[Question] how to improve audio quality of inew v3?

[WuddaWaste]

As far as audio processing goes, there are two main components you'll find in any digital audio player (smartphones included) : one is the DAC as described above, and the other is an amplifier to drive the headphones. The DAC can either be standalone or integrated into the main processor. Lesser is true of the amplifier, which typically needs to be its own IC -- but is still VERY integrated into a larger board. That is, regardless of whether the DAC and amplifier are implemented as part of the processor or as their own ICs, the design is definitely NOT going to be modular. That is, you can't simply drop-in replacements. At minimum it would require a full look at hardware schematics with a bill-of-materials, knowledge of electrical engineering, a valid form-fit-function replacement, machine-like precision with your soldering skills, and likely a case modification. Phones are simply too "integrated" for modular design -- especially one like the V3 which has a tiny form-factor.

That said, if you're having problems with the output amplifier not being up to snuff, an external headphone amplifier will probably be the solution you're looking for. Without actually hearing what you guys are hearing, I can't really diagnose the problem for sure but it sounds as if it might be the output amplifier. If the headphones are distorting at moderate volumes it's indicative of an impedance mismatch issue. Usually too low of impedance and you'll cause clipping (distortion) at mid-volume, too high of impedance and you'll cause a lack of volume.

I could ramble on here for a while, but I'll cut to the short version.

Cliffs Notes Version:
- Swapping out audio components in your phone isn't going to happen.
- The iNew V3 probably used an audio amplifier that's either budget-friendly or battery-friendly (or both).
- Budget/battery-friendly amplifiers aren't necessarily designed for audiophile output.
- A dedicated external amplifier for your headphones may overcome this limitation.
- Portable headphone amplifiers have their own power source and are typically designed for performance.
- Portable headphone amplifiers can also be kinda expensive, and can also be clunky to carry around.
- It's a possible solution if the audio really bothers someone.