The global home audio company Rotel asserts that while space is at a premium in many home AV systems, music lovers still want the highest, no compromise quality from their personal audio. Developed to meet those user needs, Rotel has introduced its single box, DX-3 Headphone Amplifier, Preamplifier and standalone DAC.
Rotel Calls DX-3 Ideal ‘Desktop Companion’
According to Rotel, the DX-3 provides homeowners with a space-friendly solution that measures just 8.5Â inches x 3 inches x 9.75Â inches to allow professional integrators to place the component in a range of locations. Â
Rotel boasts the DX-3 can serve users as a desktop audio companion supporting an array of both modern and legacy source inputs including PC-USB (32-bit/384kHz) with DSD 4X support, as well as coaxial and optical (24-bit/192kHz), wireless aptX HD and AAC Bluetooth, and an RCA analog connection.
Components Lean into a Crisper Audio Experience
According to the company, its latest product incorporates the highest-grade components, including an ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 8-channel DAC, as well as an ultra-low noise, custom in-house manufactured, toroidal transformer with high current drivers, and high-quality capacitors that Rotel says are combined to ensure music is delivered with high levels of resolution and an immersive sound stage.
Rotel points out the DX3′ s volume attenuation is controlled by an audiophile-grade NJW1195A fully differential analog controller delivering precise steps as refined as 0.5dB. The manufacturer notes the component’s analog and digital power supplies have been engineered and designed to be fully isolated from each other ensuring minimal noise interference.Â
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While Accommodating a Variety of Headphone Models
The DX-3 is designed to adapt to a wide selection of wired headphones, including high-, medium- and low-impedance models with user selectable amplifier gain. Connectivity, the company continues, is supported through an easy-to-access front panel mounted 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm single-ended headphone connectors.
Rotel also emphasizes the DX-3 functions as a standalone DAC and a fully functional preamplifier via XLR Balanced and RCA outputs. These capabilities help integrators extend the usage of the product to drive external amplifiers, powered speakers, or as a solution that feeds an existing audio system.
In addition, Rotel stresses the product’s industrial design and functionality include a full-color front panel graphic display that provides all user feedback, and a single, large, diamond knurled volume attenuator enables homeowners to easily set their listening volume.
The $1,499 DX-3 Headphone Amplifier/Preamplifier/DAC will be available in the U.K. and Europe in March 2025 with the rest of the world getting the product soon afterwards.
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