Review: Emotiva XPA Gen 3 DR 2 Power Amplifier

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  • Опубліковано 3 гру 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 69

  • @michaelwright1602
    @michaelwright1602 Рік тому +3

    I hope this little review of mine helps someone... As I just installed the latest XPA-DR2 into my system. I have a first generation XPA-2 that I have owned since 2008. I have had a few amps through my system and always wind up "breaking the glass" and grabbing my old XPA-2. Well, I finally found an amplifier that I can now say the old XPA-2 can go into retirement. My other choices were the ATI and Parasound brands, both at twice the cost.
    I have a pretty simple system, Pi2 Mercury V2 streamer, Denafrips Venus II 12th DAC, Denafrips Athena preamp, XPA-DR2, a pair of SVS SB-3000 subs and a pair of KLH Model 5 speakers. I listen to mainly Blues and classic rock.
    At first, the DR2 was a bit warm, very boomy on the bass and not so great in the midrange. Then after about an hour, the veil was lifted and everything really started to smooth out. I am not an "Audiophile", I drive a truck for a living, this audio stuff is a hobby of mine, I am not a pro reviewer but am trying my best here.
    First off... What I noticed was how well the DR2 is able to separate the instruments. I was hearing instruments in recordings that I knew were there when I listened. With the DR2 those instruments are now there, there is no question like, "Did I just hear...?". It really cleans up in that regards, very detailed in its delivery, with no harshness or glare. It is a crisp sound, not Class D crisp, but A/B crisp like you will find in much more expensive amplifiers.
    Then the bass, very good delivery, it was boomy at first, the bass was very pronounced and muddy, I had to dial back my two SB3000 subs as the Model 5's were now night and day in that department, and not in a good way. After around a half hour or so the bass settled down, now we are talking, very clean in the delivery, faster, it hit harder and faster. I like this, and I did not need to dial the subs back up, but actually down a DB or two. The DR2 really delivers in the bass department. You can hear the roll off where I believe the producer wanted it, and in other tracks, where they did not. A very neutral and honest amplifier in regards to the bass as she burns in.
    Midrange, the human voice, fingers on the guitar strings, etc. Everything is vastly cleaner and clearer. Right along with the bass, once it settles in the sound is very true to what I believe the producer/artist was trying to convey. The added details the DR2 brings out of the recordings is just the icing on the cake.
    Same with the highs, no harshness, it is definitely not dry, it is simply a nice smooth delivery. The sound is very pleasant to listen to, like it should be.
    Now, the 800 pound gorilla in the room, Amir over at Audio Science Review. He reviewed the DR2 when it first came out, and basically killed it out of the gate with his distortion nonsense, that is not audible in the least when the power supply is doing its thing. That review held me back from purchasing this amp for a few years. I did some searching around and finally found some reviews from folks that actually own and use this amp, and they were all positive. I took a gamble and purchased mine with the 30 day no question return for my money back. Amir did Emotiva a huge disservice with that review. I cannot see paying twice the money for another amplifier, to my ears and my gear, I am at the point of diminishing returns.
    If you are looking at this amp, and have decent gear and speakers, I would seriously consider giving the XPA-DR2 a serious look. You have 30 days to audition. Mine is staying.

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  Рік тому +1

      Hi @michaelwright thank you for your feedback and for sharing your thoughts and experience. I had the same experience with the DR2 it took around 30 to 45 minutes to settle, after which it provided excellent audio reproduction. Thank you again for sharing.

    • @michaelwright1602
      @michaelwright1602 Рік тому +2

      @@TheAudioCouple Thank you for doing an honest review. They are difficult to find in regards to this particular amplifier.

    • @premgordzialkowski5645
      @premgordzialkowski5645 26 днів тому +1

      I have DR2 and I am 100% happy. I don' t care for Amir and his tribe. I listen to the music and do not measure it.

  • @jarodreddig63
    @jarodreddig63 4 роки тому +3

    Just picked up the XPA DR3 for $1999. Very excited. Great vid.

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому

      Congratulations Jarod! Thank you for sharing!

    • @jarodreddig63
      @jarodreddig63 4 роки тому

      Thank you both very much 👍🏻

  • @caballerosuave
    @caballerosuave 2 роки тому +3

    @The Audio Couple, thank you for reviewing this amplifier. Emotiva's DR series do not receive enough attention.

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  2 роки тому +1

      Hi Anthony thank you for your feedback and or inputs. I agree this amplifier still presents excellent value 👌

  • @RodneyAllanPoe
    @RodneyAllanPoe 4 роки тому +1

    I'm driving my XPA-2 with Emotiva's XPS-1 pre-amplifier balanced. Very nice results.

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you for the share. Indeed a good combo!

  • @edshipe2555
    @edshipe2555 4 роки тому +3

    Thanks guys for the review. I'm considering that amp with Schiit Fraya+ and Buchardt S400s speakers.

  • @rafalobo5308
    @rafalobo5308 5 років тому +3

    300 Watts at that price is unseen in Hifi, nice video, and great product review.

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +6

      Hi Rafa. Thank you for the feedback much appreciated. Actually it is 550 Watt at 8 ohms ! Excellent value. But hey any power amp producing more than 250 watts per channel at 8 ohm is powerful...

  • @ericnortan9012
    @ericnortan9012 2 роки тому +1

    I am debating purchasing a set of DR1's for my X-mas present to myself. Everything I am hearing about them is great for the price. I have looked at some higher end brands, anything in my price range just doesn't have my power requirements.

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  2 роки тому +1

      Hi Eric thank you for your inquiry. I haven't had an opportunity to audition the DR1s, but if I had to make a decision based on the sound of the DR2s, the DR1s could make for an excellent X-mas this year. If it is possible I recommend you audition the amplifiers before you make your final decision. Enjoy!

    • @ericnortan9012
      @ericnortan9012 2 роки тому +1

      @@TheAudioCouple The auditioning part is difficult. I live in Northern Michigan and the nearest dealer would be a couple hours at least. However, for a $3000 purchase I don't have an issue making the trip. I'm watching these videos to see if its a trip worth making. Lol. Thanks for the quick reply.👍

  • @Jack96993
    @Jack96993 2 роки тому +1

    I'm thinking of buying the Emotivia XPA DR2 amp as my 20 year old Anthem MCA 5 finally gave up the ghost I have the Emotiva XMC-2 AV preamp and also an ARC LS15 tube preamp that l can use with it. I also have the Spectron musician MKII class D amp designed by John Ulrich back in the day, It also is getting old I use it to Drive my Maggie's as it has 500watts@8ohm 650@4ohms and 1,200 watts@1ohm and weights 54lbs!
    So my thinking is, l have to replace my Anthem and if my Spectron stops working the Emotiva amp could pull double duty, 2 channel & 3 channel AV
    My only concern is that it didn't test very well at Audioscience as it had high distortion across the frequency band

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  2 роки тому

      Hi Jack thank you for sharing. I was not aware of distortion as measured by Audioscience, a bit of an eye opener for me. However I must state that during all of my listening tests across a variety of loudspeakers I could not perceive any distortion or the unusual effects of distortion such as high frequency edginess etc. My recommendation would be to audition it in your system, and then make a purchasing decision based on the performance. If not mistaken Emotiva will refund you within a certain time frame if you are not satisfied. But I must say I was taken by surprise related to the test report.

    • @Jack96993
      @Jack96993 2 роки тому

      @@TheAudioCouple
      Now of coarse don't believe everything you see on the internet : ) but the guy bench tests all kinds of amplifiers
      I just got off the phone with Emotivia and because l have Maggie's they recommend their HC1-XPA over the XPA DRS I was in South Africa years ago an absolutely loved it!! I have my stereo on a few UA-cam videos Please check it out l you like
      Watch "Magnepan .7's & audio system" on UA-cam
      ua-cam.com/video/WmHjTmDRO88/v-deo.html

    • @caballerosuave
      @caballerosuave 2 роки тому +2

      @Jack, how it sounds is more important than how it measures, isn't it?

    • @Jack96993
      @Jack96993 2 роки тому

      @@caballerosuave
      Yes for the most part, but l would think it would be a plus if the amplifier measured well, especially harmonic distortion

    • @michaelwright1602
      @michaelwright1602 Рік тому

      @@TheAudioCouple That was Amir doing another hit piece video. The distortion he "found" is not audible, and I have not heard of anyone stating they can hear what he found. It only exist on his test bench. I do not believe Amir listens to anything he "measures". I have a DR2 on order, I will let you know if I hear anything to support Amir's findings. Emotiva does have a 30 day return policy.

  • @arpeemac
    @arpeemac 4 роки тому +1

    Wow that is a LOT of power

  • @TrainsTechAIandReefs
    @TrainsTechAIandReefs 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you for reveiw. I am considering this vs a Rotal for B&W 702s2. Currently using denon 6700h and the 702s2 are missing bass compared to the McIntosh they where attached to at store. My question is should I go for the extra power 550 watts vs 300 watts of the lower model?

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  2 роки тому +1

      Hi Z Cabrera thank for your inquiry. The 300 watt Emotiva amplifier would be sufficient for the 702s2. But if your are thinking of upgrading your speakers at a later stage...I would recommend the 550 watts Emotiva.

  • @mornecoetzee735
    @mornecoetzee735 5 років тому +1

    Innovative and value for money- at least abroad, I think R48k landed is a bit expensive, PS Audio components of same US value sells for less landed locally. Very popular in the US market especially in Home theater applications.

  • @AudioClownHT
    @AudioClownHT 3 роки тому +2

    Hi,
    What Would u say the sound character is on emotiva harsh or warm?

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  3 роки тому +2

      Hi thank you for your inquiry. I would say overall the sound is more neatral but slightly on the warmer side of neutral.Very sweet tops.

  • @Marzen216
    @Marzen216 4 роки тому +2

    Do you think it's worth spending an extra $600 USD for the differential build vs the standard model? I have Magnepan 1.7i planar speakers and I have not seen a review that compares these two amp versions to each other. Thanks

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +4

      Hi Marzen thank you for your inquiry. The answer will be in the use of your other equipment. If your pre-amp is a fully balanced design then yes, go for the fully balanced power amp. The second reason will be if you are think towards the future of getting a fully balanced pre-amp design. If not then the single ended design power amp will be a good fit. Enjoy!

    • @caballerosuave
      @caballerosuave 2 роки тому

      @@TheAudioCouple besides Emotiva's processors, which companies offer a fully balanced preamp or preamp/processor? I have looked high and low but come up short.

    • @michaelwright1602
      @michaelwright1602 Рік тому

      @@caballerosuave Denafrips

  • @Darrellsrelm
    @Darrellsrelm 5 років тому +2

    Great video and good review thanks for sharing 👍

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  5 років тому +1

      Hi Darrellsreim thank you glad you enjoyed it. You are welcome and welcome. Enjoy your music!

  • @mehranmirzazad2074
    @mehranmirzazad2074 Рік тому

    Dear Sir, does this amplifier have a built-in DAC or in case I buy it I have to use a separate DAC?

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  Рік тому +1

      Good day @mehran, the unit is a stereo power amplifier only, no DAC included.

  • @florinbizu7583
    @florinbizu7583 5 років тому +4

    Thank you for sharing your experience. Unfourtunately, here where I live, I did not have the chance to listen these amps at the dealer (AVstore.ro) . Therefore, I have no clue how they sound...if they control the bass well enough, or not... and how do they sound on low volume. They have power, but are they in control, or not? Sound resolution, how good it is? How do they play voices, instruments? I have no ideea... I still have a pair of big old Infinity Kappa 9.1i loudspeakers which in my oppinion, are competing in 20000 USD speakers range of today products. 4 Ohm nominal impedance, and they drop in 2 Ohm when playing heavy and complex games bass passages. An amplifier if is using just one power supply to 2 power amplifier stages and in different loads...I have my doubts in this, regarding control and crosstalk. For me, hearing is believing! :)

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  5 років тому +2

      Hi Florin indeed hearing is believing. The Emotiva XPA Gen 3 DR2 stereo amp is definitely above average in sound quality and in my opinion an excellent match for your Infinity Kappa speakers. This amp has control and slam but not in your face or harsh sounding - if you know that I mean. I would recommend a good pre-amp to drive it though (even a tube pre-amp). Hope this will help you get an impression of the sound from the power amp. Enjoy the music!

  • @jajessee
    @jajessee 4 роки тому

    i have the Freya+ -Bought ot on your recommendation and others. I am curious if you have any further comments and how it rates relative to other systems- Freya + with the XPA GEN# DR2.?

  • @thiagodelgado3128
    @thiagodelgado3128 4 роки тому +1

    I have a Denon X8500H expensive receiver, this still be a good upgrade? or don't?

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +2

      Hi Thiago. Thank you for your inquiry. I agree the Denon X8500H is a very capable receiver with a rated 150 watts at 8 ohms per channel. Depending on your loudspeakers, their efficiency and the size of your room...you can decide if you need more power. Because of the huge amounts of power the Emotiva can deliver it will in most cases be an upgrade. If you enjoy more music content on your system it will be a good option if you decide to upscale. Enjoy the music !

    • @thiagodelgado3128
      @thiagodelgado3128 4 роки тому

      @John Smith Major problem with this receiver is claim with higher price a power that they can't even get closer to handle

    • @robertneal9837
      @robertneal9837 3 роки тому

      @John Smith Why not EMO? Just curious.

    • @P-LOWN1997
      @P-LOWN1997 2 роки тому

      @@thiagodelgado3128 it’s rated at 150 watts for 2 channel into 8ohms what did you think it was? The more speaker you plug into your reciver the less power you’ll have.

  • @danieltaju9311
    @danieltaju9311 3 роки тому +1

    Subscribed ❤.
    From Maputo, Mozambique.
    I was looking for reviews of the Emotiva XPA Gen 3 DR2 amplifier, and just found your channel.
    I am also considering the ROTEL RB-1590 amplifier.
    In terms of performance, and also protection and quality control and service, would you recommend which of the two amplfiers ?
    Thanks !!

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  3 роки тому +1

      Hi Daniel thank you for your inquiry and support! Both are very good amplifiers, depending on your application they offer different points of benefits. If your pre-amplifier is a fully balanced design I will say go with the Emotive. The Rotel offer more of a retract midrange so if your speaker system is a bit more forward in presentation, the Rotel will be the better option. Your are welcome to share more on your application, this will provide more insights as to which amplifier will be a better match 👌

    • @danieltaju9311
      @danieltaju9311 3 роки тому

      @@TheAudioCouple Hi. For now I still dont have a balanced pre-amplifier with XLR pre-outs, that would come later in 2022-2023. My application is for FL and FR channels in a 7.1.4 Home Theatre setup (60% movies, 40% music). For now I only have a 2016 Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A3060 AV Receiver with unbalanced RCA pre-outs. FL and FR speakers I have available are either a pair of KEF XQ40 floorstanders (similar to current KEF R7) or a pair of KEF Q950 floorstanders.
      Thanks!!

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  3 роки тому +1

      @@danieltaju9311 thanks for the details. Nice system. If you need an amplifier now I would say go with the Rotel. If you are considering a power amplifier for the planned future balanced setup then go with the Emotiva. Enjoy!

    • @danieltaju9311
      @danieltaju9311 3 роки тому +1

      @@TheAudioCouple thanks !!!

  • @yimwf
    @yimwf 4 роки тому

    hello wanted to ask what would be the difference between the emo XPA-DR2 vs the emo XPA HC-1. and how would they drive a pair of martin logan 60XTI

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +1

      Hi Yim thank you for your inquiry. In my opinion they will have very similar sound, however I do prefer the DR2 due to higher power capabilities. Hope this will assist you. Enjoy!

    • @yimwf
      @yimwf 4 роки тому

      @@TheAudioCouple and would it be better if i use 1 DR1 to power each speaker?

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +1

      Hi again Yim, XPA DR1s used as mono blocks will give more or less the same performance as a single stereo XPA DR2. But if you want to keep the loudspeakers cable as short as possible...it will be best to go with the DR1s as mono blocks. However in my opinion the DR2 will be an excellent solution - the only challenge will be the longer speakers cables with the stereo DR2. Final thoughts use the best possible pre-amp that you can get...

    • @yimwf
      @yimwf 4 роки тому

      @@TheAudioCouple thanks for the reply, the plan is to to build a home theater by stages. so the first stage are the fronts with and AV reciever and use the preouts to run the amps, would i need a preamp in between the AV reciever and the emo amp? Ps just a new guy learnig about audio.

  • @ross5506
    @ross5506 4 роки тому

    Is it àlmost double the price of xpa-3? Want plug into Denon x4500h ,in a 19' x 11' room with 7.2 system using SVS -2000sb. Do you think it worth extra money going with the 3 channels the xpa-3 vs the Dr? Great review 🇨🇦

    • @buekbukiewicz8064
      @buekbukiewicz8064 4 роки тому

      Dr2 is much better than xpa3, you will feel different, yes is worth spend more money

  • @florinbizu5018
    @florinbizu5018 5 років тому +1

    Where is mentioned the crosstalk? Because the final power stages are sharing one power supply... It is not mentioned on the official site

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  5 років тому +1

      Hi Florin thank you for your inquiry. I did not experience any crosstalk between the two channels during the evaluation period - the amplifiers remained focus with a good or large soundstage and excellent stereo imaging. Did you experience different results?

  • @scottlowell493
    @scottlowell493 4 роки тому +1

    I could get one, for $999, minus just over $200 credit ($799 final price)

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +1

      Hi Scott...go for it definitely a bargain!

    • @scottlowell493
      @scottlowell493 4 роки тому

      @@TheAudioCouple To be clear: XPA-2 Gen 3. I just ordered one and it was just over $700 shipped. FWIW: I used to have the 5.1 channel surround amp. It was a fraction of the cost of the Theta dreadnaught, and 3x as powerful.

  • @johngabris9690
    @johngabris9690 4 роки тому +5

    what did thew wife contribute

    • @TheAudioCouple
      @TheAudioCouple  4 роки тому +14

      Hi John
      Moral support, but for me it is important to make my wife part of the (our) audio journey. Sometimes it is the things not spoken which is important.

  • @markreeves7177
    @markreeves7177 4 роки тому +1

    EMOTIVA, NO WARRANTY. Emotiva does not honor a warranty.