Hidizs S9 Pro Plus Review
“Martha”
Intro
Hello, today I am reviewing the follow-up of the much loved and admired Hidizs S9 Pro with its new predecessor the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus ($79.99). This latest entry into the “S9-series” is actually the 3rd installment. Hidizs began this wildly popular series with the 1st iteration, the Hidizs S9 which was quickly followed by the S9 Pro. Now, the S9 Pro was certainly one of the more impressive dongle-dacs within that first wave of the dongle-dac fury which first happened upon the Audioverse a couple years ago. The funny thing is… the S9 Pro still holds up very well. In my opinion it is still one of the best on the market within its price point. Anyhow, this latest entry into Hidizs lineup of dongle-dacs has some big shoes to fill. We shall see if the S9 Pro Plus is actually an upgrade and does the S9 Pro Plus provide a big enough leap to warrant purchasing one if someone already has the previous version.
Hidizs
The audio company Hidizs has gone through a sort of renaissance the past year or so, igniting the audio world with device after device, earphone after earphone ultimately filling the pages of Facebook, Reddit, and Head-fi as well with glowing reviews and few detractors.
We have seen some huge hits in the Audioverse such as the Hidizs MS3 (MS3 Review HERE), the Hidizs MP145 (MP145 Review HERE), the Hidizs MM2 (MM2 Review HERE), or even the much more expensive Hidizs MS5 (MS5 Review HERE) as well as the much less expensive “budget oriented” iem, the Hidizs MS1 Galaxy (MS1 Review HERE). However, it wasn’t just earphones that got updated, but also some small daps like the Hidizs AP80 Pro-X, or dongle dacs like the Hidizs XO or Hidizs S3 Pro Ultra. The only area we were waiting for was an update to the Hidizs S9 Pro (Pietro’s S9 Pro Review). Thankfully, this is why we’re here folks. The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus comes with some acclaim and anticipation, at least it does for me. I truly adore the older S9 Pro, which personally builds up the intrigue to this latest adaptation of the S9-series.
Martha
Who’s Martha? Yes, that is right folks, Hidizs named the S9 Pro Plus… Martha? Okay it may seem like a strange name, as the name Martha is more closely aligned to a soccer mom in the mid-80’s or the valedictorian and spelling bee champ in everyone’s local school system, also in the 80’s. We all knew a “Martha” didn’t we? I am joking, Martha is a fine name folks and I’m not making fun of spelling bee champs either. Lord knows I live and die with “spell checker”.
I digress. The actual reason for the name Martha is kinda cool actually. I enjoy that Hidizs decided to look a bit deeper to give this device a proper name. Hidizs actually named the S9 Pro Plus “Martha” because that was the name given to the last remaining and last surviving female Passenger Pigeon. That is actually a nice concept for a naming scheme. Nice job Hidizs! Did you know that the Passenger Pigeon was the largest species of flocking bird… Ever?! Also, did you know that it’s been 109 years since they’ve gone extinct? Well, now you do. Anyways, to commemorate and remember this precious species of birds, Hidizs decided to name their illustrious 3rd generation device from the “S9 series” after the actual name of the last lone surviving female. Pretty cool. Hey at least they didn’t name it a “number name“.
One Diversity
Names are important and as it turns out, Martha is a dope name. The naming of Martha represents a reminder to the fact that we are “one diversity” and to cherish “nature” & “life”. Those were Hidizs words. I’d say that’s an honorable sentiment and one I’m sure we could all get behind. At least Hidizs put some reflective and virtuous distinction unto the personality of this brand-new device. With that all said, perhaps I went a bit long on that breakdown? Hey… Now you know.
Dongle Madness
Dongle Dacs have come a long way from even just a couple years ago. We had the absolute CRAZE of “Dongle Madness” brought on by one of the more awesome people in the hobby… Andy EF. However, it was a bomb which only needed to be charged. The hobby was needing something to bridge the divide between those who couldn’t afford a DAP (or similar device) and those who no longer owned a phone with a 3.5 port. It was the perfect storm. How nice is it to be able to simply plug a device into your phone and you have hi-res audio on the ready. The last few years we’ve seen a 1000% uptick in dongle dac sales and dongle hype. Every week a new one hits the market, which naturally provides intrigue and speculation. It’s no wonder too! Again, how nice is it to simply attach a hi-res device into your phone, stream your music or play your own files, how nice is that? Certainly, dongle dacs have brought upon serious questions as to whether Digital Audio Players (Daps) or desktop setups are even needed. While I am not one who would go that far, I can tell you without the shadow of a doubt that many do believe this is true.
I’m excited about this one folks, and I’ll do my absolute best to relay what I think of the S9 Pro Plus so to hopefully help you, the reader to make a purchasing decision. Before I do, I want to extend a big thank you to Hidizs for providing the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus in exchange for a full honest review and feature at Mobileaudiophile.com. With all that said, let’s jump into this one… The Hidizs S9 Pro Plus…
Purchase Links:
(The 1st 100 units will be $69.99. Every unit thereafter will be $79.99)
–Hidizs S9 Pro Plus at Hidizs.net
Additional 5% off coupon code: CHRIS5OFF
S9 Pro Plus Pros
-Price
-Build Quality (Aerospace grade aluminum)
-Nice appearance, sleek & modern (three gorgeous colors)
-Volume buttons / filter changing buttons
-Seven PCM filter options that actually slightly alter the sound
-Nice upgrade in single ended output power (138mW)
-Thankfully the 4.4 port alongside the 3.5
-Hiss free & black background
-Warm and rich tonal character
-Smooth overall sound
-Agile & nimble transient response
-Expressive Macro-dynamic energy
-Detail retrieval
-Soundstage
S9 Pro Plus Cons
-Not for neutral & analytical lovers
-No app
-Can get pretty warm (not really a con)
-Less output power than its predecessor using 4.4 (200mW to 180mW)
Gear used for testing
Packaging / Accessories
Unboxing
Let’s do a quick unboxing friends, as there really isn’t much to say. Upon first receiving the S9 Pro Plus I was happy to see a small plastic box that is covered with a cardboard sleeve. On that outer sleeve you’ll see a picture of the device (S9 Pro Plus) as well as a few features. On the back is the usual small print specifications… and that’s about it. Nothing crazy, nothing that will jack up the cost of the device for needlessly lavish packaging. Nice move Hidizs! Anyways, the box is large enough for the S9 Pro Plus itself and that’s about it. Truly a tiny little box. I like that Hidizs is being as least wasteful as possible. These are the little things that I pay attention to in this hobby. Hidizs could’ve upped the price $10-$20 more and added some graphics, pouch, extra adapters etc. They are smart though. They know we likely already have this stuff and also, it keeps the price low and within the budget category. All expenses go into the device itself.
What’s in the Box?
This’ll be quick. Take off the sleeve and you’ll see a plastic little box. Open the box top off and you’ll be greeted by the sleek and slick looking Martha, in all her glory. You’ll notice a couple pull tabs to remove the top layer and when you do, you’ll find a small box with some extras in it. Inside you’ll see one short type-C to type-C data cable. Hidizs also added in a type-C to usb-A adapter. However, I think I speak for everyone when I say that the next item I describe is likely the most important. That’s right, Hidizs added in not one, but two little “Hi-res” stickers. It ain’t audiophile if it doesn’t have the stickers folks. Anyways, I think that Hidizs kept things simple, and I think that the packaging is nice, neat and not wasteful.
Build / Design / Internals
Build Quality
The quality of the build and the design are both upgrades from the previous S9 and S9 Pro devices. Certainly, the look. Hidizs went from Aluminum on the earlier S9 series devices to an upgraded Aerospace Aluminum material for the body of the device and glass on the front and back. So, the material didn’t really change a whole lot, but the feel of the unit seems upgraded when in hand. That’s one piece of CNC machined Aerospace Aluminum. Folks, everything about this device screams durability and structural integrity. Robust is a word which keeps coming to mind.
On the left side of the S9 Pro Plus you’ll notice two buttons which resemble small volume wheels. These buttons feel sturdy, not wiggly or loose and they don’t feel cheap at all. I’m telling you; the construction is very good. On the front end of the device is the type-C data port and on the opposite side you’ll notice the 3.5 single ended port as well as the 4.4 balanced port as well. Now the 4.4 port isn’t necessarily an upgrade but for those of us wishing the previous generations had 4.4…we consider it an upgrade. There’s also a Hidizs logo which lights up and provides certain info for which I’ll get into later. As far as build is concerned the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is a great device.
Design
Hidizs knows design language. They just do! I feel everything they put out has a modern and stylistic twist to the design. Never just plain or bland with this company. Obviously, there was a lot of thought which went into the look and feel of this device. Hidizs actually makes the S9 Pro Plus in three distinct, bold, and good looking colors with a “blue” model, a “black” model, and a “silver” model (see pics below). I think it’s pretty apparent that mine is the silver and I absolutely love it. I think it’s one of the best-looking dongle-dacs under $100. The body is so dope looking with straight edges, polygonal lines and a very bold design. The Hidizs logo is a nice touch and when it lights up it really “Pops” in contrast to the color of the body. Everything looks reinforced, clean, sleek and contoured with symmetry and style. Fantastic job Hidizs, this device looks awesome!
Martha’s Shape – Elegant and Powerful Sprite
Hidizs Promotional
The exterior of the S9 Pro Plus ‘Martha’ is meticulously crafted from a single block of aerospace-grade aluminum using advanced CNC machining techniques. This ensures a robust and durable design that maintains the Hidizs family’s signature style. It not only looks stylish but also feels comfortable to hold, with a compact and lightweight design that’s both practical and elegant.
Internals
Now this is where we delve into the nuts and bolts of this review. Everyone is always wanting to know what dac chip that they went with. As if that is the only determining factor as to how the S9 Pro Plus will sound. Well, Hidizs actually opted for a tried-and-true dac chip by using the ESS Technology ES9038Q2M chip. This chip enables the S9 Pro Plus to get PCM sampling rate support of up to 32bit / 768khz audio rendering. It’ll also get you up to DSD 512 (Direct Stream Digital). This chip also happens to use ESS Technologies patented 32bit Hyperstream II quad dac architecture and jitter eliminator. The S9 Pro Plus also has a high SNR of up to 128db and an ultra-low THD+N of -120db. You gotta have quality components and Hidizs was able to supply that.
Martha’s Heart – Hidizs Professional HiFi Audio Circuit Architecture
Hidizs Promotional
S9 Pro Plus Martha adopts the fourth-generation professional HiFi audio processing circuit architecture developed by Hidizs Acoustic Laboratory. This is a fully balanced circuit architecture, consisting of four parts: USB interface processor, DAC, independent headphone amplifier and POP sound cancellation system. The DAC uses ESS Technology’s flagship DAC chip ES9038Q2M, which uses ESS Technology’s patented 32-bit HyperStream® II QUADDAC™ architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator. It ensures the extremely high accuracy of audio data and represents the highest level of audio decoding technology. Its excellent characteristics make it the first choice for audiophiles and high-fidelity music lovers.
Specifications
Specs
-Dimensions: 55×25×11mm
-DAC Chip: ESS9038Q2M
-DSD: Native DSD64/128/256/512
-PCM: Support up to 32bit/768kHz
-Output option: Compatible with single-ended 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm plug earphones
-Sampling rate indicator: Support
-Shell material: CNC integrated aluminum alloy
-Function buttons: Two in total (side of the device)
-Switching filter: Supported (simultaneously press both volume buttons)
-Transmission interface: Type-C interface interchangeable cable design
-Supported systems: Android, Windows, Mac OS, iPad OS, Harmony OS
-Net weight: 17g
-Color: Black, Sliver, Blue
-Packing list: Type-C to Type-C Cable×1, Type-C to USB-A adapter×1, User manual×1, Warranty card×1
Audio parameters
(Test conditions @32Ω Load)
-Frequency Response: 20Hz-40kHz
-Distortion: PO (3.5): 0.0019% BAL (4.4): 0.0008%
-Signal-to-noise ratio: PO (3.5): 123dB BAL (4.4): 120dB
-Separation: PO (3.5): 75dB BAL (4.4): 115dB
-Output power: 3.5 SE= 138mW+138mW 4.4 BAL= 180mW+180mW
Features
Filter options
Hidizs decided to provide seven different PCM pulse filter response effects which actually provide some nicely subtle changes to contour and change the sound to suit your particular taste. Friends, usually filter effects are gimmicks and rarely show any signs of sculpting to the sound. I can’t tell you how many source devices I’ve owned which claim to give you these sweeping changes to alter the sound. Yeah… Not so much. At best you will hear the slightest, faintest and most finite little changes to the sound. However, I actually found that the S9 Pro Plus actually does effect some “changes”. Not all make as big a difference as others, and it takes a very discerning ear and the right type of track to notice with any concrete distinction. Still, they are changes nonetheless and I welcome it. Hidizs crafted an easy way to navigate through these filters by employing both of the side buttons to complete the task. Just press both buttons simultaneously and they will cycle through the filters. You will also notice that the Hidizs logo on the body of the S9 Pro Plus changes color to indicate what filter you’ve changed to. Those filter colors and descriptors go like this:
- “Green Light” Anodizing fast roll-off (Default Filter): Vocals are slightly forward, and high frequencies are extended with reduced resonance.
- “Red Light” Linear phase fast roll-off: Enhanced analytical capabilities, delivering a clean and crisp sound.
- “Blue Light” Linear phase slow roll-off: Enriched harmonics, full low frequencies, and natural reverb.
- “Yellow Light” Minimum phase fast roll-off: Balanced and moderate sound.
- “Purple Light” Minimum phase slow roll-off: Clean sound with a forward position.
- “White Light” Hybrid fast roll-off: Soft and smooth sound with enhanced detail
Effectiveness
Again, these aren’t mind boggling changes and I haven’t honestly spent a ton of time going through trying to analyze each filter to see if it matches Hidizs’ descriptors, but I have spent enough time to hear the difference and actually pick one that I like the most. My favorites are “Blue” filter for earphones that are a bit more neutral-ish in tonal color and the “Red” filter for a warmer set. Remember it is ridiculously easy to cycle through these. Simply push both buttons and the light will change. Very cool.
Unlock Physical Buttons for Volume Control & 6 Filter Option for an Unparalleled Hi-Res Music Experience
Hidizs Promotional
Hidizs S9 Pro Plus ‘Martha’ is equipped with practical function buttons designed specifically for audiophiles, providing convenient and quick volume adjustments to effortlessly adapt to variations in volume when switching between different headphones. Additionally, the ES9038Q2M offers seven filter pulse response effects (PCM FILTER IMPULSE RESPONSE), and the switching function is integrated into two buttons. By simultaneously pressing both buttons, you can cycle through the seven filter effects.
Sample Rate Indicators
Like most dongle-dacs or source devices the S9 Pro Plus will indicate the exact sampling rate in which you are listening to at any one given time. In this case the logo will light up and stay lit to the corresponding sampling rate. For instance:
-Yellow: DSD 64/128
–Purple: DSD 256/512
–Blue: PCM 176.4/192(kHz)
–Red: PCM 352.8/384(kHz)
–White: PCM 705.6/768(kHz)
–Green: PCM 44.1/48/88.2/96(kHz)
The indicator light is a pretty snazzy feature. Again, we’ve definitely seen this many times in the past, but I suppose it’s worth noting. Plus, it looks nifty. It’s certainly better having it tm than not.
Connectivity
It should be noted that the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is like any other dongle-dac as it is a simple and easy to use “plug n’ play” device. Using the S9 Pro Plus on Windows was a simple task. Also using with a mobile phone is just as simple. The S9 Pro Plus is compatible with Windows, Mac, IOS (iPad/iPhone), Android, Harmony OS. There aren’t any 3rd party drivers that I’ve needed when connecting the S9 Pro Plus to my Android Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. Just simply plug it in and give some permissions and it’s as simple as that.
Driving Power
When it comes to having enough output power to competently drive and operate iems or earphones it really doesn’t take much most of the time. In fact, any earphones that I have in my possession are all fairly easy to drive. The S9 Pro Plus actually has some decent power under the hood. It isn’t life changing though and definitely not class leading but hearty enough whether on single ended at up to 138mW @32 Ohms or balanced listening which will get you 180mW @32 Ohms. I honestly never had an issue and even my harder to drive earbuds were a simple task for the S9 Pro Plus. The funny thing is that the newer version S9 Pro Plus has less driving power when listening on balanced than the previous version (not by much). However, the new S9 Pro Plus actually has substantially more driving power on single ended. Either way the S9 Pro Plus can pretty much drive any earphones, within reason. I no longer have the Final Audio E5000 unfortunately which would’ve been great to test out though it is doubtful a low impedance/low sensitivity iem such as the E5000 will be driven properly. Take that for a grain of salt though.
Does it have enough?
I also think that you’ll have to be reasonable as to how well the S9 Pro Plus will be able to push some high-impedance full sized cans. The voltage swing may not be enough to drive the more difficult over-ears perfectly. Again, I have none on hand to test out at the moment. So, I do hope you can forgive me for that. The output power is actually much better on 3.5 single ended than I had anticipated with an output of 138mW per 32Ohms. However, I did notice a slightly better dynamics with 4.4 balanced but it isn’t an across-the-board improvement such as you’ll hear on many devices. Which is a great thing. At the end of the day, I feel the S9 Pro Plus has plenty of driving power for my needs and I’m sure many of you reading this have a good idea how well it will drive your gear too.
MP145 for example
Listening with the Hidizs MP145 (which is actually pretty easy to drive for a planar) I found the S9 Pro Plus to push this set very well. I truly had zero issues. The MP145 was dynamic and nimble and all the little fluctuations and modulations within any track were easily navigated through listening to this pair. Transients were speedy and the timbre was rich. It’s true that the MP145 is fairly easy to drive but it isn’t the easiest to drive to its pinnacle. While the S9 Pro Plus doesn’t have the fidelity of more expensive source devices, it is very well done for what it is, and I felt I lacked nothing with the MP145. This is a great combo folks.
Sound Impressions
Note: All critical listening impressions are based after roughly 50 hours of playtime (give or take). I also conducted this review while listening to flac or better files which are stored on my devices. I mainly used the three earphones I mention below but I also used many others during the course of my time with the S9 Pro Plus.
To conduct this review, I will be using a few different earphones in the Hidizs MS3 (MS3 Review), Hidizs MP145 (MP145 Review) as well as the Aful Performer 8 (Review coming soon) (Pavan’s P8 Review). I chose these sets simply because they are Hidizs products and… Why not? The Aful Performer 8 made sense to use because I am actually in the middle of a review at the moment. Kill a couple birds with one stone type of thing. I also have been using the S9 Pro Plus for around a month now and feel I have a good grasp on the sound so I will do my best at relaying that to you. Folks, conducting source reviews are always difficult because so much has to do with the earphones you are using. I will provide very general ideas about the overall tonality and sound descriptors only because so much can alter how we perceive sound.
Warm & Dynamic
One thing I find especially nice about the S9 Pro Plus is the overall musicality, smoothness, and lushness of the replay while still holding onto the technical side of my music as well. What we have is a slightly warm/neutral tonal color across the whole of the mix with the scales tipping slightly more to the warm side. Not to the point of veil and there is enough good neutrality mixed in as well. It certainly isn’t anywhere near “Dark”. The sound has good depth which adds some realism and an almost 3D effect. I hear good dynamics within the subtle warmth which is very engaging. The S9 Pro Plus does a fantastic job of keeping a softer timbre yet with added body to notes. Macro-dynamic fullness and intensity is there to add some dynamic expression to the sound though not equaled to more expensive source devices. Good for a $79 dongle dac though. Also, micro-dynamics are fairly well controlled and nimble for a dongle dac at this price. So, there’s some nice micro-dynamic agility and the transient quickness is pretty nice for a lusher sounding source.
Solid Performer
The replay of the S9 Pro Plus is a solid performer at the price point. Technically it is pretty solid too with good separation of elements within the sound field, pretty good staging and imaging is nice as well. It’s evident that Hidizs have taken all of their collective knowledge into account and bestowed that knowledge unto the creation of Martha. The S9 Pro Plus has a more energetic replay amongst the warm/neutral sound, which makes for some nice listening sessions. Basically, the S9 Pro Plus will give its own spin to your earphones when attached. I have come to very much enjoy the naturally weighted and organic sound of the S9 Pro Plus, so much so that going back to something like the Fiio KA3 for example details pretty quickly where the KA3 lacks.
Sound Between the 20’s
Note: In this portion of the review, I will go over each 3rd of the mix (Bass, Mids, Treble) but please keep in mind that much of what I hear will be dictated by the earphones I have attached at the time of listening. I will try to describe how the S9 Pro Plus alters the sound as best I can.
Bass Region
The low-end is emphasized, warm, rich and provides a slight lift in bass quantity to any earphone I attached it to (within reason). The bass reaches decently deep but will still let your earphones be what they are. If your earphones dig deep, so will the S9 Pro Plus. If your earphones aren’t the heartiest of bass heathens, then the S9 Pro Plus will not suddenly shock your ears in rumbly bass. For instance, the S9 Pro Plus won’t all of a sudden turn the HZsound Heart Mirror into a basshead set. There is a subtle emphasis with good added texture, good micro-dynamic movement and macro-dynamics are expressive as well for a $79 source device. Just enough to keep things fun.
For instance, listening with the Hidizs MS3 I noticed a nicely hefty low-end response on bass heavy tracks. The S9 Pro Plus seemed to only enhance the capabilities of the MS3 in this region. The bass hits with good authority and extends nicely with good physical feedback, haptic reverb and a deft and tidy density. I find percussion hits with good energy and punch and are certainly well laid out and highlighted. Bass drops hit hard and with a robust boom when called upon and when using some earphones with a beefier low-end response. Yet at the same time there is a fine element of speed and a tautness to the sound that I find enjoyable. All in all, I really enjoy the low-end of the S9 Pro Plus.
Midrange
The midrange is a bit more forward in the mix, smooth, bodied and even robust too, which gives a nice presence to vocals and the midrange is nicely detailed. The S9 Pro Plus skirts around any upper-mid sheen or emphasis so you won’t have any eye wincing glare. The timbre is on the “smoother and thicker” side of the aisle but that doesn’t mean we don’t have nice separation of elements or good illumination of the subtleties within my music. Like I already stated, the micro-dynamic small shifts in energy are well done for what the S9 Pro Plus is. Granted, you have to keep in mind the price here as this little guy won’t compete against higher-end gear. Of course, we shouldn’t expect any dongle-dac to compete against them either. The midrange is represented very well with a clean replay that also gives a realistic and organic flare to the sound in relation to the tuning of any earphone you are using.
Attaching the Aful Performer 8 to the S9 Pro Plus creates a very nice and melodic harmony. What a pair. You have the neutral/warm sound of the P8 and the slightly richer and lusher sound of the S9 Pro Plus. Vocals sound fantastic. There’s a very nice depth in the sound which gives off a rounded portrayal of voices and instrumentation. The sound is musical at its heart and doesn’t have any glare or peakiness. The S9 Pro Plus brings the P8 right to the brink of glare and stops just short while keeping a well-bodied and mellifluous sound throughout the mix. Also, the staging seems accurately placed within any recording/track.
Treble Region
The treble region is mostly a non-offensive affair and won’t add any undue brightness or forced resolution. In the same breath, the treble does have nice body to notes and even adds some controlled bite at the peak of each note. This all depends on the track being played and the earphones being used. But, for the most part the S9 Pro Plus adds welcomed realism to the sound adding color to the mix in a way that brings some naturally weighted authenticity to the sound. Much like the Shanling M6 Ultra that I use so often, the sound won’t be super lifted or abundant in extra brilliance, but it is balanced to the rest of the mix. In the same breath I find extension into the highest of highs to be nice and detail retrieval is also good too.
One thing I find to be great is that I truthfully never hear the ESS glare or metallic and artificial timbre which can occur at times with these chips. Hidizs did a commendable job of tailoring the sound and the treble region is no exception. I find the natural timbre up top to be refreshing and easy to listen to for extended periods. I’ve heard this before out of these ES9038Q2M chips. Now a lot has to do with implementing them correctly, obviously, but I’ve heard similar warmth and note weight on the Shanling UA5 which also shares the same chip.
Downsides to the Sound as a whole
If I were to nitpick or find some subjective issues that some may find bothersome, I’d say that the S9 Pro Plus will not be a treble heads delight. The S9 Pro Plus leans to the warm/rich side of the aisle and doesn’t add forced vibrance to my music but instead comes across in a natural way. Also, this is not a dry and analytical sound or an ultra-detailed listen for those who prefer it. The S9 Pro Plus does an admirable job articulating the nuances in a track but mostly the S9 Pro Plus leans on its musicality with a more emotional replay, rather than a detailed and lean expression of sound. Folks these are seriously minor nitpicks. For $79 this dongle-dac sounds great!
Id ssay the biggest downside to the sound is actually, there are so many other great sounding dongle-dacs in the Audioverse. The S9 Pro Plus just adds a slightly different flavor. That said, it is a flavor I greatly enjoy.
Technicalities
Soundstage
This is a tough call for a reviewer because so much depends on the earphones you are listening with. However, the stage of the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus offers the listener a wide psycho-acoustic rendering of my music. No doubt the stage is nice from side to side with average height depending on the earphones. However, one standout feature of the stage is the depth and the added layering of elements within the stage. Like I said earlier, there is almost a euphonic effect or 3D effect to the sound. Again, the hijacked meaning of “euphonic”. The stage is well setup and nicely displayed.
Separation / Imaging
Separation of elements on an imaginary stage are also very nice to my ears. The S9 Pro Plus will take the good abilities of something like the Hidizs MP145 and follow suit. Basically, the S9 Pro Plus will not take away and congest the sound or muddy the sound. As much as I can glean from listening to a source (S9 Pro Plus) and trying to decide whether separation or imaging is good or bad on that source I find it easy to hear that the S9 Pro Plus is a fine device which can easily parse out and partition off instruments and vocalists rather nicely. Even with the slightly richer sound. Imaging is just the same. The S9 Pro Plus has good control of the sound field from what I can tell. The best way to know is that sets with usually great imaging remain great attached to the S9 Pro Plus. Also, sets that aren’t as great get a little help in this area, like when listening to the HIDIZS MM2 that I was going to use for this review but decided against for various reasons. Honestly, as far as one can tell I would say that separation and imaging are well done.
Detail Retrieval
The detail retrieval is actually fairly nice, not a detail monster, though. Micro-details come about fairly easily depending on the earphones and the type of genre or track you are listening to. I found the Aful P8 to have abundant in details with the S9 Pro Plus. Same thing goes for even the Hidizs MS3 which is good at rendering details but not inherently great. Basically, it isn’t it’s calling card. However, the stage is wide, the transient behavior is perceivably tight enough, separation seems good, micro-dynamic energy sounds agile and nimble to pick up the lower-level slight fluctuations in volume. For a $79 dongle-dac with a lush presentation the S9 Pro Plus does a better than adequate job. Granted it isn’t the strong suit of this little guy, but it isn’t a detriment either. Maybe average, but average is good.
Comparisons
Note: I will be very brief in these comparisons. I want to keep my word count down for the algorithm and so I will use very general verbiage when describing these differences. All comparison testing was done with the same set of earphones listening to the same tracks for an extended period of time.
Hidizs S9 Pro ($77-$85)
Friends, the Hidizs S9 Pro was somewhat of a benchmark for some time at just above $100. This little device was one of the kingpins of the dongle madness brushfire which overtook the Audioverse a couple years ago. The S9 Pro is one of those dongle-dacs which simply doesn’t get old, and frankly still holds its own even today, quite easily too. The S9 Pro features the same ES9038Q2M dac chip and performs very well for a dac/amp at this price. Originally the MSRP of the S9 Pro was closer to $117 but has since come down in price to a more budget friendly price point.
Differences
To start, the look of the newer Pro Plus version is more modern and stylish in appearance, In my opinion. The old S9 Pro lacked physical buttons and is slimmer in comparison. I find the old S9 Pro to be a great looking device, but the S9 Pro Plus is simply gorgeous and really does trump the look of the OG. Also, the S9 Pro only offered 3.5/2.5 ports whereas the much welcomed 4.4 balanced port was added to the newer S9 Pro Plus. This was a big deal to me and many folks in the hobby.
Sound differences
Both devices work off of the ES9038Q2M dac chip and both have a fairly powerful amp section. However, like I’ve stated, the OG S9 Pro has a hair more power in balanced but much less output power on single ended. To be honest, from my testing the new device has more real-world driving power than the old, no matter what the spec sheet says. I find the newer S9 Pro Plus to tilt a hair more to the organic and musical side of things, whereas the older S9 Pro has a hint more neutrality.
Bass Region
Between the two the S9 Pro has a slightly more neutral lean, a brighter hue, more uplifted across the mix and less low-end emphasis. I find the new S9 Pro Plus has a fuller low-end with a warmer and weightier response along with more punch in the low-end. The S9 Pro is a bit leaner but also has a more vibrant low-end, crisper. Both devices can bump though.
Midrange
Moving to the midrange, the new device is a tad more forward, lusher, weightier, a hint more realistic and better detailed. The staging in the midrange is more 3D on the S9 Pro Plus as well. Again, I find both generations to be very well refined, but I cannot help to be more impressed by the S9 Pro Plus.
Treble Region
Both devices have a nice treble response, but the newer device has a hint less overall treble quantity. However, despite that the S9 Pro Plus has a more contoured, textured treble combining with less instances of sibilance. The new device is simply less vibrant up top. The OG S9 has more treble sheen with slightly more bite. Detail retrieval is very close between the two devices and to be totally honest it is only splitting hairs between the two.
Technicalities
Starting with the stage I find both devices have a pretty grand stage with equal width across the two devices, same with height. However, depth narrowly goes to the S9 Pro Plus as evidenced by listening to “Hook” by Blues Traveler. Layering is only a hint better on the new device and separation is too close to call. Detail retrieval may be more in favor of the older S9 Pro but that is completely dependent on the track you are listening to. Is say both devices do detail retrieval well.
In the end
To be honest, both devices sound pretty similar but I find the new S9 Pro Plus has more macro-dynamic punch and just as good transient agility, but at the same time it has a richer sound and a more organic sound. The older S9 Pro has a touch more vibrance and is basically what one would expect from an ESS dac chip and tuning. You do have a hint of that “ES timbre” but it is mostly kept in check. The S9 Pro Plus almost sounds more like an AK chip in that there is a bit more of a velvet musicality and resolving warmth. That ES9038Q2M chip has helped a few devices to be slightly thicker with a slightly warmer hue. However, when all is said and done, I think that the biggest difference between the two is… Musicality. The newer S9 Pro Plus is a bit more musical. This comparison is a testimony of Hidizs ability to craft these devices. I do think that the older S9 Pro is still relevant and near the top of the best under $100.
Moondrop Dawn 4.4 ($69.99)
The Moondrop Dawn is what I believe to be one of the best dongle-dacs for pure sound quality that you can buy under $100. The Dawn 4.4 is truly a beast against the field and completely overlooked and undervalued. However, Moondrop left out any kind of volume buttons, or any buttons for that matter. Another thing that some folks don’t really jive with is the fact that the cable is non-removable. However, one of the largest disappointments is the fact that the Dawn will only run on 4.4 balanced. There is no single ended usage. Still, the Dawn 4.4 runs off of a tried-and-true Cirrus Logic CS43131 dac chip and a ton of power under the hood at 230mW @32 ohms. Also, Moondrop does have a dedicated app which is a huge luxury to have which can help with many different functions. The question I wondered since I received the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is, “How will the S9 Pro Plus stack up to the Dawn 4.4 in straight up sound quality?”
Differences
To start, the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is cylindrical in construction which means it will not sit flat when not attached to a device. It may or may not have rolled off a table or two at my home and office. However, I do really enjoy its understated look. Let’s be real though, the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is a much more dope looking dongle-dac. The S9 Pro Plus does have a detachable cable and it does have volume controls as well. Both pluses in my book. That said, the Dawn 4.4 has an app as well as a touch more output power on balanced listening.
Sound Differences
Between the two, the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is certainly the brighter (though generally not bright) and analytical (though still very musical) while the S9 Pro Plus has a warmer and more weighty response across the mix.
Bass Region
Beginning with the bass region, the S9 Pro Plus has a little bit more in the tank with a beefier low-end. I find the Dawn 4.4 has the speedier and more transient quick bass. Mind you, these differences are very minimal. Both devices offer a clean bass drop, weighted & full bass guitar, and both devices will give your earphones a slight bump in this region.
Midrange
The midrange playback of the Dawn 4.4 features a nicely textured and slightly less musical take on the region. Perhaps a bit better detailed but not as dense in note delivery. I find both devices to prop up the midrange, scooting them a bit more forward. Yet they present them differently, tonally speaking. The S9 Pro Plus is closer to warm/neutral throughout and more organic sounding, whereas the Dawn 4.4 is closer to neutral with better texture. Macro-dynamics come through with more fullness on the S9 Pro Plus, but micro-dynamics and micro-definition are a bit easier to navigate on the Dawn 4.4. The Dawn is crisp, clean yet never too crisp. The S9 Pro Plus is smooth, weighted yet never too smoothed over. I feel the Dawn 4.4 is technical over musical and the S9 Pro Plus is musical over technical. Both do well across the board, however. Just skewed a bit differently is all. In all honesty, these two complement each other nicely and would be good to have for a collection.
Treble Region
The treble region of the Dawn 4.4 is a bit more on the airy side while the S9 Pro Plus has smoother sound with more of a bodied presence. Again, this does not mean the Dawn isn’t nicely weighted or the S9 Pro Plus isn’t open sounding. Again, just skewed a bit differently. I find details in the treble region are a hair easier to focus on with the Dawn 4.4 while the S9 Pro Plus hold tight to the musicality in this region.
Technicalities
Speaking about the stage size; both devices do an admirable job of presenting the stage. Both devices offer a nice sized stage but as always, a lot has to do with the earphones you’re using. The ability to separate elements of a stage seems about the same and imaging as well. Honestly it isn’t easy to compare source devices or to discern the ability of sources to separate instruments and voices while also figuring in the earphones you are using. To me they both do an admirable job. Let’s put it this way, I don’t hear anything negative while comparing. Detail retrieval is goes to the Moondrop Dawn 4.4 but again, both do a fine job at this price point.
In the end
One thing is for sure, It’s a preference battle here. Both are nice dongle-dacs for the price and both simply do a great job of replaying music at a high level for the price. I love em’ both. If I had to choose what is the best deal at this price, I would say the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus, however. The Moondrop Dawn 4.4 is a bit thinner in note weight, a little less natural in timbre but it does make up for it in other areas. The S9 Pro Plus may not have the same transient quickness and neutral airiness but again, it too makes up for it in other areas. Also, one thing I should mention. Just because I say one is more open and airier than the other does not mean the lesser device is necessarily lacking. Comparisons sometimes can sound this way. At the end of the day, both devices sound rock solid for a small price.
Is it worth the asking price?
This is an easy “rec” from me. I don’t even want to string this answer out, absolutely Martha is worth the asking price. I would actually venture to say it is one of the best in the price point and should be in everyone’s shortlist who’s in the market for a dongle-dac around this price. Obviously not everyone will be on board with that, but I think it is a fantastic option for the amount Hidizs is asking. Of course, one must consider the other quality dongle-dacs in the price point and they should measure and weigh different attributes of each one but, it’s hard to find negatives with the S9 Pro Plus. I do feel that the S9 Pro Plus is certainly an upgrade from its predecessor, the Hidizs S9 Pro. So that will kind of give you some sort of a gauge for where the newer version sits in the Audioverse under $100.
However, for the buyer there is so much to consider. You may want something which can be used both through a cable and through Bluetooth like the Qudelix 5k which is still a great device. The Shanling UP4 is a good device as well. Straight up dongle-dacs are truly in abundance at this price point. There is the Hiby FC4, Tanchjim Space, Truthear Shio, Jcally AP90, Shanling UA2 & UA2 Plus, Fiio KA3, Hidizs XO, DD Hifi TC44 Pro, and there are about fifty more to mention that are decent to very good within this price point. I don’t want to waste the digital ink trying to name them all.
The Why…
To answer “why” the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus is worth the asking price I would first start by saying that this thing looks flat out dope. Easily one of the best designed dongle-dacs out there. That said, it is also built extremely well. Just put it in your hand and you’ll feel what I’m talking about. The Volume buttons are a huge plus, the solid dac chip, nice driving power both in single ended and balanced. However, it is always the sound quality which is the final determining factor. The sound is so big in warm macro-dynamic energy and the note weight adds such a nice element to my music that I do find it hard switching to another source. I don’t know how else to put it. The sound is simply big, separated, layered, textured, clean and each area of the mix is represented so well. I love the musical nature of this dongle-dac and how my earphones synergize so nicely. I think this is a no brainer folks, the S9 Pro Plus is worth every penny.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review of the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus “Martha”, I have to once again thank Hidizs as well as the good people who I’m in contact with at Hidizs. I have never once been asked to skew my words to reflect well on the S9 Pro Plus and I’ve never been offered any money in exchange. Just a handshake and an understanding that we will let the chips fall where they may. This is comforting and shows a lot of how Hidizs believes in their products to subject them to the scrutiny of a subjectively objective review. So, thank you so very much. I also want to thank anyone who took the time to read any words that I’ve written about the Hidizs S9 Pro Plus. I really do hope that I can help you with making a purchasing decision. After all, it’s all about you, the reader.
Different Perspectives
As I do in every review, I really do hope that you check out other reviews from other folks. It’ll greatly help you in making an educated decision. We are all very much different in many ways, from our likes and dislikes to the gear that we have at our disposal, to the library of music we enjoy, to our actual ability to hear the music. So many variables to take into account. I think the biggest factor as far as differences from one person to another is the fact that we all haven’t been down the same journey in audio. Think about it. It’s true that what’s good for me… may not be so good for the next reviewer. So do yourself a favor and check out other perspectives from other great people in the hobby. Please take good care, stay as safe as you can and always… God Bless!
