Hifiman
Hifiman EF499
There is always something futuristic about R2R, but the network-enabled EF499 ascends to another level. This streaming DAC/amp is exactly the kind of achievement HIFIMAN are typical of – these planar-magnetic headphone extraordinaire's spirit for innovation is what spurred them to develop EF499.
There was little the little EF499 couldn't do to Headfonics and it rightfully lands on Headfonia's Recommended Buys list. Audiophile-Heaven says it matches the value of the company's most famous headphones.
Taking the company's discrete R2R Himalaya DAC and slapping on a 4.4 watt per channel amplifier, EF499 is HIFIMAN's claim that they are all you'll need to run a complete personal audio chain on your desktop.
With an added ethernet input, you gain the ability to leash EF499 straight to your network router and enjoy music off your NAS, or favourite Android or iOS streaming app.
Disregarding its entry-level standing, HIFIMAN's diminutive powerhouse is a statement of technological ambition from China's leading headphone manufacturers, changing the game by equipping all levels of Head-Fi with an extremely capable source. [See Product Desc. For More]