iBasso Amp 13 Review

Product Description

We will start the bottom of the amp card, left to right. The first connection is the low noise output of 2.5Vrms, and the next is the high of 4.1Vrms noise output of the card. Both connections are 3.5mm. 2.5Vrms to 4.1Vrms will provide plenty of volume for most IEMs and average output headphones.

The low output 2.5Vrms connections are optimized for lower output devices with a more authentic tube sound.

The high output 4.1Vrms connection is optimized for IEMs and other high-current headphones.

On the tube side top down is a set of sixth-gen Korg Nutubes, along with a hand-tuned three-channel AP1622 op-amp.

With Korg NuTube technology, you have the sound of a traditional tube in a fraction of the space and less heat.

On the rear is a set of field effect transistors Toshiba 2SK209 as a buffer. Which I have to say do a reasonably good job, which means almost silent floor noise, which is impressive for tubes.

Additionally, a dedicated battery section reduces voltage swings while using the AMP13, which is essential for tubes.

To learn more about the Korg Nutube Technology, Click the link:

iBasso AMP13
Now to the show.

How does the iBasso AM13 sound?

Before we get to the music part, we must add a few details. First, the AMP13 is made purely for the music. What does this mean? The iBasso AMP13 is subject to noise caused by Bluetooth and WiFi. Depending on how you look at it, this may be negative. With this out of the way, we can move on.

During this review, I used an iBasso DX320 as a source and a pair of Fir Audio V x V IEMs. I used Qbuz Offline. More on this in the recommended section.

For our first track, we immerse ourselves into the lush universe of Pink Floyd’s “Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Pts. 1-5).” Synth sound lusher, David’s guitar notes seem to float on forever. Additionally, there is more body and life with the AMP13 compared to the stock AMP11 MK11s.

Punch and depth? Yes. The track “Poster Child” from the Red Hot Chili Peppers has a more natural depth and punch regarding Flea’s bass. This recording is more akin to a live performance than a studio recording.

Where to start? John Mayer’s “Helpless” is one of those that is greatly helped by the Amp 13. John’s guitar is brought to life with added warmth and tone. The drum kit sounds more lively and natural. And John’s vocals have added soul.

With the Amp 13, you are brought into the smokey club Dr. John’s “Bruha Bembe.” The Amp 13 can create what I see as a smokey nightclub that Dr. John often played. It is incredible how an amp can change the audible atmosphere.

Recommendations

The iBasso AMP13 needs adequate shielding from WiFi and Bluetooth. As it is, music must be offline to be played. Ofllineing music with streaming music services can be done but is a bit of a pain.

Closing Thoughts

What do I think of the iBasso Amp 13? The Amp 13 at $269.00? This is a hard one, But as a music enthusiast, I would say yes.

To learn more, click here.

iBasso AMP13

Music Used

Pink Floyd - Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Pts. 1-5)

https://open.qobuz.com/track/47683562

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Poster Child

https://open.qobuz.com/track/145892591

John Mayer – Helpless

https://open.qobuz.com/track/39938661

Dr. John - Bruha Bembe

https://open.qobuz.com/track/2488702

Gear Used

Fir Audio V x V IEMs