Rotel DX-3

DX-3 - Balanced Headphone DAC Amplifier

The DX-3 from Rotel is developed as a fully balanced headphone amplifier and DAC system for serious personal audio setups. The unit combines ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC architecture with differential analog output and high current capacity for demanding headphones. The DX-3 supports up to 32-bit / 384 kHz via USB, 24-bit / 192 kHz via coaxial and optical input, as well as wireless streaming via Bluetooth with aptX HD. The construction is designed for low noise, high dynamics, and precise signal processing in a compact desktop format.

HIGHLIGHTS

• ESS Sabre ES9028PRO reference DAC
• USB input up to 32-bit / 384 kHz
• Optical and coaxial digital input up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Bluetooth with aptX HD and AAC
• Fully balanced headphone output
• 4.4 mm balanced and 6.35 mm single-ended output
• Balanced XLR line outputs
• Roon Tested compatibility

ESS SABRE DAC ARCHITECTURE

The DX-3 uses the ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC chip, which is developed for high-end audio applications with high dynamic range and low jitter sensitivity. The DAC architecture works with differential signal processing and delivers precise conversion from digital sources to analog output.

The internal signal path is optimized for low noise and stable phase behavior, ensuring a frequency response from 10 Hz to 20 kHz with minimal deviation.

BALANCED HEADPHONE AMPLIFICATION

The headphone section is constructed in a fully balanced topology, reducing noise and improving channel separation. The balanced 4.4 mm output delivers up to 2.8 watts into 16 ohms and 1.4 watts into 32 ohms, providing sufficient power for both low-impedance planar magnetic and more demanding dynamic headphones.

The single-ended 6.35 mm output is optimized for broad compatibility and delivers up to 765 mW into 16 ohms.

DIGITAL AND WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY

The DX-3 serves as a central DAC for both computer and network sources. The USB input supports hi-res signals up to 32-bit / 384 kHz, while the optical and coaxial digital input handle up to 24-bit / 192 kHz.

The Bluetooth module supports aptX HD and AAC, providing higher wireless audio quality compared with standard SBC.

ANALOG INTEGRATION

In addition to digital inputs, the DX-3 also offers an analog RCA input for integration with traditional signal sources. Balanced XLR outputs make it possible to use the unit as a DAC preamplifier in a larger system with active speakers or power amplifiers.

TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

The DX-3 delivers very low harmonic distortion with THD+N down to 0.004 % in balanced operation. The signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 110 dB on the headphone output and 112 dB on the digital signal paths.

This ensures high resolution, stable dynamics, and low background noise.

CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN

The cabinet design follows the Michi series' industrial design language with a compact chassis and solid mechanical construction. The unit measures 215 × 73 × 247 mm and weighs 3.2 kg, providing stable operation and efficient heat dissipation.

The DX-3 comes with a remote control and is designed for both desktop and rack integration.

POSITIONING

The DX-3 is developed for high-performance personal audio systems where an integrated DAC and headphone amplifier are desired in one compact solution. The combination of ESS DAC architecture, balanced amplification, and flexible inputs makes the unit well suited for both stationary headphone setups and as a digital control unit in smaller high-end systems.