DS Audio E3 Equalizer
Best high-fidelity phono stage for audiophiles seeking precise, customizable vinyl playback.
Experience superior high-fidelity sound with the DS Audio DS-W3 Equalizer, an advanced phono stage that significantly evolves from the acclaimed DS-W2. It boasts substantial internal upgrades, including doubled copper foil thickness to 70µ and increased circuit board thickness to 2.0 mm, optimizing performance for third-generation cartridges. For unparalleled system flexibility, the DS-W3 offers four selectable low-frequency outputs and provides both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR output terminals, ensuring seamless integration into your audio setup.
$1500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
86
/ 491
#86 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-78%
Below average
Weight
13.5
/ kg
Who it's for
- DS Audio optical cartridge owners seeking peak performance
- Audiophiles needing precise bass control for room acoustics
- Listeners prioritizing sonic transparency and transient detail
Who should skip it
- Vinyl collectors using standard moving magnet or coil cartridges
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level phono solutions
- Minimalists with limited rack space and cabling capacity
Performance breakdown
Build Integrity
Heavy-duty circuit boards and thick copper foil ensure lasting signal purity.
System Versatility
Balanced XLR and RCA outputs offer seamless integration into any setup.
Cartridge Compatibility
Optimized specifically for third-generation cartridges to maximize sonic performance.
Frequency Customization
Four selectable low-frequency outputs provide precise control over your sound profile.
Signal Refinement
Integrated low-cut filter effectively eliminates unwanted rumble for cleaner playback.
Output Precision
High-fidelity output voltage ensures consistent, detailed audio across all frequencies.
Key Specs
Weight
13.5kg
Dimensions
W45cm x H12cm x D435cm
Output Voltage
500mV (1kHz)
Preamp Input Impedance
More than 10kΩ
Output Impedance
More than 120Ω
Input Terminal
RCA terminal
Output Terminals
2 x RCA, 2 x XLR
Build Quality
2.0 mm circuit board, 70µ copper foil
Features
- Enhanced internal components for superior sound
- Optimized for third-generation cartridges
- Four selectable low-frequency outputs
- Versatile RCA and XLR output options
- Increased circuit board and copper foil thickness
- Supports both MM and MC cartridges
- Desktop mounting for easy placement
- Low Cut Filter for audio refinement
What customers say
Audiophiles praise the DS Audio E3 Equalizer as a transformative component essential for unlocking the optical cartridge's full potential. The core theme is exceptional sonic performance, highlighted by an incredibly low noise floor, resulting in blacker backgrounds and superior dynamic contrast. Users laud the accurate RIAA equalization for delivering music with remarkable clarity, speed, and detail retrieval unmatched by many traditional systems. While the build quality and engineering minimizing distortion are appreciated, the primary friction point is the substantial financial investment. The E3 delivers reference level sound quality for committed enthusiasts, positioning it as a significant, albeit costly, upgrade in the ultra high end market.
Know before you buy
Yes, the E3 is designed to support both MM and MC cartridges, making it a versatile choice for various turntable setups.
The four selectable low-frequency outputs allow you to fine-tune the bass response to better match your specific speakers and room acoustics, providing greater control over your system's sound profile.
Yes, the E3 features both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA output terminals, allowing for flexible integration with a wide range of high-end audio equipment.
The E3 features significant internal upgrades, including a thicker 2.0 mm circuit board and doubled copper foil thickness of 70µ, which help reduce noise and improve signal integrity for a cleaner audio performance.
The Low Cut Filter is designed to remove unwanted subsonic rumble or low-frequency noise that can interfere with your listening experience, helping to refine the overall clarity of your audio.
Weighing 13.5kg and measuring 45cm wide by 43.5cm deep, the E3 is a substantial piece of equipment. You should ensure your audio rack or desktop surface is sturdy enough to support its weight and has sufficient depth to accommodate its footprint.
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