While space is at a premium, music lovers still want the highest, no compromise quality from their personal audio. The new Rotel DX-3 combines a well-specified, high-performance headphone amplifier, preamplifier, and stand-alone DAC in a single component measuring an ultra-efficient 215mm x 76mm x 247mm (8.5 in x 3 in x 9.75 in) chassis.
The Rotel DX-3 supports an array of both modern and legacy source inputs, including PC-USB (32-bit/384 kHz) with DSD 4X support, coaxial and optical (24-bit/192 kHz), wireless aptX HD and AAC Bluetooth, and an RCA analog connection.
The highest-grade components, including the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 8-channel DAC, an ultra-low noise, custom in-house manufactured, toroidal transformer with high current drivers, and high-quality capacitors combine to ensure music is delivered with the ultimate resolution, rhythm, and timing and on an immersive sound stage.
In addition, volume attenuation is controlled by an audiophile-grade NJW1195A fully differential analog controller delivering precise steps as refined as 0.5 dB. Analog and digital power supplies have been engineered and crafted, fully isolated from each other to ensure minimal noise interference. For additional performance, the DX-3 also includes custom-engineered and critically tuned low-pass filters utilizing a full balanced, fully differential signal path, further reducing unwanted noise and distortion.
The DX-3 readily adapts to and enhances a wide selection of wired headphones, including high, medium, and low impedance models with user-selectable amplifier gain. Connectivity is supported through front-panel mounted 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm single-ended headphone connectors.
The DX-3 also functions as a standalone DAC and a fully functional preamplifier via XLR balanced and RCA outputs. This extends the flexibility of installation to directly drive external amplifiers, powered active speakers, or feeding an existing audio system.
Industrial design and build quality are both to Rotel’s standards with a full-color front-panel graphic display providing all user feedback and a single, large, diamond-knurled volume attenuator. Alternatively, the DX-3 can be operated via the included aluminum extruded remote control.
The DX-3 will be available for $1499 in Europe and the U.K. in March 2025, with the rest of the world to follow soon after.
For more information, visit rotel.com.
