I recently learnt about Hi-fi audio and the audiophile community in general. Felt like I should try out something entry-level in this spectrum. I bought the following two things IEM and DAC

However, I feel I’m unable to truly appreciate the difference. Yes it sounds ‘better’ in some vague sense of the word but I can’t articulate how the sound is different from regular headphones (I have the sony XM4 and other crappy earphones).

I’d really appreciate it if someone gave me a way to really start appreciating and enjoying these devices. Maybe a popular song that amplifies the difference? Or maybe a specific detail that I should look for that I’ll find in Hi-fi gear but not in regular headphones?

Looks like I still have no clue what it means to be an audiophile :)

Please help.

  • QualityAgitated6800@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    11 months ago

    So you’re comparing a $30 dollar IEM vs $300 headphone and you say it sounds somehow better. I think that’s more than enough appreciation lol.

    Btw if you want to upgrade always put all the money on the IEM, your DAC is endgame, pricier ones will not sound better.