xDuoo
xDuoo TA-22
~$489
Estimated price · may vary by retailer
A high-performance desktop DAC and Headphone Amplifier hybrid. It pairs dual high-end ESS DAC chips with a true tube output stage (using 12AU7 tubes). Unlike cheaper 'buffers', this runs at high voltage to deliver genuine tube holography alongside digital precision.
Specifications
Things to Know
- ⚠The unit runs quite hot due to the Class A buffer stage; requires ventilation.
- ⚠Some users report a slight audible noise floor with extremely sensitive IEMs.
- ⚠The volume knob controls digital volume, not analog, which some purists dislike.
Reviews
“Vocals come to life with the TA-22, sounding extremely lifelike and engaging... There's a similar effect on the treble – the TA-22 is more forgiving than its solid-state contemporaries, adding some velvet to the sound.”
— Prime Audio Reviews
“It gives you a taste of what tubes can do... you get some of that tube warmth and emphasis to lower order harmonics, especially with guitar strings now having that extra twang.”
— TechPowerUp
Video Review
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