Looks like a great base for a soundbar replacement in the in the bedroom. I have a Wuhzi tpa3116 D2 amplifier to power my bookshelf speakers in my bedroom. I'm take looking for a set up with similar power output but with a remote. This seems to be the answer to my dilemma!
I currently own 3 Aiyima products and love all of them! I think they are a great bargain 😀 and bang for the buck for audiophiles on a budget. Thanks for reviewing their products cheap audio man!
@@memorysticky7581 Just saw a review for the douk audio st-o1 pro. It looks identical to t9 pro but has remote control and tone adjusment. Gotta love tubes for the warm sound and vu meters for the vintage look! Happy Listening 🎶 and Happy Holidays my friend on your audio journey!
Thanks C.A.M.! Now here's a route to a soundbar beater. This unit, a pair of Emotiva B1+ or Sony SS-CS5 or Neumi BS5 speakers and add the BOOM with an 8" sub. I've gotta try it and loan the rig to friends and family who believe their soundbars are the best thing going. WRONG! Some of them even think my 5.2.2 system is overkill. Well wrong again! I received my 4k - Dolby Atmos Blu-Ray disk of Ready Player One yesterday and HOLY Schiit was that a system taxing and whole home shaking sound experience! Finally, a movie sound mix that makes it worth having Atmos speakers and a sub woofer. Not only was the ceiling speakers active very often and having correct sound placements to the on-screen action the sub woofer detail was far - far better than anything I have heard to date on my system. The gun shots, explosions, crashes and everything in the LFE channel was so tight and powerful I had to take 5dB off of the subs. Ready Player One on the Ultra HD 4k disk (forget streaming - it does NOT compare!) is the Gold Standard for system testing and to amaze your guests!! Who ever mixed that sound track should be the lead audio engineer on all films worth making!!
I like this video. I actually looked at this DAC/amp when I was trying to choose one as my first. The problem was I couldn't find any reviews on it whatsoever. So, I really appreciate you giving us your opinion on this one. That said, I ended up going with the Loxjie a30 based on yours and amir's reviews. It should be here Sunday, and I can't wait to try it out with my new speakers.
I agree on the Aiyima products. They generally have a slightly richer, less clinical sound that I prefer. I also found a great improvement by swapping out the stock tubes with nos GE tubes on many of their tubed products.
Ordered one of these on Friday and received it on Saturday. Hooked it to my JBL A130's in a 24' x 32' shop and it sounds amazing. More power than I will need out there.
I put this one on my LIST of things to seriously consider. A small amp/DAC with a REMOTE CONTROL would make a great "sound bar replacement" item! I would connect this to a TV via optical, and connect it to a WIIM streamer using USB. The idea of using Sony CS5 speakers with this makes a lot of sense. A step up might be the JBL State 120's might be a nice upgrade, along with just about any JBL bookshelf speaker. Thanks for another awesome review!
Great job. This the kind of review i love. You covered the highs and the limitations and you suggested good speaker pairings. A most useful review for the budget minded newbie or someone looking to downsize. Nice work
Randy FYI My Amazon Aiyima D03 died immediately on arrival. No problem except Amazon (canada) says "Due to health and safety regulations, we're unable to accept returns of this item." They sent me to Aiyima. Aiyima refused to deal with me from the first contact with them and referred me back to Amazon. Yes there was a fight, phone calls and an eventual refund. Days later Aiyima sent an email asking about my concerns. Geez. Got refunded, but it was not fun. I don't know if this is a this is thing with Aiyima or Chinese electronics. No more for me. Good vids BTW.
Whats up dude. I tried a speaker you reviewed (wharfedale EVO 4.2) . I replaced some B&W 685 S2's and it was an instant upgrade. The EVO's have a wider, deeper, taller soundstage and are very musical. Great separation of instruments and vocals without harshness. I paired them with the Parasound New Classic 200 amp and they work well togeather.
I guess this amp is best used with it's own DAC, since the analogue signal is processed digitally so no matter what DAC you use it will still be the cirrus chip (re)processing the signal. Just use the analogue input for an old CD-player or other device without digital outputs.
Randy, I've noticed with my DO3 that the digital USB/Opt section seems quite a bit stronger than the analog input AUX & BT. Both more powerful and clearer. Have you observed this as well or maybe I have a dud?
I have a SMSL DA-9 and I just received today one of the new SMSL AO300 Integrateds, I also own the Aiyima DO3. The Aiyima at least to me running with a Topping D30 Pro DAC sounds better (fuller, tighter bass, nicer treble etc. I will keep my DA-9 but am sending the SMSL AO300 back, the Aiyima SQ wise is much better. This is a great amp!
Hey Randy, just received the Aiyima D03 amp.Great little amp!! Sounds a lot better than my Creek Evolution(class A/B,good built qualiy,heavy etc.). I play with Bluesound Node2i(Spotify and Tidal) on a pair of Dali Oberon 5. The Creek Evolution sounds very "thin" no warmth in it at all, although it's 75 watt per channel. Also i have the Fosi Audio BT20; same; lot better than the "high-end" Creek Evolution. And both not "analythic" or "digital" sounding" ,for my ears at least. So conclusion for me; Both are nice small amps, sounds good, but...not better than my recapped/restored Sansui AU-501/AU-4400..certainly not.
Hey Randy; Stupid of me!! I liked the sound of the Aiyima connected with Bluesound Node 2I; Triangle Borea 3(i know..not "your thing" ),but it was a little dull with a lot tracks(Tidal and Spotify). Now i connected the Bluesound with coax cable to the Aiyima D03 in coax input.. And voila, now it sounds a lot better, crispy and still enough low frequencies!! So not duff anymore. So now i "bypass" the intern dac of the bluesound and use the dac of the Aiyima?? If i'm right? If so, the dac of the Aiyima sounds much better, than the intern dac of the Bluesound, for my ears at least..
I have combined this with DAC from Arylic S50 Pro+, it sounds as a more expensive integrated, very detailed and dynamic sound with a drive. Greetings from Denmark
Thank you for this review. Very detailed, very useful. Great job! I just received a D03 and it sounds great. Not for the price. It's very good. I'm leasing a comparison with the smsl ao200. D03 have better sound quality in every way. My concern is only about the external transformer (space on my desk)....and my english...sorry
@Douglas Blake I always used to use a rolled up pair of socks when I had a ported sub. I've since moved on to sealed subs, but the socks worked for a quick and dirty port plug.
Hi, great review. I’m planning on pairing this with the Sound Artist Ls35a in my boat, but another review of the AD18 paired with the same speakers said the sound died a lot compared to a/b amp. Do you think it will be different with this? You said in one review that this has a more a/b sound to it. Would be happy to hear what you thought are.
thanks for this review. I think I need to go with the Loxjie instead because it has headphone capabilities. Thing I don't like about the Loxjie is that you have to choose between a line or coax input. Can't have both. That was a weird decision. They could have gone with a stereo mini line input instead.
If a cheap class D amp has a sub out is it filtered by the amp to have only low frequencies? And what about the speakers will they get the full range signal or can it be filtered to have highs only? For example I mean under 80hz to the sub anything over 80hz to the speakers? Can these amp be set like this or will there always be over lap between speakers and sub?
Sir, can you please do a comparison video comparing Aiyima D03 vs D05, I can't decide which one to buy. I think the comparision video will help a lot of music lovers.
Such difficult decisions....Do I go with the A07 for $80; the new A08 for $115 which is basically the A07 + internal power supply, usb and bluetooth (w/DAC); or the older D03 which seems like a great all-around package for $160 thanks to your stellar review. The quality just keep on coming from you, and Aiyima. Great sponsor today, btw!
Hey great review! Im looking for one with all the same inputs/outputs with a better dac. Can you recommend one from topping or smsl? The ones I see dont have sub out. Thanks!
How does the D03 sound through its analogue inputs. I’m looking for a small-footprint speaker amp to use w my turntable. I’ve read on ASR and Amazon that the Loxjie’ A30’s sound quality really suffers when it’s analogue inputs are used rather than it’s digital inputs. Do you recall that from your time w the Loxjie? How about this AiyimaD03?
Hey Randy I appriciate your work and follow your cheapaudio motto. I can't decide these two amps Aiyima D03 and Loxjie A30. I have Dali spektor 1 bookshelfs and I listen music via pc digital outputs (optical) low-mid sound levels at office. And I have modest sub for lows. What do you suggest for my needs? Is A30 worth $50 extra? Thanks in advance and keep it best advices.
Hey Randy. I recently got some Infinity Reference 253s for $300 shipped new. Holler if you want to borrow mine sometime. I am pretty happy with them and two of their 12" subs which were also $300 for the pair. Pretty silly deal.
sir @cheapaudioman what would be a better upgrade between this aiyima d03 and loxjie a30 to replace a topping mx3?? because i think i need alot more power and my topping mx3 can't provide what i need and sq wise what is better? hope you can help me thanks.
Bought one (January 2022), I rely on bluetooth but wanted more functionality. Sadly my copy was a lot less than " not as detailed " and the overall sound on BT was "hazey" not crisp or clear. The bluetooth stream also seemed to briefly "snag" a lot. This being the case I didn't try the other modes. The unit seemed well built and the remote and other controls functioned perfectly. But with meh BT performance this unit is not for me so it was returned. Still appreciate the takes on two speaker sets I bought but amp-wise will have to keep looking.
My BT sounds bad like am radio. All other inputs are great. Matched it up with a Klipsche wireless sub10. Sounds great for a small tv/music system. I be used my Klipsche quintet ,old Boston a40 ,and some OWI out door speaker. It powers them all very well.
Hi! Love your vids very informative. I would like to know if this amp can drive the polk es20? Or the es15? I hope u would find time to answer. Thanks and more power!
4:15 "the dac chip inside..." fortunately NOT, CS8422 is not a DAC chip! According its product page, its a sample-rate converter with an integrated digital audio interface (S/PDIF and AES3). Aiyima D03 is a full digital amp (FDA) with TAS5624A DAC+AMP chip! by the way, I realized from your video that the icon of the power button and the source selector button are not the same :D (in real life, there are very small)
APTX-LL (low latency) is very important if you're using it for a Projector Home Theater setup so that there's no latency between the sound and mouth movements. That's too bad.
Thanks for all your great reviews! I bought the Aiyima A07 with great results for a small bedroom system. My daughter is graduation from college ON her birthday! Beside getting her a nice necklace, I want to introduce her new apparent to a small sound system. The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES15 seem to fit-the-bill on general consensus good sound, has a white version, is relatively small and can even be wall mounted! Do you think this Aiyima D03 is a good fit (I understand you stated that it is good for all speaker sound signatures but I'm wondering if the or would the Loxjia A30 might be a better match since the treble on the Polks is not extended or pronounced as other brighter speakers would be. I'm going for a good overall sound without taking too much of her apartment's real estate! Thanks!
I've found this amp barely used for 99,00 Euros in Italy and I'm fully satisfied. I use Lonpoo LP 42 speakers presently. Do you know them? If you were to buy floorstanding speakers as good as the Aiyima , at a reasonable price of course, which one would you get? Thank you for your reviews mate. You helped me to save a lot of money. 👍
Re: That elephant you were handling with less than kid gloves and bending it all up and then throwing it. It looked an awful lot like "Peanut The Elephant"; one of the earliest, rarest and most valuable of all the retired vintage Beanie Babies. In non-bent up and thrown around condition it is worth approximately $2,500 to $3,000. A real collectors item. With Ty Beanie collectors, condition is "everything". At least you probably got a laugh out of it. Martin and Magic beat AIDS. I guess if you are rich enough you can do anything, including putting in a serious bid on "Peanuts the Beanie Elephant". A little advice. Better to use a worthless sock with a whole in the heel or a monkey sock hand puppet. The ones that look like they're wearing lipstick. In addition to using an inexpensive small inconspicuous amp like that for your stereo system, some other uses include: using it as an amp for video game sound (great on car racing games where you can hear the engines of gaining on you cars), a patio system and also, if there are any model railroad enthusiasts out there; using it under your layout as a sound effects amplifier. There are plenty of sound effects recordings of steam locomotives and just about everything else, and around Christmas time in a Victorian layout, horses clomping and bells on the sleigh, Christmas carolers, Church Bells, distant organ music, Salvation Army bell ringers etc. I am a model railroader myself. The recording artist and rock star Rod Stewart is a major big time model railroader. He spent thousands of hours over the years making miniature buildings from scratch in hotel rooms, while on the road. You can see parts of his layout if you punch in Rod Stewart train layout youtube. I once did my weekly grocery shopping in a supermarket, that on Saturday especially, usually in the middle of the afternoon, a voice would loudly come over the intercom excitedly saying "Attention shoppers. Attention. Famous rock star and music legend Rod Stewart is in our store. He can be seen inside the main entrance by the checkout. Rod Stewart everybody! Mr. Rod Stewart!" The dumber shoppers who happened to be excited at this, would drop their squashes or whatever, and run to the front of the store. The smarter shoppers would pause and think "What's the chance that Rod Stewart would be in a dumpy place like this?" They on the other hand would just continue shopping. When you got near the checkout and in plain view of him, your split second initial reaction was "I don't believe it. It's really him. It's Rod Stewart". They even gave him a card table and he would sit at it in a chair. But the closer you looked, the more you realized that's not really Rod Stewart! Just a blonde guy with a layered up haircut exactly like his. It's purpose?? The grocery store moved but eventually went out of business in both locations within 6 blocks of each other. Don't I live in a fun place ?
My real concern as well. He has a video recommending A07 amp using T8 as the source for Elac debut 2.0 and now confused with D03 which looks like playing the same role as A07+T8
thinking of getting 3 JBL Studio 570's as a L/C/R for a home theater (going behind an acoustic screen) Thoughts? and do you have affiliate link for jbl?
hey, Jeff. thanks for thinking of me. you can click on any of my links and if you go to a different product in a similar category I'll still get credit. ironically, I actually like the a series from jbl better than the studio. but I'll link them hereamzn.to/3jGoPkI
I've been looking to replace my aging (and huge) Onkyo AVR with something more dedicated. I have a small 10'x10' office for my listening room (5' away or so). I have a pair of KEF Q150s and an older Niles SW12 sub and I'm between the Aiyima D03 and the Loxjie A30. It looks like I can snag the Aiyima D03 for $120 shipped with PSU (output isn't mentioned) and the Loxjie for about $170. Is the Loxjie worth the extra? I have no plans on using headphones at the moment, and I plan on feeding audio with my trusty Chromecast audio for now (maybe a Raspberry Pi later).
How that sounds comparing to T9 ? I'm returning T9 for multiple reasons I wrote about in your post about T9 and I'm looking for something that will sound as good as my Fosi bt20 2 x 100 amp & tube preamp combo but comes with remote control.
the playfi app can be a bit slow. it all depends on which service you are using. tidal and Spotify and roon ifi for sure. the ifi really benefits from a solid dac. but they both sound similar and I like the sound base a lot. it's a monster and feels more powerful than the aiyima
Bought this on the back of this and very happy. Paired with some Pioneer SPBS22s to make for a nice cheap secondary system for my small office space. Did you test the sub-out at all? Not sure If it is just my unit or the range but my unit's sub-output has a horribly low strength signal. I hooked it up to a reasonably good quality powered sub but it barely moved even with the sub volume maxed out... I had to touch the sub to determine if it was doing anything. Had me scratching my head while not really caring that much for my particular use case where I don't need a sub. For others this could be a huge disappointment. On the plus side, this thing is tiny... can hide it so easily that the aesthetics (which I don't mind) are just fine.
@@stevempil5948 yeah. I did try it again recently and still no good. I'm guessing it's a fault in my unit that isn't going to fix itself. It doesn't bother me so I haven't bothered to follow up on it. I've not heard anybody else report similar.
@@djayhornet2 Didn't see anyone to report positive either about the subwoofer output...So maybe it's not only your unit...Makes me skeptical for buying it...Thanks
Amazon lists this as a power amplifier, but it has a volume control? I am looking for a decent power amp to go to from my Yamaha integrated pre outs and was about to buy this to try, but its confusing if this is possible?
Would this pair well with a couple of Sony SSCS5 speakers for home audio instead of a soundbar? Also, this looks like it's missing a headphone jack (3.5mm)
Just upgraded my Aiyima A04 with new op amps and power inductors..yeah, I also had a Sabaj A10A for a few hours, sent that one back. No where near the A04 as far as low end clarity and response goes. In fact it was not much different from the SA300 which uses the same Infineon chip. I found the low end muddy and lazy on both of those amps so i concur that i will avoid that overhyped Infineon chip...Z reviews emulated it in his smutty manner but no, not convinced at all. The Aiyima with a little op amp swapping wipes the floor with both the Sabaj and SMSL.
Not today but, what’s up with all these $600 dollar headphone amps lately? Your last one didn’t have EQ, DSP, or a DAC. It was a $600 dollar volume control. You’re not the “Cheap “ Audio Man anymore. When are you gonna review the Fosi Audio K4? Excellent sound and cheap!
Hi! It's SGD 160 here on some sites in Singapore. This one is a no brainer, just like the A07 I have gotten after watching your review some months ago. Sounds magical with Dali 1s and D50s. Should we go hook this baby to SSCS5 or A130 if we are looking for a sound bar replacement? Lastly, also got the Denafrips Ares II paired with a THX 789. End game. At least for the office setup.
Hey look, you are great and all, but I come here for the Cheapaudioman intro to see if you will cut it off early or not. It's sort of a "Randy Roulette."
I just started editing on a Mac. I'll get that intro moved over. someone actually emailed me saying if I let it run it would be more polished. he didn't get the joke
How to put this...... here goes... what does it take to hear the difference between an Aiyima D03, an SMSL and some Schiit? Will my aging Grado SR60's reveal the differences? How about my PortaPro's (a seriously under rated set of cans!) How about my circa 1978 AKG-340's (they reused that model name, this is a full sized, over the ear, electrostatic hybrid). Or will moving to a DAC mean that I'll be upgrading headphones in short order?
Hi Randy, is this essentially an Aiyima A09 in a different form factor with a sub out? BTW, I purchased a A09 on your recommendation and as you said it is solid and great for the price! Thanks for all the info you put out, you give us a great service
@@cheapaudioman Not a bad idea. I think these new "x" drivers were a move in the right direction. Better bass extension, still great mids and high end detail.
metallica concert poster from 2016. last time I say them. that's lady justice from the and justice for all record cover "bound". Hence... no justice anymore
got the d03 based on this review. Very disappointing considering something this obvious should have been called out right off the bat. First off, the remote does not work if you are about 5 feet or further away. As for sound quality, it cannot hang with my 20 year old pioneer amp, and that's a low bar to beat. This amp has a sharp roll off on the higher frequencies, and the "depth" and layering is not there. It is NOT all there. These review guys have to be more straight forward and honest, vs hyping up every single item they review. This is great for generic listening for the masses, but if you are just a bit picky about sound quality, this is too obvious.
@@francohic i just got mine now. 8/7/2022 4:00pm. IDK why but it doesn't have any eq settings. the only thing you can do is turn the bass and treble up/down.
Amazon Music and Disney Plus Free Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9
Aiyima D03 DAC/Amp amzn.to/3jCJIx9
Aiyima A07 Amp amzn.to/38zp7DF
Aiyima T8 amzn.to/3kLL8ot
Heyy man do you think you can review the nuprime DAC-9
How's it sound from 1 to 10 on a scale how does it measure up
please review A08 and T6 Pro, preferably try together, tube roll also. And a comparison with Douk P1.
A09 is a ht 5.1 seen on aliexpress
Looks like a great base for a soundbar replacement in the in the bedroom. I have a Wuhzi tpa3116 D2 amplifier to power my bookshelf speakers in my bedroom. I'm take looking for a set up with similar power output but with a remote. This seems to be the answer to my dilemma!
I currently own 3 Aiyima products and love all of them! I think they are a great bargain 😀 and bang for the buck for audiophiles on a budget. Thanks for reviewing their products cheap audio man!
@@memorysticky7581 Just saw a review for the douk audio st-o1 pro. It looks identical to t9 pro but has remote control and tone adjusment. Gotta love tubes for the warm sound and vu meters for the vintage look! Happy Listening 🎶 and Happy Holidays my friend on your audio journey!
Thanks C.A.M.! Now here's a route to a soundbar beater. This unit, a pair of Emotiva B1+ or Sony SS-CS5 or Neumi BS5 speakers and add the BOOM with an 8" sub. I've gotta try it and loan the rig to friends and family who believe their soundbars are the best thing going. WRONG! Some of them even think my 5.2.2 system is overkill. Well wrong again!
I received my 4k - Dolby Atmos Blu-Ray disk of Ready Player One yesterday and HOLY Schiit was that a system taxing and whole home shaking sound experience! Finally, a movie sound mix that makes it worth having Atmos speakers and a sub woofer. Not only was the ceiling speakers active very often and having correct sound placements to the on-screen action the sub woofer detail was far - far better than anything I have heard to date on my system. The gun shots, explosions, crashes and everything in the LFE channel was so tight and powerful I had to take 5dB off of the subs. Ready Player One on the Ultra HD 4k disk (forget streaming - it does NOT compare!) is the Gold Standard for system testing and to amaze your guests!! Who ever mixed that sound track should be the lead audio engineer on all films worth making!!
Other people have reported this as well, at least as far as the RCA inputs are concerned. I'm not sure about Bluetooth.
I like this video. I actually looked at this DAC/amp when I was trying to choose one as my first. The problem was I couldn't find any reviews on it whatsoever. So, I really appreciate you giving us your opinion on this one. That said, I ended up going with the Loxjie a30 based on yours and amir's reviews. It should be here Sunday, and I can't wait to try it out with my new speakers.
how's the a30 treatin' ya?
@@TF2ReplayMaker Perfect to my ears.
Aiyima is making some great entry-level products. Thanks for reviewing these for us.
I agree on the Aiyima products. They generally have a slightly richer, less clinical sound that I prefer. I also found a great improvement by swapping out the stock tubes with nos GE tubes on many of their tubed products.
Ordered one of these on Friday and received it on Saturday. Hooked it to my JBL A130's in a 24' x 32' shop and it sounds amazing. More power than I will need out there.
I also own a130 and D03, very impressive combo indeed.
I put this one on my LIST of things to seriously consider. A small amp/DAC with a REMOTE CONTROL would make a great "sound bar replacement" item! I would connect this to a TV via optical, and connect it to a WIIM streamer using USB. The idea of using Sony CS5 speakers with this makes a lot of sense. A step up might be the JBL State 120's might be a nice upgrade, along with just about any JBL bookshelf speaker.
Thanks for another awesome review!
Get it, sounds very impressive for the price. I use it with a130s, live concert-like experience at 60% of volume.
@@russodazonasulHi. In your 6 ohms speakers, what do you think Is the power of the Aiyima?
@@jamessalepe hey Jimmy, most stuff becomes deafening loud at 60% volume in my medium-sized room. Without any noticable drop in sound quality.
can you control the Aiyima with the TV controller?
Great job. This the kind of review i love. You covered the highs and the limitations and you suggested good speaker pairings. A most useful review for the budget minded newbie or someone looking to downsize. Nice work
Thanks Randy!!! Aiyima keeps raising the bar. It's a great time to upgrade.
Randy FYI My Amazon Aiyima D03 died immediately on arrival. No problem except Amazon (canada) says "Due to health and safety regulations, we're unable to accept returns of this item." They sent me to Aiyima. Aiyima refused to deal with me from the first contact with them and referred me back to Amazon. Yes there was a fight, phone calls and an eventual refund. Days later Aiyima sent an email asking about my concerns. Geez. Got refunded, but it was not fun. I don't know if this is a this is thing with Aiyima or Chinese electronics. No more for me. Good vids BTW.
Due to health and safety regs ! Bullshit !!!!
Whats up dude. I tried a speaker you reviewed (wharfedale EVO 4.2) . I replaced some B&W 685 S2's and it was an instant upgrade. The EVO's have a wider, deeper, taller soundstage and are very musical. Great separation of instruments and vocals without harshness. I paired them with the Parasound New Classic 200 amp and they work well togeather.
I guess this amp is best used with it's own DAC, since the analogue signal is processed digitally so no matter what DAC you use it will still be the cirrus chip (re)processing the signal. Just use the analogue input for an old CD-player or other device without digital outputs.
Randy, I've noticed with my DO3 that the digital USB/Opt section seems quite a bit stronger than the analog input AUX & BT. Both more powerful and clearer. Have you observed this as well or maybe I have a dud?
I noticed this also. USB was quit a bit stronger than BT.
I have a SMSL DA-9 and I just received today one of the new SMSL AO300 Integrateds, I also own the Aiyima DO3. The Aiyima at least to me running with a Topping D30 Pro DAC sounds better (fuller, tighter bass, nicer treble etc. I will keep my DA-9 but am sending the SMSL AO300 back, the Aiyima SQ wise is much better. This is a great amp!
Thanks Randy great review. I like full bottoms,
Hey Randy, just received the Aiyima D03 amp.Great little amp!! Sounds a lot better than my Creek Evolution(class A/B,good built qualiy,heavy etc.). I play with Bluesound Node2i(Spotify and Tidal) on a pair of Dali Oberon 5.
The Creek Evolution sounds very "thin" no warmth in it at all, although it's 75 watt per channel.
Also i have the Fosi Audio BT20; same; lot better than the "high-end" Creek Evolution.
And both not "analythic" or "digital" sounding" ,for my ears at least.
So conclusion for me; Both are nice small amps, sounds good, but...not better than my recapped/restored Sansui AU-501/AU-4400..certainly not.
Hey Randy; Stupid of me!! I liked the sound of the Aiyima connected with Bluesound Node 2I; Triangle Borea 3(i know..not "your thing" ),but it was a little dull with a lot tracks(Tidal and Spotify). Now i connected the Bluesound with coax cable to the Aiyima D03 in coax input..
And voila, now it sounds a lot better, crispy and still enough low frequencies!! So not duff anymore.
So now i "bypass" the intern dac of the bluesound and use the dac of the Aiyima?? If i'm right?
If so, the dac of the Aiyima sounds much better, than the intern dac of the Bluesound, for my ears at least..
Would you recommend the D03 over the A07/A3 combo?
I have combined this with DAC from Arylic S50 Pro+, it sounds as a more expensive integrated, very detailed and dynamic sound with a drive.
Greetings from Denmark
Thank you for this review. Very detailed, very useful. Great job!
I just received a D03 and it sounds great. Not for the price. It's very good. I'm leasing a comparison with the smsl ao200. D03 have better sound quality in every way. My concern is only about the external transformer (space on my desk)....and my english...sorry
Randy, with your deadpan delivery of the port plug advert, are you sure standup isn’t your day/night job? Great review as usual.
@Douglas Blake I always used to use a rolled up pair of socks when I had a ported sub. I've since moved on to sealed subs, but the socks worked for a quick and dirty port plug.
@Douglas Blake Ribbed for your speakers pleasure
Have you revived the Aiyima D05, is there a big difference? Im trying to decide whisk Aiyima to buy for my living room tv.
Great review. What is the difference between Aiyima D03 and D05?
Thanks for this amazing review. And the AIYIMA T9 ? Looks very good too.
Thanks for information currently rocking the garage shop with this.
Hi, great review. I’m planning on pairing this with the Sound Artist Ls35a in my boat, but another review of the AD18 paired with the same speakers said the sound died a lot compared to a/b amp. Do you think it will be different with this? You said in one review that this has a more a/b sound to it. Would be happy to hear what you thought are.
Thank you for the information! I have a pair of 80's Klipsch speakers. Will this amp drive them with no issues? Thank you again.
thank you very mutch for this video :) do you think the D03 is better, mutch performant, less obsolete, better sound than D05 please ?
Hey man, tks for the review. Do you think this will be better with klipsch RP-500m or JBL A130? tks in advance. Best regards.
thanks for this review. I think I need to go with the Loxjie instead because it has headphone capabilities.
Thing I don't like about the Loxjie is that you have to choose between a line or coax input. Can't have both. That was a weird decision. They could have gone with a stereo mini line input instead.
If a cheap class D amp has a sub out is it filtered by the amp to have only low frequencies? And what about the speakers will they get the full range signal or can it be filtered to have highs only? For example I mean under 80hz to the sub anything over 80hz to the speakers? Can these amp be set like this or will there always be over lap between speakers and sub?
Sir, can you please do a comparison video comparing Aiyima D03 vs D05, I can't decide which one to buy. I think the comparision video will help a lot of music lovers.
Have you decided? I'm buying either one too
@@blast916 haha, which one are you going to buy? I have no idea which one to buy😂
D03 is better from the info I found on av forums.
Aiyima D03 or Loxjie A30?
Such difficult decisions....Do I go with the A07 for $80; the new A08 for $115 which is basically the A07 + internal power supply, usb and bluetooth (w/DAC); or the older D03 which seems like a great all-around package for $160 thanks to your stellar review. The quality just keep on coming from you, and Aiyima. Great sponsor today, btw!
I thought this D03 was their newest product. Am I mistaken?
same dilema...another 1 is the SABAJ A10a
Someone help us!
Hey great review! Im looking for one with all the same inputs/outputs with a better dac. Can you recommend one from topping or smsl? The ones I see dont have sub out. Thanks!
How does the D03 sound through its analogue inputs. I’m looking for a small-footprint speaker amp to use w my turntable. I’ve read on ASR and Amazon that the Loxjie’ A30’s sound quality really suffers when it’s analogue inputs are used rather than it’s digital inputs. Do you recall that from your time w the Loxjie? How about this AiyimaD03?
Wish I could find a comparison of the D03 and D05. Nice review though, thanks.
Hey Randy I appriciate your work and follow your cheapaudio motto. I can't decide these two amps Aiyima D03 and Loxjie A30. I have Dali spektor 1 bookshelfs and I listen music via pc digital outputs (optical) low-mid sound levels at office. And I have modest sub for lows. What do you suggest for my needs? Is A30 worth $50 extra? Thanks in advance and keep it best advices.
A30 would work with the Dalis
Do you think I could run this on a 36v battery. Than when fully charged puts out 42v? Or would that blow up the amp?
Just got the D03, and it's not ugly at all! It looks unobtrusive!
Hey Randy. I recently got some Infinity Reference 253s for $300 shipped new. Holler if you want to borrow mine sometime. I am pretty happy with them and two of their 12" subs which were also $300 for the pair. Pretty silly deal.
sir @cheapaudioman what would be a better upgrade between this aiyima d03 and loxjie a30 to replace a topping mx3?? because i think i need alot more power and my topping mx3 can't provide what i need and sq wise what is better? hope you can help me thanks.
Bought one (January 2022), I rely on bluetooth but wanted more functionality. Sadly my copy was a lot less than " not as detailed " and the overall sound on BT was "hazey" not crisp or clear. The bluetooth stream also seemed to briefly "snag" a lot. This being the case I didn't try the other modes. The unit seemed well built and the remote and other controls functioned perfectly. But with meh BT performance this unit is not for me so it was returned. Still appreciate the takes on two speaker sets I bought but amp-wise will have to keep looking.
My BT sounds bad like am radio. All other inputs are great. Matched it up with a Klipsche wireless sub10. Sounds great for a small tv/music system. I be used my Klipsche quintet ,old Boston a40 ,and some OWI out door speaker. It powers them all very well.
Hi! Love your vids very informative. I would like to know if this amp can drive the polk es20? Or the es15? I hope u would find time to answer. Thanks and more power!
For sure. This would do just fine with those speakers
Audio reviews and recommendations delivered with a dry peppering of Tom Segura. Love it!
A cheap class D that sounds like a A/B? Glad it’s not available on Amazon in the U.K. cus I’d be £160 worse off!
I’ll have to make so with the Loxjie!
Loxjie is great. I need a bit of eq for my own taste
@@cheapaudioman it sounds fine in the bedroom where it lives on direct. In the living room though….I actually prefer the AVR
4:15 "the dac chip inside..."
fortunately NOT, CS8422 is not a DAC chip! According its product page, its a sample-rate converter with an integrated digital audio interface (S/PDIF and AES3).
Aiyima D03 is a full digital amp (FDA) with TAS5624A DAC+AMP chip!
by the way,
I realized from your video that the icon of the power button and the source selector button are not the same :D (in real life, there are very small)
APTX-LL (low latency) is very important if you're using it for a Projector Home Theater setup so that there's no latency between the sound and mouth movements. That's too bad.
Thanks for all your great reviews! I bought the Aiyima A07 with great results for a small bedroom system.
My daughter is graduation from college ON her birthday! Beside getting her a nice necklace, I want to introduce her new apparent to a small sound system. The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES15 seem to fit-the-bill on general consensus good sound, has a white version, is relatively small and can even be wall mounted!
Do you think this Aiyima D03 is a good fit (I understand you stated that it is good for all speaker sound signatures but I'm wondering if the or would the Loxjia A30 might be a better match since the treble on the Polks is not extended or pronounced as other brighter speakers would be.
I'm going for a good overall sound without taking too much of her apartment's real estate!
Thanks!
Thanks for the nice info. I have wharfdale Diamond 8.4 tower speakers handed down. Can this amp be paired to these speakers?
I've found this amp barely used for 99,00 Euros in Italy and I'm fully satisfied. I use Lonpoo LP 42 speakers presently. Do you know them? If you were to buy floorstanding speakers as good as the Aiyima , at a reasonable price of course, which one would you get? Thank you for your reviews mate. You helped me to save a lot of money. 👍
Thoughts on the DO5 over the DO3 ? The signal to noise ratio is reportedly increased by over 10 dB ..
Reduced IMD noticeable? It’s $10 more..🤔
Damn! That Sheen guy is a real renaissance man!
Re: That elephant you were handling with less than kid gloves and bending it all up and then throwing it. It looked an awful lot like "Peanut The Elephant"; one of the earliest, rarest and most valuable of all the retired vintage Beanie Babies. In non-bent up and thrown around condition it is worth approximately $2,500 to $3,000. A real collectors item. With Ty Beanie collectors, condition is "everything". At least you probably got a laugh out of it. Martin and Magic beat AIDS. I guess if you are rich enough you can do anything, including putting in a serious bid on "Peanuts the Beanie Elephant". A little advice. Better to use a worthless sock with a whole in the heel or a monkey sock hand puppet. The ones that look like they're wearing lipstick.
In addition to using an inexpensive small inconspicuous amp like that for your stereo system, some other uses include: using it as an amp for video game sound (great on car racing games where you can hear the engines of gaining on you cars), a patio system and also, if there are any model railroad enthusiasts out there; using it under your layout as a sound effects amplifier. There are plenty of sound effects recordings of steam locomotives and just about everything else, and around Christmas time in a Victorian layout, horses clomping and bells on the sleigh, Christmas carolers, Church Bells, distant organ music, Salvation Army bell ringers etc. I am a model railroader myself. The recording artist and rock star Rod Stewart is a major big time model railroader. He spent thousands of hours over the years making miniature buildings from scratch in hotel rooms, while on the road. You can see parts of his layout if you punch in Rod Stewart train layout youtube. I once did my weekly grocery shopping in a supermarket, that on Saturday especially, usually in the middle of the afternoon, a voice would loudly come over the intercom excitedly saying "Attention shoppers. Attention. Famous rock star and music legend Rod Stewart is in our store. He can be seen inside the main entrance by the checkout. Rod Stewart everybody! Mr. Rod Stewart!" The dumber shoppers who happened to be excited at this, would drop their squashes or whatever, and run to the front of the store. The smarter shoppers would pause and think "What's the chance that Rod Stewart would be in a dumpy place like this?" They on the other hand would just continue shopping. When you got near the checkout and in plain view of him, your split second initial reaction was "I don't believe it. It's really him. It's Rod Stewart". They even gave him a card table and he would sit at it in a chair. But the closer you looked, the more you realized that's not really Rod Stewart! Just a blonde guy with a layered up haircut exactly like his. It's purpose?? The grocery store moved but eventually went out of business in both locations within 6 blocks of each other. Don't I live in a fun place ?
Great comment
Hi. Is it better to buy D03 over the A07+T8?
Im waiting for my A07 to arrive.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you
What did you end up going with?
A07@@rhyselliott9170
My real concern as well. He has a video recommending A07 amp using T8 as the source for Elac debut 2.0 and now confused with D03 which looks like playing the same role as A07+T8
thinking of getting 3 JBL Studio 570's as a L/C/R for a home theater (going behind an acoustic screen) Thoughts? and do you have affiliate link for jbl?
hey, Jeff. thanks for thinking of me. you can click on any of my links and if you go to a different product in a similar category I'll still get credit. ironically, I actually like the a series from jbl better than the studio. but I'll link them hereamzn.to/3jGoPkI
People want “affordable” equipment, there you go!
I've been looking to replace my aging (and huge) Onkyo AVR with something more dedicated. I have a small 10'x10' office for my listening room (5' away or so). I have a pair of KEF Q150s and an older Niles SW12 sub and I'm between the Aiyima D03 and the Loxjie A30. It looks like I can snag the Aiyima D03 for $120 shipped with PSU (output isn't mentioned) and the Loxjie for about $170. Is the Loxjie worth the extra? I have no plans on using headphones at the moment, and I plan on feeding audio with my trusty Chromecast audio for now (maybe a Raspberry Pi later).
what did you decide to go with? my onkyo tx-sv919 is also getting too big for these small times ...
How that sounds comparing to T9 ? I'm returning T9 for multiple reasons I wrote about in your post about T9 and I'm looking for something that will sound as good as my Fosi bt20 2 x 100 amp & tube preamp combo but comes with remote control.
The click sounds?
Great channel for rookies like me！Can I use it directly with headphones or how should I it be set up?
D3/D7 oppure fosi Da2220c? Quale scegliere? Grazie
This is a very cool little Dac Amp. Would this pair well with some Jamo s807 towers (100 watts/8 ohms, or would something else work a lot better?
Love the show Randy,
Quick question for you or your fellow enthusiasts , I have some bright B&W , would this amp go well with them,
This seems similar to the Topping MX3, which I bought after seeing your review and really like. Is this better in any way?
different sound for sure. more power from the aiyima. topping is much more analytical and revealing
It would be perfect if it had a 3.5mm line out so I could plug my in ear like the LOXJIE A30...
Would you prefer the do5 or the ao7+t8?
Will this amp work with an LG C2 TV hooked up via an optical cable? I tried the LOXJIE A30 and there was a problem with audio hiccups/stuttering.
what you recommend to go along with ELAC Uni-fi UB5, A07 (which PS) or D03?
Soundwise... Aiyima 03 and ifi streamer vs svs soundbase? Which is your preference?
the playfi app can be a bit slow. it all depends on which service you are using. tidal and Spotify and roon ifi for sure. the ifi really benefits from a solid dac. but they both sound similar and I like the sound base a lot. it's a monster and feels more powerful than the aiyima
Bought this on the back of this and very happy. Paired with some Pioneer SPBS22s to make for a nice cheap secondary system for my small office space. Did you test the sub-out at all? Not sure If it is just my unit or the range but my unit's sub-output has a horribly low strength signal. I hooked it up to a reasonably good quality powered sub but it barely moved even with the sub volume maxed out... I had to touch the sub to determine if it was doing anything. Had me scratching my head while not really caring that much for my particular use case where I don't need a sub. For others this could be a huge disappointment. On the plus side, this thing is tiny... can hide it so easily that the aesthetics (which I don't mind) are just fine.
does the problem with the subwoofer still exist?
@@stevempil5948 yeah. I did try it again recently and still no good. I'm guessing it's a fault in my unit that isn't going to fix itself. It doesn't bother me so I haven't bothered to follow up on it. I've not heard anybody else report similar.
@@djayhornet2 Didn't see anyone to report positive either about the subwoofer output...So maybe it's not only your unit...Makes me skeptical for buying it...Thanks
Randy Rocks!!!!!!
Decided to get 3 CSS Criton 2TD MTM Kit easier to drive maybe better to feel a large room two
How is the D05 compared to D03? Only a $10 difference.
FYI everyone…Walmart is selling the D05 (not the 03) for $115. I just bought one. Wish me luck. 😁
Amazon lists this as a power amplifier, but it has a volume control? I am looking for a decent power amp to go to from my Yamaha integrated pre outs and was about to buy this to try, but its confusing if this is possible?
Someone on Amzon says that a 36 volt powerbrick much better is/better sounds. Is that truth?? I don't know, not tried yet.
Would this pair well with a couple of Sony SSCS5 speakers for home audio instead of a soundbar? Also, this looks like it's missing a headphone jack (3.5mm)
How does this compare to the D05 version?
Better than the 08pro? Differences? Recommendations?
I think the A08 Pro is amp only, no DAC.
Thanks!
How does it compare to the LOXJIE A30?
Sir question, i have my aiyima d03, I’m planning to buy topping pa3s amp, can i pair the d03 to pa3s?
Dated=classic. Let's put our thinking caps on, they all come from the same China factory and that's ok.
Just upgraded my Aiyima A04 with new op amps and power inductors..yeah, I also had a Sabaj A10A for a few hours, sent that one back. No where near the A04 as far as low end clarity and response goes. In fact it was not much different from the SA300 which uses the same Infineon chip. I found the low end muddy and lazy on both of those amps so i concur that i will avoid that overhyped Infineon chip...Z reviews emulated it in his smutty manner but no, not convinced at all. The Aiyima with a little op amp swapping wipes the floor with both the Sabaj and SMSL.
Which op amps and power inductors did you use please?
Hey Randy if you ever had the chance try a Cambridge made amp called amptastic mini 1. I think you gonna like it.
What would be the best DAC amp for Apple Music Lossless?
Not today but, what’s up with all these $600 dollar headphone amps lately? Your last one didn’t have EQ, DSP, or a DAC. It was a $600 dollar volume control. You’re not the “Cheap “ Audio Man anymore. When are you gonna review the Fosi Audio K4? Excellent sound and cheap!
Hi! It's SGD 160 here on some sites in Singapore. This one is a no brainer, just like the A07 I have gotten after watching your review some months ago. Sounds magical with Dali 1s and D50s.
Should we go hook this baby to SSCS5 or A130 if we are looking for a sound bar replacement?
Lastly, also got the Denafrips Ares II paired with a THX 789. End game. At least for the office setup.
either one will be great with a sub. they're both awesome. but I wouldn't get the jbl's unless they're on sale
Hey look, you are great and all, but I come here for the Cheapaudioman intro to see if you will cut it off early or not. It's sort of a "Randy Roulette."
I just started editing on a Mac. I'll get that intro moved over. someone actually emailed me saying if I let it run it would be more polished. he didn't get the joke
Can you please feature a review about this Aiyimas portable 5.1 ch Amps called AIYIMA A09..
How to put this...... here goes... what does it take to hear the difference between an Aiyima D03, an SMSL and some Schiit? Will my aging Grado SR60's reveal the differences? How about my PortaPro's (a seriously under rated set of cans!) How about my circa 1978 AKG-340's (they reused that model name, this is a full sized, over the ear, electrostatic hybrid). Or will moving to a DAC mean that I'll be upgrading headphones in short order?
Hi Randy, is this essentially an Aiyima A09 in a different form factor with a sub out? BTW, I purchased a A09 on your recommendation and as you said it is solid and great for the price! Thanks for all the info you put out, you give us a great service
Sheen rules...I got a new pair of Grado 325x, these things are outstanding.
Im thinking of getting the 225's
@@cheapaudioman Not a bad idea. I think these new "x" drivers were a move in the right direction. Better bass extension, still great mids and high end detail.
Can I connect the amp to my pc and pair my headphones via Bluetooth
Do you think that D03 is good or have another better option for the same price?
Loxjie A30 is pretty awesome
Hello, there was a new aiyima portable dac. I hope theres a chance you'll reciew it in your channel
Randy, what’s with the art behind you in the video? Not sure what’s going on there. Just asking’ …
metallica concert poster from 2016. last time I say them. that's lady justice from the and justice for all record cover "bound". Hence... no justice anymore
Ahh, makes sense especially in light of your comments about Metallica in other videos. Thanks for the enlightenment. 😎
Aiyima D05 VS SMSL AD18. What's better?
Hi, mister.
Can I connect this Aiyima with a Polk 20-150 watts, 8 ohms, 89dB sensibility?
Plop.
got the d03 based on this review. Very disappointing considering something this obvious should have been called out right off the bat. First off, the remote does not work if you are about 5 feet or further away. As for sound quality, it cannot hang with my 20 year old pioneer amp, and that's a low bar to beat. This amp has a sharp roll off on the higher frequencies, and the "depth" and layering is not there. It is NOT all there. These review guys have to be more straight forward and honest, vs hyping up every single item they review. This is great for generic listening for the masses, but if you are just a bit picky about sound quality, this is too obvious.
Still dissapointed? I think im gonna get one
@@francohic i just got mine now. 8/7/2022 4:00pm. IDK why but it doesn't have any eq settings. the only thing you can do is turn the bass and treble up/down.