Rotel Introduces DX-3 Headphone Amplifier: Premium Audio in a Compact Design

Rotel has unveiled the DX-3, a new high-performance headphone amplifier, pre-amplifier, and DAC priced at $2,249 in the U.S. The DX-3 is designed for music lovers who desire high-quality audio but have limited space.

The Rotel DX-3 is a compact unit that integrates multiple audio functions into one device. It measures 215 mm x 76 mm x 247 mm (8.46 in x 2.99 in x 9.72 in) and supports both modern and legacy audio sources. These include PC-USB with 32-bit/384kHz capabilities and DSD 4X support, as well as coaxial and optical inputs that handle 24-bit/192kHz. Additionally, it features aptX™ HD and AAC Bluetooth connectivity, along with an RCA analog connection.

According to Rotel, the DX-3 is designed with high-quality components to deliver exceptional audio performance. It features an ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 8-channel DAC, a custom toroidal transformer, and premium capacitors. Volume control is managed by an audiophile-grade analog controller, which allows for precise adjustments in 0.5 dB increments. To minimize noise interference, the analog and digital power supplies are isolated. Additionally, the DX-3 incorporates custom-engineered low-pass filters with a fully balanced, fully differential signal path to further reduce unwanted noise and distortion.

Furthermore, the device is designed to work with a wide range of wired headphones, including high, medium, and low-impedance models. Users can select amplifier gain to optimize performance. The DX-3 has both 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm single-ended headphone connectors on the front panel.

In addition to its headphone amplifier capabilities, the DX-3 functions as a standalone DAC and a fully functional pre-amplifier. It includes XLR balanced and RCA outputs. This allows users to connect the DX-3 to external amplifiers or powered active speakers.

The Rotel DX-3 features a full-color front panel graphic display and a large, diamond-knurled volume attenuator. It also comes with an aluminum extruded remote control.

Tech Specs:

Power Output (THD+N < 1%)

Single-ended (6.35 mm) :

  765 mW (16 Ω)

  383 mW (32 Ω)

  41 mW (300 Ω)

Balanced (4.4 mm):

  2.8 w (16 Ω)

  1.4 w (32 Ω)

  150 mw (300 Ω)

Total Harmonic Distortion (32 Ω, 1k Hz)

Single-ended

< 0.008% @ Output=70 mW

Balanced

< 0.004% @ Output=280 mW

Frequency Response

Headphone:

20 Hz – 20k Hz, +0 dB, -0.2 dB

Digital:

10 Hz – 20 kHz, +0 dB, – 0.5 dB

Analog:

20 Hz – 20k Hz, +0 dB, – 0.4 dB

S/N Ratio (IHF “A” Weighted)

Headphone:

  Single-ended: >100 dB

  Balanced >110 dB

Digital: >112 dB

Analog: > 107 dB

Availability

The Rotel DX-3 will be available in Europe and the UK in March 2025, followed by the U.S. in May.

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