Disclaimer:
Good morning, readers! This time, I received a product from FX-AUDIO, a brand that somehow introduced me to this hobby. My first product, or rather, the first desktop DAC that I purchased years ago, was the FX-AUDIO X6. It cost just over $50 and was considered a miracle. It was difficult to explain such a price, but those who owned the first models and had the opportunity to look inside for some OP-amp upgrades know that the components were recycled (second third life) and the welds were completed quickly. Surprisingly, it worked especially well; subsequent versions were much more precise in their soldering.
I also tried the Tube 01, which is a type of tube buffer pre-amp, but it is no longer in use.
After several years, FX-AUDIO finally releases a new model, which obviously piqued my interest.
Despite having a lot of Dongles, I did not have many Desktop DACs and DAPs, but I will try to conduct a thorough analysis.
The review, as always, will be completely unbiased, uninfluenced and free of affiliate links
I would like to remind you that I am just a person who enjoys trying out new items and listening to a lot of music; I am not an expert.
My opinions are obviously subjective.
Tech Specs:
For convenience, I have taken the specifications from the manufacturer's website, which, however, omits some specifications that may be of interest to those who purchase it.
To recover some information, I had to take it apart.
In the manual, there is information missing from various sites and the only extra thing I couldn't find is the OPA1656. But in its place, I found the following:
Upgradeable dual OP-amp: LM4562NA
For the headphones section, I found a TPA6120A2 and I found an AKM4118, which is responsible for OPT and COAX inputs.
Packaging:
For me, who has already bought FX-AUDIO products, the packaging is nothing new. The box is all white and very anonymous; it looks like a pre-release product with a box that is not totally definitive but I don't think there will be any changes.
At first glance, I noticed the Hi-Res logo had a slightly "copied" appearance.
Inside, we can find:
The product is carefully packaged, the accessories are of high quality, and the USB cable appears to be from another brand, but I replaced it (there is no change in sound, only in appearance). Perhaps an optical cable could have been included.
Build Quality/First Impressions:
Having previously handled their products, I can assure you that the quality has always been high in comparison to the price, albeit not perfect. In my unit, I noticed that the volume knob was not perfectly aligned. When I disassembled it, I discovered a somewhat artisanal shim inside where the pin is housed to keep the knob from touching the chassis. On one side, there are two micromarks where the paint has worn off.
Let us assume that quality control can be improved further. The front panel includes a physical on and off button, as well as 3.5mm and 6.35mm inputs; however, there is no balanced output. The volume knob is also used for other functions that make the remote control more useful.
Behind, however, we really have a lot of inputs, even though personally, I almost always use the USB input but in reality, it is a much more versatile product.
In terms of size, it is much larger than the old Fx-Audio X6, and it also warms up significantly more in use. Out of curiosity and to discover its secrets, I opened it. I can tell you that the PCB is quite clean and decidedly more refined than in the past. There are still some traces of flux but otherwise, the soldering seems well done.
I forgot to talk about the small display; some details need to be significantly closer to be readable. I must admit that it looks a lot like the display that could be used on a Dongle. It still fulfills its function.
Configuration:
The FX-AUDIO DR07 replaced the old X6 on my desk. The outputs that I will currently use are the RCA ones with which I enter a Breeze Audio (BRZ hifi) TPA3116 amplifier, which is now a few years old but does its job perfectly. It is not the chain for absolute Hifi quality but one of the cheapest that could be put together a few years ago. As speakers, there are a pair of Scythe Kro Craft Rev. B. For those who know them, you will know very well that they are not perfect at all but for 50 USD per pair, they are absolutely crazy. The only flaw is the tweeter is a little too cut; he seems shy and too directional.
The USB cable is custom, short, and "hi-fi" but it significantly reduces tangles. The original one is fine but too long for my purpose.
Let me start by saying that they are not high quality speakers but compared to the X6, I noticed a much better sound. I would have liked the tone controls but unfortunately, they cannot be adjusted. The sound appeared clearer and above all, the highs came to life slightly. Operation via remote control is the most welcome thing ever. By now, I have gotten used to some products with remote control and volume control is a must have. Fortunately, you can also adjust a few settings, such as manually selecting the input, selecting whether to leave the output automatically (if you insert headphones, the RCA outputs are deactivated) or in ALL, where both remain active.
As on the old model, when it goes into play/pause, there is a sort of "click," but honestly, it doesn't cause me any annoyance or problems. I think the outputs are disconnected to avoid background noise.
Digital Filters & Sound Signature:
There are some digital filters available; in total, there are 6:
The changes are extremely minimal; the slightly greater difference is felt from the sixth to the first filter. I'm happy there are some functions but unfortunately, most of the buttons on the remote control have no functions. But those who have other products considered CHI-FI know that it is not difficult to see the same things on even higher-end products.
Sound Signature & Power:
The sound of the FX-AUDIO DR07 is almost neutral from both speakers and headphones. To be extremely honest, I don't think it was created to replace any headphone DAC/AMP. It doesn't impress with almost any headphones or IEMs in particular. It's not that it sounds bad but I have dongles that definitely sound better with more synergy. The thing I noticed right away is that with extremely sensitive and efficient IEMs, there is background noise and the only way to eliminate it is to use an impedance adapter. The noise is like a hiss that is heard at very low volume settings, with quiet, relaxed songs and between songs. The absolutely strange thing is that I haven't found anyone complaining about this problem. They could have tested it with only some high impedance headphones..1100 mw at 32 ohm are not very few and if the background is not very silent, you risk hearing this noise.
To exclude other problems, I started with the power supply, trying to use a different power supply with an extra 1A without success. I changed the USB cable and socket but the noise is still there.
This noise is not particularly audible, but the FX AUDIO DR07 is not suitable for headphones or low impedance IEMs.
I tested the Hifiman He400Se, Re-9, Sundara Close back, Philips Fidelio X2HR without experiencing significant background noise. I recommend keeping the gain low which is more than enough for most of my headphones.
I think it's right to point this out because it's not as universal as others with similar power. I think the background is actually not as silent as it seems. It was a different story for the RCA outputs, where I couldn't hear any kind of problem but the Scythe speakers are not very sensitive and could muffle the problem.
I noticed that after a few hours of use, it reaches quite warm temperatures, I think it depends on the listening volume but as there are no air vents, it could also heat up slowly and gradually.
Fast Comparison:
vs FX-AUDIO X6
You never forget your first love, I have to tell you that the first model was assembled in an unprofessional way, the parts were recycled and some components were rusty, it worked and it was a miracle. After several years, it failed, probably due to a mistake on my part in handling it while doing some OP amp rolling. I bought it again immediately and the new one was made with much more care and much better components. It was an excellent entrylevel DAC/AMP and still does its job. I will definitely use it on another PC. The DR07 pretty much covers all the gaps the X6 had by adopting better components and extra features. In terms of sound, the X6 seems slightly warmer to me, while the DR07 is super neutral. I don't feel like saying that great improvements have been made in terms of headphone amplification.
vs SMSL Sanskrit 10th
My Sanskrit works well but despite the slightly more renowned brand, I had to return the first unit as it created artifacts in the sound. I must say that it works very well connected to the Hivi Swans T200C but it does not have BT or headphone output. Also, in this case, the remote control has many buttons without functions. Aesthetically but also in terms of finish, it is slightly better. They are two products for a different target but if you are not interested in the headphone output, I recommend you keep that in mind.
vs Creative Soundblaster X5
The full review of this product will arrive soon. A sort of mix between desktop DAC/AMP and headphone amplifier with an eye also on gaming. In addition to having a balanced 4.4mm output, it also has a microphone input. A lot of functions are available via apps on your smartphone or software on your PC. We can create custom EQs, update firmware, and much more. Its versatility is superior, as is the price, but the product is infinitely more refined. The sound is slightly warm, in a Creative sound style. It resembles the Creative Sfxi AMP Dongle.
Conclusions:
Definitely a versatile product but not perfect as described by several reviewers. If you are looking for a DAC for your speakers, it is certainly very comfortable and works very well, but if you are also interested in listening with headphones or IEMS, you should know that it is not suitable for everyone. Leaving aside the background noise, I wasn't thrilled with any headphones I used; I didn't find any particular synergies. I could probably try replacing the OP-amps and see if I notice any improvement. It is absolutely perfect for what I intend to use it for, and it is far superior to the old X6.
FX-Audio is a brand with potential, I hope in the future they concentrate more on the QC which is often left out of even much more important brands. On the next I would like to see a balanced output and a slightly larger display.
Where to Buy? (non affiliate link)
Good morning, readers! This time, I received a product from FX-AUDIO, a brand that somehow introduced me to this hobby. My first product, or rather, the first desktop DAC that I purchased years ago, was the FX-AUDIO X6. It cost just over $50 and was considered a miracle. It was difficult to explain such a price, but those who owned the first models and had the opportunity to look inside for some OP-amp upgrades know that the components were recycled (second third life) and the welds were completed quickly. Surprisingly, it worked especially well; subsequent versions were much more precise in their soldering.
I also tried the Tube 01, which is a type of tube buffer pre-amp, but it is no longer in use.
After several years, FX-AUDIO finally releases a new model, which obviously piqued my interest.
Despite having a lot of Dongles, I did not have many Desktop DACs and DAPs, but I will try to conduct a thorough analysis.
The review, as always, will be completely unbiased, uninfluenced and free of affiliate links
I would like to remind you that I am just a person who enjoys trying out new items and listening to a lot of music; I am not an expert.
My opinions are obviously subjective.
Tech Specs:
For convenience, I have taken the specifications from the manufacturer's website, which, however, omits some specifications that may be of interest to those who purchase it.
To recover some information, I had to take it apart.
In the manual, there is information missing from various sites and the only extra thing I couldn't find is the OPA1656. But in its place, I found the following:
Upgradeable dual OP-amp: LM4562NA
For the headphones section, I found a TPA6120A2 and I found an AKM4118, which is responsible for OPT and COAX inputs.
Packaging:
For me, who has already bought FX-AUDIO products, the packaging is nothing new. The box is all white and very anonymous; it looks like a pre-release product with a box that is not totally definitive but I don't think there will be any changes.
At first glance, I noticed the Hi-Res logo had a slightly "copied" appearance.
Inside, we can find:
- Power supply: 12V/2A
- BT antenna
- Remote
- USB cable
- Manual
The product is carefully packaged, the accessories are of high quality, and the USB cable appears to be from another brand, but I replaced it (there is no change in sound, only in appearance). Perhaps an optical cable could have been included.
Build Quality/First Impressions:
Having previously handled their products, I can assure you that the quality has always been high in comparison to the price, albeit not perfect. In my unit, I noticed that the volume knob was not perfectly aligned. When I disassembled it, I discovered a somewhat artisanal shim inside where the pin is housed to keep the knob from touching the chassis. On one side, there are two micromarks where the paint has worn off.
Let us assume that quality control can be improved further. The front panel includes a physical on and off button, as well as 3.5mm and 6.35mm inputs; however, there is no balanced output. The volume knob is also used for other functions that make the remote control more useful.
Behind, however, we really have a lot of inputs, even though personally, I almost always use the USB input but in reality, it is a much more versatile product.
In terms of size, it is much larger than the old Fx-Audio X6, and it also warms up significantly more in use. Out of curiosity and to discover its secrets, I opened it. I can tell you that the PCB is quite clean and decidedly more refined than in the past. There are still some traces of flux but otherwise, the soldering seems well done.
I forgot to talk about the small display; some details need to be significantly closer to be readable. I must admit that it looks a lot like the display that could be used on a Dongle. It still fulfills its function.
Configuration:
The FX-AUDIO DR07 replaced the old X6 on my desk. The outputs that I will currently use are the RCA ones with which I enter a Breeze Audio (BRZ hifi) TPA3116 amplifier, which is now a few years old but does its job perfectly. It is not the chain for absolute Hifi quality but one of the cheapest that could be put together a few years ago. As speakers, there are a pair of Scythe Kro Craft Rev. B. For those who know them, you will know very well that they are not perfect at all but for 50 USD per pair, they are absolutely crazy. The only flaw is the tweeter is a little too cut; he seems shy and too directional.
The USB cable is custom, short, and "hi-fi" but it significantly reduces tangles. The original one is fine but too long for my purpose.
Let me start by saying that they are not high quality speakers but compared to the X6, I noticed a much better sound. I would have liked the tone controls but unfortunately, they cannot be adjusted. The sound appeared clearer and above all, the highs came to life slightly. Operation via remote control is the most welcome thing ever. By now, I have gotten used to some products with remote control and volume control is a must have. Fortunately, you can also adjust a few settings, such as manually selecting the input, selecting whether to leave the output automatically (if you insert headphones, the RCA outputs are deactivated) or in ALL, where both remain active.
As on the old model, when it goes into play/pause, there is a sort of "click," but honestly, it doesn't cause me any annoyance or problems. I think the outputs are disconnected to avoid background noise.
Digital Filters & Sound Signature:
There are some digital filters available; in total, there are 6:
- Short Delay Sharp Roll Off
- Short Delay Slow Roll Off
- Sharp Roll-off
- Slow Roll-off
- Super Slow Roll off
- Low dispersion, Short Delay
The changes are extremely minimal; the slightly greater difference is felt from the sixth to the first filter. I'm happy there are some functions but unfortunately, most of the buttons on the remote control have no functions. But those who have other products considered CHI-FI know that it is not difficult to see the same things on even higher-end products.
Sound Signature & Power:
The sound of the FX-AUDIO DR07 is almost neutral from both speakers and headphones. To be extremely honest, I don't think it was created to replace any headphone DAC/AMP. It doesn't impress with almost any headphones or IEMs in particular. It's not that it sounds bad but I have dongles that definitely sound better with more synergy. The thing I noticed right away is that with extremely sensitive and efficient IEMs, there is background noise and the only way to eliminate it is to use an impedance adapter. The noise is like a hiss that is heard at very low volume settings, with quiet, relaxed songs and between songs. The absolutely strange thing is that I haven't found anyone complaining about this problem. They could have tested it with only some high impedance headphones..1100 mw at 32 ohm are not very few and if the background is not very silent, you risk hearing this noise.
To exclude other problems, I started with the power supply, trying to use a different power supply with an extra 1A without success. I changed the USB cable and socket but the noise is still there.
This noise is not particularly audible, but the FX AUDIO DR07 is not suitable for headphones or low impedance IEMs.
I tested the Hifiman He400Se, Re-9, Sundara Close back, Philips Fidelio X2HR without experiencing significant background noise. I recommend keeping the gain low which is more than enough for most of my headphones.
I think it's right to point this out because it's not as universal as others with similar power. I think the background is actually not as silent as it seems. It was a different story for the RCA outputs, where I couldn't hear any kind of problem but the Scythe speakers are not very sensitive and could muffle the problem.
I noticed that after a few hours of use, it reaches quite warm temperatures, I think it depends on the listening volume but as there are no air vents, it could also heat up slowly and gradually.
Fast Comparison:
vs FX-AUDIO X6
You never forget your first love, I have to tell you that the first model was assembled in an unprofessional way, the parts were recycled and some components were rusty, it worked and it was a miracle. After several years, it failed, probably due to a mistake on my part in handling it while doing some OP amp rolling. I bought it again immediately and the new one was made with much more care and much better components. It was an excellent entrylevel DAC/AMP and still does its job. I will definitely use it on another PC. The DR07 pretty much covers all the gaps the X6 had by adopting better components and extra features. In terms of sound, the X6 seems slightly warmer to me, while the DR07 is super neutral. I don't feel like saying that great improvements have been made in terms of headphone amplification.
vs SMSL Sanskrit 10th
My Sanskrit works well but despite the slightly more renowned brand, I had to return the first unit as it created artifacts in the sound. I must say that it works very well connected to the Hivi Swans T200C but it does not have BT or headphone output. Also, in this case, the remote control has many buttons without functions. Aesthetically but also in terms of finish, it is slightly better. They are two products for a different target but if you are not interested in the headphone output, I recommend you keep that in mind.
vs Creative Soundblaster X5
The full review of this product will arrive soon. A sort of mix between desktop DAC/AMP and headphone amplifier with an eye also on gaming. In addition to having a balanced 4.4mm output, it also has a microphone input. A lot of functions are available via apps on your smartphone or software on your PC. We can create custom EQs, update firmware, and much more. Its versatility is superior, as is the price, but the product is infinitely more refined. The sound is slightly warm, in a Creative sound style. It resembles the Creative Sfxi AMP Dongle.
Conclusions:
Definitely a versatile product but not perfect as described by several reviewers. If you are looking for a DAC for your speakers, it is certainly very comfortable and works very well, but if you are also interested in listening with headphones or IEMS, you should know that it is not suitable for everyone. Leaving aside the background noise, I wasn't thrilled with any headphones I used; I didn't find any particular synergies. I could probably try replacing the OP-amps and see if I notice any improvement. It is absolutely perfect for what I intend to use it for, and it is far superior to the old X6.
FX-Audio is a brand with potential, I hope in the future they concentrate more on the QC which is often left out of even much more important brands. On the next I would like to see a balanced output and a slightly larger display.
Where to Buy? (non affiliate link)
Attachments
FX-Audio- DR07
Dual AK4493
$170
Before I start this review, let me first thank HiFiGO for providing this unit in for review.
Rest assured my review is 100% my own personal opinion.
Just in case you're interested on getting this DAC – AMP, you can get it on the link below.
https://hifigo.com/products/fx-audio-dr07
Unboxing
Build Quality
The DAC-AMP itself is made from metal, very solid build quality.
The DR07 also has a small screen that shows information such as format, resolution, gain, input, and volume.
Front of the device you can find a power / input selection button, 3.5mm and 6.3mm port.
To access the menu such as gain, filters, you can use the volume knob by holding it for a few seconds.
The remote itself is made from plastic and its just meh, I also to be honest don't know what the EQ, AMP,DAC, Player button for because I mainly use the DR07 with my PC, not with other source and there is nothing mentioned on the manual either.
On the back of the device there is BT-Ant port, USB IN, OPT IN, COAX IN, OPT Out, Line Out and DC 12v In.
One thing I should let you guys know that the DR07 runs HOT after one hour of usage.
The device also supports features such as :
Rated for 1100mw di 32ohm.
Sound
Tonality : Neutral - Analytical
Bass : Snappy and Well Controlled
DR07 offers a tight, snappy, no coloration, and very great bass control tested using the HD650.
The somewhat sluggish bass of the HD650 when plugged in to the DR07, it becomes a bit snappier than usual, though in other hands, if you pair the DR07 with a very fast decay bass IEM / Headphone, lets say a planar unit, the bass might come as a bit too snappy and short decayed.
Midrange : Neutrality
The DR07 doesn't add anything to the midrange, in other words, it sounds “transparent” and honest.
It doesn't add extra note weight to the sound either, so I guess for some people the DR07 actually can be sound a bit analytical rather than having more emotions and musicality.
Treble : Extended and Airy
It looks like the DR07 has some kind of highlight on the treble section, tested using my HD650, the HD650 darker treble seems to be getting brighter a bit, not by much but its noticeable.
The decay of treble is somewhat accented as well, it sounds longer than usual, so it gives extra sense of details.
Technicality
Very Good for $170
Stage : Very Good
Reasonably Wide.
It makes the HD650 sounds a bit wider lets say compared to my audio interface (Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen), it also has proper stage layering.
Imaging : Very Good
It has no problem rendering holographical information to my HD650, though if you plug lets say a Moondrop Chu 2 as I usually test my imaging, the DR07 will make it sound almost holographical but not quite there yet, but its not 2.5D sounding either.
Separation and Positioning : Very Good
No problem or complaints from me, it has very good separation and positioning due to the fact its tonality is well controlled and more towards analytical one.
Detail Retrieval : Very Good
It has superb treble detail and decay, resolving midrange with normal decay, good bass detail but with a bit shorter decay.
*What I mean by the decay is like very short layer of lingering sounds from your music.
Or in other words, very good treble detail, good midrange detail and above average bass detail.
Conclusion
Do I recommend the FX-Audio- DR07 ?
Absolutely, its one of the better value DAC-AMP combo that you can get on the market right now especially if you're in search for a neutral – analytical sounding DAC-AMP combo.
You get a lot from $170 USD you spend, you get a well spec components, bluetooth functionality, High power output, neutral – analytical sound with very good technicality on board.
Thanks for reaching this far.
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch video version of this review here
-littlenezt.
Dual AK4493
$170
Before I start this review, let me first thank HiFiGO for providing this unit in for review.
Rest assured my review is 100% my own personal opinion.
Just in case you're interested on getting this DAC – AMP, you can get it on the link below.
https://hifigo.com/products/fx-audio-dr07
Unboxing
The DAC-AMP itself is made from metal, very solid build quality.
The DR07 also has a small screen that shows information such as format, resolution, gain, input, and volume.
Front of the device you can find a power / input selection button, 3.5mm and 6.3mm port.
To access the menu such as gain, filters, you can use the volume knob by holding it for a few seconds.
The remote itself is made from plastic and its just meh, I also to be honest don't know what the EQ, AMP,DAC, Player button for because I mainly use the DR07 with my PC, not with other source and there is nothing mentioned on the manual either.
On the back of the device there is BT-Ant port, USB IN, OPT IN, COAX IN, OPT Out, Line Out and DC 12v In.
One thing I should let you guys know that the DR07 runs HOT after one hour of usage.
The device also supports features such as :
- MQA Decoder
- Bluetooth LDAC
Rated for 1100mw di 32ohm.
Sound
Tonality : Neutral - Analytical
Bass : Snappy and Well Controlled
DR07 offers a tight, snappy, no coloration, and very great bass control tested using the HD650.
The somewhat sluggish bass of the HD650 when plugged in to the DR07, it becomes a bit snappier than usual, though in other hands, if you pair the DR07 with a very fast decay bass IEM / Headphone, lets say a planar unit, the bass might come as a bit too snappy and short decayed.
Midrange : Neutrality
The DR07 doesn't add anything to the midrange, in other words, it sounds “transparent” and honest.
It doesn't add extra note weight to the sound either, so I guess for some people the DR07 actually can be sound a bit analytical rather than having more emotions and musicality.
Treble : Extended and Airy
It looks like the DR07 has some kind of highlight on the treble section, tested using my HD650, the HD650 darker treble seems to be getting brighter a bit, not by much but its noticeable.
The decay of treble is somewhat accented as well, it sounds longer than usual, so it gives extra sense of details.
Technicality
Very Good for $170
Stage : Very Good
Reasonably Wide.
It makes the HD650 sounds a bit wider lets say compared to my audio interface (Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen), it also has proper stage layering.
Imaging : Very Good
It has no problem rendering holographical information to my HD650, though if you plug lets say a Moondrop Chu 2 as I usually test my imaging, the DR07 will make it sound almost holographical but not quite there yet, but its not 2.5D sounding either.
Separation and Positioning : Very Good
No problem or complaints from me, it has very good separation and positioning due to the fact its tonality is well controlled and more towards analytical one.
Detail Retrieval : Very Good
It has superb treble detail and decay, resolving midrange with normal decay, good bass detail but with a bit shorter decay.
*What I mean by the decay is like very short layer of lingering sounds from your music.
Or in other words, very good treble detail, good midrange detail and above average bass detail.
Conclusion
Do I recommend the FX-Audio- DR07 ?
Absolutely, its one of the better value DAC-AMP combo that you can get on the market right now especially if you're in search for a neutral – analytical sounding DAC-AMP combo.
You get a lot from $170 USD you spend, you get a well spec components, bluetooth functionality, High power output, neutral – analytical sound with very good technicality on board.
Thanks for reaching this far.
Just in case you're Indonesian or understand Bahasa Indonesia, you can watch video version of this review here
-littlenezt.
TLDR version on YouTube: TDLR - FX Audio DR07
The FX Audio DR07 has been sent to me by HifiGo in exchange for the publication of this review. HifiGo have not made any specific comments regarding the review and I will do my best to be as unbiased as possible in my review. One thing that HifiGo do request is that I include purchase links on all platforms that I publish my review on.
The FX Audio DR07 can be found here:
HiFiGo: https://hifigo.com/products/fx-audio-dr07
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1BZB57H/fx+audio+dr07/
Aliexpress: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3256806644435026.html
As always, I do not use affiliate links and the above are no exception.
Intro…
Although I just left links above to the DR07 via HifiGo, the truth is that it will have been added after putting together this review. This is because I have received this device ahead of its release and I am not even sure of when it is going to release. That also means that, while testing and reviewing this device, I have very little information on specifications and I don’t even know the price.
That actually makes reviewing something much more interesting to me, meaning that I can’t use phrases like “in its price range” or “value for money”, even though it does mean that I am not sharing all of the info. But anyway, by the time you read this review, the link will be available above and you can click on it to find out the price and specifications of this device.
So, this review is even more subjective than ever, based solely on my personal use and opinions of the DR07.
As far as FX Audio, I think anyone who checks out audio devices on Amazon will have come across them at some point, they usually make budget friendly devices that are not the cheapest you can get but are reasonably priced for what they offer (again, in this case I don’t know, but I guess it will be the same).
I have used a couple of their amplifiers in the past but haven’t used any of their headphone related products. In the cas of the DR07, it is an all in one device that offers DAC and headphone amplification, with an (unbalanced) analog output that can be used to feed other amplifiers or speakers.
Presentation…
As this is a pre production unit, I can’t really say if the packaging is what you can expect when purchasing the device.
In this case it is a fairly generic white box that does show the FX Audio branding but only shows the model on a sticker that has been added to the side.
Inside the box, there is the device, the bluetooth antenna, the power supply and a remote control. In addition to this, I received a (fairly nice) USB cable packaged separately which is from a different brand.
I am not going to comment on the packaging and presentation as I neither know if it is the retail packaging, nor the price of the device, so the packaging is irrelevant.
Build and aesthetics…
The device is completely made of metal and is fairly generic, all black, except for the front panel.
The front panel feature some white decoration, along with the brand, model and some other text also in white.
The front also features a small LCD screen (blue text on black) that is only really going to be readable from very close. There is a lot of info on such a small screen (which is also pretty bright) and the bottom line is almost impossible to read from more than 50cm away (and I have decent eyesight).
Basically the top line of the screen shows the file format and sample rate in small text, with the bottom line showing the input, volume level and gain level in even smaller text. As this device comes with a remote control, I don’t think that you will be able to see what is on the screen if you are more than an arms length away. It would have been nice if, when changing something from the remote, if the screen changed for the changes to me shown momentarily on the whole screen. It would still be small but much better than how it is now.
On the front we also get the power and input selection button to the left, a small LED idicating MQA when present, 3.5mm and 6.35mm headphone outputs and nice and large (for the size of the device) volume knob that also acts as a push button.
On the back, from left to right, we get a BT antenna, USB input (type B), optical input, digital coax input, optical output, RCA’s for unbalanced analog output and a 12V DC power connection for the included PSU.
The build quality is good but I can’t say I am a fan of the aesthetics. Personally I think that the white accent makes it look cheaper than it would all black (or with a darker highlight colour) but that is just a personal thing. My only real complaint would be with the screen which tries to show too much information on such a small screen. I like having a screen but less info would have been better in my opinion.
Functionality…
As far as connectivity, the bases are covered with digital inputs, with BT, USB, Optical and Coaxial all being present, which is nice. For outputs, the unit is only single ended, which some may not like, but I would much prefer a decent unbalanced output than a mediocre balanced and unbalanced output. One thing I do like is that the DR07 has an optical output, allowing it to be daisy chained to other devices and even used as a digital to digital converter, something that I always like to have available but not many devices include.
On the front of the device we find the power button on the left, which also serves as a select button, allowing us to cycle through the various inputs. At the right of the device we get the volume knob which is also a push button. A quick press of the button will mute or unmute the unit, while a long press will bring up the gain select which is changed between low and high by turning the volume knob. A second long press (while in the gain menu) takes us to the filter selection mode, where there are 6 filters to choose from. A final long push will allow us to choose between both outputs (headphones and preamp) being always active or automatic.
That is about it as far as functionality from the device itself, quite simple.
As far as the remote is concerned, it is a generic remote with the FX Audio logo on it. It offers the same functions as on the device but with dedicated buttons. It is handy to have the remote but I wouldn’t plan on seeing the screen any further away that arms reach.
Sound…
The DR07 implements the AK4493 DAC chip, which is a chip that we have seen around for quite some time. This chip has been common in a lot of decent priced alternatives from quite a few brands over the years and allows the device to decode hi-res PCM and DSD. In this case, FX Audio has also added MQA decoding, something that I am personally not interested in but it is there if you want it.
I am not sure what is being used as far as the amplification stage of the device but it does sound rather clean and offers a sound signature that is going to be considered fairly neutral by most people. I have had it on my desk for a few weeks at the side of the iFi Gryphon and the Fosi SK02 and I have to say it seems noticeably cleaner than the latter and has less warmth than the former. Again, placing it in a fairly neutral spot.
My first plug in were the Koss KPH40, which they usually are, as they live on my desk at work and that is where I usually plug in any device for the first time. My first impressions were that they sounded fairly clean and defined, with more than enough power in low gain for me to listen at levels above my usual listening levels.
I used multiple sets of headphones and IEMs throughout the week and I have to say that the feeling was about the same with all of them. Nothing really seemed to be an issue with the DR07 but nothing really stood out either.
I had no sensation of any of my headphones being exciting on the device, yet I did not feel that anything was wrong either. It provides a neutral sound that just works and doesn’t really add any sort of flavouring of its own.
Conclusion…
I think that the DR07 is a nice simple option for those that just want something that works and covers all the bases. If you are someone who is interested in getting a certain synergy with a certain headphone, then I really haven’t found it to be the case with the headphones and IEMs I have on hand.
However, if you are someone who just wants something that works and not have to worry about it influencing your headphones with anything negative, then the DR07 is a simple device with good connectivity and a very reasonable price.
Zeka
I read somewhere that the DR07 has problems with a clicking sound when switching songs and when changing the bit/sample rate.
Have you noticed this on your device?
Have you noticed this on your device?
https://www.audiophonics.fr/en/dac-with-volume/fx-audio-dr07-p-18675.html