Hiby R6 Pro Max

Equipment: Silver Widow V3, U18T

Physically large. It’s the same size as the DX340. Weight too. The case is alright. A bit of carbon fiber vibes. Screen is very clear and sharp. Small fonts can be easily read.

Typical ESS. Technically competent. Balanced sound. Clean. But presentation is a bit dry.

Imaging is excellent. Stage is wide. Not the most laser sharp imaging, or widest stage from a 9039. But this is at the limit before it becomes a giant artificial plant.

Notes sound rounded off. In a way, it’s too clean. It becomes clinical. Emotions get lost. That said. Female vocals manage to retain enough emotions, it’s still engaging.

I prefer this to the Nipo N2. That one is an exercise of technical perfection, and the result is horrible. A lifeless rendition of whatever music you put through it. It’s not even boring. It’s dead. The Hiby R6 Pro Max does not go to that extent. If you consider the price. I feel sorry for the N2 owners.

ESS is not for me. For those seeking a highly technical presentation, without crossing into emotionally dead zone. This will be a good option.

#DAP