Teac
TEAC UD-505-X Headphone Amplifier
Best balanced DAC for audiophiles seeking high-resolution desktop sound.
The TEAC UD-505-X is a high-end dual monaural USB DAC and integrated headphone amplifier, designed with a compact A4-sized footprint. It features dual ESS ES9038Q2M DACs for exceptional channel separation and clarity, supporting Hi-Res audio up to DSD512 and PCM 768kHz/32bit. The dual monaural circuit design and fully-balanced analog processing ensure pristine audio reproduction. Enjoy high-quality wireless streaming via Bluetooth with LDAC and aptX HD support. The amplifier section offers versatile headphone outputs, including a 4.4mm balanced connector, and is capable of driving high-impedance headphones.
$1349.99
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Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
388
/ 733
#388 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-3%
Below average
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking uncompromising clarity and sonic detail
- System builders requiring flexible connectivity for diverse gear
- Design-conscious listeners valuing premium build quality and longevity
Who should skip it
- Budget-focused buyers prioritizing value over high-end performance
- Mobile listeners needing a portable or compact audio solution
- Minimalists preferring simple plug-and-play operation over complex settings
Performance breakdown
Build Engineering
Dual monaural design and toroidal transformers minimize interference for pure sound.
Audio Fidelity
Dual ESS DACs deliver exceptional clarity and precise channel separation.
Drive Capability
Effortlessly powers demanding high-impedance headphones up to 600 Ohms.
Connectivity Versatility
Balanced 4.4mm and dual 6.3mm outputs cover almost every headphone setup.
Digital Precision
Supports ultra-high resolution formats including DSD512 and PCM 768kHz.
Wireless Performance
LDAC and aptX HD support ensure high-fidelity streaming without the cables.
Key Specs
Hi-Res audio playback supporting DSD512 (22.5MHz) and PCM 768kHz/32bit
Dual ESS Technology ES9038Q2M converters (one per channel)
Dual on-board clocks for 44.1kHz and 48kHz frequencies
7 types of PCM digital filters
Up-conversion up to 24.5MHz DSD and 384kHz/32bit PCM
10MHz external clock input
Bluetooth® receiver supporting LDAC™, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD, AAC and SBC
TEAC-HCLD2 enhanced-current output buffer circuit
Features
- Hi-Res audio playback up to DSD512 and PCM 768kHz/32bit
- Dual ESS ES9038Q2M DACs for superior channel separation
- High-quality wireless audio streaming via Bluetooth (LDAC, aptX HD)
- Versatile headphone outputs: 4.4mm balanced, dual 6.3mm
- Dual monaural design for enhanced audio purity
- Up-conversion technology for smoother digital audio
- Seven selectable PCM digital filters for sound customization
- Compact A4-sized footprint for easy placement
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the TEAC UD-505-X Headphone Amplifier for its exceptional audio quality and sophisticated design. Many highlight the device's ability to deliver a remarkably clear, detailed, and expansive soundstage, significantly enhancing their listening experience. The build quality receives high marks, with users appreciating its robust construction and premium aesthetic that seamlessly integrates into any high fidelity setup. This amplifier is often described as a significant upgrade, offering a refined sonic performance that justifies its position in the market. Its elegant appearance and superior sound reproduction are recurring positive themes.
Know before you buy
Yes, the amplifier is designed to handle headphones with impedance up to 600 Ohms, making it suitable for most high-end professional and consumer models.
The device features a 4.4mm balanced Pentaconn jack for balanced audio and two 6.3mm (1/4") TRS jacks that support both standard and active-ground drive configurations.
Yes, it supports high-quality Bluetooth codecs including LDAC and aptX HD, allowing you to stream high-resolution audio wirelessly from compatible smartphones and tablets.
By using separate DAC chips and power transformers for the left and right channels, the design prevents signal interference between channels, resulting in superior stereo separation and a cleaner soundstage.
Yes, the UD-505-X offers seven selectable PCM digital filters, allowing you to subtly adjust the sonic characteristics of your music to better suit your personal preferences.
Yes, the unit includes a 10MHz external clock input, which allows you to synchronize the DAC with a dedicated master clock for even greater precision in digital-to-analog conversion.
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