Pro-Ject Debut Carbon vs iFi Hip-dac

Verdict

Overall, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon turntable receives high praise for its exceptional design, quality components, and fantastic sound quality. Many reviewers note that it is a great entry-level audiophile turntable that provides a long-term solution for music enjoyment. The carbon fiber tonearm and speed control, coupled with the outstanding performance of the cartridge, provide a great experience at an affordable price. However, some reviewers mention issues with the tonearm rest, poor acoustic isolation, and difficulty accessing the cartridge. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon is a home run in value and performance, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to get into vinyl.

Verdict

Overall, the iFi Hip-dac receives high praise for its sound quality, portability, and features such as the XBass boost and balanced output. It is noted to be a significant improvement over built-in device audio and other portable DAC-amps. However, there are some minor complaints about the lack of a power supply and compatibility with certain devices. The majority of reviewers highly recommend the iFi Hip-dac for headphone listening, with some even considering it an endgame device.