The Luxsin X9 headphone amplifier isn't just another audio device; it's a revolution in personalized listening. This review delves into the exceptional performance and groundbreaking features of the X9, focusing on its innovative programmable audio EQ system. Unlike anything else on the market, this system boasts a massive database of presets for over 2,500 headphone models, ensuring an optimized listening experience tailored to your specific headphones. We'll explore its robust build quality, extensive connectivity options, and powerful amplification capabilities, comparing it to industry-leading competitors like the SPL Phonitor XE.Beyond its impressive sound quality and detailed soundstage, the X9 offers a user-friendly smart app for complete control over its numerous settings. From DSP effects and crossfeed to output impedance and display brightness, everything is easily adjustable. This review will analyze the X9's performance with a range of high-end headphones and speakers, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses to determine its place within the high-end audiophile market. Prepare to be impressed by a headphone amplifier that redefines personalized audio.
Pros And Cons
- Programmable audio EQ system with presets for over 2,500 headphone models
- Automatically detects impedance and sets appropriate gain level
- Robust CNC machined aluminum chassis
- Multiple headphone output connections (XLR, 4.4mm pentaconn, 6.35mm)
- Extensive connectivity options (USB-C, USB-A, USB-B, HDMI ARC, analog and digital audio inputs/outputs, configurable subwoofer out)
- Uses AK4499EX DAC chip, resistor ladder volume control, and high-quality components
- High output power (2300mW @ 300 ohms)
- Excellent sound quality with smooth, detailed, and dynamic sound, wide soundstage, and deep bass
- Intuitive and feature-rich Luxin smart app (available for iOS and Android), also controllable via web browser
- Good value for money
- Some headphones' frequency response curves may not yet be recognized by the audio EQ system
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The Programmable Audio EQ System
The Luxsin X9 boasts a groundbreaking programmable audio EQ system, a feature unseen in other headphone amplifiers. This system automatically adjusts the frequency response of your headphones using a vast database of presets for over 2,500 models. This level of customization ensures an optimized listening experience for a wide array of headphones.
I personally tested it with various headphones, including the Audeze LCD-4, the Focal Utopia, and the Sennheiser HD800S. The results were impressive, particularly with the HD800S, where the EQ significantly improved the bass response, addressing a common criticism of this model.
This adaptable EQ system is a game-changer for headphone enthusiasts, allowing for personalized sound profiles tailored to individual preferences and headphone characteristics. The intuitive app makes selecting and applying EQ profiles remarkably easy.
Build Quality and Connectivity
The X9 is housed in a robust CNC-machined aluminum chassis, reflecting a premium build quality. Its design echoes the aesthetics of Eversolo products, maintaining a sleek and sophisticated look.
Connectivity options are extensive, including XLR, 4.4mm Pentaconn, and 6.35mm single-ended outputs for headphones. The rear panel provides a comprehensive suite of connections – USB-C, USB-A, USB-B, HDMI ARC, analog and digital audio inputs, and configurable subwoofer outputs. This versatility allows for integration into various audio setups.
The internal components are equally impressive, featuring the AK4499EX DAC chip, a resistor ladder volume control, and high-quality capacitors and power supplies. These high-end components contribute to the exceptional sound quality.
Performance and Comparisons
The Luxsin X9 delivers outstanding headphone amplification, effortlessly driving high- and low-impedance headphones with power and control. The sound is smooth, dynamic, and detailed, with a wide and immersive soundstage.
I conducted extensive A/B comparisons with my SPL Phonitor XE. While both amplifiers perform exceptionally well, the X9 exhibited slightly faster attack times, especially with planar magnetic headphones. The SPL Phonitor XE sounded slightly smoother but less revealing.
The X9's performance was also tested in a stereo setup using DALI Rubicon 6 speakers. The X9 demonstrated a remarkable sound stage and high level of detail. Though my reference SPL Diamond had a slightly more natural and musical sound signature.
Luxsin Smart App and Additional Features
The Luxsin smart app provides extensive control over various settings, including DSP effects, crossfeed, filter selection, gain, balance, output impedance, and display brightness. It's incredibly intuitive and user-friendly.
Alternatively, you can access the X9’s settings via its IP address on your browser. A USB driver is available for Windows users, although the PC may identify it as an Eversolo device for now.
The app's completeness and ease of use are noteworthy, making it a joy to customize the X9’s performance to match your preferences.
Conclusion: Is the Luxsin X9 Worth It?
The Luxsin X9 delivers exceptional performance for its price point, making it an incredibly valuable addition to any audiophile's setup. The innovative audio EQ system alone is a game changer.
While the SPL Phonitor XE offers a slightly more refined and natural sound signature, the X9's powerful performance, extensive features, and robust build quality firmly establish it as a strong competitor in the high-end headphone amplifier market.
The X9's versatility as both a standalone DAC/amp and as a part of a larger system only adds to its value and overall appeal. For those looking for a truly top-tier headphone amplifier, with a revolutionary feature set, the Luxsin X9 is a highly recommended purchase.