Luxsin Audio X9

The Luxsin X9 is the first-born of a new brand entering the market with clear ambitions. Developed by Luxsin Audio, a subsidiary of the Zidoo group (already known for its Eversolo brand), this high-end DAC/preamplifier/headphone amplifier combines a sophisticated technical architecture with innovative features aimed at the most demanding audiophiles.

A no-compromise technical architecture

At the heart of the Luxsin X9 is a top-tier digital-to-analog conversion system, pairing the AKM AK4191EQ delta-sigma modulator with the premium AK4499EX converter. This high-end configuration handles PCM streams up to 32-bit/768 kHz and native DSD up to DSD512. The amplification stage uses a proprietary technology called Dynamic Negative Feedback (DNF), which combines OPA1612 and TPA6120A2 operational amplifiers to minimize harmonic and intermodulation distortion.

The high-quality linear power supply receives particular attention, with a ripple rejection (PSRR) not exceeding 40 nV. Unlike some competing devices that use a combination of linear and switching power supplies, the X9 relies exclusively on an ultra-quiet linear supply for all its circuits. This approach ensures a perfectly black background, allowing musical nuances to fully unfold.

Volume control uses a high-precision R2R (resistor-resistor) system that limits the left-right channel mismatch to just 0.1 dB. This precision ensures a perfectly balanced stereo image, regardless of the chosen listening level.

Power suited to all headphones

With an impressive 4000 mW into 32 ohms, the Luxsin X9 can drive all types of headphones, from the most sensitive models to those most demanding in terms of power. Its front panel offers three types of headphone connections: an unbalanced 6.35 mm jack output, a balanced 4.4 mm Pentaconn output, and a balanced 4-pin XLR output.

The device features automatic impedance detection technology that measures the resistance of the connected headphones and intelligently adjusts the output stage to optimize performance. This dynamic adaptation guarantees optimal results with any pair of headphones.

Unique features for a personalized listening experience

What truly sets the Luxsin X9 apart from its competitors is its HP-EQ equalization technology. This feature can automatically adjust the built-in equalizer settings based on the headphones used, thanks to a database of over 2,500 different models. The goal is to tailor the frequency response to approach the Harman curve, renowned for its tonal balance. Of course, the user retains full control and can manually adjust these settings to taste.

The X9 also offers a crossfeed function and a Soundstage mode that allow you to adjust the width and depth of the soundstage. These tools are particularly useful for creating a more natural headphone listening experience, similar to speakers, and for reducing listening fatigue during long sessions.

Comprehensive connectivity for seamless integration

The rear panel of the Luxsin X9 offers a multitude of connection options. On the digital input side, there is a USB-B port (XMOS XU316 interface), an HDMI ARC input, an optical Toslink input, an RCA coaxial input (S/PDIF), as well as a Bluetooth 5.0 module with dual antenna supporting SBC and AAC codecs. An analog line RCA input completes the set.

For outputs, the device offers RCA and XLR analog outputs, both at line level and preamplified (with a maximum gain of 10 dB). A dual low-level RCA output for a subwoofer is also available, which is rather rare for this type of device.

12V trigger inputs and outputs in 3.5 mm jack format allow the X9 to be integrated into a more complex system, with synchronized power on/off across devices.

User interface and control

The Luxsin X9’s interface revolves around a 4-inch TFT touchscreen with a resolution of 960 × 400 pixels. This screen not only displays essential information about the current playback, but also offers customizable virtual VU meters for visual feedback on the audio signal.

Three control modes are available: directly via the touchscreen, remotely via the supplied infrared remote control, or through the Luxsin mobile app available on Android and iOS. The front-panel rotary volume knob allows precise level adjustment, while a short press on the power button activates mute and a long press puts the device into standby.

Performance and sound quality

The Luxsin X9 boasts impressive technical performance, with a signal-to-noise ratio reaching 128 dB and total harmonic distortion (THD+N) below -116 dB. These specifications translate into exceptionally pure and detailed sound, with a perfectly silent background that reveals the subtlest musical nuances.

The fully balanced architecture, from digital-to-analog conversion to the output stage, ensures optimal channel separation and precise stereo reproduction. DNF (Dynamic Negative Feedback) technology helps minimize distortion to the bare minimum, for transparent and faithful musical signal reproduction.

Technical specifications

Audio performance

• Digital-to-analog conversion (DAC)
  • Supports DSD up to DSD512
  • Supports PCM up to 768 kHz / 32-bit
• Audio processor: AKM 7739 DSP
• DAC: AK4191EQ + AK4499EX
• Headphone amplification
  • Output level up to 15 Vrms
  • Dynamic range greater than 128 dB
  • Balanced (XLR4, 4.4 mm) and unbalanced (6.35 mm) connectors

Connectivity

• Bluetooth 5.0: SBC and AAC codecs
• Wi-Fi: 2.4 GHz band
• Trigger IN / OUT: 3.5 mm jack for integration with other devices

Audio inputs

• USB-B / USB-C
  • Compatible with Windows (10/11), Android, iOS
  • Supported formats: DSD512, PCM 768 kHz / 32-bit
• USB-A: for firmware updates
• Optical and coaxial (RCA) inputs
  • PCM 192 kHz / 24-bit
  • DoP64 supported
• HDMI ARC: audio up to 192 kHz / 24-bit
• RCA analog input (unbalanced): max gain +10 dB

Audio outputs

• Balanced XLR
  • 4.2 Vrms
  • Dynamic range > 128 dB
  • THD+N < 0.000096%
• Unbalanced RCA
  • 2.1 Vrms
  • Dynamic range > 125 dB
  • THD+N < 0.00010%
• Headphone output
  • Connectors: 4.4 mm, XLR4, 6.35 mm
  • Up to 15 Vrms
  • Frequency response 20 Hz ~ 20 kHz
• Subwoofer output: RCA × 2

Hardware architecture

• USB: XMOS XU316 controller
• Bluetooth: QCC5125 module
• Operational amplifier: OPA1612
• Screen: 4-inch TFT touchscreen, 960 × 400 resolution

Interface and controls

• Available controls
  • Touchscreen
  • Infrared remote control (12 buttons)
  • Mobile app (Luxsin – Android / iOS)
• Volume knob: rotary encoder
• Power button
  • Short press: mute
  • Long press: standby
• Main power switch: rocker

Physical characteristics

• Dimensions: 300 × 206 × 65 mm
• Weight: 3.72 kg
• Finish: silver aluminum
• OTG Type-C cable × 1 (optional)

Power supply

• Type: ultra-low-noise linear power supply
• Power: 25 W
• Mains input: 100–240 V ~ 50/60 Hz

Included accessories

• Power cable × 1
• Remote control × 1
• USB-B cable × 1
• User manual × 1