The idea to purchase a Hi-Res audio player Zishan DSD visited my head for a relatively long time. However, neither the appearance nor the price did not have to buy. Time passed, and the price tag on the device literally froze. Well, it would seem - spit and rub. But the results of measurements and the top characteristics of the components used still slowly disturbed my heart and, looking ahead, I will say - not in vain.
CHARACTERISTICS
- DAC: AK4495SEQ
- Amplifiers: OPA2134/OP275 + LME49720 + BUF634
- Format support: DSF, DFF, ISO, WAV, DTS, FLAC, APE, MP3, CUE
- Display: color
- Operating time on a single charge: 8-12 hours (screen off)
- Charging time: 2 hours (current 5 volts 1 amp)
- Battery: 3000mAh
- Input: MicroUSB
- Outputs: 3.5 mm headphone, line, coaxial
- Memory card support: MicroSD (up to 128 GB.)
- USB-DAC mode: asynchronous, up to 48 kHz/16 bit
- Dimensions (L x W x H): Dimensions: 95 x 56 x 22 mm
- Weight: 173 g.
VIDEO VERSION OF THE REVIEW
UNPACKING AND PACKAGING
The player came without any packaging, just wrapped in a "pimple". A cursory glance at the equipment generally has only to fill the nearest trash can with it.
The microUSB cable is too hard and extremely short.
Chinese charging for outdated 5 volts 1 amperes is practically useless, since there are plenty of such houses already, and immediately with a suitable plug.
More or less, you can thank for a memory card for 16 gigabytes of class 10 and a solid card reader.
On the other hand, 16 gigabytes for Hi-Res music is nothing at all.
DESIGN/ERGONOMICS
As a handicraft device, Zishan DSD will not be able to please you with girly glamour. This is a strict male player with a metal case and rattling copper buttons.
And although the weight is only 170 grams, the honed sharp angle will more than replace your self-defense tool in the dark alleys of the city.
The dimensions are the same, the player fits easily into any pocket and is not inclined to pull off your pants even in the hottest time of the year.
On the back of his proud inscription "Zishan DSD".
And from the face - a large color display with excellent brightness and acceptable viewing angles.
The same 5 copper buttons are located under the screen. By the way, according to the comment in the order, the seller can send the device with plastic buttons if this is critical for you.
On the bottom of the Zishan DSD, there is a MicroUSB port for charging and connecting with a digital signal source.
Next to it is an indicator LED.
To the right you can find 3.5 mm. coaxial output, for those who plan to switch the player with a high-quality external amplifier.
From above, everything is much more prosaic: a slot for memory cards up to 128 gigabytes, a reset button, a volume knob, a headphone output and a separate line output. The sound from the liner is not regulated by the knob and differs from the main signal by the absence of an output amplifier in the path.
Everything on the sides is empty.
The first time after buying the Zishan DSD, I was completely confused about the purpose of the buttons. However, a day later I was already calmly navigating without taking the player out of my pocket.
Everything turned out to be extremely simple. On the main playback screen, you can go to quick settings by pressing the button up, to the list of files - by holding down or to the main menu - by holding your finger on the left key.
INTERFACE
The main screen contains all the necessary information: the battery status, the name and progress of the song, the characteristics of the stream being played, and the album cover.
In quick settings, you can replace the cover display with a much more audiophile spectrum display, there is also a choice of playback mode and a 10-band equalizer switch.
When you press the middle button, the player asks what to do with the current file. There are only two options: reproduce and delete. The player can play an incredible amount of formats, including the real DSD256, that is, without converting to PCM, like any show-off players.
I see only two drawbacks here. The first is that it is impossible to delete the entire folder, and the second - on the current firmware, the player cannot scale the covers and sometimes it does not even look funny.
CUE files are also supported, and quite correctly, we fall into each CUE file as if into a folder.
SETTINGS
The main menu has only 6 items, three of which are "now playing", "file manager" and equalizer modes.
Next comes the DAC settings, where we select the filtering mode, which allows us to give different shades to the final analog signal, from “clean” to “dirty” sound. To use Zishan DSD as a sound card, a USB DAC switcher is provided in the settings, and the illogical term "Turbo" refers to switching amplification modes. In the off state, it is quite comfortable to listen to music at 50% volume, but if you turn on the turbo mode, you need to be on the alert, since in this case an acceptable volume starts with just a couple of divisions. Therefore, if your headphones are not quite tight, then an accidental and sharp turn of the volume knob can even negatively affect your hearing, because the device does not take up much power. The last setting generally seemed stupid to me, since the only thing it does is slow down the speed of turning on the player. In the OFF state, the player turns on and off almost instantly, but it will probably be too fast for someone and the developer has provided a kind of brake pedal.
In the system settings, you can select only the "mode in the car", which controls the turning on and off of the player, depending on the operation of the engine. There are only three languages in the player, and two of them are Chinese, so in any case you will have to use English.
Well, for a snack, a full-fledged Tetris! This is not only for you to listen to music, you can immediately and qualitatively swear.
IRON
It makes no sense to talk a lot about hardware, since there is a complete block diagram and the results of specific measurements.
In fact, this, of course, will not tell you anything about exactly how the player sounds, so I will have to go into analogies and associations - there are simply no options here.
SOUND
A lot of questions about the sound of Zishan DSD were asked in the context of comparison with the first generation FiiO X5. Here I want to emphasize that out of the box the sound of these players is very similar: the same moderately deep, but fast and biting bass, crystal clear mids and bright detailed highs.
The detailing of mid frequencies and the division of stage plans make the developers of this miracle shake hands with a virtual one. The presentation is a bit aggressive and very emotional.
Comparing Zishan DSD with FiiO X5, it was very difficult for me to identify the leader, but the situation was resolved unexpectedly and fatally.
In one of the comments to the unpacking of the device, I was hinted at the presence of a “crib” on the Zishan DSD board. By "crib" is meant the possibility of easy replacement of the amplifier, without the use of a soldering iron and any technical knowledge. This is where the surprise awaited me!
It was logical to assume that the player's main amplifier was installed in the crib. However, looking closely at the circuit, I saw that we were offered to change the amplifier responsible for the low-pass filter (abbreviated LPF). LPF, contrary to banal logic, cuts not low, but high frequencies, which affects mainly the middle and high-frequency range.
After rummaging around in the table, I found an amplifier known for its musicality. LM6172 and immediately proceeded to install it. In order to disassemble the device, you must first unscrew the screw on the volume knob, and then the other 4 screws. In general, the process of changing the amplifier, although it requires a complete disassembly of the device, but in reality it takes about five minutes, if you count the reassembly.
So, the low-pass amplifier was installed, and the complete LME49720 was placed on the table. It is worth noting here that in terms of their "musicality" LME49720 is nothing special and loses by a significant margin LM6172.
Plunging into a chair, I turn on the player and freeze in a blissful smile. Surprisingly, I have a completely different sound in my ears, and even more mature: the bass has lost the tightness characteristic of the FiiO X5, the highs have acquired additional brightness, and the mids have been added warmth. By God, I had the impression that I was listening to music directly from a studio analog stand - the sound is simply wonderful! As proof, for the first time in a long time I began to listen to literally everything that I found on my hard drive and memory cards ...
CONCLUSIONS
Without a doubt, in relation to price-sound Zishan DSD is a complete success! Here you have support for a huge number of formats (and without any conversion), there is also the possibility of easy replacement of the amplifier and, of course, full-fledged Tetris! Yes, and just look at the appearance of the device, sleek boys do not go with such an apparatus, here you need a grated male hand of an understanding audiophile. Highly recommend.
P.S. Firmware updates for Zishan DSD can be downloaded from here. The update scheme is simple: we drop the contents of the archive into the root of the memory card and turn on the device. Don't forget to delete the files afterwards bin from a memory card.
"Water sample" - this is how you can describe this category. It has interesting features and interesting options.
20.Media Monkey
Price- $24.95 (gold) or free version.
Platform– Windows (via add-on - on OS X), iOS, Android.
In fact, this is a convenient media library cataloger, which in the paid version can manage several collections at the same time. MediaMonkey is able to transcode formats into compatible formats on the fly - this used to be the main advantage of the application. Despite the abundance of mobile, rather than audiophile features (however, the latter are also available: Bit perfect output and DSD support), the program has a pretty good sound - detailed and emotional.
pros- can be used for free.
Minuses– there are not many standard High End features.
Who will suit– owners of multi-room systems.
Price – $33.
Platform– OSX.
Although Decibel stopped being updated in 2015, the program offers the interception of full control over the audio output device, the ability to load tracks into RAM (and play them directly from there) and fine-tune the upsampling multiplicity of the signal. There is a multi-band equalizer; DSD is supported. The sound lacks stars from the sky - but it is quite confident, clear.
pros- everything you need and nothing more.
Minuses- the interface is not perfect, the sound is not standard.
Who will suit- experimenters.
18. Tidal Hi-Fi
Price– $19.99 per month (may vary by country).
Platform– OS X, Windows, iOS, Android.
Tidal is the most advanced streaming service to date, and its download client is a pretty serious player. With an MQA-enabled DAC in your system, you'll get all the benefits of Bob Stewart's brainchild, but even without that compatibility, Tidal's MQA Core (24-bit downsampled) delivers. An excellent offer for complete relaxation - you do not need to buy anything, download anything, and so on. I subscribed - almost all the music is already available.
pros- "clicked - plays" - and no problems.
Minuses– MQA streaming cannot be compared in quality with PCM 192/24, and even more so with DSD, when played back from its own storage.
Who will suit- lazy people (or, as a fallback, "for review").
17. Fidelia
Price – $29,99.
Platform– OS X, iOS.
Fidelia supports Bit perfect sound output and has options for connecting external plug-ins; in this way, according to the company, you can "create your sound like a sculpture." The sound can impress with its resolution, however, it is not very natural. In addition, in an endless race of possibilities, the creators “thrown the baby out with the water”: over the years, the program has not gotten rid of a lot of glitches and has not even acquired a modicum of stability. A score close to two out of five possible in the AppStore is the best confirmation of this.
pros– plug-ins, ultra-detailed sound.
Minuses- unstable.
Who will suit- lovers to fight with glitches.
Price– $4.99 per month.
Platform– OS X, iOS.
Hipster design, powerful BASS Audio Engine, DSD and .cue support, a lot of options... It's quite a candidate for the first places in the rating, if not for the sound. It seems to be powerful, but (on some compositions) sloppy presentation is excusable for playback from a smartphone, but for an audiophile computer, this is a definite minus in karma.
pros- an example of ergonomics.
Minuses- the sound picture is not the best.
Who will suit- aesthetes.
15. Swinsian
Price – $19,95.
Platform– OSX.
Powerful collection cataloger - with DSD playback features and a serious engine. It can't compete with the best audiophile players, but, again, it takes the usability a step further. The sound is confident, but the player impoverishes the timbres.
pros- cheap and cheerful.
Minuses- Simple sound.
Who will suit- economical.
The second group - almost High End
Everything is already serious here - there are flaws, but in terms of sound, these players will give a hundred points ahead of any built-in options.
14. Resonic
Price- free (as a player).
Platform– Windows.
The minimalistic Resonic (optimized for Windows 10) plays almost all possible formats (including DSD up to DSD512), scares away with its appearance - but what a sound! Here you will not find a scattering of unnecessary details - but there is a correct reproduction with a focus on the emotions and intent of the composer.
pros– accurate and confident on any compositions.
Minuses- ascetic interface.
Who will suit- purists.
13. Korg Audiogate 4
Price- is free.
Platform OS X, Windows.
Indeed, Audiogate 4 was designed for the Korg DS-DAC family of DSD-DACs - and with them it reveals itself to the full. However, even in Lite mode (with signal output limited to 48 kHz), the program demonstrates a bulldog grip and incredible hardness of sound images.Worth a try.
pros- the right sound.
Minuses- Requires a corporate partner.
Who will suit– owners of Korg DACs.
12.foobar2000
Price- is free.
Platform– Windows, iOS, Android.
Classics never get old and are constantly updated. And the list of plug-ins for foobar2000 has already stretched to many pages. If you wish, you can set up everything and everything here, provide DSD output, etc., etc. If you wish - today, however, it is akin to working with MS DOS. And okay, the sound was outstanding - but, no. Against the background of modern software engines, our test subject looks confident, but has not been a standard for a long time.
pros- a lot of things to customize.
Minuses- and very little for a really good sound out of the box.
Who will suit- retrograde.
11. JRiver
Price – $69,98.
Platform– OS X, Windows, Linux.
Another classic with such an abundance of settings that a number of companies sell ready-made hardware solutions with “JRiver installed and configured”. The program is distinguished by archaic ergonomics, in this regard, it is stuck in 2010. But there is a DSD output, Bit Perfect and a powerful 64-bit engine. The sound does not seem fantastic (at first glance), but something catches in it. After listening longer, you understand JRiver fans - sometimes it's worth spending a year on tuning for such naturalness and elegance.
pros- captivating soundscape.
Minuses- complex and outdated interface.
Who will suit- those who like to reconfigure the computer.
10. Channel D Pure Music
Price – $129.
Platform– OSX.
DSD, 64-bit "heart", plug-ins (including those with a change in the type of crossover) and much more - this is all Channel D Pure Music. That's just the program works as an add-on for iTunes - and at the same time it looks rather archaic. The sound is very pleasant, somewhat close to the "vinyl" presentation. Fundamentality, alas, can sometimes be lacking.
pros- many options for those who are accustomed to iTunes.
Minuses- Terrible ergonomics.
Who will suit- Vinyl fans.
Third group - major league
So we got to the most interesting! Here are nine "best of the best" players.
9. BitPerfect
Price – $9,99.
Platform– OSX.
The program is just an ascetic add-on for iTunes, but it allows you to play Hi-Res, DSD and outputs audio in pure mode (as the name implies). Despite certain ergonomic issues, obviously associated with the "mother" iTunes, BitPerfect offers an outstanding sound. Coherent, rhythmic, incendiary - in short, this is a great way to transform your Mac with little effort.
pros- Sounds good.
Minuses- the functionality is tied to iTunes.
Who will suit- Apple fans.
8. Signalyst HQ Player
Price – $211.
Platform OS X, Windows.
Another example of a poor interface for crazy money. But in this case, no one calls for using the program separately - the easiest way is to integrate it as an add-on into Roon - or use an external application for the HQPDcontrol smartphone (you will have to pay another thousand rubles for it).
The feature of HQ Player is in the widest possibilities of upsampling and downsampling, for example, it can convert any signal to DSD (up to 1.536 MHz), it can apply FIR filters for equalization and room correction. You will deal with all this for more than one month - in the end, great entertainment. If you have a powerful computer, the sound can drive you crazy - the resolution is outstanding, the musical canvas is absolutely alive.
pros There are so many options that your head is spinning.
Minuses– requires something more for full control.
Who will suit- pedants.
7. Volumio
Price- is free.
Platform- OS X, Windows and special versions for computer hardware such as Raspberry, UDOO, Cubox-i, Odroid.
OEM solution that allows "play everything on everything" (including DSD), with UPnP support and installation on a flash drive. Thanks to the isolated structure, Volumio provides a truly audiophile sound - measured, soulful and taking, as they say, for the soul.
pros- Lots of application options.
Minuses- requires a certain qualification in work.
Who will suit- fans of audio-computer hardware.
Price – $199.
Platform OS X, Windows.
Started as an add-on to iTunes, Amarra has now matured into a full application. With features like Tidal integration, MQA and DSD support (up to DSD128). The sound of the player is a real “major league”, not for nothing that Amarra is often used at exhibitions in top systems. Soft, exciting, sometimes even too soft - but demonstrating filigree work with timbres and stage. It's hard not to fall in love with this.
pros- the highest league in sound quality, a real High End.
Minuses- price.
Who will suit- Jazz fans.
5.Audirvana Plus
Price – $74.
Platform– OSX.
"Heavy artillery" for relatively little money. Audirvana offers both library cataloging and Tidal integration, support for MQA, DSD (including upsampling to DSD), as well as proprietary SoX or iZotope 64bit SRC algorithm. The latter will boot your computer but provide the highest resolution sound. The dynamic characteristics of any composition in the presentation of Audirvana increase, attack, punch - all this literally spills out onto the listener. In short, a clear antipode of Amarra.
pros– Fantastic features and luxurious sound.
Minuses– sometimes gives out too assertive sound.
Who will suit- "black belt holders in karate."
4.XXHighEnd
Price– 72 euros.
Platform– Windows.
The program was developed for the monstrous PC of the same name - running on Xeon processors and with the removal of the operating system to the RAM Drive. Nevertheless, even on a regular computer, XXHighEnd shows wonders - its latest editions support MQA, automatically switch sample rates and ... And if you get used to its terrible interface, the sound will definitely enchant - here it is, real High End from a computer.
pros- in 12 years, the program has experienced a revolutionary leap in playback quality.
Minuses- after working with it, you will want to build a High End PC and start to deal with the RAM Drive; the interface is terrible.
Who will suit- those who assembled the first computer in kindergarten.
3.Jplay
Price– 99 euros.
Platform– Windows.
Want to turn your PC into a streamer? Install JPlay, only after installation (which deactivates most of the OS functions) you will also need another computer for control. Sounds weird? Don't worry if this maximizer approach doesn't make sense to you, you can leave JPlay on one PC, use the built-in minimalist JPLAYStreamer player or connect a number of other programs - and enjoy the sound of a "cleaned" system. In terms of music playback, the changes will be amazing.
pros- the ultimate solution for turning the PC into a streamer.
Minuses– a control player or another computer is desirable for work.
Who will suit- hardcore fans.
2. Infinity Blade HQ (Bug Head Emperor)
Price- is free.
Platform– Windows.
To date, 217 pages of discussion on the Jplay forum is the best evidence of the program's popularity. Support for DSD and Bit Perfect output is not the main thing here, the main idea is our own algorithm for transferring data to a RAW file and the imposition of interpolation algorithms. You'll need a powerful PC, preferably one with JPlay already installed (i.e., a dedicated audio machine) - but with that combination, the Infinity Blade HQ can literally crush seasoned audiophiles. The sound has everything you could wish for - beauty, detail, balance, explosive dynamics. Low frequencies are especially transformed; All in all, definitely worth a try!
pros- Super sound.
Minuses- let's not talk about ergonomics again.
Who will suit- perfectionists.
Price– $119 per year (or $499 once).
Platform– OS X, Windows, iOS, Android; proprietary Roon Rock OS.
The ultimate solution for computer audio today? Yes, Roon has it all. Luxurious sound of the highest audiophile standard. Perfect ergonomics - once you try cataloging your media library through Roon, you don't want to go back. Engine with the ability to upsampling all signals up to DSD, connection of room-correction. We add "cherries on the cake", such as the visibility of all elements of the signal chain or a proprietary operating system for the Intel Nuc - and the conclusion is obvious.
pros– the best balance between high-end sound and ergonomics.
Minuses– absent.
Who will suit- to anyone who thinks that you can pay that kind of money for a player.
Prepared based on the materials of the portal "Hi-Fi.ru", January 2018www.hi-fi.ru
The idea to purchase a Hi-Res audio player Zishan DSD visited my head for a relatively long time. However, neither the appearance nor the price did not have to buy. Time passed, and the price tag on the device literally froze. Well, it would seem - spit and rub. But the results of measurements and the top characteristics of the components used still slowly disturbed my heart and, looking ahead, I will say - not in vain.
CHARACTERISTICS
- DAC: AK4495SEQ
- Amplifiers: OPA2134/OP275 + LME49720 + BUF634
- Format support: DSF, DFF, ISO, WAV, DTS, FLAC, APE, MP3, CUE
- Display: color
- Operating time on a single charge: 8-12 hours (screen off)
- Charging time: 3 hours (current 5 volts 1 amp)
- Battery: 3000mAh
- Input: MicroUSB
- Outputs: 3.5 mm headphone, line, coaxial
- Memory card support: MicroSD (up to 128 GB.)
- USB-DAC mode: asynchronous, up to 48 kHz/16 bit
- Dimensions (L x W x H): Dimensions: 95 x 56 x 22 mm
- Weight: 173 g.
UNPACKING AND PACKAGING
The player came without any packaging, just wrapped in a "pimple". A cursory glance at the equipment generally has only to fill the nearest trash can with it.
The microUSB cable is too hard and extremely short.
Chinese charging for outdated 5 volts 1 amperes is practically useless, since there are plenty of such houses already, and immediately with a suitable plug.
More or less, you can thank for a memory card for 16 gigabytes of class 10 and a solid card reader.
On the other hand, 16 gigabytes for Hi-Res music is nothing at all.
DESIGN/ERGONOMICS
As a handicraft device, Zishan DSD will not be able to please you with girly glamour. This is a strict male player with a metal case and rattling copper buttons.
And although the weight is only 170 grams, the honed sharp angle will more than replace your self-defense weapon in the dark alleys of the city.
The dimensions are the same, the player fits easily into any pocket and is not inclined to pull off your pants even in the hottest time of the year.
On the back of his proud inscription "Zishan DSD".
And from the face - a large color display with excellent brightness and acceptable viewing angles.
The same 5 copper buttons are located under the screen. By the way, according to the comment in the order, the seller can send the device with plastic buttons if this is critical for you.
On the bottom of the Zishan DSD, there is a MicroUSB port for charging and connecting with a digital signal source.
Next to it is an indicator LED.
To the right you can find 3.5 mm. coaxial output, for those who plan to switch the player with a high-quality external amplifier.
From above, everything is much more prosaic: a slot for memory cards up to 128 gigabytes, a reset button, a volume knob, a headphone output and a separate line output. The sound from the liner is not regulated by the knob and differs from the main signal by the absence of an output amplifier in the path.
Everything on the sides is empty.
The first time after buying the Zishan DSD, I was completely confused about the purpose of the buttons. However, a day later I was already calmly navigating without taking the player out of my pocket.
Everything turned out to be extremely simple. On the main playback screen, you can go to quick settings by pressing the button up, to the list of files - by holding down or to the main menu - by holding your finger on the left key.
INTERFACE
The main screen contains all the necessary information: the battery status, the name and progress of the song, the characteristics of the stream being played, and the album cover.
In quick settings, you can replace the cover display with a much more audiophile spectrum display, there is also a choice of playback mode and a 10-band equalizer switch.
When you press the middle button, the player asks what to do with the current file. There are only two options: reproduce and delete. The player can play an incredible amount of formats, including the real DSD256, that is, without converting to PCM, like any show-off players.
I see only two drawbacks here. The first is that it is impossible to delete the entire folder, and the second - on the current firmware, the player cannot scale the covers and sometimes it does not even look funny.
CUE files are also supported, and quite correctly, we fall into each CUE file as if into a folder.
SETTINGS
The main menu has only 6 items, three of which are "now playing", "file manager" and equalizer modes.
Next comes the DAC settings, where we select the filtering mode, which allows us to give different shades to the final analog signal, from “clean” to “dirty” sound. To use Zishan DSD as a sound card, a USB DAC switcher is provided in the settings, and the illogical term "Turbo" refers to switching amplification modes. In the off state, it is quite comfortable to listen to music at 50% volume, but if you turn on the turbo mode, you need to be on the alert, since in this case an acceptable volume starts with just a couple of divisions. Therefore, if your headphones are not quite tight, then an accidental and sharp turn of the volume knob can even negatively affect your hearing, because the device does not take up much power. The last setting generally seemed stupid to me, since the only thing it does is slow down the speed of turning on the player. In the OFF state, the player turns on and off almost instantly, but it will probably be too fast for someone and the developer has provided a kind of brake pedal.
In the system settings, you can select only the "mode in the car", which controls the turning on and off of the player, depending on the operation of the engine. There are only three languages in the player, and two of them are Chinese, so in any case you will have to use English.
Well, for a snack, a full-fledged Tetris! This is not only for you to listen to music, you can immediately and qualitatively swear.
IRON
It makes no sense to talk a lot about hardware, since there is a complete block diagram and the results of specific measurements.
In fact, this, of course, will not tell you anything about exactly how the player sounds, so I will have to go into analogies and associations - there are simply no options here.
SOUND
A lot of questions about the sound of Zishan DSD were asked in the context of comparison with the first generation FiiO X5. Here I want to emphasize that out of the box the sound of these players is very similar: the same moderately deep, but fast and biting bass, crystal clear mids and bright detailed highs.The detailing of mid frequencies and the division of stage plans make the developers of this miracle shake hands with a virtual one. The presentation is a bit aggressive and very emotional. 
Comparing Zishan DSD with FiiO X5, it was very difficult for me to identify the leader, but the situation was resolved unexpectedly and fatally.
In one of the comments to the unpacking of the device, I was hinted at the presence of a “crib” on the Zishan DSD board. By "crib" is meant the possibility of easy replacement of the amplifier, without the use of a soldering iron and any technical knowledge. This is where the surprise awaited me! 
It was logical to assume that the player's main amplifier was installed in the crib. However, looking closely at the circuit, I saw that we were offered to change the amplifier responsible for the low-pass filter (abbreviated LPF). LPF, contrary to banal logic, cuts not low, but high frequencies, which affects mainly the middle and high-frequency range.
After rummaging around in the table, I found an amplifier known for its musicality. LM6172 and immediately proceeded to install it. In order to disassemble the device, you must first unscrew the screw on the volume knob, and then the other 4 screws. In general, the process of changing the amplifier, although it requires a complete disassembly of the device, but in reality it takes about five minutes, if you count the reassembly.
So, the low-pass amplifier was installed, and the complete LME49720 was placed on the table. It is worth noting here that in terms of their "musicality" LME49720 is nothing special and loses by a significant margin LM6172. 
Plunging into a chair, I turn on the player and freeze in a blissful smile. Surprisingly, I have a completely different sound in my ears, and even more mature: the bass has lost the tightness characteristic of the FiiO X5, the highs have acquired additional brightness, and the mids have been added warmth. By God, I had the impression that I was listening to music directly from a studio analog stand - the sound is simply wonderful! As proof, for the first time in a long time I began to listen to literally everything that I found on my hard drive and memory cards ...
VIDEO VERSION OF THE REVIEW
CONCLUSIONS
Without a doubt, in relation to price-sound Zishan DSD is a complete success! Here you have support for a huge number of formats (and without any conversion), there is also the possibility of easy replacement of the amplifier and, of course, full-fledged Tetris! Yes, and just look at the appearance of the device, sleek boys do not go with such an apparatus, here you need a grated male hand of an understanding audiophile. Highly recommend.P.S. Firmware updates for Zishan DSD can be downloaded. The update scheme is simple: we drop the contents of the archive into the root of the memory card and turn on the device. Don't forget to delete the files afterwards bin from a memory card.
I plan to buy +19 Add to favorites Liked the review +31 +46This group includes versions with good features and interesting features.
Media Monkey
Price:$24.95 (Version 4 License, Gold edition, entitles you to all updates to version 4.x); $49.95 (Gold, lifetime license with the right to all updates); free version with reduced features.
Operating system: Windows (Windows 10 (desktop), 8 (desktop), Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP), iOS, Android, using a special add-on can be installed on OS X.
Advantages: free version is available.
Flaws: many essential audiophile features are missing.
For lovers of multi-room installations, for owners of mobile devices.
Tidal HiFi
Price:$19.99 per month (price may vary by country and plan), Ebay plan purchases available.
Operating system: Windows 7 and above, OS X, iOS and Android, compatible with Apple TV, CarPlay, Android TV and Amazon Fire TV.
In fact, Tidal can be called the crowning achievement of the streaming service today. It has a proprietary Tidal application (client), which is downloaded directly from the official website. In principle, both Tidal and Deezer and Qobuz allow you to play music through the browser, but only Tidal has its own program that is installed on the computer. The Tidal mobile app is not available in every country, but many people get around this ban by temporarily changing their credentials. To fully unlock the potential of this player, a necessary (though not mandatory) condition is the presence of a digital-to-analogue converter with support for the MQA codec. The MQA container, developed by Meridian Audio co-founder Bob Stuart, allows you to pack a Hi-Res file into a 24-bit/48 or 24-bit/44.1 kHz file, which is then decompressed by the decoder to a higher resolution. The player is good because it does not require "excessive movements" associated with downloading and storing files, i.e. all that is required from the listener is a paid subscription. Tidal HiFi has over 170,000 tracks in high quality. The features of the player include the fact that you can listen to it for a long time without any fatigue.
Advantages: ease of use on the principle of PnP (Plug and Play) or press to play (“click to play”).
Flaws: the quality of the MQA stream is still inferior to the original PCM (24 bit / 192 kHz) and DSD when playing directly Hi-Res audio from its own audio library, there is no ASIO support.
Which users are suitable for: for lovers of quick access to lossless music without the need to store their own collection on a hard drive.
Medium weight category, almost high end
Soft players from this category still have some drawbacks, but in terms of sound they will give odds to any regular OS media players.
Resonic Player
Price: is free.
Operating system: Windows 7 and up.
Specially optimized for Windows 10, the Resonic Player software player is distinguished by its concise appearance and omnivorous nature. The player understands most modern audio formats, including DSD up to DSD512, consumes a small amount of system resources, impresses with high speed and has a minimum number of functions. Unnecessary additional modules that slow down the work are not observed here. Nevertheless, there are visual amenities that can be turned off if necessary: an audio frequency spectrum analyzer, an oscilloscope, a signal level indicator, and so on. To start playing audio files, you can simply drag and drop using the file manager. There is a Crossfeed mode designed for comfortable listening with headphones. The interface language is only English. The sound of Resonic Player can be called accurate, musical, emotional, without excessive attention to detail.
Advantages: accurate musical sound, high performance and speed.
Flaws: boring interface, poor functionality.
Which users are suitable for: for ascetic purists and those music lovers who are accustomed to working with large volumes of audio data.
Korg Audiogate
Price: is free.
Operating system: OS X 10.10 and up, Windows 7 and up.
The Korg Audiogate 4.0.2 was designed to work in tandem with external Korg DS-DAC USB DACs that support DSD 5.6 MHz and PCM playback up to 24 bit/192 kHz, so only the right device will allow you to fully experience the potential of this product . In conjunction with the DS-DAC-10R DAC equipped with an ADC, the application makes it possible to record in Hi-Res format, as well as digitize vinyl discs. The company focuses on the possibility of recording a DSD-disk on a computer drive. At the same time, this software can work with any other digital-to-analog converters in Lite mode, but the audio signal output is limited to a sampling rate of 48 kHz, i.e. even DSD format will be converted to PCM at 44.1 or 48 kHz. The sound of the player can be called confident and even somewhat assertive, with well-defined sound images and impressive volume.
Advantages: surround sound with the right musical images.
Flaws: fully reveals its potential only when paired with Korg DACs.
Which users are suitable for: for owners of digital-to-analog converters Korg.
foobar2000
Price: is free.
Operating system: Windows, iOS, Android.
"Fubar" can be called an ageless classic and, in fact, a cult soft player among Hi-Fi adepts who are accustomed to stability, flexibility and reliability. The main feature of foobar2000 is the presence of an extensive database of additional modules / plugins that can be easily and quickly installed. There is native DSD output or conversion of this format to PCM literally on the fly. In fact, this is a real audio kit that has a decent sound and offers many options for assembling. Thanks to this, it can be finely tuned to your taste. To output sound in Windows, accordingly, it is better to use the ASIO protocol or, in extreme cases, WASAPI with the Event buffering mode, which requires the installed WASAPI output support module. However, among the most demanding modern audiophiles, there are some complaints about the "fubar" about not the most outstanding sound quality.
Advantages: free software, an extensive library of additional modules that are easy and quick to install.
Flaws: according to progressive audiophile experimenters, foobar2000 is somewhat inferior to its more modern competitors in terms of sound quality and has an archaic interface; the difficulty of obtaining high-quality sound when setting up an untrained user.
Which users are suitable for: for lovers of stability and reliability, as well as experimenters.
J River Media Center
Price:$59.98 (single OS license); $79.98 (universal license, suitable for any OS); a 30-day trial free version of the product is provided.
Operating system: Windows, iOS, Android, Linux.
JRiver MediaCenter is capable of playing both audio and video files, can make Blue-ray/DVD/CD rips, burn discs, create playlists, convert files to other formats, can act as an organizer/editor/cataloger, work with Internet media content and much more. There are a huge number of settings, DSP-studio, the sound can be output in any format, there is a Russian language. In fact, this is another classic software Hi-Fi player, only on the scale of a multimedia center. Some companies even sell AV components and other hardware products with JRiver MediaCenter pre-installed/configured. The player has an outdated bulky interface and cannot boast of good ergonomics, but in contrast it has a highly efficient 64-bit engine, outputs a DSD stream, supports Bit-perfect and provides accurate natural sound with good detail and a wide stage, for which it remains dearly loved by audiophiles of different generations. In terms of visual effects, it is interesting to show available media content in 3D mode.
Advantages: excellent sound quality, wide range of settings.
Flaws: cumbersome outdated interface, demanding on computer resources.
Which users are suitable for: for demanding listeners and those who like to "play" with the settings.
Flagship category
The group includes top soft players, the best of the best today.
Signalyst HQ Player 4
Price:$246.75 (full version); a 30-day free trial is provided, which must be restarted every 30 minutes.
Operating system: Windows, OSX, Linux.
HQPlayer 4, developed by Signalyst, does not have an attractive interface, but in this case it is not necessary. The player will perfectly prove itself as an add-on integrated into the Roon software, which is well known to lovers of quality music. To control HQPlayer, you can use the HQPDcontrol application installed on your tablet or smartphone.
The peculiarity of the player is to provide great opportunities in terms of upsampling (using several highly efficient algorithms) and downsampling. Delta-sigma modulation is used for upsampling PCM/DSD formats up to 98.304 MHz, 1-bit SDM (24 upsampling options for PCM and 2 for DSD). There is a selectable dithering / filtering and noise shaping algorithm, 9 options in total, as well as a selectable convolution calculation algorithm (FIR filter) for equalization and correction in accordance with the characteristics of the room (2 versions). Converting any audio signal to DSD is available. ASIO and WASAPI are supported. HQPlayer 4 offers a great variety of different settings with which you can play for more than one month. And most importantly - the sound of this software deserves the most laudable praise due to its outstanding resolution, excellent detail, lightness, transparency and excellent musicality.
Advantages: a huge number of intelligent options, the widest possibilities of fine tuning, excellent sound.
Flaws: ancient interface, inconvenience of management, high price.
Which users are suitable for: for hardcore audiophiles.
Amarra 4 Luxe
Price: $99.
Operating system: Windows 8 and above, OS X 10.8 and above, 15-day free trial available; special version of Amarra Play for iOS.
Previously, Amarra 4 Luxe was an add-on for iTunes, but now it is already an independent full-fledged product that not only performs the functions of a regular audio player, but also provides integration into such popular online services as Tidal, Qobuz and Nugs.net. Naturally, the application supports work with the MQA codec, upsampling and allows you to play the DSD64/128 format (DSD to PCM conversion in real time or DoP (will be available after a software update)). There is an equalizer with 16 fixed presets, it is possible to control Amarra 4 Luxe from a mobile phone using the Amarra iOS Remote application. The player boasts a clean, softened sound with the right timbres, well-developed mids, tight deep bass and a gorgeous surround stage. That is why Amarra 4 Luxe has become a regular at all kinds of high-end equipment exhibitions, where it is used to demonstrate top-end components and high-end audio systems.
Advantages: great sounding, corresponding to the level of high-end audio components, an intuitive interface with a pleasant design.
Flaws: relatively high price.
Which users are suitable for: for lovers of jazz and classical music.
jplay
Price:€149 full version of JPLAY FEMTO, 21 days free trial available for two PCs.
Operating system: Windows 8 and above (64 bit only).
According to the application's official website, JPLAY was developed by meticulous audiophiles, whose goal was to achieve perfect music playback on PC through maximum OS optimization. The latest version of the player, called FEMTO, works with the UPnP protocol (renderer function), plays DSD natively up to DSD256, has three unique engines with support for Bit-perfect output, provides minimal latency and guarantees music playback with the highest possible priority , and also allows you to create a configuration using another computer for control/management. The special JPLAY driver improves the sound quality of any ASIO-enabled software, which is appreciated by the most demanding hi-fi enthusiasts. The player greatly improves the sound of Tidal, Qobuz streaming services and is great for turning your PC into a real streamer or high-end music server.
In the full version of the program, you can use this software not only as a player-renderer (JPLAY FEMTO UPnP Renderer), but also as a server program (JPLAY femtoServer). The package includes a specially optimized JPLAY Classic engine, which can be purchased separately at a lower price, and includes a minimalistic JPLAYmini player interface and JPLAY Driver. The software also allows you to use two computers connected to each other via WLAN or LAN: 1) Control PC, which stores the audio library and acts as a server, 2) Audio PC (on which only Windows OS and JPLAY software are installed), connected directly to an external USB DAC and audio system. The player starts on the first Control PC server computer, and all processes (DSP processing, loading, etc.) take place on this PC, and only a clean signal is transmitted to the second PC, i.e. the second computer is completely free from interference and noise that can be created by these processes.
Advantages: ideal for building a PC-based streamer/music server, reference sound quality.
Flaws: it is desirable to have a mobile device with an installed application or another computer for control, high price.
Which users are suitable for: for true adherents of high-quality sound.
Infinity Blade HQ (Bug Head Emperor)
Price: is free.
Operating system: Windows.
The Infinity Blade HQ (Bug Head Emperor) player was created by Japanese developer Hiroyuki Yokota and, in fact, is a unique software based on a special algorithm for converting audio data into a raw RAW file, which is then processed using special interpolation algorithms . The player supports DSD, Bit-perfect and requires powerful hardware, "sharpened" for audio playback. The ideal option would be a PC with JPLAY software already installed there, it is such a combo that will provide the highest quality sound, striking in its transparency, purity, exceptional attention to detail, powerful dynamics and perfect balance. The player can be paired with other applications, such as JRiver.
Advantages: exceptional sound quality.
Flaws: virtually zero ergonomics, a long process of waiting for the processing of audio files using proprietary Bug Head algorithms when paired with other software.
Which users are suitable for: audiophiles in search of their "Holy Grail" - the perfect sound.
Roon
Price:$119 (1 year subscription) or lifetime license for $499; There is a trial 14-day free version.
Operating system: OS X, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, or OS Roon Rock.
At the moment, Roon can be called the best solution for listening to audio on a computer and not only. The Roon system makes it easy to catalog the entire available media library stored on PC or Mac hard drives, external drives or NAS servers, sound it at the highest level (all audio formats are supported), get maximum online information about albums/musicians and so on. and integrate with Tidal's online streaming platform. And besides, it can pull Internet radio, Tidal, Qobuz and even HQPlayer services into one interface. It is also possible to organize a multi-room installation based on devices that support Roon, and you can use the Roon Remote app for iOS or Android for control. The proprietary engine provides extensive resampling capabilities (PCM up to 768 kHz and DSD up to DSD512), audio signal conversion to DSD and guarantees high-quality room-correction (Convolution). The application provides a unique opportunity to show all elements on the signal transmission path (path), has an intuitive interface and has its own "axis" (OS).
Advantages: the perfect combination of excellent ergonomics and the highest sound quality, integration of Tidal, Qobuz, HQPlayer.
Flaws: high price, does not support DLNA protocol.
Which users are suitable for: those who are ready to pay well for high-quality sound and comfort and never return to the search for the perfect sound.
The idea to purchase a Hi-Res audio player Zishan DSD visited my head for a relatively long time. However, neither the appearance nor the price did not have to buy. Time passed, and the price tag on the device literally froze. Well, it would seem - spit and rub. But the results of measurements and the top characteristics of the components used still slowly disturbed my heart and, looking ahead, I will say - not in vain.
CHARACTERISTICS
- DAC: AK4495SEQ
- Amplifiers: OPA2134/OP275 + LME49720 + BUF634
- Format support: DSF, DFF, ISO, WAV, DTS, FLAC, APE, MP3, CUE
- Display: color
- Operating time on a single charge: 8-12 hours (screen off)
- Charging time: 2 hours (current 5 volts 1 amp)
- Battery: 3000mAh
- Input: MicroUSB
- Outputs: 3.5 mm headphone, line, coaxial
- Memory card support: MicroSD (up to 128 GB.)
- USB-DAC mode: asynchronous, up to 48 kHz/16 bit
- Dimensions (L x W x H): Dimensions: 95 x 56 x 22 mm
- Weight: 173 g.
VIDEO VERSION OF THE REVIEW
UNPACKING AND PACKAGING
The player came without any packaging, just wrapped in a "pimple". A cursory glance at the equipment generally has only to fill the nearest trash can with it.
The microUSB cable is too hard and extremely short.
Chinese charging for outdated 5 volts 1 amperes is practically useless, since there are plenty of such houses already, and immediately with a suitable plug.
More or less, you can thank for a memory card for 16 gigabytes of class 10 and a solid card reader.
On the other hand, 16 gigabytes for Hi-Res music is nothing at all.
DESIGN/ERGONOMICS
As a handicraft device, Zishan DSD will not be able to please you with girly glamour. This is a strict male player with a metal case and rattling copper buttons.
And although the weight is only 170 grams, the honed sharp angle will more than replace your self-defense tool in the dark alleys of the city.
The dimensions are the same, the player fits easily into any pocket and is not inclined to pull off your pants even in the hottest time of the year.
On the back of his proud inscription "Zishan DSD".
And from the face - a large color display with excellent brightness and acceptable viewing angles.
The same 5 copper buttons are located under the screen. By the way, according to the comment in the order, the seller can send the device with plastic buttons if this is critical for you.
On the bottom of the Zishan DSD, there is a MicroUSB port for charging and connecting with a digital signal source.
Next to it is an indicator LED.
To the right you can find 3.5 mm. coaxial output, for those who plan to switch the player with a high-quality external amplifier.
From above, everything is much more prosaic: a slot for memory cards up to 128 gigabytes, a reset button, a volume knob, a headphone output and a separate line output. The sound from the liner is not regulated by the knob and differs from the main signal by the absence of an output amplifier in the path.
Everything on the sides is empty.
The first time after buying the Zishan DSD, I was completely confused about the purpose of the buttons. However, a day later I was already calmly navigating without taking the player out of my pocket.
Everything turned out to be extremely simple. On the main playback screen, you can go to quick settings by pressing the button up, to the list of files - by holding down or to the main menu - by holding your finger on the left key.
INTERFACE
The main screen contains all the necessary information: the battery status, the name and progress of the song, the characteristics of the stream being played, and the album cover.
In quick settings, you can replace the cover display with a much more audiophile spectrum display, there is also a choice of playback mode and a 10-band equalizer switch.
When you press the middle button, the player asks what to do with the current file. There are only two options: reproduce and delete. The player can play an incredible amount of formats, including the real DSD256, that is, without converting to PCM, like any show-off players.
I see only two drawbacks here. The first is that it is impossible to delete the entire folder, and the second - on the current firmware, the player cannot scale the covers and sometimes it does not even look funny.
CUE files are also supported, and quite correctly, we fall into each CUE file as if into a folder.
SETTINGS
The main menu has only 6 items, three of which are "now playing", "file manager" and equalizer modes.
Next comes the DAC settings, where we select the filtering mode, which allows us to give different shades to the final analog signal, from “clean” to “dirty” sound. To use Zishan DSD as a sound card, a USB DAC switcher is provided in the settings, and the illogical term "Turbo" refers to switching amplification modes. In the off state, it is quite comfortable to listen to music at 50% volume, but if you turn on the turbo mode, you need to be on the alert, since in this case an acceptable volume starts with just a couple of divisions. Therefore, if your headphones are not quite tight, then an accidental and sharp turn of the volume knob can even negatively affect your hearing, because the device does not take up much power. The last setting generally seemed stupid to me, since the only thing it does is slow down the speed of turning on the player. In the OFF state, the player turns on and off almost instantly, but it will probably be too fast for someone and the developer has provided a kind of brake pedal.
In the system settings, you can select only the "mode in the car", which controls the turning on and off of the player, depending on the operation of the engine. There are only three languages in the player, and two of them are Chinese, so in any case you will have to use English.
Well, for a snack, a full-fledged Tetris! This is not only for you to listen to music, you can immediately and qualitatively swear.
IRON
It makes no sense to talk a lot about hardware, since there is a complete block diagram and the results of specific measurements.
In fact, this, of course, will not tell you anything about exactly how the player sounds, so I will have to go into analogies and associations - there are simply no options here.
SOUND
A lot of questions about the sound of Zishan DSD were asked in the context of comparison with the first generation FiiO X5. Here I want to emphasize that out of the box the sound of these players is very similar: the same moderately deep, but fast and biting bass, crystal clear mids and bright detailed highs.
The detailing of mid frequencies and the division of stage plans make the developers of this miracle shake hands with a virtual one. The presentation is a bit aggressive and very emotional.
Comparing Zishan DSD with FiiO X5, it was very difficult for me to identify the leader, but the situation was resolved unexpectedly and fatally.
In one of the comments to the unpacking of the device, I was hinted at the presence of a “crib” on the Zishan DSD board. By "crib" is meant the possibility of easy replacement of the amplifier, without the use of a soldering iron and any technical knowledge. This is where the surprise awaited me!
It was logical to assume that the player's main amplifier was installed in the crib. However, looking closely at the circuit, I saw that we were offered to change the amplifier responsible for the low-pass filter (abbreviated LPF). LPF, contrary to banal logic, cuts not low, but high frequencies, which affects mainly the middle and high-frequency range.
After rummaging around in the table, I found an amplifier known for its musicality. LM6172 and immediately proceeded to install it. In order to disassemble the device, you must first unscrew the screw on the volume knob, and then the other 4 screws. In general, the process of changing the amplifier, although it requires a complete disassembly of the device, but in reality it takes about five minutes, if you count the reassembly.
So, the low-pass amplifier was installed, and the complete LME49720 was placed on the table. It is worth noting here that in terms of their "musicality" LME49720 is nothing special and loses by a significant margin LM6172.
Plunging into a chair, I turn on the player and freeze in a blissful smile. Surprisingly, I have a completely different sound in my ears, and even more mature: the bass has lost the tightness characteristic of the FiiO X5, the highs have acquired additional brightness, and the mids have been added warmth. By God, I had the impression that I was listening to music directly from a studio analog stand - the sound is simply wonderful! As proof, for the first time in a long time I began to listen to literally everything that I found on my hard drive and memory cards ...
CONCLUSIONS
Without a doubt, in relation to price-sound Zishan DSD is a complete success! Here you have support for a huge number of formats (and without any conversion), there is also the possibility of easy replacement of the amplifier and, of course, full-fledged Tetris! Yes, and just look at the appearance of the device, sleek boys do not go with such an apparatus, here you need a grated male hand of an understanding audiophile. Highly recommend.
P.S. Firmware updates for Zishan DSD can be downloaded from here. The update scheme is simple: we drop the contents of the archive into the root of the memory card and turn on the device. Don't forget to delete the files afterwards bin from a memory card.