Rotel DX-3 Headphone Amplifier

ROTEL DX-3 headphone amplifier

The Rotel DX-3 is a high-performance headphone amplifier with an integrated digital-to-analog converter (DAC), designed for both audiophiles and professional users. Combining the high-quality ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC with a precision amplifier, the DX-3 delivers exceptional sound quality and flexible connectivity. Thanks to its high-quality components and elegant design, the DX-3 represents an excellent solution for those seeking outstanding audio performance in a compact form factor.

State-of-the-art technology for outstanding sound

At the heart of the DX-3 is the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC, a high-precision converter that enables precise digital signal processing. This DAC delivers high-resolution audio reproduction with extremely low distortion. This creates a clear, detailed soundstage with a wide soundstage that can be used with headphones, external amplifiers, or powered speakers. The DX-3 supports various input sources, including:

• PC-USB with a resolution of up to 32 bit/384 kHz and DSD support (up to 11.2 MHz)
• Coaxial and optical input with up to 24 bit/192 kHz
• aptX™ HD Bluetooth for high-quality wireless audio playback
• Analog RCA input to connect conventional sources

Powerful headphone amplifier with variable gain

The DX-3's integrated headphone amplifier is specifically designed for dynamic and pristine audio reproduction. The gain levels can be adjusted by the user in three steps:

High (0 dB)

Medium (-6 dB)

Low (-12 dB)

This makes the device suitable for both high and low impedance headphones.

Headphone outputs and power

Two connections are available for headphone playback:

• Unbalanced 6.35 mm jack connector
• Symmetrical 4.4 mm Pentaconn connector

The output power varies depending on the impedance:

Asymmetrical (6.35 mm):

• 765 mW (16 O)
• 383 mW (32 O)
• 41 mW (300 Ω)

Symmetrical (4.4 mm):

• 2.8 W (16 O)
• 1.4 W (32 O)
• 150 mW (300 Ω)

The DX-3 delivers extremely low distortion of less than 0.004% and a high signal-to-noise ratio of over 110 dB .

Flexible DAC and preamplifier operation

In addition to being used as a headphone amplifier, the DX-3 can also be used as a standalone DAC or preamplifier. It features:

Balanced XLR outputs

Unbalanced RCA outputs

These connections allow connection to external amplifiers or active speakers and make the DX-3 a versatile device.

Technical details at a glance

• Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+0 dB, -0.2 dB)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD+N):
• Asymmetrical: < 0.008%
• Symmetrical: < 0.004%

Output impedance:

• Asymmetrical: < 0.3 O
• Symmetrical: < 0.6 O

Signal-to-noise ratio:

• > 100 dB (unbalanced), > 110 dB (balanced)

Digital inputs:

• USB audio (up to 32 bit/384 kHz)
• SPDIF (up to 24 bit/192 kHz)

Analog outputs:

• Cinch (RCA) 1 V / 100 O
• XLR 2 V / 200 O

Power supply: 230 V, 50 Hz

Power consumption: 30 W

Weight: 3.2 kg

Colors: Silver, Black

Usability and design

Another highlight of the DX-3 is its full-color display , which allows for easy operation and displays all important information. The included extruded aluminum remote control provides convenient control, allowing the user to quickly switch between input sources and adjust the volume.