This review dives deep into the Luxsin X9 DAC/Headphone Amplifier, a device boasting a wealth of features and impressive performance. We meticulously analyze its capabilities, comparing it to industry benchmarks like the K11 R2R and others, to determine its value proposition. Our evaluation covers its ease of use, encompassing the intuitive touchscreen interface, dedicated app, and web control, along with its extensive connectivity options and build quality. We explore the device's performance with both passive speakers and high-end headphones, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses in each context.This comprehensive assessment examines the X9's sound signature, focusing on its DAC performance in bypass mode and the transformative impact of its headphone amplifier. We detail the differences observed when compared to competing models, paying particular attention to its bass response, soundstage, and overall clarity. Ultimately, we aim to provide readers with a clear understanding of whether the Luxsin X9's premium price tag is justified by its superior audio capabilities and sophisticated design.
Pros And Cons
- Easy to use and quick to use features
- Immediate noticeable sound differences
- Capacitive touchscreen is responsive
- OTA updates
- Full control of settings (display brightness, timeout, sleep, knob brightness)
- Multiple outputs (RCA, XLR, headphones); automatically switches to headphone output when plugged in
- Volume setting is remembered between outputs
- Multiple input options (USB, USB-C, Bluetooth, HDMI, ARC/eARC, analog RCA)
- EQ and filter mode for sound adjustments
- High-quality materials and finish
- Ratchet volume dial
- Similar sound quality to K1 R2R DAC out of the box (in bypass mode)
- Significant headphone amp output improvement compared to other amps
- Subtly improves sound quality for headphones (fuller body, deeper bass, improved soundstage)
- Bug in firmware: headphone EQ remains enabled after disconnecting headphones, affecting other outputs
- Larger than other separates, takes up more desk space
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
Features and Usability
The Luxsin X9 boasts a plethora of features, surprisingly easy to navigate. Its DAC/headphone amp functionality is controlled via a responsive touchscreen, a dedicated app, or a web interface, offering complete control over settings like EQ, display brightness, and sleep timers. The capacitive touchscreen is exceptionally smooth and intuitive, exceeding expectations.
Users can perform over-the-air (OTA) updates directly from the device. Multiple output options include RCA, XLR, and headphones, with automatic switching to headphone output upon connection. The volume settings are intelligently remembered across outputs, preventing accidental loud volume surges.
Connectivity is extensive, featuring USB, USB-C, Bluetooth, HDMI, ARC/eARC support, and analog RCA input. The intuitive swipe controls allow quick access to settings and audio adjustments, with customizable EQ presets for both speakers and headphones.
Sound Quality: Speakers and Headphones
When used with passive speakers (Triangle Comet 40th Anniversary in this review), the X9's DAC shines, offering a sound quality comparable to the K11 R2R, especially in bypass mode. The integrated EQ allows for further customization, though the reviewer found it unnecessary with their chosen speakers.
The headphone amplifier is where the X9 truly distinguishes itself. Compared to the K11 R2R and other amps (Topping DX3 Pro Plus, Fiio K7), the X9 delivers a noticeable improvement, particularly with the reviewer's Audeze LCD-XC Stealth headphones. The enhanced headphone output provides a fuller body, deeper bass extension, and subtly improved soundstage.
The difference is described as transformative, adding body and depth to the sound without sacrificing clarity. This upgrade in headphone output justifies a significant portion of the X9's higher cost compared to the K11 R2R.
Build Quality and Design
The Luxsin X9 is built with high-quality materials, featuring a purported diamond-cut front face and a premium overall finish. The build quality feels consistent with the product's price point. The volume knob includes a satisfying ratchet mechanism, adding to the tactile experience.
While larger than many other DAC/amp combinations, the X9's footprint is still manageable on a desk. The rear panel is detailed with multiple input/output options, showcasing its comprehensive connectivity capabilities. The reviewer comments on the quality and feel, noting that it is substantial and feels like a premium piece of equipment.
The sound of the mechanical relays when adjusting the volume is also mentioned, indicating a more robust and engaging user experience.
Conclusion and Verdict
The Luxsin X9 offers an exceptional DAC and a surprisingly transformative headphone amplifier. While its DAC performance is comparable to the K11 R2R in bypass mode, making it a potentially unnecessary upgrade for those primarily using speakers, its headphone amplification is where it excels. The integrated headphone EQ significantly enhances the listening experience.
The X9's expansive feature set, user-friendly interface, and build quality further solidify its value proposition. The reviewer finds the additional cost justified solely by the substantial improvement in headphone sound, creating a more engaging and fulfilling audio experience.
Ultimately, the Luxsin X9 is recommended for users who prioritize both high-quality DAC capabilities and significantly enhanced headphone amplification, particularly those with high-end headphones. For users solely focused on speaker output, the K11 R2R offers excellent value.
