Prime Audio Reviews comes away highly impressed with the HIDIZS AP80 PRO MAX, calling it one of the best-sounding DAPs heard in the entry-level price range and giving it the highest recommendation. Beyond its tiny footprint, the player stands out for a sound that combines body, control, detail, and impressive spatial performance.
A Tiny DAP That Feels Premium
The longer form factor is preferred over the squarer shape of earlier AP80 models because it makes navigating the system easier. Build quality also takes a step forward, with the AP80 PRO MAX feeling premium in the hand.
Its 2.95-inch HD touchscreen looks great at this size, while the volume knob doubles as a power and display button. Tactile playback controls sit alongside an LED that changes according to sample rate. On the bottom are USB-C, 3.5mm single-ended, and 4.4mm balanced connections.
Prime Audio Reviews considers the move to 4.4mm balanced output particularly welcome. A microSD slot supporting cards up to 2TB provides ample room for a large music library.
More Than Local Playback
The AP80 PRO MAX uses Hiby OS and includes Wi-Fi, bidirectional Bluetooth, bidirectional USB, LDAC, Tidal and Qobuz access, Hiby Link, AirPlay, and DLNA. It can transmit or receive Bluetooth audio and can also connect to a phone for use as a dongle DAC.
For sound customization, MSEB offers extensive control over characteristics such as note thickness and vocal presentation. A 10-band EQ provides another adjustment option, while the reviewer also discusses parametric EQ support.
Full-Bodied Sound With Excellent Space
Listening without EQ, Prime Audio Reviews describes the AP80 PRO MAX as balanced rather than completely neutral. It carries a little extra body, benefiting bass notes and giving the midrange a pleasing fullness.
Bass extension is described as fantastic, with satisfying low rumble available when paired with an IEM capable of strong sub-bass reproduction. Dynamics and control are also praised, alongside an absence of added harshness or sharpness.
Spatial performance makes an especially strong impression. Imaging is pinpoint precise, creating a three-dimensional, holographic stage where individual elements can be located clearly. Width, depth, and height are all praised, while detail retrieval is considered fantastic.
Made With IEMs in Mind
Prime Audio Reviews stresses that the available power is intended primarily for IEMs rather than demanding full-size headphones. For IEM use, however, the reviewer considers the output sufficient across a collection, making it an especially practical portable music player.
Overall Assessment
Prime Audio Reviews calls the AP80 PRO MAX a favorite current entry-level DAP. Its compact dimensions, premium build, tactile controls, full-bodied balanced sound, precise imaging, strong dynamics, detail, and extensive tuning options combine into a player the reviewer says they absolutely love and awards their highest recommendation.
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