Rotel DX-3 Introduced: A $1,499 Headphone Amp/DAC 

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While space is at a premium, music lovers still want the highest, no compromise quality from their personal audio. The new Rotel DX-3 combines an exceptionally well specified, high-performance headphone amplifierpreamplifier and stand-alone DAC in a superbly designed single component measuring an efficient 215mm x 76mm x 247mm (8 1/in x 3 in x 9 3/4 in) chassis. 

The Rotel DX-3 supports an array of both modern and legacy source inputs including PC-USB (32-bit/384kHz) with DSD 4X support, Coaxial and Optical (24-bit/192kHz), wireless aptXTM HD and AAC Bluetooth and an RCA analog connection.

The Rotel DX-3 is a slim but gorgeous bit of high-end headphone amp (and DAC) design.
The Rotel DX-3 is a slim but gorgeous bit of high-end headphone amp (and DAC) design.

The highest-grade components, including the exceptional ESS Sabre ES9028PRO 8-channel DAC, an ultra-low noise, custom in-house manufactured, toroidal transformer with high current drivers and high-quality capacitors combine to ensure music is delivered with the ultimate resolution, rhythm & timing and on an immersive sound stage.  

In addition, volume attenuation is controlled by an audiophile grade NJW1195A fully differential analog controller delivering precise steps as refined as 0.5dB. Analog and digital power supplies have been meticulously engineered and crafted, fully isolated from each other ensuring minimal noise interference. For additional performance, the DX-3 also includes custom engineered and critically tuned low pass filters utilizing a full balanced, fully differential signal path further reducing unwanted noise and distortion.

The DX-3 readily adapts to and enhances a wide selection of wired headphones, including high, medium and low impedance models with user selectable amplifier gain. Connectivity is supported through convenient front panel mounted 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm single ended headphone connectors. 

The DX-3 also functions as an excellent standalone DAC and a fully functional preamplifier via XLR Balanced and RCA outputs. This extends the flexibility of installation to directly drive external amplifiers, powered active speakers or feeding an existing audio system.

Industrial design and build quality are both to Rotel’s exceptional standards with a full-color front panel graphic display providing all user feedback and a single, large, diamond knurled volume attenuator.  

Alternatively, the DX-3 can be operated via the included, intuitive aluminum extruded remote control. 

Rotel's DX-3 is a high-end headphone solution that also can act as a stand-alone DAC.
Rotel’s DX-3 is a high-end headphone solution that also can act as a stand-alone DAC.

Suggested Retail Pricing For the Rotel DX-3

DX-3     USD   $1,499.00   

Shipping and Market Availability For the Rotel DX-3

Products will be available in Europe and the UK in March 2025 with the rest of the world to follow soon after.  

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