In this video I did a small, fun test for myself: flagship DAP versus entry-level DAP plus a good amp. I compared the FiiO M17 (about $2,400) against a much cheaper stack—HiBy R4 plus the Aroma Audio A100TB (about $1,400 total)—and focused mainly on price-to-sound-quality. I ran both an IEM setup (U12T) and a planar headphone (ZMF Caldera Closed) to see what actually changes when you go “one big DAP” versus “cheap DAP + amp.” Sound-wise, I found the stack consistently gives me a bigger, more surrounding soundstage and smoother mids—especially enjoyable for vocals. The M17, on the other hand, comes across cleaner, clearer, and more technically focused: better perceived detail, better separation, and slightly better control, but it can feel narrower and more centered. With the Caldera Closed, the same theme repeats: the M17 is more separated and energetic, while the stack is more engaging and atmospheric but a bit more diffused with some texture/detail drop. Beyond sound, I also talk usability. The R4 matters here because it’s a modern, smooth Android DAP with streaming and internal storage—something entry DAPs often lacked—though stacking means more bulk and having to charge two devices. My takeaway: both can make you smile, the difference isn’t huge, and it really comes down to the sound signature and convenience you want.