Emotiva Audio Corporation has introduced the new XDA-2, combining audiophile quality DAC, digital preamp, and high-current headphone amplifier into a single component.
With six optical and coaxial cable digital inputs (2 coax, 2 Toslink, 1 USB, 1 AES/EBU) and full support for 24-bit/192kHz sample rates on all digital inputs, the XDA-2 ($399.99) serves as the nerve center for a home audio system.
“The XDA-2 will enhance the sound quality of any high performance audio system,” said Dan Laufman, president of Emotiva. “No matter the digital source—or sources—the XDA-2 is ready, with its multiple inputs, its Differential Reference topology, an asynchronous sample rate converter to remove jitter, and the convenience of a front-panel alphanumeric display and a full-function machined aluminum remote control. There’s no better value in DACs today.”
The XDA-2 connects directly to an Emotiva power amplifier for a complete home audio system. Intended also for high performance headphone listening, without a separate amplifier, the XDA-2 incorporates an ultra low noise discrete design headphone amplifier with a 0.1-ohm output impedance to give you audiophile quality sound with all standard headphones. The headphone amp features a 105dB signal to noise ratio, and sounds great with sensitive headphones and in-ear monitors, according to the company.
The XDA-2’s digital to analog converter (DAC) provides a significantly higher level of precision than is typically built into a PC or many other devices, with conversion circuitry built around the Analog Devices AD1955 multi-bit delta-sigma DAC for exceptional performance and superior audio quality. Another high-end Analog Devices integrated circuit, the AD1896 asynchronous sample rate converter (ASRC) provides almost total immunity to jitter. The XDA-2 preamp features Differential Reference balanced design utilizing OPA 2134 precision op amps.
For audio enthusiasts who enjoy listening at relatively low volume levels, the XDA-2’s analog resistor ladder volume control in precise granular 0.25dB steps, and delivers channel tracking down to -100dB attenuation.
