The iPhone is a great device for playing music while on the go. Granted there are more audiophile quality portable media players out there, but for those looking for an all-in-one solution, our smartphones these days do a pretty good job. However if you’re looking to take your music listening to the next level, V-MODA has recently taken the wraps off the VAMP – a case for the iPhone 4/4S with an integrated amp, a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and a battery pack. Priced at $650, this accessory is definitely not for the casual listener.
Basically what it does is that it bypasses the iPhone’s own DAC by processing the signal via its own DAC built into the case. It will also bypass the iPhone’s amplifier by using its own 150mW x 2 amp that not only is reportedly five times more powerful than the iPhone’s own amp, but has also been designed for professional grade headphones in mind. Basically what this means is that if you plan to use the VAMP with the default iPhone earbuds then you’re most definitely not realizing the full potential of this accessory.
The VAMP also offers iPhone users two preset modes – PURE and VQ, with the former offering audio playback in its original form, and VQ which adds a spatial 3D soundstage and will tighten the bass while increasing the treble. It comes with external knobs for fine volume control and is made from aircraft-grade brushed aluminum and will sport a 2,200mAh external battery pack that is said to offer an additional eight hours of playback. As you can see in the photo above, it makes the iPhone considerably thicker but if you don’t mind the extra thickness, pop on over to V-MODA’s website to place your order or to learn more.