Review of LOXJIE D30 Audio DAC and Headphone AMP with MQA and Bluetooth

Description

Testing the LOXJIE D30 Audio DAC & Headphone AMP: A Versatile Audiophile’s Companion

The LOXJIE D30 Audio DAC & Headphone AMP, paired with its ES9068AS Chip XMOS PCM 32bit/768kHz MQA DSD512 Bluetooth 5.0 APT-X capabilities, is a powerhouse. I’ve had the chance to thoroughly put this device through its paces, and while it delivers some incredible features, there are also a few areas that could use some attention. Let’s dive into the details of this high-performance audio device.

Design and Build Quality

The moment I unboxed this sleek grey amplifier, it was evident that the designers prioritized minimalism without compromising on functionality. Its compact dimensions—10.71 x 9.29 x 3.03 inches—fit perfectly on my desk without feeling overcrowded. Weighing in at just 2.26 pounds, the unit feels sturdy without being cumbersome.

I must say, the inclusion of both 6.35mm and RCA output interfaces is a big plus. The ability to switch output modes with the remote control is not just convenient but also adds a layer of sophistication to the overall experience. However, I did notice that the remote control, while functional, felt a bit lightweight compared to the main unit. A more premium-feeling remote would have complemented the high-end nature of the DAC.

Audio Performance and Fidelity

This ESS 32bit stereo audiophile DAC chip is no joke! With THD+N as low as 0.0001% (-120dB), the clarity and richness of sound are jaw-dropping. I tested it with a variety of headphones and speakers, and the results were consistently impressive. Whether I was streaming classical symphonies or bass-heavy EDM tracks, the faithful reproduction of the original sense of hearing was evident.

The Bluetooth 5.0 digital audio input, supporting apt-X HD, was another standout feature. Streaming audio up to 24bit/48kHz at 576kbps genuinely felt like a step above CD quality. The transmission was smooth, and I didn’t experience any noticeable lag or interruptions.

One of my favorite things about this device is its independent volume control for headphone and line output. Switching between outputs didn’t just switch the mode but also adjusted the volume, saving me from any ear-shattering surprises. This attention to detail is something I deeply appreciated.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional Sound Quality: Thanks to hard decoding DSD512 and support for PCM up to 32bit/768kHz, the sound is as lifelike as it gets.
• Versatile Connectivity: With 6.35mm Jack, RCA outputs, and Bluetooth 5.0, this DAC plays well with various devices.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Easy to place on a desk or shelf without taking up too much space.
• User-Friendly Features: The remote-controlled output switching and independent volume adjustments enhance ease of use.

Areas for Improvement

While the LOXJIE D30 is an impressive piece of audio equipment, a few things stood out that could be better.

• Remote Control Build Quality: Although functional, the remote feels out of place with the premium build of the main unit.
• Limited Bluetooth Codec Support: While apt-X HD is great, the absence of LDAC might disappoint some audiophiles.
• No USB-C Port: In a world moving towards USB-C, the lack of this option feels a bit dated.

Competing Products

The audio amplifier market is packed with strong contenders, and I had the chance to compare this DAC with a couple of others. For instance, the iFi Zen DAC V2 offers a similar compact design and supports MQA decoding. However, its Bluetooth functionality isn’t as robust as the LOXJIE D30’s Bluetooth 5.0 with apt-X HD.

On the other hand, the Topping DX3 Pro+ provides slightly better Bluetooth codec support, including LDAC, but I found the sound tuning on the LOXJIE D30 to be more refined and natural. What sets the LOXJIE D30 apart is its dual output modes with independent volume controls, a feature that neither competitor offers quite as elegantly.

Value for Money

Looking at the features packed into this compact unit, I would argue the price-to-quality ratio is pretty solid. You’re getting a JAS Hi-Res certified device with MQA-CD support, Bluetooth 5.0, and the ability to handle high-resolution audio formats like DSD512 and PCM 32bit/768kHz. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the sound quality and thoughtful design make it worth the investment for audiophiles who want versatile connectivity and top-notch audio fidelity.

This device is perfect for those who value great sound reproduction and are looking for a desktop-friendly amplifier and DAC combo. It’s also a fantastic choice for users who want to seamlessly switch between headphones and speakers without compromising on sound quality. However, if you’re someone who prioritizes cutting-edge Bluetooth codecs or a more robust remote design, you might want to explore other options before settling on this one.

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