benbenkr

Does this forum only know about FiiO, O2 and Schiit? Because if so, that's sad.

DSD these days, otherwise FLAC wherever possible. MP3 (V0 320k) only on a portable device, for compatibility sake.

If that's your budget, I think the Superlux 668b would do you really well.

I'm not sure if you can find a good deal for a Titanium HD over in your place, but it usually goes for about $150 on Amazon. Otherwise a good alternative to the STX is the Creative ZxR, much more expensive though. Your other alternative is to go external entirely.

In terms of bass range, both of them goes pretty deep. The Z623 at least to me, has the heavier 'thump' but the SP2500 has slightly cleaner bass overall. Problem with the Z623 is that its highs are pretty blanketed, you're going to need some EQ and treble boost in order to pull some range out of the highs. The SP2500 on the hand is a much more balanced, highs aren't blanketed as much. Mids are pretty flat and that's great for being an all-rounder. Honestly between the both only, I'd go for the Z623 as the SP2500 isn't worth that extra $60-80. If there's another choice, I won't even waste my time on either and would opt for a Swans M50w instead.