This in-depth comparison reviews the Eversolo DMP A8 and A10, two high-resolution music streamers boasting built-in DSP and room correction capabilities. Both units offer seamless integration with popular streaming services via the user-friendly Eversolo app, but significant differences exist in their design, features, and sonic performance. We'll delve into the specifics of their build quality, comparing their touchscreens, control knobs, and overall aesthetic appeal. We’ll also examine the crucial differences in their internal components, including DAC chips, power supplies, and clocking mechanisms.This review will analyze how these hardware choices translate to sonic differences, comparing their soundstage width, detail retrieval, tonal balance, and bass response. Furthermore, we’ll explore the differences in functionality, such as the number of subwoofer outputs, storage capacity, and connectivity options. Ultimately, we aim to help you determine which model – the more affordable A8 or the premium A10 – best suits your needs and budget, considering your listening preferences and desired level of audio fidelity.
Pros And Cons
- Larger 6.5-inch touchscreen
- Improved build quality and finishing
- Bolder look with side heat sinks
- Dual subwoofer outputs with adjustable volume, crossover, and single/dual subwoofer selection
- Uses the latest ESS Sabre ES9039 Pro DAC chip
- Two linear power supplies with improved power filtering
- SFP fiber connection for reduced electromagnetic noise
- OCXO clocks for low jitter and improved digital processing
- More storage capability with two SSD card slots (4TB each)
- Cleaner, lower noise floor resulting in better instrument separation and clarity
- Larger soundstage
- More neutral and detailed sound with better transparency
- Tighter, richer, and better-defined bass
- No I2S output
- Simpler, straightforward design
- Responsive and user-friendly 6-inch touchscreen
- I2S output
- Slightly better quality remote control (metal back)
- Warmer sound signature, potentially preferred for jazz or vocal music
- Lower build quality compared to A10
- Smaller touchscreen
- Higher noise floor compared to A10
- Single subwoofer output (no control over multiple subwoofers)
- Uses AKM AK4498 EX DAC chip (older model)
- One linear and one switch-mode power supply
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Build Quality and Design
The Eversolo DMP A8 boasts a simple, rectangular design with a responsive 6-inch touchscreen. Its functionality is straightforward, making it user-friendly. The volume knob doubles as the power button, adding a touch of elegance.
However, the DMP A10 significantly elevates the build quality. The A10 features refined corners, superior materials, and a more substantial feel. The larger 6.5-inch touchscreen and prominent side heat sinks contribute to a bolder, more premium aesthetic.
The A10's control knob is a standout feature, offering a more premium feel than the A8's. A small, customizable screen on the knob provides quick access to essential information, enhancing user experience.
Common Features and Functionality
Both the A8 and A10 function as high-resolution streamers with built-in digital signal processing (DSP). This allows for Eversolo room correction and integration with Room EQ Wizard (REW) for advanced sound system tuning via FIR filters.
Both units feature intuitive touchscreens displaying various information, including VU meters and spectrum analyzers. They both utilize a resistor-based volume control preamp, a superior alternative to the electronic volume control found in lower-end models.
Both are compatible with the Eversolo app, offering seamless streaming from various services such as Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Amazon Music, and Roon. This app is regularly updated and known for its user-friendly interface.
Key Differences: Hardware and Features
The DMP A10 introduces dual subwoofer outputs, enabling flexible subwoofer configuration and control via the Eversolo app, including crossover adjustments. This feature is absent in the A8.
Significant differences exist in the DAC chips used. The A8 uses the AKM AK4498 EX, while the A10 utilizes the ESS ES9039 Pro, a more modern and advanced DAC chip.
The A10 boasts two linear power supplies and enhanced power filtering, while the A8 employs a combination of linear and switch-mode power supplies. The A10 also includes an SFP fiber connection for reduced electromagnetic noise and an OCXO clock for lower jitter.
Sound Quality Comparison
The A10 addresses the digital glare sometimes associated with ESS-based DACs, resulting in a less fatiguing listening experience. The most noticeable difference is the significantly lower noise floor of the A10, improving instrument separation and clarity.
While both have wide soundstages, the A10 provides a slightly larger one. Detail retrieval, clarity, and transparency are superior on the A10. The A10 offers a more neutral tonal balance, while the A8 leans towards a warmer sound signature.
The A10's bass response is tighter, deeper, and better defined compared to the A8. This improved bass definition is likely linked to the lower noise floor. The A10's midrange is exceptionally natural and neutral.
Storage and Other Features
The A8 allows for one SSD card, while the A10 supports two, each capable of holding up to 4 terabytes. This enhances storage capacity significantly.
Both units include similar remote controls, but the A8's remote has a slightly higher quality build with a metal back. The reviewer primarily uses the app for control.
The A8 includes an I2S output, a feature absent in the A10. This offers more connectivity choices for some audiophiles.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
The Eversolo DMP A10 offers a significant upgrade in build quality, sound quality, and features compared to the A8. The cleaner sound signature, lower noise floor, and improved detail make it a compelling choice for those who demand superior audio reproduction.
The A8, with its warmer sound signature, might appeal more to listeners who prefer jazz or vocal music. The price difference between the two units is substantial, so budget will be a factor in this decision.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the type of music you enjoy. The A10 excels in clarity and detail, while the A8 offers a warmer, lusher sound. Both represent high-quality streaming solutions, however.