How much DAP do I need? HiBy R1 or R3 Pro II

Yet another "help me pick a DAP" post. Sorry.

So, long time ago, I used to have an HD minidisc player (1GB discs, an amazing time), then a Creative MP3 player. Eventually it packed in and, like everyone else, I moved onto listening to music on my phone. I've stuck with this for a long time as I never knew that good, affordable DAPs existed. So this is an exciting turn of events! The question is what do I need? Both the HiBy R1 and R3 Pro II sound like excellent pieces of kit. One is better than the other, but also about double the price. Is it better to go for something more expensive and cover myself for longer (I don't want to own multiple units) or does the R1 do everything I need for less money.

My situation is roughly:

  • I don't stream music. I'm a big Bandcamp user but downloading the files isn't a big deal (what I used to do anyway and good back up). I still have all my CDs and vinyl downloads so my music will be coming this way.
  • I'm lucky enough to be being given some vouchers by my work for long service. But this means I'm probably going to have to buy from Amazon (UK) as opposed to AliExpress, HiBy, etc. as getting vouchers for them isn't an option for them (unless someone knows differently).
  • As I said above, I want to buy one DAP and enjoy it for a good few years, not have a few.
  • I'm not set on HiBy, or non-Android players, these just seem like good players for the money that are available where I am.

I've really enjoyed reading through the sub of late, there's so much good info on here. Any advice is appriciated. I'm looking forward to a new way to start listening to music (again).

Posted Oct 28, 2025, 4:54 PM UTC

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