AROMA Audio XuanWu Portable DAC with Op-AMP
Best portable DAC for audiophiles seeking customizable, high-resolution mobile sound.
Experience superior audio on the go with the AROMA Audio XuanWu portable Type-C DAC. This compact device eliminates the need for a separate Digital Audio Player, delivering high-resolution sound directly from your device. Crafted from durable aerospace aluminum alloy, its design is both robust and lightweight. Featuring dual CS43198 decoding chips, it supports PCM 32bit 768KHz and DSD256 formats. Customize your listening with the replaceable op-amp system, including 'HD' and 'Vocal' options, and connect a wide range of headphones via its 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs.
$349.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 733
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-75%
Below average
Dimensions
49.528.521
/ x x mm
Who it's for
- Commuters needing a robust, road-ready audio companion
- Audiophiles driving power-hungry, high-impedance headphones
- Listeners preferring musical, warm sound over clinical precision
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level portable audio
- Minimalists prioritizing ultra-compact, pocketable form factors
- Travelers requiring long-lasting battery life for extended sessions
Performance breakdown
Decoding Precision
Dual CS43198 chips deliver exceptional clarity and high-resolution audio fidelity.
Drive Capability
Robust output power easily handles demanding headphones with impressive authority.
Sound Customization
Swappable op-amps offer a unique level of personalized sonic tuning.
Build Integrity
Aerospace-grade aluminum provides a premium, rugged feel for daily travel.
Connectivity Versatility
Dual output options ensure compatibility with almost any modern headphone setup.
Portability Factor
Compact footprint makes high-end audio effortless to carry anywhere.
Key Specs
Dimensions
49.5 x 28.5 x 21 mm
Weight
45 g
Output Power
SE 250mW / BAL 560mW (16Ω)
Decoding Chips
Dual CS43198
Supported Formats
PCM 32bit 768KHz, DSD256
Input
USB-C
Outputs
3.5mm, 4.4mm Balanced
Build Material
6061-T6 aerospace aluminum alloy
Features
- Portable Type-C DAC for enhanced audio
- Dual CS43198 chips for high-res sound
- Supports PCM 32bit 768KHz and DSD256
- 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs
- Replaceable op-amp for personalized tuning
- Durable aerospace aluminum alloy construction
- Compact and lightweight design
- Includes 'HD' and 'Vocal' op-amps
What customers say
Users consistently praise the XuanWu DAC for its exceptional sound quality, noting its powerful, detailed, and clean output. Many find it easily drives high impedance headphones. The ability to customize the sound signature through the Op Amp is a significant advantage, offering appreciated flexibility. This unit delivers flagship level performance, making it a strong value in the portable high fidelity audio market. Its impressive audio capabilities and adaptable nature are key highlights for discerning listeners seeking premium sound.
Know before you buy
The replaceable op-amp system allows you to physically swap the internal amplifier modules to change the sound signature. The included 'HD' and 'Vocal' options let you tailor the audio output to better suit your specific headphones or personal listening preferences.
No, the XuanWu is designed to output to one pair of headphones at a time. Using both ports simultaneously is not supported.
Yes, the XuanWu is USB-powered and draws its energy directly from your connected device via the Type-C port. It is designed to be a plug-and-play solution for mobile use.
The XuanWu offers a robust output of 250mW for the 3.5mm single-ended connection and up to 560mW for the 4.4mm balanced connection at 16Ω. This is sufficient to drive most portable-friendly headphones and sensitive IEMs with ease.
The XuanWu is generally plug-and-play on modern operating systems like Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows. You may only need to install specific drivers if you are using older versions of Windows and require full support for high-resolution DSD playback.
Beyond its premium look and feel, the 6061-T6 aluminum alloy provides a durable, rigid chassis that protects the internal components. It also acts as a heat sink, helping to dissipate heat generated by the dual CS43198 chips during extended listening sessions.
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