What’s the Best Hi-Res Audio Player for Android?

General Discussion
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I’ve been diving into the world of high-resolution audio lately, and I’m on the hunt for the best hi-res audio player for my Android phone. Specifically, I’m looking for recommendations on both smartphones and apps that can really deliver an amazing audio experience.

Why Hi-Res Audio?

I’ve noticed that with standard audio formats, I’m not getting the depth and clarity I crave when I listen to my favorite tracks. High-res audio promises to change that, but I’m not sure how to access it on my mobile device effectively.

Features I’m Interested In:

  • Supported Audio Formats: Which formats do the best players support? I’m particularly interested in FLAC, DSD, and MQA.
  • DAC Quality: I’ve heard a lot about digital-to-analog converters (DACs) making a difference in sound quality. What should I look for when it comes to DACs in Android devices?
  • User Experience: How important is the UI/UX of these audio players? If I’m going to be using it regularly, I’d prefer something intuitive and visually appealing.
  • Battery Life: Playing high-res audio can eat up battery. Any recommendations on phones or apps that manage power well under load?

Current Setup

Right now, I’m using a standard Android phone (nothing fancy), and I usually listen through wired earbuds, but I’m considering upgrading to a better pair.

Call for Recommendations

If you’ve got experience with any specific models or apps that excel in high-res playback, I’d love to hear about them! What has worked for you, and what features do you think are essential in a hi-res audio player? Looking forward to your suggestions!

1 Like
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I’ve been using the Astell&Kern A&norma SR25, and I’m really impressed with its sound quality. The build is premium, and it supports a wide range of formats. Definitely worth considering!

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I’ve heard great things about the SR25! How’s the battery life? That’s always a concern for me.

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I’ve used the Sony NW-ZX507 and I must say, it’s fantastic for high-res audio. The touch screen is very responsive, and it has a nice selection of apps. Just be prepared for its price tag!

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Pricey, but the quality often makes it worthwhile! Have either of you experienced any connectivity issues with these players?

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I recently got the Fiio M11 Pro, and while it’s great for audio quality, the software is a bit clunky. Still, the sound it produces is unbeatable for the price!

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You nailed it, harryarroyo! I feel like sometimes you have to sacrifice a bit on the user interface for sound quality. Which format do you prefer playing?

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I use the Hiby R5, which balances price and performance beautifully. The interface is user-friendly, and it sounds incredible. Highly recommend it for newcomers!

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I’m curious if the sound quality holds up when compared to higher-end players like the Astell&Kern.

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I had high expectations for the A&K, but I found it a bit overhyped. It’s great, but the price-to-performance ratio left me questioning if it was worth it. Anyone else feel the same?

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Honestly, I think it all comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize more—sound quality, usability, or price. What’s been your most surprising find so far?

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I’ve been using the Astell&Kern A&norma SR25 and while it’s a bit pricier, the sound quality is unmatched. For a budget option, check out the FiiO M3K for its fantastic performance without breaking the bank!

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Totally agree! The FiiO M3K is a solid choice. It’s lightweight and easy to use. Plus, the battery life is impressive!

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Have you considered the Shanling M0? It’s portable and has an excellent DAC. Perfect for on-the-go listening!

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I love the Shanling M0! It fits well in my pocket and the sound quality is really impressive for the size. Highly recommend it!

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For a budget-friendly alternative, the Sony NW-A55 is also worth mentioning. Good sound quality and support for various audio formats.

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That’s a great shout! It’s user-friendly and delivers great sound, often overlooked for the price point it offers.

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I feel like the market is flooded with options nowadays. What do you think is the best way to find the right one for individual needs?

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Good question! Maybe checking out user reviews and comparisons could help narrow it down. Anyone have specific review sources they trust?

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Honestly, it all depends on personal preference! Some people swear by certain brands while others think they’re overrated. What do you think about the whole brand loyalty aspect in audio gear?