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Amplified Audio Output and Headphone Output Level Matching An average increase of +6 dB in devices with combined USB-audio output (where a dedicated headphone audio output isn't available.) Headphone output level automatically detects headphone impedance and sets level accordingly: (1V for 150 ohms.). Note: Increased dB levels vary based on each type of set up. The HELM BOLT DAC/AMP - the High Definition Digital Analog Converter with MQA rendering technology to bring studio quality audio to your phone. Compatible with Android, iOS, MacOS & Windows 10. **iOS requires a Lightning to USB Camera Adapte How does MQA sound? Vocals have presence and clarity, drums and percussion are sharp and impactful, strings have tactile nuance, and mixes that are muddy with conventional streaming become detangled and multidimensional when heard in MQA.
I was pleasantly surprised that it could drive my 25 ohm Ether CX headphone to reasonable level without distortion. Switching to Sennheiser HD650 produce good power and again, no sign of distortion. Quite adequate for on the go job. I also noticed that the EM6L is quite dependent on the source material and the DAC amp connected to it. When I connect it with my Moondrop Moonriver 2 Ti, the mids and trebles are a bit smoother and more forgiving. Whereas with my Fiio Q3, songs with bad recordings or sibilant sounds come through as such. With the Xenns Top, either connected with Moonriver 2 Ti or Fiio Q3, songs with bad recording or sibilant in nature do not sound as bad as they are. DELIVERING MAXIMUM VOLUME +12dB with Near Zero Distortion, Greatly Improving Sound Quality and an Independently Controlled Bass Boost +6dB
Sennheiser 58x Jubilee, Phillips Fidelio X2HR and Meze 12 Classic v2 with replacement foam ear tips DB12 is both THX certified and employs a THX AAA (Achromatic Audio Amplifier). But it does not have a built-in DAC it's strictly for amplification. Claims you may see online that DB12 "improves sound quality" may be overstated. Unless you’re using an under-powered source, it may only tangentially improve the sound quality with the extra volume, but don’t expect significant changes in sound quality or tonality. DB12 is intended to provide a linear 12-decibel gain, and linearity happens to be the wheelhouse of THX’s AAA technology.
I used a variety of headphones during my test period including the Oppo PM2 planar magnetic headphones, B&W PX, and Beyerdynamic Amiron Home; but my comments below will reflect my experience with the Focal Clear and B&W P9 Signature headphones. Due to some interface issues regarding how I measure, I can't run other DAC tests so let's get into power starting with 300 ohm load: Helm Audio currently produces various personal audio products, including planar magnetic headphones, THX and MQA certified portable DACs and amplifiers, wireless IEMs, and accessories. Technical Specifications
I’m impressed. The BOLT offers fantastic build quality, MQA and THX certification, small size, high-power output, and clean and clear sound. What’s not to love? I really enjoyed the BOLT with the Andover Audio PM50 Planar Magnetic headphones (102 dB/mW), the Focal Elear (104db/mW), and the Sennheiser x DROP HD58X (104db/mW). The Hifiman SUNDARA at 94db/mW was a little too much. WORKS WITH Android, iOS, MacOS and Windows 10 via USB-C Input and 3.5mm Headphone Output *iOS requires a Lightning to USB Camera Adapter HELM BOLT should be commended for being closer to organic and natural sounding (despite the lower region coloration). It is so easy for modern Dongles like this to end up overly bright and metallic sounding as observed with HiBy FC3, Zorloo Ztella and Hidizs S3 Pro. HELM BOLT actually reminded me a lot of Audirect BEAM 2S with that warmer timbre PCM 32bit–384khz, MQA, DSD256, SNR: -120db, Power: 1-2 Vrms Adaptive, USB Type-C Male, 3.5mm SE (Microphone: NO)
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