EverSolo Play Review: The Ultimate All-in-One HiFi Solution?

The EverSolo Play represents a significant leap forward in all-in-one hi-fi systems. Tired of juggling multiple components and complex setups? The Play elegantly consolidates a high-resolution streamer, a premium DAC, a powerful Class D amplifier, and even a built-in phono stage into a single, beautifully designed unit. This streamlined approach delivers a plug-and-play experience, making high-fidelity audio accessible to everyone, regardless of technical expertise. Forget the endless research and cable clutter; the EverSolo Play offers unparalleled convenience without compromising on sound quality.This comprehensive review delves into the EverSolo Play's exceptional features, from its stunning brushed aluminum chassis and intuitive touchscreen interface to its impressive connectivity options and robust audio performance. We'll explore its compatibility with a vast array of streaming services, its powerful amplification capabilities, and the inclusion of advanced features like room correction and a high-quality CD drive (on the CD edition). Discover whether the EverSolo Play truly lives up to its claim as the ultimate all-in-one hi-fi solution.

Pros And Cons

Ever Solo Play Streaming Amplifier
  • All-in-one music solution: combines streamer, DAC, Class D amplifier, HDMI ARC/eARC, and phono stage.
  • Plug-and-play setup: requires no additional components or complex cabling.
  • Premium design: brushed aluminum, CNC unibody construction, 5.5-inch color touchscreen.
  • Intuitive interface: six sections for music services, functions, apps, connect, cloud, and settings.
  • Extensive connectivity: HDMI ARC/eARC, coaxial and optical digital inputs, USB-A ports (external storage and audio output), subwoofer out with bass management.
  • Supports various streaming services: Tidal, Qobuz, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, etc.
  • Rune Ready, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth capable.
  • High-quality DAC: AKM AK4493 chip with high SNR and low distortion.
  • Powerful amplifier: 60W into 8 ohms, 120W into 4 ohms.
  • Excellent app: full access to library, control over settings, cross-platform playlist creation.
  • Built-in room correction: automatic optimization using phone's microphone.
  • CD edition available with high-quality CD drive for ripping or playback.

Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?

A Single Box Solution for the EverSolo Ecosystem

Previously, enjoying the EverSolo ecosystem required assembling various components – a streamer (like the DMP A6 or A8), a DAC (like the Z8 or Z6), and a separate amplifier. This often involved significant research and multiple boxes. The EverSolo Play changes this paradigm by integrating all necessary components into a single, streamlined device.

Close-up of the EverSolo Play device
Close-up of the EverSolo Play device

Now, users gain a plug-and-play experience with high-quality music streaming, a capable DAC, a Class D amplifier, HDMI eARC, and even a built-in phono stage. This simplification makes setting up a high-fidelity system remarkably easy.

The EverSolo Play device shown alongside various other EverSolo components
The EverSolo Play device shown alongside various other EverSolo components

Design and Build Quality: A Premium Experience

The EverSolo Play boasts a premium design with a brushed aluminum front panel and CNC unibody construction. Its minimalist aesthetic is consistent with the EverSolo brand, enhanced by a 5.5-inch color touchscreen and a customizable LED volume knob.

Close-up of the EverSolo Play's front panel and touchscreen.
Close-up of the EverSolo Play's front panel and touchscreen.

The lower chassis serves as a heat sink, contributing to efficient thermal management. The unit's overall design and build feel substantial and high-end, making it as much a visual statement as an audio one.

Showcase of the EverSolo Play's brushed aluminum and CNC unibody construction.
Showcase of the EverSolo Play's brushed aluminum and CNC unibody construction.

Connectivity and Features: Extensive Input and Output Options

The EverSolo Play offers impressive connectivity. HDMI ARC and eARC enable seamless TV integration, eliminating the need for a soundbar. A full-featured phono stage (supporting both MM and MC cartridges) caters to vinyl enthusiasts.

Back panel of the EverSolo Play showing the various connectivity options.
Back panel of the EverSolo Play showing the various connectivity options.

Additional inputs include coaxial and optical digital inputs for legacy devices, along with a subwoofer output with built-in bass management. USB-A ports are included for external storage and USB audio output, providing flexibility for future upgrades.

Image illustrating the subwoofer output and bass management features.
Image illustrating the subwoofer output and bass management features.

Streaming and App Experience: Seamless and Versatile

The EverSolo Play supports a wide range of streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Deezer, and more. All are integrated directly into the UI or mobile app.

Screenshot of the EverSolo Play's touchscreen displaying supported streaming services.
Screenshot of the EverSolo Play's touchscreen displaying supported streaming services.

Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, and Bluetooth capabilities further expand its versatility. The user interface, both on the touchscreen and mobile app, is praised for its intuitiveness and ease of use, allowing for seamless music control.

Screenshot of the EverSolo app interface on a mobile device.
Screenshot of the EverSolo app interface on a mobile device.

Audio Performance and Internal Components: High-Fidelity Sound

The EverSolo Play utilizes an AKM AK4493 DAC, known for its rich and detailed sound signature. It boasts an impressive SNR of 109dB and low distortion (0.0037%), delivering high-fidelity audio performance.

Graphic or textual representation of the AKM AK4493 DAC specifications
Graphic or textual representation of the AKM AK4493 DAC specifications

The Class D amplifier provides 60 watts into 8 ohms and 120 watts into 4 ohms, delivering clean and punchy power suitable for various speakers. Built-in room correction further enhances the audio experience for optimal sound in any space.

Image illustrating the power output and amplifier specifications.
Image illustrating the power output and amplifier specifications.

CD Playback Option (CD Edition Only)

For those who prefer physical media, the CD edition of the EverSolo Play includes a high-quality Hitachi-LG drive that can rip or directly play CDs.

Image of the EverSolo Play's CD tray open or closed.
Image of the EverSolo Play's CD tray open or closed.

This adds value for users who want both the convenience of modern streaming and the option of enjoying their CD collections without needing an additional CD player.

Conclusion: Is the EverSolo Play Worth It?

The EverSolo Play is a versatile and high-performing all-in-one solution suitable for a wide range of users. Its ease of use, extensive features, and excellent sound quality make it an attractive option for beginners and experienced audiophiles alike.

Final shot of the EverSolo Play on display.
Final shot of the EverSolo Play on display.

While the price point may be a factor, the convenience and flexibility offered by this integrated system, combined with its impressive audio capabilities, make it a compelling contender in the high-fidelity market.