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Emotiva XDA-1 Differential Reference DAC * Remote Control

Emotiva XDA-1 Differential Reference DAC * Remote Control

Emotiva

$200.00 USD
$200.00 USD
Sale Sold out

 Differential Reference DAC for the Audiophile

Jim Milton
DACs

As general rule of thumb, I try not to review equipment from manufacturers of products that I personally own as it can lend an air of bias on my part. I’m just letting you know up front that I own a UMC-1 pre/pro and three amplifiers from Emotiva. I find their products to perform very well and are true bargains in the A/V world. The reason I allowed myself to indulge in this review of their XDA-1 was because I have never used an outboard DAC and felt I could review it without (too much) prejudice. I’ll admit, most of the audio shows I have attended that display fancy outboard DACs have usually left me thinking, “That’s nice, but why would I need one of those?” Hopefully, this review will help answer that question.

Specifications

  • Design: Solid State Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC)
  • DAC: Multibit Sigma-Delta AD1955; 8x Oversampling
  • Maximum Sampling Rate Accepted: 24 Bit, 192 kHz
  • MFR: 5 Hz – 48 kHz
  • S/N: 105dB (A-Weighted)
  • THD+N: 0.001%
  • Maximum Output: 12 Volts RMS
  • Inputs: 2 Optical Toslink, 2 Coax Digital, 1 AES/EBU, 1 USB
  • Outputs: 2 RCA (Unbalanced), 2 XLR (Balanced)
  • Internal Volume Control: Digitally Controlled in 0.5 dB Increments
  • Remote Control: Milled Aluminum Full Function Remote Control
  • Fully Discrete Differential Output Stage
  • Dimensions: 2.25″ H x 17″ W x 14″ D
  • Weight: 6 Pounds
  • MSRP: $349 USA
  • Emotiva

Design and Setup

There are a fair amount of DACs on the market right now with many costing several times the price of the XDA-1. Part of what makes an out board DAC worth its salt is how it is implemented and how flexible it is for your particular needs.

The XDA-1 offers a balanced 24 bit/192kHz DAC/ pre amp designed around the AD 1955 chip set. The balanced line stage amp is combined with a differential output that is controlled by a digital volume that moves in increments of .5 steps (0-80). It has no less than six digital source inputs (1 AES/EBU, 2 coaxial, 2 optical and 1 USB: A/ B type). Where a 16 bit DAC has a S/N ratio of around 96dB (A-weighted), The XDA-1 comes in at 105dB. All standard resolutions are supported up to 192 kHz. For the outputs, you have fully discrete differential output stages with 2 independent balanced XLR and 2 unbalanced RCA (single ended) stages. The face plate is milled aluminum with a large, easy to read (and dimmable) VFD screen that displays the volume. Though the display can be dimmed, it can not be turned off completely. To the left of the screen is the volume and mute button. The ON/OFF (stand-by) button is black and not silver like the others. I almost did not realize it was there until I noticed it after I had fully set it up with my system. On the right of the display are a row of buttons that let you select the input. A small blue light identifies which selected input is engaged.

A fully functional remote is included, which is made from milled aluminum and populated with silver buttons that are not back lighted. Mute, volume and direct input selection can be controlled with the remote. Not many after market DACs come with a remote, so this was a nice touch and a convenient means of running several devices through the XDA-1 without getting up out of my chair.

I felt that the remote was a bit over built and clunky, however, it was more impressive than a cheap plastic remote and certainly better than no remote at all! The remote is made from a chunk of billet aluminum and had some heft to it. It reminded me of the game of Clue: “I think it was Col. Mustard, in the library and he used the XDA-1 remote.” Yes, it is that hefty. The XDA-1’s 17 inch width is sized right for a rack mount, but is small enough and light enough to move from your main stereo system to your desk top computer. You could easily set an IPod transport on top of it (I’m thinking Wadia, myself) and pair it with a small amp and have a killer system somewhere else in the house (my wife is thinking kitchen). Come to think of it, a laptop would sit nicely on top of this as well. As you can see from the pictures, it easily fits in with the style of the other Emotiva gear.

Setting up the XDA-1 was fairly straight forward. For the first week I listened through an Oppo 980 using a coaxial (Zu Audio Firemine) to the XDA-1 and analog (Kimber PBJs) outs directly to two Emotiva UPA-1 monoblocks.

From there, I listened with my Revel F12s in full/direct mode. I achieved optimal output with the volume set to full (80) on the XDA-1, and used the volume control on the Oppo (and later on the pre/pro) to get my desired sound level output. My overall impression was that the Oppo and XDA-1 combo sounded better than listening with the Oppo 980 going through the UMC-1 alone. Not a night and day difference, but I generally always preferred the XDA-1s sound as it sounded a bit fuller and presented a slightly wider soundstage. Music was rock stable, broader and deeper than what I was getting through the Oppo to the  pre/pro. In fact, the width of the soundstage was broader than I have ever heard from my Revels. I had always assumed that a narrower soundstage was just the part of their overall design, especially when compared to some of the recent coaxial drive speakers I had recently tested that project an almost holographic soundscape. This was probably my biggest revelation in reviewing the XDA-1. I also played some music via my wife’s laptop via the USB connection. You’ll have to turn off the Windows audio and make the XDA-1 the output device in the setup menu. Again, the music sounded great going through the XDA-1. I’m getting ready to begin the process of getting a home theater PC and I’m thinking the XDA-1 will be the cornerstone of that setup. With the remote in hand and 2 or 3 devices hooked in, the XDA-1 passed my “flexibility” test. I can think of several DACs out there that only allow access to one or two device at any given time, and they cost considerably more than the XDA-1.

As for the “implementation” test of the XDA-1, I had the fortune of being invited to a get-together with some audio enthusiasts (my wife would say “nerds”) to listen to some new Salk Song Towers.

One guests brought a Pioneer BDD-09FD (around $1500 new) which employs 8 Wolfson DACs and another brought the impressive Oppo 93 ($499) which is equipped with Sabre DACs. We hooked the XDA-1 up with the 93 and ran all three units through a Parasound 2100 preamp that had a remote that allowed for instantaneous switching between the devices. Also, we had 2 exact CDs from the same artist and were able to adjust each output to the exact same volume and the track timer to within a few milliseconds. This allowed us to listen to the Pioneer, Oppo, and Oppo via the XDA-1 almost instantaneously. After an extended listening session, we all agreed that we could not tell the difference between the Pioneer direct, the Oppo direct or the Oppo via the XDA-1. We knew that the switching was taking place as there was a soft clicking sound as the button on the remote was depressed, but after a few minutes, we lost count as to which device was currently engaged. Their impressions were that they all sounded identical. My impression was that the XDA-1 sounded as good as the super built Pioneer and sounded indistinguishable from the esteemed Oppo 93. I expected it the XDA-1 to sound better that my old Oppo 980, but I was somewhat surprised that it could go head-to-head with the 93. I’m not knocking the other stuff, but the XDA-1 only costs $350 (when it is not on sale) with free shipping and a 30 day money back guarantee. Again, that price/performance thing comes to mind.

My last set of tests on the XDA-1 were to see if it could really take PCM at other sample rates other than 44.1 kHz. The one thing that I would have liked the XDA-1 to do was display the incoming sample rate as opposed to a static display of the volume. I’d like to display the SR and only see the volume when I hit the volume button on the remote. In any case, to verify that the XDA-1 was accepting other SR, I ran the 980 to the pre/pro, out the pre/pro via its digital outs to the XDA-1, out the XDA-1 via analog to the UMC-1 analog inputs and out again to the amps.

This overly complicated setup would allow me to see the SR displayed on the UMC-1 and verify that the XDA-1 was actually getting a higher SR. I don’t recommend this set up unless you really think it is useful. The XDA-1 does not up convert the SR, but it will accept whatever SR is sent to it.

In Use

There is something that you need to consider here. If you have a pre/pro or a source device that already has a great DAC, you may not need the XDA-1. If you have an older model CD player with digital outs or an older model receiver or processor…or a home theater PC with all of your precious music on it in a lossless format of your choice, the XDA-1 may be the thing you are looking for. I found myself going through dozens of CDs from my collection to critically listen to old familiar music.

I listened through my Oppo 980/XDA-1 and through my Sony BD-S570 via HDMI through my UMC-1. The sound of the XDA-1 was slightly fuller, with better stereo separation and expanded instrument placement than the 980, but it was considerably better sounding than the S570, which sounded thin and anemic in comparison. I also noticed no “clicks” in between tracks on music that I sometimes hear when going through my pre/pro. In fact, the XDA-1 was deathly quiet, or perhaps I should say my F12s were quiet when the music came to a close. Even up close, I did not detect any hissing from my speakers. This may also be in part to my new monoblocks, but I don’t think you should expect to hear any sound quality loss via the XDA-1. Of all my listening sessions, I felt that the Oppo to the XDA-1 and the XDA-1 directly to the amps provided the best sound quality overall. This set up would make for a super two channel system that would be easy enough to operate for your wife or teen aged kids. Like I said, you turn it on and select your input. Sit back and listen. It is that simple.

Conclusions

If you are only into movies and home theater, or only listen to multichannel music or vinyl, the XDA-1 may not be of any use to you. Same holds true if you already have a very good DAC in your current system. But, if you are thinking of using a computer, media server, or have an older inferior DAC in your current setup, the XDA-1 can really squeeze some good sound out of your current system. I’d prefer that it display the incoming sample rate and be able to completely turn off the lights on the front panel, but these are minor quibbles. For the money, I can’t think of many other DACs that offer the sound quality, flexibility…and a killer remote…that Emotiva offers with their XDA-1. As I prepare to move my music onto a computer, the XDA-1 will be my bridge to the digital future.

In stock

There’s something undeniably magnetic about vintage audio gear. The tactile weight of milled aluminum knobs, the warm glow of dial lamps, and—above all—the rich, analog sound that today’s sterile streaming boxes can’t quite replicate. But time is merciless: capacitors dry out, switches oxidize, and those gorgeous walnut cabinets lose their sheen. That’s where the art (and science) of our vintage audio refurbishment comes in.

Why Vintage Audio Still Matters

In the golden era of hi-fi—roughly the mid-1960s through the early 1980s—companies like Marantz, McIntosh, Pioneer, Sansui, and Technics were engaged in an arms race of build quality. This was before cost-cutting plastics and disposable designs; amplifiers were over-engineered, receivers were works of art, and turntables were precision instruments.

Owning one wasn’t just about sound; it was about status and permanence. These machines were built to last a lifetime—or two. The irony? Decades later, they often do, provided they’re given the care they deserve.

The Philosophy of Refurbishment

Refurbishment is not just about fixing; it’s about preserving authenticity while ensuring reliability. The goal is to keep that lush, analog character alive without compromising safety or sound quality.

Some enthusiasts chase museum-level originality—keeping every factory component in place. Others opt for sympathetic modernization, upgrading parts that never existed in the ’70s to improve performance. Both approaches can be valid; it depends on your vision.

The Turntable Store refurbishing process.. step by step

Step 1: The Initial Encounter

When we first meet a 40-year-old amplifier, we resist the urge to plug it in right away. That dusty Marantz 2270 might look gorgeous, but old electrolytics and brittle insulation can short instantly under full voltage.

Instead:

  • We inspect for corrosion, burnt resistors, and leaking capacitors.
  • We use a Variac (variable transformer) to bring up voltage slowly, reforming capacitors rather than shocking them back to life.
  • We check fuses—not just for continuity but for correct ratings.

Tip: A faint musty smell? That’s often the scent of old phenolic boards, not trouble. But a burnt smell? That’s trouble.


Step 2: Deep Cleaning & Control Detox

Dust is the enemy of good sound, that is why we clean the interior carefully with compressed air and a soft brush.

The real magic comes with switches and potentiometers. Over decades, oxidation builds up, causing scratchy controls and dropouts. A deep contact clean in each pot and switch, followed by vigorous cycling, often restores silky-smooth operation.

Step 3: Electrical Resurrection

This is where science meets art:

  • Capacitors: Electrolytic caps often need some attention. We replace out-of-spec caps with high-quality modern equivalents (Nichicon, Panasonic), avoiding over-capacitance unless the power supply can handle it.
  • Resistors: Carbon comp resistors drift over decades. Measure and replace out-of-spec parts.
  • Transistors: Certain vintage transistors (e.g., 2SC458) are notorious for noise. We do swap defective ones for modern low-noise equivalents.
  • Relays & Lamps: Speaker relays oxidize; replace or clean contacts. Dial lamps? Upgrade to warm LEDs for a factory glow without the heat.


Step 4: Cosmetic Glory

Refinishing the walnut cabinet can transform a unit. We do use real wood oil or Danish oil, not polyurethane. We clean the glass dial carefully; those silkscreened letters are fragile.

Knobs? We polish with metal cleaner, but never use abrasives on anodized aluminum.

Faceplate lettering? We avoid harsh chemicals—just mild soap and a microfiber cloth.


Step 5: Calibration & Sonic Check

After the repair and cleaning, it’s time to dial in the performance:

  • We do adjust bias and DC offset on amplifiers for stable operation.
  • On turntables, we re-lube bearings, replace belts, and check speed accuracy.
  • On Cassette Decks and Reel to Reels, we replace belts ( if needed ), we clean and demagnetize the heads before the alignment process ( a must ! ) 

When done right, the result is astonishing: a sound that breathes—liquid mids, velvet highs, and bass with a tactile presence that modern gear rarely matches.


Our promise for Audiophile-Level Results

  • We Avoid Cheap Parts: That $5 eBay capacitor kit? Hard pass. We use reputable brands.
  • We Don’t Over-Polish: Patina is part of the charm. We aim for “well-loved,” not “plastic surgery.”
  • We Upgrade Discreetly: If we must modernize (like adding gold-plated RCA jacks), we keep it tasteful and reversible.


Why It’s Worth It

The payoff isn’t just sonic—it’s emotional. Restoring a 1970s Marantz or Sansui is like bringing a classic car back to life. Every glowing dial lamp, every smooth rotation of a volume knob, connects you to an era when music mattered enough to build machines like this.

And when you drop the needle on your favorite record and hear that warm, enveloping sound, you’ll know: this wasn’t just a repair. It was a resurrection.

We have a 14-day return policy, which means you have 14 days after receiving your item to request a return. 

To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.

To start a return, you can contact us at theturntablestore@gmail.com. Please note that returns will need to be sent to the following address: 

The Turntable Store
45 Market Square
Manheim PA 17545

If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.

You can always contact us for any return question at theturntablestore@gmail.com.


Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.

Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like turntable needles and custom products (such as special orders or personalized items). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item. 

Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.

Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.

European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.

Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at theturntablestore@gmail.com.
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