The new Luxsin X8 DAC headphone amplifier is attractively priced and features a touch of AI to help deliver optimally tailored sound.
There isn’t an overwhelming amount of AI inside the Luxsin X8 DAC headphone amplifier; its primary role is to translate the listener’s preferences into an optimal equalizer setting. In other words, it’s not continuously adjusting the sound in the background. For many users, that will come as a welcome reassurance. Internally, eight DAC chips in a dual-mono configuration handle the digital-to-analog conversion. The chips used are Cirrus Logic CS43198 units. The aforementioned equalizer can be configured via an app or web interface. By describing—if desired even verbally—the type of sound you prefer, the AI adjusts the settings accordingly. In addition, the device includes a database of more than 2,500 headphones, allowing hardware-level curve adjustments for optimal listening performance.
4,800 mW per Channel
The amplifier stages are built around OPA1612 and TPA6120A2 chips. The output stage delivers a maximum power of 4,800 mW per channel. A linear power supply provides separate voltage rails for the analog and digital sections of the X8. Control is handled via a 4-inch touchscreen, or alternatively through an app or an optional traditional remote control.
In terms of connectivity, the X8 offers USB-B, USB-C, optical and coaxial digital inputs, as well as I2S. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are also included. For enthusiasts, there is a 12-volt trigger connector. Headphones can be connected via a 6.35 mm single-ended jack or balanced outputs in the form of 4.4 mm Pentaconn and 4-pin XLR.
The Luxsin X8 is priced at €699.