhaps mythical, burn-in of both the amp and the new headphones, I feel sure that the sound quality will increase further – it’s already close to the best I’ve ever heard.

One drawback is the the amp does get quite warm – not recommended for use on the beach in the garden during summer months – but since the entire kit cost nearly £1,500 I’m not likely to expose it to anything but very careful, loving care.

Finally – if you’re in the UK or Europe and wanted one of these beauties _ I thoroughly recommend both the amp and SmartImports. I’m sure I’ll be shopping here again once my bank balance has recovered.