xDuoo XA-02 Review
xDuoo XA-02 Review
Introduction:
The xDuoo XA-02 Desktop DAC/Amplifier offers budget-conscious consumers a well-engineered solution for high fidelity audio. Utilizing transistors as a Class A buffer, it maintains optimal circuit performance and strong load capacity, suitable for driving various headphones. The device features the ES9039Q2M DAC chip and ELNA capacitors, which contribute to clear sound and high-frequency precision. It also incorporates professional power chips and a high-end capacitor design for reliable audio output.
This model supports multiple high-resolution music formats, including MQA, DSD256, and PCM/DXD up to 32bit/384kHz. It offers significant output power, reaching up to 2000mW via 4.4mm balanced output. The XA-02 includes various input options such as USB, coaxial, optical, and HD Bluetooth. Additionally, it provides advanced protection features and digital volume control. Its compact design and 1.3-inch OLED display make it suitable for modern desktop setups. Now, let’s take a closer look at its specific features and performance.
Disclaimer:
I would like to thank Shenzhen Audio and xDuoo for providing me the XA-02 DAC/AMP as review sample. I am not affiliated with Shenzhen Audio and xDuoo beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered, opinions about the product.
Price & Availability:
The xDuoo XA-02 is a budget friendly Digital to Analog Converter with an actual price of 199.00 US$. More information’s can be found under the link below;
Package & Accessories:
The xDuoo XA-02 arrives in a straightforward white cardboard box, adorned with an illustration of the device and branddings on the top.
This box contains the following items;
- 1 x xDuoo XA-02 Digital to Analog Converter
- 1 x USB A to USB Type-C cable
- 1 x 6.35mm to 3.5mm headphone plug converter
- 1 x Power Cable
- 1 x Antenna
- 1 x User Manual & Warranty card
Design & Build Quality:
The xDuoo XA-02 Desktop DAC/Amplifier features a sleek, industrial design that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. With its gray anodized finish, the device has a robust, professional appearance. Measuring 20 x 17.5 x 4.7 cm and weighing 0.9 kg, it is compact yet sturdy.
The front panel of the xDuoo XA-02 Desktop DAC/Amplifier features a red multifunctional knob for volume adjustment by turning and input selection between USB, Optical, Coax, and BT IN by pushing.
It also includes buttons for settings and Bluetooth, with the settings button providing access to Digital Filters, Gain (High/Low), and Bass On/Off, and the Bluetooth button dedicated to pairing.
Additionally, there is a display screen that shows connectivity status and input selection, along with headphone jacks for both 4.4mm balanced output and 6.35mm single-ended output.
The 1.3-inch OLED display on the front improves usability by allowing users to monitor the device’s decoding status and other key information easily.
The rear panel is equipped with various input and output ports, including AUX OUT, COAXIAL, OPTICAL, USB IN, a separate USB Type-C port for updates, and a Bluetooth antenna input (with the antenna included in the box).
The power input and switch are also located on the rear panel. This range of ports allows the XA-02 to connect to a wide array of audio sources and outputs, enhancing its versatility.
On the top of the device is the xDuoo branding.
The left and right sides of the device feature a series of evenly spaced vertical slits or vents, which are likely for ventilation purposes.
The bottom of the device features a stylishly designed ventilation opening and four rubber feet for stability
Overall, the xDuoo XA-02 Desktop DAC/Amplifier combines a well-thought-out design with practical features and robuts built quality.
Technical Specifications:
| Power Supply | AC 100-240V |
| Screen | 1.3-inch OLED |
| Compliant OS | Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, iOS, Android |
| USB Sampling Rate Support | PCM: 16/32-bit/44.1k-384kHz, DSD: DSD64-DSD256, MQA: 44.1k-384kHz |
| COA/OPT Sampling Rate Support | PCM: 16/24-bit/44.1k-192kHz, DSD: DSD64 (DoP) |
| Bluetooth Support Formats | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX LL, aptX HD, LDAC |
| 6.35mm Headphone Output | Output Power: 910mW (32Ω load), Frequency Response: 20Hz-60kHz (±0.5dB), Crosstalk: ≥71dB, SNR: 119dB (A-weighted), THD+N: 0.002% |
| 4.4mm BAL Headphone Output | Output Power: 2000mW (32Ω load), Frequency Response: 20Hz-60kHz (±0.5dB), Crosstalk: ≥118dB, SNR: 121dB (A-weighted), THD+N: 0.0004% |
| AUX Out | Output Level: 2.6Vrms, Frequency Response: 20Hz-60kHz (±0.5dB), Crosstalk: ≥118dB, SNR: 121dB (A-weighted), THD+N: ≤0.0004% |
| Headphone Impedance | 16Ω-600Ω |
| Size | 20 x 17.5 x 4.7 CM |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
Hardware Features:
A. Digital to Analog Converter:
The xDuoo XA-02 is equipped with the ES9039Q2M DAC chip, designed to provide high-fidelity audio with clear sound and high-frequency precision.It supports various high-resolution music formats, including full MQA with up to 8x expansion PCM and DXD up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD up to DSD256.
ELNA capacitors are used to enhance the audio quality, aiming for a smooth and natural listening experience.
B. Amplification & Background Noise:
The XA-02 employs transistors as a Class A buffer to maintain circuit conditions for strong output and load capacity, suitable for driving various headphones. The amplifier circuit is designed to reduce noise from ground wires and channel crosstalk, providing balanced output with ultra-low THD+N of 0.0005%, crosstalk up to 118 dB, and a signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) up to 121 dB. It delivers output power up to 2000mW with a 4.4mm balanced output and 910mW via the 6.35mm output. When paired with sensitive in-ear monitors like the HiBy Project ACE, the device demonstrates an exceptionally low noise floor, making the hissing tolerable even with sensitive IEMs.
The device includes built-in relay protection to prevent “POP” noise during startup and safeguard both the earphones and device under abnormal conditions. Digital volume adjustment is provided to eliminate low-volume imbalance, with a dynamic background light that changes color with the volume for visual monitoring.
C. Connectivity:
The xDuoo XA-02 offers multiple input options, including high-definition USB audio for PC, mobile, tablet, or HiFi player, supporting up to PCM 32bit/384kHz and DSD256.
It also features HD coaxial and optical inputs, compatible with CDs, players, and digital turntables, supporting PCM up to 24bit/192kHz and DSD64.
HD Bluetooth connectivity is available, supporting SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX_LL, aptX_HD, and LDAC formats for wireless listening.
Equipment’s used for this review:
- DAC : xDuoo XA-02
- Source : MSI Vector GP68 HX
- IEM’s : HiBy Project ACE, ORIVETI bleqk Lowmaster
- Headphones : FiiO FT1, SIVGA Anser
Albums & tracks used for this review:
- Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Apple Music Lossless)
- Adele – My Little Love (Apple Music Lossless)
- Sarah McLachlan – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
- Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Payer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Elton John – Rocket Man ((Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Sting – Englishman in New York – (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Tidal Hi-Fi)
- Radiohead – Live in Berlin “Album” (Apple Music Lossless)
- Radiohead – Pyramid Song (Apple Music Lossless)
- U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Bear McCreary’s – Valkyries (Deezer HiFi)
- Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Deezer HiFi)
- Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Daft Punk – Instant Crush (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
- Toutant – Rebirth (Deezer HiFi)
- Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Apple Music Lossless)
- Hans Zimmer – The Dark Knight OST (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Spotify)
- Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Vivaldi – Le QuarttroStagioni “The Four Season” (Apple Music Lossless)
- Pink Floyd – Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Apple Music Lossless)
- Miles Davis – So What (Deezer HiFi)
- Otto Liebert& Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
- Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove it) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
- Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Tidal Hi-Fi)
- Rush’s – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
- Slayer – Angel of Death (Spotify)
- Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Spotify)
- Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Spotify)
The Sound:
The xDuoo XA-02 offers a balanced sonic profile with tight, controlled bass that extends deeply, providing weight without overpowering. Its midrange is clear and detailed, presenting vocals and instruments naturally. The treble is smooth and airy, adding sparkle without harshness, capturing fine details. The pretty expansive soundstage and quite precise imaging create a realistic and immersive experience, while its warm and balanced tonality ensures true-to-source sound, making it versatile for various musical styles.
Let’s take a closer look at the xDuoo XA-02 sound performance.
Please note that this review has written after a burn-in period of about 80 hours. My sound Impression below are mainly based on pairings with headphones like the FiiO FT1, SIVGA Anser and IEM’s like the HiBy Project ACE and ORIVETI bleqk Lowmaster.
Bass:
The xDuoo XA-02, when paired with the right equipment, shows commendable bass performance marked by its tight control and solid foundation. The low frequencies add a satisfying weight to the sound, enriching the overall listening experience without overshadowing other elements. The bass extends impressively into the lower registers, capturing the necessary depth and nuance essential for bass-heavy genres. The bass response is punchy, with a quick attack and short decay, ensuring clarity and precision. This control prevents muddiness and maintains a well-rounded low-frequency response. The bass remains distinct and well-defined, even in complex passages, contributing to clear and impactful sound. Overall, the xDuoo XA-02’s bass is versatile and well-suited for a wide range of headphones and in-ear monitors, delivering impressive performance at an accessible price point.
Midrange:
The midrange performance of the xDuoo XA-02 stands out for its remarkable clarity and detail. Whether using the HiBy Project ACE In-Ear Monitors or the SIVGA Anser headphones, the midrange frequencies are presented with a natural and lifelike quality. Vocals and instruments come through with an engaging richness, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the nuances and textures of the music. The transparency of the midrange makes it ideal for genres that emphasize vocal and instrumental performance, providing an immersive and emotive sound. While generally well-balanced, there can be instances where the midrange feels slightly recessed, which might affect the forwardness of vocals and lead instruments. Nonetheless, the midrange remains a strong point, contributing significantly to the XA-02’s overall musicality and enjoyment.
Treble:
The xDuoo XA-02 delivers the treble range with smoothness and airiness, adding a touch of sparkle to the overall sound. The treble is well-represented, capturing the finer details in the music without becoming harsh or fatiguing. This balanced approach allows for extended listening sessions, as the treble remains clear and engaging without causing discomfort. The treble extension is sufficient to highlight the shimmer of cymbals and the delicate overtones of strings, enhancing the overall brilliance and detail of the sound. For those who prefer a more assertive high-end, the treble might seem slightly understated, yet it consistently maintains its charm and clarity.
Soundstage & Imaging:
The xDuoo XA-02 excels in offering an expansive soundstage, presenting a wide and deep auditory field. This spaciousness allows for accurate positioning of instruments and vocals, creating a realistic and immersive listening environment. The imaging is precise, enabling listeners to pinpoint the location of each sound within the mix, adding to the realism and depth of the audio experience. The ability to discern the placement of different elements within the soundstage enhances the overall enjoyment and engagement with the music.
Tonality:
The xDuoo XA-02 demonstrates a mildly warm and balanced presentation. Its natural tonality ensures the sound remains true to the source, avoiding unnecessary coloration. This makes the XA-02 highly compatible with a wide range of headphones and in-ear monitors, faithfully reproducing the authentic timbre of instruments and vocals. This natural and balanced sound signature enhances the overall musicality and listening pleasure, making the xDuoo XA-02 a versatile choice for audio enthusiasts.
Conclusion:
The xDuoo XA-02 offers a well-rounded package for audio enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly DAC/amp. It features clear sound quality thanks to the ES9039Q2M DAC chip and ELNA capacitors, and supports high-resolution audio formats like MQA, DSD256, and PCM/DXD up to 32bit/384kHz. The device provides significant output power, versatile input options including USB, coaxial, optical, and HD Bluetooth, and advanced protection features. Its compact design and 1.3-inch OLED display enhance usability for modern desktop setups.
Sonic performance is a key strength of the xDuoo XA-02. It delivers tight, controlled bass that extends deeply without overpowering other frequencies. The midrange is clear and detailed, presenting vocals and instruments naturally. The treble is smooth and airy, capturing fine details while avoiding harshness. The expansive soundstage and precise imaging create an immersive listening experience, and its warm, balanced tonality ensures true-to-source sound reproduction. At $199, it provides excellent value for those seeking quality audio performance on a budget.
Pros & Cons:
- + Balanced sound profile with minimal coloration
- + Versatile input options (USB, Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth)
- + Compact design with a 1.3-inch OLED display
- + High output power (up to 2000mW via 4.4mm balanced output)
- + Works well with both demanding headphones and sensitive IEM’s
- + Advanced protection features and digital volume control
- + Affordable price point ($199) offering exceptional value
- – Midrange can sometimes feel slightly recessed, may affecting the forwardness of vocals
- – Design may not appeal to everyone, despite its functional aesthetics
- – PCM limited to 32bit/384kHz
Thank you for the Read!
