Review on FiiO Q3 Headphone Amplifier DSD512 with THX AAA Amp Technology for Mobile Phone & PC - 768K/32Bit AK4462DAC, (2.5/3.5/4.4mm) Output by Brian Cooper

I really wanted to like the Q3 and I did it right away. This was my first purchase of a headphone amp that came with my Fiio M6. After looking at some reviews on the internet, I decided to give it a try. This is a really great and nice sounding portable headphone amp. However, as one of the reviewers I listened to said, the USB-C port seemed to struggle when plugged in, as a slight nudge on the cable would reset the device and the M6 would then recognize it again. It happened during the performance of the song. I mainly use Poweramp with files ripped from lossless CDs. I tried different cables which seemed to be better designed. Still having the same reset issue... Eventually I bought a pair of Sennheiser HD6XX headphones with a 2.5mm balanced cable. In use, the Q3 only played audio over a 4.4 connection after trying several different outputs. I sent the Q3 back for exchange. Instead I received a boxed Q3 amp that was dirty and used when opened. It wasn't even Q3, it was the FQ12222 model. I was so upset when I saw this that I decided to return it to Revane immediately. I'm writing this because I enjoy using the Fiio products I've bought. But the experience leaves me feeling like maybe they're not worth it. There is room for improvement. I'm giving it two stars because it worked as it should most of the time, but some issues need fixing. Most of all customer service. Update 05/24/2021... I bought the Q3 again to compare with the ifi Hip DAC. I love how the Q3 matches the Fiio M6. Sounds fantastic with headphones. I don't have any other Fiio DAP to compare. I'm looking forward to the M11 Plus soon though. As headphones I use Fiio FD1, ZST, ZSTx. I am convinced of the ZSTx because of their frequency response and reproduction. Music sounds fantastic! You can use the Poweramp app or the Neutron app to adjust some EQ and effects settings that can improve what you hear. However, pairing it with a good set of headphones is important to get the most out of your listening experience. Q3 can drive my Sennheiser HD 6xx banks. However, I prefer to use the ifi Hip DAC with Sennheiser and with my iPhone 12 as the sound is warmer and fuller. I've used ddhifi USB-C cables so far and haven't had any issues so far. They fit tightly in nests. Raised my rating from 2 to 3 stars.