The xDuoo XA-02 is a budget-friendly balanced DAC/headphone amplifier that delivers surprisingly high-quality audio. At just $200, it offers a compelling combination of features and performance that rivals much more expensive competitors. This review delves into the XA-02's strengths, examining its build quality, connectivity options, sound signature, and overall value proposition. We'll compare its performance against other DAC/amps in its price range and beyond, assessing whether its impressive specifications translate to a truly exceptional listening experience.This in-depth analysis covers the XA-02's comprehensive connectivity, including balanced and unbalanced outputs, and diverse digital inputs. We'll explore its powerful output, capable of driving even demanding headphones, and the impact of its class A buffer and ESS DAC chip. Finally, we'll determine whether the XA-02 truly punches above its weight, providing a sound quality that justifies its remarkably affordable price point and secures its position among the best budget DAC/amps available.
Pros And Cons
- Unbelievable value for $200
- Combines features expected from much pricier gear
- Delivers 2000mW of power
- Top-of-the-line ESS DAC chip
- Class A buffer
- Full MQA support
- Compact yet packed with high-end components
- Precise and natural sound
- Balanced design reduces interference
- Clear, isolated, natural sound
- Handles sensitive and high impedance headphones
- Supports various audio formats (MQA, DSD 256, PCM, DXD)
- High resolution audio
- Low total harmonic distortion (0.05%)
- High signal-to-noise ratio (121dB)
- Good sound stage
- Lively and richer in the top end
- Warmer, richer sound than some other DACs
- Good channel separation
- Sound is clean with good bass output
- Lacks features like the ability to shut off headphone out when using the DAC (which some other DACs have)
- Lacks features found in more expensive DACs such as HDMI input, balanced XLR outputs or AES inputs at this price point
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Unboxing and Included Accessories
The xDuoo XA-02 arrived in a double-boxed package, ensuring safe delivery. Inside, the unit was well-protected by styrofoam. Beyond the XA-02 itself, the package included a substantial selection of accessories.
These accessories included a three-prong power cord, a Bluetooth antenna (suggesting Bluetooth functionality), a USB cable, and a 3.5mm to 1/4-inch headphone adapter. The completeness of the package is definitely a plus for the price point.
Connections and Controls
On the rear panel, the XA-02 boasts a comprehensive array of connectivity options. It features auxiliary output, coaxial and optical inputs, and a USB input alongside the power supply input.
The front panel houses both 6.35mm and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs, catering to a variety of headphones. The intuitive menu button allows access to filter, gain, and bass adjustments, providing user customization.
Technical Specifications and Features
For its price, the XA-02's specifications are impressive, including a class A buffer and full MQA support. It delivers 2000mW of power, utilizing a top-of-the-line ESS DAC chip and a fully balanced design.
This balanced design minimizes interference, resulting in cleaner, more isolated audio. It supports a wide range of audio formats, including MQA, DSD256, PCM, and DXD, ensuring compatibility with high-resolution audio files.
Sound Quality and Listening Experience
The xDuoo XA-02 delivers a clean and detailed sound signature, with a notable ability to reproduce deep bass without muddiness. The soundstage is spacious, and the presentation is warmer and richer than many competing DACs in its price range.
The top end is lively and detailed, adding to the overall richness of the sound. It provides excellent channel separation and a precise yet natural presentation across the frequency spectrum.
Comparison with Other DACs/Amps
Comparisons were made with the Prebox S2 DAC/Amp, both directly and with the addition of a Gremlin tube amplifier. The XA-02 consistently outperformed the Prebox S2 in terms of warmth, richness, and overall sonic enjoyment.
While higher-end DACs may offer additional features like balanced XLR outputs or HDMI inputs, the XA-02's sonic performance rivals those costing significantly more. The lack of features is offset by the quality of sound provided
Headphone Output Performance
The headphone output of the XA-02 is equally impressive. Testing was performed with both Bowers & Wilkins P3s and Audio-Technica ATH-R70x headphones.
The XA-02, even compared against the Prebox S2 paired with a tube amp, provided a more engaging and tactile listening experience. The gain settings on the XA-02 are a substantial advantage when driving more demanding headphones.
Conclusion
The xDuoo XA-02 offers exceptional value at $200, delivering sound quality comparable to far more expensive DAC/amps. Its balanced design, powerful output, and extensive format support make it a compelling choice.
While lacking some high-end features, the sonic performance and exceptional value more than compensate. It’s a warmer, richer-sounding DAC than many others in the price range, clearly standing out as one of the best in its class.