Emotiva XDA-3 DAC/Preamp bit.ly/3OA8huf Intro graphics by johnvilardi.com Support the Channel! Shop on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Join the best hifi community out there! patreon.com/cheapaudioman TRY ROON roonlabs.com/r/RTmYWdCP9kitqouBa5pcIw Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P
I need help Randy ! I'm sold on this but what amps would be the most happy with in the long run xpa mono blocks or would the basx mono blocks be good enough for the money. I'm not rich but I keep buying things I'm not satisfied with and. My speakers are really expensive and powerful I designed them myself and I spent some money on them just on the components Jantzen z caps 3 order crossover alone cost a small fortune and want to get the most out of my speakers Thanks brother
I have to stop watching these temptations, i have 5 dacs do i use them all No, do i have a favourite, Yes . Im happy so stop it (whats next :,) If im honest the blue is a no for me and i prefer silver . I wonder if this affects their resale value ? But there is no doubting that they make very good audio components .
Your enthusiasm and the manufacturer have made me add this to my list even though I don't know yet if I need it or not. 😂 You, Sir, are the consummate salesman and audio reviewer. Thank you for this envigourating and energetic introduction to this equipment, your time, and effort sharing this with us all. Take care, Sir, and keep up the great work.
However much bang for the buck this DAC/preamp may offer, untill manufacturers start adding remotes with balance control. High Pass filter on the subout for the speakers and room correction they still won't be with the program.
You’re a cool guy, dude. Thanks for the chill delivery and the awesome picks! Had my OG NAD runnin’ my Klipsch KG4s-until I replaced it with a ‘96 Yamaha, after my “friend” somehow spilled beer on it, despite where it was... ) but you got me thinkin’ ‘bout some “Surround Sound” stuff, esp. with that Fosi redesign (you’d helped them with, re: the airflow), for the back, but honestly, the KG4s have some incredible spatialization and yet to lemme down, 30 years later... Speakin’ of, considering the KG4s each have 15” subs in their backs (to be face diagonally toward a corner, according to Klipsch), what might you do to get the best outta those, if anything differ’nt? Thanks!
@@cheapaudioman I wouldn't be surprised if the J2 is equal to or better. Op-amp rolling is a huge benefit with the J2. While the J2 has no pre, it will possibly still out value the XDA-3 if they cranked the price up to $1K like it shows for me on their site.
@@raymoore8435 I can’t speak to the J2, just the rolling ability. IMHO you hear a lot more change in analog sections. That’s what makes this hobby fun. I own the XDA-2 and it had a a lot of noise issues off the display. My brother redid it all with Tantalum caps and it sounded much better. Still the schiit BF2 sounded better to me. The design on emotive DAC’s is just fine. Good bang for the buck, but I doubt it will come out on top in a shoot out at its price point in stock form. It’s a real shame they didn’t choose to socket the analog section op-amps in the XDA3
Emotiva makes a decent phono preamp. Would have been nice to have that included. I actually think I'd rather a phono preamp which haven't changed much in last 20 years than a DAC which seem to improve and get cheaper every 6 months built in. But I'm glad someone is doing a quality full sized preamp for a decent price. I'm sold on separate power amps but finding a good preamp that isn't a fortune isn't as easy.
Minor correction, Emotiva are based out of the Nashville area, specifically Franklin, Tennessee. Not Memphis. I used to live near thier facility and got to know them. They are good people and have excellent value products.
Randy, have you every considered doing a blind A/B DAC off? Just purchased the SU-1 off your recommendation and it sounds excellent. This thing could easily compete with my Ares II. I understand you may risk stepping on toes, but I would pay money to see it.
If you listen to several different Dacs( near the same price from a competent company) in a blind test they will all start blending and you won't be able to tell the difference. Notice how many of them are on the market? It's like feeding a gremlin after midnight and getting it wet. Countless options.
@ryanschipp8513 yeah, I'd love to see a sub $500 DAC off, but he'd have quite a bit egg on face if the J2 turned out to be no better than an iPhone dongle. It would be a popular video regardless and provide some transparency.
@@lazzzzze1 I hear you. I would like to see something like that too. Or even some other price point comparisons. But it's not in these Hi-Fi reviewers best interest. Whether it's a Dak, a pre-amplifier, or an amplifier at some point they all sound extremely similar and then they would have nothing to review one by one since everything sound so similar it would kill their Channel. Their channels thrive on individuality of components and not doing actual sound comparisons or blind tests. Unfortunately none of these guys give full transparency but I do believe some give more transparency than others
Feature set and price wise this is a great component. Hdmi and balanced input/output is outstanding. It would all come down to how it sounds. I love all the connections on this thing though.
I got mine today. It replaces a PT-1 and J2 AKM. It sounds absolutely great. Using it for TV, CD, Streaming, and vinyl through a Tube Box S2 with Genelec Gold Lions in the RCA input. Subwoofer using the second Pre out.
It doesn't have to be fully balanced design for interference rejection. Taking difference will automatically result is noise rejection.. (Signal + Noise) - (-Signal + Noise) = 2×Signal
Hey Randy. I just got my pair of magnepan LRS+ delivered (haven’t dialed them in but they sound incredible already) and I think they would sound next level in that system! Might have to start saving…again
My goodness...for $700...you're getting close to SX-950-SX-1050, or 2270 territory that needs just a little TLC, things that can be repaired if they get wonky two or twenty years down the road. At least Emo got the remote right, this time. Their prior ones could double as anti-home intruder devices, if you live in an area infested with violent ferals, and if the city doesn't let you keep anti-feral pew-pews for defense :) Still, a good review...and here's yer' upthumb. Oh--as an aside (pretty sure you're already aware) UA-cam has changed its algo to somehow keep showing the same thing, ad nauseum when you've got autoplay on. I was getting your Prime Day 2 stream every effking day, until I both unsubscribed AND told the algo never to recommend your channel again. It's not just you--I was getting the SAME Red Letter Media episode (out of a thousand? prior episodes) in the same fashion, but they upload at the same time every week, so I know when to search-click.
Sorry to off-topic but I found a sale. I have Sony MDR-V6 monitor headphones. I'm looking at AKG K52 closed back headphones but don't know anything about them. Are they good. Do I need these? Thanks!
My hang up is- don't need balanced xlr (cost cutting?). Just have more single ended. And yeah, volume knob. Does the differential only work through balanced or nothing to do with?
Be careful if this doesn't have analogue bypass need to find out. My at300 doesn't have analogue bypass it converts analogue inputs Looks useful as a 2.1 pre amp
I bought a dac from them about 7 years ago, it almost destroyed a pair of 1000 dollar headphones due to some crap circuitry they used to make the dac.. never buyin from them again
I have the same mononlocks, cd player and preamp paired with the t-3’s….. u were smart to copy me Randy!! I want to add the flagship eversolo streamer to it. Its 2 channel awesomeness
What I love about Emotiva is that if I have a warranty concern or need to make a return, I can call and talk to a real person. They don't ghost their customers like IOTAVX or a ChiFi company, for example.
Topping EX5 (usd 349) has DUAL ES9038Q2M, also balanced (= fully balanced = fully differential) output, and with headphone amp, and filters. Only misses analog and HDMI input.
As of today I have purchased four items you have recommended! Very happy with them watch all your video to learn more!?still a little confused about amps, preamps etc but learning through your channel!
@@robertldcarlson It is working well with my system. I'm using NVIDIA Shield as source with SKW USB cable. It is very clear. Sub is SVS SB1000. Speakers are Carnegie CST-1'S. 650 watts / channel is way to much on power. The EMOTIVA DAC (Sabre chip) is nice for me but I think most prefer Gesheli DAC with swappable op amps and ~AKM (I think) chips. I really like the sound and performance. Better performing equipment for me would be much more expensive. I've recently tried WiiM Pro with iFi power supply, but it is a step down with openness and imaging. I will be returning the WiiM. I'm using SBC Worlds best cables for Interconnects.
2 months later. I'm still impressed. NVIDIA Shield > USB (SKW brand) > EMOTIVA XDA-3-DAC > Balanced (WBC Worlds Best Cables) > EMOTIVA XPA-DR1 Monoblock's > WBC speaker cables) > Carnegie CST-1 upgraded speakers (tilted back to raise soundstage) SVS SB-1000 sub. Tried the WiiM Pro plus for a week, but it was a step down (returning it)
Usb dac for home theater? Is this none existing? I do not want 2 separate systems. I have one computer, one livingroom, one 5.1, and I want to make it a good sounding 2 channel and a good sounding 5.1 . Yes, the emotiva 13channel dac might be the solution, but hey, 2000eur and above? Nope...
I would like to know if the Emotiva XDA-3 Preamp with XLR (LR) and RCA outputs (sub) can run simultaneously for a 2.1 system? Also found a Douk Audio/Nobsound L2 Preamp that has RCA (LR) and subwoofer (LR) RCA outs and (4) SOCKETED OP-AMPS...priced at $159.00 (with stock Texas Instrument IC variety NE322 op-amps). Thinking...maybe Discrete Sparkos 3602 upgrades for Mains RCA x 2 @ $180.00 on that puppy and $340 total vs $699 for Emotiva. Your thoughts On Balanced XLR outs with Emotiva vs better op-amp rolling with the Douk/Nobsound unit.
I hate you Randy or more accurately my bank account does 😂 I’m looking for a new preamp and possibly a new DAC to replace my ageing Audiolab M-Dac. I’d better start saving. Looking forward to your next videos on the DAC comparison!
it's going to be interesting. the thing about this component is that it's not really "just a dac". Kind of stands on its own with the analog input section. I'll still compare it to a bunch of other dacs but this is a very unique component. I really like it
Did you try the USB connection to send music from a music server? I'll likely open a support ticket or return my XDA-3 because I get horrible volume when using the USB connection as a music source. My OPPO 105D has done a beautiful job driving my XPA2 Gen2 amp for over 8 years as a DAC/preamp. It has a fantastic headphone section and ran all my input sources beautifully. So far the XDA-3 is not working nearly as well. It also has one issue that drives me crazy. The volume control is slow as molasses. It is incredibly irritating when switching between tracks mastered at different levels.
I just got an emotiva amplifier. A xpa dr2 thing sounds amazing. I was wanting to get a tube preamp. But the one I want is over $1,000. This one is 700. I wonder how good it sounds
I just ordered this Emotiva XDA-3, and a pair of Emotiva XPA-DR1 Differential Reference™ Monoblock Power Amplifiers. I hope my 15 year old Marantz SR7002 is not missed too much. ❤️ Thank you for your knowledge and wisdom. 🙏 AND your humor is awesome! 😎 Patreon Member AverageNiceGuy.
There needs to be a multichannel dac/preamp priced at about this level. If I can buy a RECEIVER for under $500 that does 7.1 channels, why can they not make a multi channel dac/preamp for under $1k? It's madness.
Once you're looking at multi-channel preamps and DACs you're looking at a "surround sound processors" (pre/pros). Processors are more complex because they need features like licensed surround sound decoders... And home theater customers tend to be less concerned with features like support for high sample rates and DSD... And processors fall into the category of "separates"... (since you will also need to purchase a multi-channel amplifier). (Which puts them in a higher price bracket than "low end, all in one, AVRs".) Note that Emotiva does also make a surround sound processor that lists for $1099 - the MC1.
Holy Cow! You showed us what's "ON THE BACK" and I just saw that Emotiva is just down the road in my home town! Just across the street from one of my favorite TV shows - Power Nation (automotive TV shows).
Randy, I just bought a Nobsound AV-525 hybrid amp. 200w/, tube/AB via Toshiba,....have only about 8 hours listening time in thus far, but I am pleased, even impressed with the sound and build quality. Sounds great and is very attractive. I found a good price, $345 shipped from Doukmall (US) Had it in 3 days. Take a look at this one.
nice preamp/dac. too bad it will be eaten by any same priced device with network capabilities, you know, tidal, dsd, nas...how much time need certain companies to understand it? chinese already doing it. i'm in athe market for anetwork player, guess what i am gonna buy...
Looks promising but having owned the PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamp (at 2x Emotiva's price), they give you and I2S input wich should be standard IMHO on all above $500 (Schiit be damned....just kidding). Great starter Preamp. Just add a MoFi StudioPhono and you are all set !
I always appreciate your videos and reviews. I have the rogue rp5 pre amp Which sounds great. Would this DAC make it better? Would this DAC totally bypass the DAC inside the rp5?
Reluctantly placed my order Friday, and it just shipped this morning... Couple of issues here.. 1. Why offer a military discount by pointing your customers to GOVX, only to not find emotiva products listed there... 2. Shipping to Hawaii is insane. This cost me $120 to ship via FedEx, which is there ONLY shipping option.. Same for their headphones which I would love to own, but refuse to pay another $120 just to ship them here. Perhaps a partnership with Amazon for better shipping rates, or at least provide options??? Would love to invest in a pair of monoblocks, but it would literally double their cost with FedEx to get them here.
Okay i would like to go from using 2 remotes, 1 for my TV and 1 for my 2 channel Adcom preamp to just having 1 remote for both... since my Samsung TV only has optical out and HDMI ARC for audio i had to get a digital converter to run audio to my Adcom, problem is i can't control the volume with my TV remote, always having to using the Adcom remote... from what i can tell i have 2 options, get a new preamp brand that may have a code that works with a universal remote to operate both TV and preamp volume, or get a new preamp with HDMI ARC hookup... will i need to be messing with this room correction filter stuff if i get a preamp/DAC stand alone?? i just want to be able to hook things up and hope i get the same sound as i currently do from sitting on my sofa about 10 feet from my 2 channel only stereo system... would be so nice to find a newer universal remote that has a code to operate my Adcom, but the newer universal remote codes i have found don't have Adcom listed... any thoughts would be greatly appreciated, Thank You...
Longtime fan of dac/pres. When properly designed with a excellent power supply, a system would need to be extreme high dollar to justify separate dac/pres. My Audio Alchemy DDP1 + PS 5 (outboard power supply-essential to get the full experience) still impresses even though it is ~ 7 year old design
Without knowing how good it sounds it looks too expensive for a mid-tier high-end DAC and dosnt have enough features to really consider it a usable pre-amp. Its also is getting close enough in price to the miniDSP SHD which makes way more sense if you are primarily going to be into digital but still need a analog input because it has Dirac Live, streaming capabilities also has a very good sounding DAC, and frankly looks10x better.
I can use it as a preamp. I covered that in the video. Appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment. It helps UA-cam promote the video when I get people to watch and comment.
@@cheapaudioman Yeah, I get that it functions as pre I just find the I/O limiting if were looking for pre-amp / and DAC combo. The MiniDSP SHD has similarly I/O but brings more feature wise to the table in addition to being a excellent sounding DAC and pre-amp. Either way, still enjoyed the video.
Anxiously waiting for more reviews focusing on the sound quality if used solely as a DAC. Fixed volume (or near max if only variable) into a proper preamp. Are both outputs active simultaneously or does one defeat the other?
i got this a few days ago, connects via USB to my Eversolo DMP-A6 and by HDMI-ARC from my FrameTV box which gets my AppleTV input. Connection wise it's great because when I turn on the AppleTV the DAC and emotiva amp automatically turn on. Sound is excellent with several filter options. Very versatile with excellent sound. All of this is going to a couple on-wall Dali Oberon On-Wall and SVS SB-1000 Pro. I live in a studio so this is really all I need for excellent sounding music and movies. Thanks for the review, there weren't many on UA-cam. Still aren't!
Amazing video John, lots of work involved. With that I feel a pain in the arse asking any questions but😅.... I have had the RME AD12DACFS in my basket ready to go for. Then this eversolo and others come out. Did a comparison ever come to your mind about the quality of output/dac for the RME against these 3 you've reviewed. I have a wiim pro so all the streaming would be taken care of. Then the issue is would these 3 you've reviewed be a night and day difference against my current dac/streamer the Audiolad 6000N (with the infuriating PlayFi App) I have a hunch the RME plus wiim would be the best for me at the price. If anyone has any experience in opinion here on this I would graciously appreciate it.
I’m looking at the stats on this great video, and only 10% are hitting the like button. Come on guys, we all appreciate his vids. Pleave make the effort to hit the like button.
Is this overkill to pair with the Schiit SYN? I'm trying build a set it and forget it "surround" and audio system for a beach rental. I'd just throw in a sound bar, but I use it a few times a year too. I'm pitching it to the wife as a as a differentiator to justify higher rental rates.
Very excited to see the full review. I have mixed feelings with Emotiva. I bought Emotiva TA1 but returned it due to under impressive amplification for my taste but the DAC and the pre-amp in general were great. Emotiva's DAC in the TA1 sounded much better than my Cambridge Audio CXA61 's DAC. I am now leaning towards Audiolab 7000A that also comes with HDMI ARC what is a great feature. Watching a UA-cam channel reviewing the audiolab 7000A he suggested the option to include a MiniDSP Dirac (DDRC-24) in the setup for room correction. I am still not understanding how such a setup would work without bypassing or degrading the output of the integrated amplifier's DAC. How would you integrate room correction with Emotiva XDA-3? I can't imagine the MiniDSP DAC to be better than one of the later models from AKM or ESS SABRE DAC's.
Randy I love your channel. I have some serious speakers and I'm still running them on my avr which has no output for other amps. I was thinking about xpa monos and the preamp dac or would I be satisfied with their avr. You said it sounds good for movies. I don't want to make the wrong decision. I have some big powerful custom speakers that can sound much better with the right setup but I don't have $50000 grand what should I do or maybe the basx monos so many choices
Hey Cheap audio man I have tried fosi audio amps and have been dispointed because the power ratings are off it will say 100 watts on 4 ohms, then that would mean 50 ish watts in 8 ohms but it is only actually producing 12 usable watts at 8 ohms
There's a lot of "air" inside that chassis. I prefer discrete design over op-amps so this is not my cup of tea. However, I think the price is reasonable.
Emotiva XDA-3 DAC/Preamp bit.ly/3OA8huf
Intro graphics by johnvilardi.com
Support the Channel! Shop on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK
Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt
Join the best hifi community out there! patreon.com/cheapaudioman
TRY ROON roonlabs.com/r/RTmYWdCP9kitqouBa5pcIw
Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF
Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9
Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt
Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH
amzn.to/3GkNaop
CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K
apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P
I need help Randy ! I'm sold on this but what amps would be the most happy with in the long run xpa mono blocks or would the basx mono blocks be good enough for the money. I'm not rich but I keep buying things I'm not satisfied with and. My speakers are really expensive and powerful I designed them myself and I spent some money on them just on the components Jantzen z caps 3 order crossover alone cost a small fortune and want to get the most out of my speakers Thanks brother
Why am I getting messages saying I won something
That’s a hard bargain to beat! How do you use it just as a DAC? I’ve beeb hankering for a Freya S or + and would like to get the best of both worlds.
I was just self diagnosed as an Audiophile....goodbye money
you're amongst friends here. we shall trudge this road together, my friend
First step is admitting you have a problem. Now back to ordering a Wiim Mini for every room in my house....
@@bigdreams5554This made me LOL! Thanks for brightening my day!
@@cheapaudioman❤
Yup ..and welcome 💸💸💸💸
They were made by ToneWinner in China for Emotiva. Uses the same parts I have seen used with ToneWinner preamps. Should be very good.
i have tonewinner amps and the pre pro great value. also have emotiva mx-1 rx-a2a b1 bookshelves and a few more smaller emotiva products.
Made in China means I won't buy it.
I have to stop watching these temptations, i have 5 dacs do i use them all No, do i have a favourite, Yes . Im happy so stop it (whats next :,)
If im honest the blue is a no for me and i prefer silver .
I wonder if this affects their resale value ?
But there is no doubting that they make very good audio components .
How can you promote this overprized and ordinary product?
Based out of Memphis? Don’t let Dan hear you say that! 😊
Your enthusiasm and the manufacturer have made me add this to my list even though I don't know yet if I need it or not. 😂 You, Sir, are the consummate salesman and audio reviewer. Thank you for this envigourating and energetic introduction to this equipment, your time, and effort sharing this with us all. Take care, Sir, and keep up the great work.
“As well as… a CD transport”
I see what you did there. Looking forward to the review on that transport :)
Coming soon!
Love Emotiva. I have the two channel amp for my system.
However much bang for the buck this DAC/preamp may offer, untill manufacturers start adding remotes with balance control. High Pass filter on the subout for the speakers and room correction they still won't be with the program.
You’re a cool guy, dude. Thanks for the chill delivery and the awesome picks! Had my OG NAD runnin’ my Klipsch KG4s-until I replaced it with a ‘96 Yamaha, after my “friend” somehow spilled beer on it, despite where it was... ) but you got me thinkin’ ‘bout some “Surround Sound” stuff, esp. with that Fosi redesign (you’d helped them with, re: the airflow), for the back, but honestly, the KG4s have some incredible spatialization and yet to lemme down, 30 years later... Speakin’ of, considering the KG4s each have 15” subs in their backs (to be face diagonally toward a corner, according to Klipsch), what might you do to get the best outta those, if anything differ’nt? Thanks!
Great video Randy! I’ve been looking for something like this. Would love a video comparing this to the BASX PT1 and PT2
I would be interested in a comparison to the Denafrips Ares 2 and the Geshelli J2 AKM DACs. The Geshelli J2 punches well above its price point, IMO.
J2 comparison is coming. I don't have the denafrips anymore unfortunately
@@cheapaudiomanCan you try and snag up the new Matrix Audio Mini-i4 to compare? It's $650, and I'd be interested in how it compares to this
@@cheapaudioman I wouldn't be surprised if the J2 is equal to or better. Op-amp rolling is a huge benefit with the J2. While the J2 has no pre, it will possibly still out value the XDA-3 if they cranked the price up to $1K like it shows for me on their site.
@@NightFlight1973Have you tried it with the Sparkos op amp ?
@@raymoore8435 I can’t speak to the J2, just the rolling ability. IMHO you hear a lot more change in analog sections. That’s what makes this hobby fun.
I own the XDA-2 and it had a a lot of noise issues off the display. My brother redid it all with Tantalum caps and it sounded much better. Still the schiit BF2 sounded better to me. The design on emotive DAC’s is just fine. Good bang for the buck, but I doubt it will come out on top in a shoot out at its price point in stock form.
It’s a real shame they didn’t choose to socket the analog section op-amps in the XDA3
Emotiva makes a decent phono preamp. Would have been nice to have that included. I actually think I'd rather a phono preamp which haven't changed much in last 20 years than a DAC which seem to improve and get cheaper every 6 months built in. But I'm glad someone is doing a quality full sized preamp for a decent price. I'm sold on separate power amps but finding a good preamp that isn't a fortune isn't as easy.
Minor correction, Emotiva are based out of the Nashville area, specifically Franklin, Tennessee. Not Memphis.
I used to live near thier facility and got to know them. They are good people and have excellent value products.
Randy, have you every considered doing a blind A/B DAC off? Just purchased the SU-1 off your recommendation and it sounds excellent. This thing could easily compete with my Ares II. I understand you may risk stepping on toes, but I would pay money to see it.
let's see that!
I like Randy but there's no way he's going to do something like that. He'd probably eliminate some of his close ties.
If you listen to several different Dacs( near the same price from a competent company) in a blind test they will all start blending and you won't be able to tell the difference. Notice how many of them are on the market? It's like feeding a gremlin after midnight and getting it wet. Countless options.
@ryanschipp8513 yeah, I'd love to see a sub $500 DAC off, but he'd have quite a bit egg on face if the J2 turned out to be no better than an iPhone dongle. It would be a popular video regardless and provide some transparency.
@@lazzzzze1 I hear you. I would like to see something like that too. Or even some other price point comparisons. But it's not in these Hi-Fi reviewers best interest. Whether it's a Dak, a pre-amplifier, or an amplifier at some point they all sound extremely similar and then they would have nothing to review one by one since everything sound so similar it would kill their Channel. Their channels thrive on individuality of components and not doing actual sound comparisons or blind tests. Unfortunately none of these guys give full transparency but I do believe some give more transparency than others
I would be more interested in emotiva if they had just a pure preamp, no digital or phono stage, of any kind, w a couple balanced inputs and outputs.
Feature set and price wise this is a great component. Hdmi and balanced input/output is outstanding. It would all come down to how it sounds. I love all the connections on this thing though.
A seperate 😁PREAMP/DAC with HDMI EARC too! Well blow me over with a feather 🤪 At last 😁
I only use mine as a DAC and run it through my XSP-1 preamp into DR-1 monoblocks. Its been a nice upgrade to my 10+ year old Cambridge DAC Magic
I got mine today. It replaces a PT-1 and J2 AKM. It sounds absolutely great. Using it for TV, CD, Streaming, and vinyl through a Tube Box S2 with Genelec Gold Lions in the RCA input. Subwoofer using the second Pre out.
Very nice. Is there any delay in the sound from the time you drop the needle to the time you hear it out of the speakers?
Have you any problem with using sub connect to pre out? How it work?
It doesn't have to be fully balanced design for interference rejection. Taking difference will automatically result is noise rejection..
(Signal + Noise) - (-Signal + Noise) = 2×Signal
. You're correct @stackoverflow8260. There can be balanced connections without balanced components.
Hey Randy. I just got my pair of magnepan LRS+ delivered (haven’t dialed them in but they sound incredible already) and I think they would sound next level in that system! Might have to start saving…again
I love my LRS.
I switch my LRSs with my Cornwall IVs running off my DR-1s often, its a nice change every so often
My goodness...for $700...you're getting close to SX-950-SX-1050, or 2270 territory that needs just a little TLC, things that can be repaired if they get wonky two or twenty years down the road. At least Emo got the remote right, this time. Their prior ones could double as anti-home intruder devices, if you live in an area infested with violent ferals, and if the city doesn't let you keep anti-feral pew-pews for defense :)
Still, a good review...and here's yer' upthumb. Oh--as an aside (pretty sure you're already aware) UA-cam has changed its algo to somehow keep showing the same thing, ad nauseum when you've got autoplay on. I was getting your Prime Day 2 stream every effking day, until I both unsubscribed AND told the algo never to recommend your channel again. It's not just you--I was getting the SAME Red Letter Media episode (out of a thousand? prior episodes) in the same fashion, but they upload at the same time every week, so I know when to search-click.
Sorry to off-topic but I found a sale. I have Sony MDR-V6 monitor headphones. I'm looking at AKG K52 closed back headphones but don't know anything about them. Are they good. Do I need these? Thanks!
My hang up is- don't need balanced xlr (cost cutting?). Just have more single ended. And yeah, volume knob.
Does the differential only work through balanced or nothing to do with?
Be careful if this doesn't have analogue bypass need to find out. My at300 doesn't have analogue bypass it converts analogue inputs
Looks useful as a 2.1 pre amp
I bought a dac from them about 7 years ago, it almost destroyed a pair of 1000 dollar headphones due to some crap circuitry they used to make the dac.. never buyin from them again
Emotiva is not based in memphis,its based in Franklin Tennessee! YOU should know this! Also you stated once that klipsh was buying emotiva
How would you rate Emotive's XDA-3 DAC to the Everolo Z8 you reviewed?
I have the same mononlocks, cd player and preamp paired with the t-3’s….. u were smart to copy me Randy!! I want to add the flagship eversolo streamer to it. Its 2 channel awesomeness
No eArc in 2023, it's only HDMI ARC input
What I love about Emotiva is that if I have a warranty concern or need to make a return, I can call and talk to a real person. They don't ghost their customers like IOTAVX or a ChiFi company, for example.
Very good! Emotiva has poor production quality!
Not true coming from someone with many Emotiva products @GeirRssaak
@@GeirRssaaksee above
@@scottyo64 perhaps you are right?!
Why zombies on your intro. I think rockstars shredding it would be better.
Great price. And it looks like a good remote. Liking the MoFi speakers?
😊Man.. are you still the cheap audio maaaan?!?!😁 I am cheaper than you now!
Topping EX5 (usd 349) has DUAL ES9038Q2M, also balanced (= fully balanced = fully differential) output, and with headphone amp, and filters.
Only misses analog and HDMI input.
As of today I have purchased four items you have recommended! Very happy with them watch all your video to learn more!?still a little confused about amps, preamps etc but learning through your channel!
Please don't tell Emotiva that they aren't charging enough for products. Thank-you.
0 about the sound and comparisons. This is why we come and not about paid AD you just did.
It's called USB B Randy 😉
Emotiva XDA-3 DAC, and XPA-DR1 Monoblock's received today. I'm impressed 😎👍
How are you liking still? What sources did you connect?
@@robertldcarlson It is working well with my system. I'm using NVIDIA Shield as source with SKW USB cable. It is very clear. Sub is SVS SB1000. Speakers are Carnegie CST-1'S.
650 watts / channel is way to much on power.
The EMOTIVA DAC (Sabre chip) is nice for me but I think most prefer Gesheli DAC with swappable op amps and ~AKM (I think) chips.
I really like the sound and performance.
Better performing equipment for me would be much more expensive.
I've recently tried WiiM Pro with iFi power supply, but it is a step down with openness and imaging. I will be returning the WiiM.
I'm using SBC Worlds best cables for Interconnects.
2 months later. I'm still impressed.
NVIDIA Shield > USB (SKW brand) > EMOTIVA XDA-3-DAC > Balanced (WBC Worlds Best Cables) > EMOTIVA XPA-DR1 Monoblock's > WBC speaker cables) > Carnegie CST-1 upgraded speakers (tilted back to raise soundstage)
SVS SB-1000 sub.
Tried the WiiM Pro plus for a week, but it was a step down (returning it)
@@robertldcarlsonnoted below. I'm still impressed
What do you recommend for a streamer then?
Usb dac for home theater? Is this none existing? I do not want 2 separate systems. I have one computer, one livingroom, one 5.1, and I want to make it a good sounding 2 channel and a good sounding 5.1 . Yes, the emotiva 13channel dac might be the solution, but hey, 2000eur and above? Nope...
I only wish they would have included the sub out with bass management
700 dollar pre-amp/DAC without tone control?
Schiit has Freya S pre-amp which costs 600$, and that doesn't even have dac or tone control..
Frickin' magnets. How do they work?
Can you control the bass and treble with this? Like the PT1?
No. Randy mentioned that.
Add hdmi arc to ta1 and/or ta2. Game over. It’s literally the only thing I think my ta1 is missing.
The lack of a sub out is pretty lame for a company with some nice subs for sale
Hopefully they make a larger version with more analog connections, an actual preamp....technically this is just a dac.
It's irresponsible
…. Crushed by WiiM pro plus.
Is the attenuation digital or analog?
Is this dac sound better than the schiit modi ?
I wonder if the RMC 1L+ will use these DACs.
I would like to know if the Emotiva XDA-3 Preamp with XLR (LR) and RCA outputs (sub) can run simultaneously for a 2.1 system? Also found a Douk Audio/Nobsound L2 Preamp that has RCA (LR) and subwoofer (LR) RCA outs and (4) SOCKETED OP-AMPS...priced at $159.00 (with stock Texas Instrument IC variety NE322 op-amps). Thinking...maybe Discrete Sparkos 3602 upgrades for Mains RCA x 2 @ $180.00 on that puppy and $340 total vs $699 for Emotiva. Your thoughts On Balanced XLR outs with Emotiva vs better op-amp rolling with the Douk/Nobsound unit.
Emotiva
Fucking Nice review - please with the next follow-up include the IMOTIVA CD-Transport + make a comparisation with your previous favorite dac’s🙏👍
I hate you Randy or more accurately my bank account does 😂
I’m looking for a new preamp and possibly a new DAC to replace my ageing Audiolab M-Dac.
I’d better start saving.
Looking forward to your next videos on the DAC comparison!
it's going to be interesting. the thing about this component is that it's not really "just a dac". Kind of stands on its own with the analog input section. I'll still compare it to a bunch of other dacs but this is a very unique component. I really like it
Did you try the USB connection to send music from a music server? I'll likely open a support ticket or return my XDA-3 because I get horrible volume when using the USB connection as a music source. My OPPO 105D has done a beautiful job driving my XPA2 Gen2 amp for over 8 years as a DAC/preamp. It has a fantastic headphone section and ran all my input sources beautifully. So far the XDA-3 is not working nearly as well. It also has one issue that drives me crazy. The volume control is slow as molasses. It is incredibly irritating when switching between tracks mastered at different levels.
How does the XDA3 sound compared to the XDA2? Is the ne DAC better sounding to you?
@@JR-ho5qm I don't have the XDA-2. I just ordered the Eversolo DMP-A8. Fingers crossed.
I just got an emotiva amplifier. A xpa dr2 thing sounds amazing. I was wanting to get a tube preamp. But the one I want is over $1,000. This one is 700. I wonder how good it sounds
The XDA would go awsome with your DR2. I bet it would sound great
Dang it!! I jus bought a vintage Yamaha Preamp for my B-2 amplifier. That HDMI and remote makes this a winner!!!
I bought the lower end version of this a few months back... That HDMI input would have been worth it
Tell him to put a spectrum analyzer on it and it sold
How do I connect a sub to the XDA-3?
Randy! Please compare the DAC to the Schiit Modi 3, which I have connected to the Sony STR-DH190 receiver. 🙂
Is it better than the RME ADI2?
Haven’t heard that one so I couldn’t say with any confidence
Not a fan to the full size chassis.
Will you be at Capital AudioFest?
Are you sure your are the cheap audio man? Mofi, Emotiva monoblocks?
You can tell by the channel name and logo. It actually spells it out in letters. I had to double check it. But yes… I’m sure.
How is the URD?
I just ordered this Emotiva XDA-3,
and a pair of Emotiva XPA-DR1 Differential Reference™ Monoblock Power Amplifiers.
I hope my 15 year old Marantz SR7002 is not missed too much. ❤️
Thank you for your knowledge and wisdom. 🙏
AND your humor is awesome! 😎
Patreon Member AverageNiceGuy.
What a system! That is going to be awesome
@@cheapaudioman, God bless you and yours.
You have given me audio wisdom, and you have saved me from many wasted dollars. 🙏
How is it sounding?
I normally use my marantz sr8012 in my home theater to listen to 2.2 channel music, can I add this to my marantz? And is it worth doing?
If i sit down first, I'll have to get up to grab a cup of coffee
There needs to be a multichannel dac/preamp priced at about this level. If I can buy a RECEIVER for under $500 that does 7.1 channels, why can they not make a multi channel dac/preamp for under $1k? It's madness.
Lunacy!
Once you're looking at multi-channel preamps and DACs you're looking at a "surround sound processors" (pre/pros).
Processors are more complex because they need features like licensed surround sound decoders...
And home theater customers tend to be less concerned with features like support for high sample rates and DSD...
And processors fall into the category of "separates"... (since you will also need to purchase a multi-channel amplifier).
(Which puts them in a higher price bracket than "low end, all in one, AVRs".)
Note that Emotiva does also make a surround sound processor that lists for $1099 - the MC1.
I was waiting for EMOTIVA DAC for 9038Pro / 9039Pro with Analog IN RСA.
There is an analogue of IN, but there is no Pro Saber :((
Holy Cow! You showed us what's "ON THE BACK" and I just saw that Emotiva is just down the road in my home town! Just across the street from one of my favorite TV shows - Power Nation (automotive TV shows).
Randy, I just bought a Nobsound AV-525 hybrid amp. 200w/, tube/AB via Toshiba,....have only about 8 hours listening time in thus far, but I am pleased, even impressed with the sound and build quality. Sounds great and is very attractive. I found a good price, $345 shipped from Doukmall (US) Had it in 3 days. Take a look at this one.
nice preamp/dac. too bad it will be eaten by any same priced device with network capabilities, you know, tidal, dsd, nas...how much time need certain companies to understand it? chinese already doing it. i'm in athe market for anetwork player, guess what i am gonna buy...
Eversolo?
@@ramondelgado6778 that or Atoll MS120
Looks promising but having owned the PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamp (at 2x Emotiva's price), they give you and I2S input wich should be standard IMHO on all above $500 (Schiit be damned....just kidding).
Great starter Preamp. Just add a MoFi StudioPhono and you are all set !
I was very disappointed in the Gain Cell dac/pre sound. IMO it desperately needed a beefy power supply
Very curious if this would be a big upgrade over the Emotiva PT1 and PT2.
I always appreciate your videos and reviews. I have the rogue rp5 pre amp
Which sounds great. Would this DAC make it better? Would this DAC totally bypass the DAC inside the rp5?
Reluctantly placed my order Friday, and it just shipped this morning...
Couple of issues here..
1. Why offer a military discount by pointing your customers to GOVX, only to not find emotiva products listed there...
2. Shipping to Hawaii is insane. This cost me $120 to ship via FedEx, which is there ONLY shipping option..
Same for their headphones which I would love to own, but refuse to pay another $120 just to ship them here.
Perhaps a partnership with Amazon for better shipping rates, or at least provide options???
Would love to invest in a pair of monoblocks, but it would literally double their cost with FedEx to get them here.
Anyone compared it to the Hifiman Serenade?
Okay i would like to go from using 2 remotes, 1 for my TV and 1 for my 2 channel Adcom preamp to just having 1 remote for both... since my Samsung TV only has optical out and HDMI ARC for audio i had to get a digital converter to run audio to my Adcom, problem is i can't control the volume with my TV remote, always having to using the Adcom remote... from what i can tell i have 2 options, get a new preamp brand that may have a code that works with a universal remote to operate both TV and preamp volume, or get a new preamp with HDMI ARC hookup... will i need to be messing with this room correction filter stuff if i get a preamp/DAC stand alone?? i just want to be able to hook things up and hope i get the same sound as i currently do from sitting on my sofa about 10 feet from my 2 channel only stereo system... would be so nice to find a newer universal remote that has a code to operate my Adcom, but the newer universal remote codes i have found don't have Adcom listed... any thoughts would be greatly appreciated, Thank You...
Longtime fan of dac/pres. When properly designed with a excellent power supply, a system would need to be extreme high dollar to justify separate dac/pres. My Audio Alchemy DDP1 + PS 5 (outboard power supply-essential to get the full experience) still impresses even though it is ~ 7 year old design
Without knowing how good it sounds it looks too expensive for a mid-tier high-end DAC and dosnt have enough features to really consider it a usable pre-amp. Its also is getting close enough in price to the miniDSP SHD which makes way more sense if you are primarily going to be into digital but still need a analog input because it has Dirac Live, streaming capabilities also has a very good sounding DAC, and frankly looks10x better.
I can use it as a preamp. I covered that in the video. Appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment. It helps UA-cam promote the video when I get people to watch and comment.
@@cheapaudioman Yeah, I get that it functions as pre I just find the I/O limiting if were looking for pre-amp / and DAC combo. The MiniDSP SHD has similarly I/O but brings more feature wise to the table in addition to being a excellent sounding DAC and pre-amp. Either way, still enjoyed the video.
Anxiously waiting for more reviews focusing on the sound quality if used solely as a DAC. Fixed volume (or near max if only variable) into a proper preamp. Are both outputs active simultaneously or does one defeat the other?
@@richardarsenault8022 Both balanced and unbalanced outputs are active at the same time.
It doesn't crush any competition just because it has xlr connections. This and pt1 are completely different product for different purposes.
Sorry man, you lost me at $700 for a DAC. Not my idea of "cheap audio". Is it really that much better sounding than the SU-1?
I'm happy for you owning an expensive system, but where did the cheap audio man go?
i got this a few days ago, connects via USB to my Eversolo DMP-A6 and by HDMI-ARC from my FrameTV box which gets my AppleTV input. Connection wise it's great because when I turn on the AppleTV the DAC and emotiva amp automatically turn on. Sound is excellent with several filter options. Very versatile with excellent sound. All of this is going to a couple on-wall Dali Oberon On-Wall and SVS SB-1000 Pro. I live in a studio so this is really all I need for excellent sounding music and movies. Thanks for the review, there weren't many on UA-cam. Still aren't!
Sounds great but it ain't cheap audio... 😮
1
Amazing video John, lots of work involved. With that I feel a pain in the arse asking any questions but😅....
I have had the RME AD12DACFS in my basket ready to go for. Then this eversolo and others come out. Did a comparison ever come to your mind about the quality of output/dac for the RME against these 3 you've reviewed. I have a wiim pro so all the streaming would be taken care of.
Then the issue is would these 3 you've reviewed be a night and day difference against my current dac/streamer the Audiolad 6000N (with the infuriating PlayFi App)
I have a hunch the RME plus wiim would be the best for me at the price.
If anyone has any experience in opinion here on this I would graciously appreciate it.
I have an xda-2 and wonder if the xda-3 would sound significantly better not considering new features.
Would love to see some reviews on Emotiva's SX sub line. Almost 0 reviews on UA-cam (that I can find) for them.
I’m looking at the stats on this great video, and only 10% are hitting the like button. Come on guys, we all appreciate his vids. Pleave make the effort to hit the like button.
Holy empty case Batman. The features are plentiful but the substance of parts is not. Based off of this, the price makes sense.
Loved the intro
Is this overkill to pair with the Schiit SYN? I'm trying build a set it and forget it "surround" and audio system for a beach rental. I'd just throw in a sound bar, but I use it a few times a year too. I'm pitching it to the wife as a as a differentiator to justify higher rental rates.
Very excited to see the full review. I have mixed feelings with Emotiva. I bought Emotiva TA1 but returned it due to under impressive amplification for my taste but the DAC and the pre-amp in general were great. Emotiva's DAC in the TA1 sounded much better than my Cambridge Audio CXA61 's DAC. I am now leaning towards Audiolab 7000A that also comes with HDMI ARC what is a great feature. Watching a UA-cam channel reviewing the audiolab 7000A he suggested the option to include a MiniDSP Dirac (DDRC-24) in the setup for room correction. I am still not understanding how such a setup would work without bypassing or degrading the output of the integrated amplifier's DAC. How would you integrate room correction with Emotiva XDA-3? I can't imagine the MiniDSP DAC to be better than one of the later models from AKM or ESS SABRE DAC's.
Randy I love your channel. I have some serious speakers and I'm still running them on my avr which has no output for other amps. I was thinking about xpa monos and the preamp dac or would I be satisfied with their avr. You said it sounds good for movies. I don't want to make the wrong decision. I have some big powerful custom speakers that can sound much better with the right setup but I don't have $50000 grand what should I do or maybe the basx monos so many choices
Hey Cheap audio man I have tried fosi audio amps and have been dispointed because the power ratings are off it will say 100 watts on 4 ohms, then that would mean 50 ish watts in 8 ohms but it is only actually producing 12 usable watts at 8 ohms
There's a lot of "air" inside that chassis. I prefer discrete design over op-amps so this is not my cup of tea. However, I think the price is reasonable.
Or how would the Bas X A2 amp perform with the XDA-3 Preamp?
Good but even better with the XPA DR2 with balanced connectors
Thanks@@JR-ho5qm