EVERSOLO DMP-A8 Music Streamer Review High-Quality DAC and Preamp for Audiophiles

Description

An All-In-One Audio Solution with Impressive Versatility

The EVERSOLO DMP-A8 Music Streamer provides an integrated solution for audiophiles who seek a compact yet powerful device. Serving as a music streamer, DAP, DAC, and preamp, this device packs a punch in terms of functionality. I was immediately impressed by its sleek design, featuring a 6-inch LCD color touchscreen that makes navigation a breeze. While testing it, I found the exclusive mobile app for both Android and iOS to be another excellent feature, as it allowed for seamless control straight from my phone. With its ability to support multiple roles, this device became an integral part of my audio setup.

Positives

The benefits of the EVERSOLO DMP-A8 are numerous, and several aspects stood out during my time using it:

• Multi-role functionality: It effortlessly combines the roles of a streamer, DAP, DAC, and preamp, saving space and reducing the need for multiple devices.
• High-resolution music services: It integrates with Amazon Music, TIDAL, Qobuz, and HIRESAUDIO, offering a wide array of high-quality streaming options.
• User-friendly interface: The large touchscreen display and mobile app make operation smooth and intuitive.
• Wireless music streaming: Features like TIDAL Connect and DLNA support make it easy to play music from various devices.
• Customizable VU meters and spectrums: These add a personal touch, catering to audiophiles who enjoy monitoring their audio.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the DMP-A8 feels premium from the moment you unbox it. Its compact yet robust build ensures durability while maintaining a modern aesthetic that complements any audio setup. The 15.28 x 9.77 x 3.55-inch dimensions make it manageable to place on my desk or entertainment center without feeling crowded. At 10.96 pounds, it strikes a balance between being sturdy and portable. The UV meters and spectrum analyzer not only look great but also provide valuable real-time feedback on audio performance. I particularly enjoyed how the analog preamp outputs, available in both RCA and XLR formats, made pairing it with my active speakers straightforward.

Performance and Features

This device is a powerhouse in terms of performance. I tested its digital audio conversion capabilities, and it supports PCM up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD512 for immaculate audio reproduction. The sound was crystal-clear, with an impressive depth that brought out nuances I hadn’t noticed in my favorite tracks before. The wide range of digital inputs—including two coaxial, two optical, ARC input, and USB-B—ensures that it works with practically any setup. During testing, I found the HD Bluetooth audio input particularly useful when streaming directly from my phone. The trigger out port was another handy feature, allowing me to link it seamlessly with my power amplifier system.

Negatives

Despite its many strengths, there are caveats to consider:

• Price point: While it offers excellent features, the price may deter casual users who don’t require such advanced capabilities.
• Learning curve: The sheer number of features can be overwhelming for those new to high-end audio equipment.
• Limited coaxial/optical outputs: These are unavailable when using the digital inputs, which may limit certain configurations.

Competing Brands

When comparing this device to other options in the market, such as the Cambridge Audio CXN V2 or the Bluesound NODE, some clear differences emerge. The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 boasts a slightly more polished interface but lacks the customizable VU meters that the DMP-A8 offers. Bluesound NODE, on the other hand, is known for its ease of use and affordability but doesn’t reach the same level of audio fidelity or support for high-resolution formats. What sets the DMP-A8 apart is its ability to act as a preamp with analog inputs, which neither competitor offers to the same extent.

The combination of versatility and performance makes the DMP-A8 a standout choice for audiophiles, though it’s worth noting that it requires a bit more effort to fully utilize its potential compared to some plug-and-play alternatives.

Cost-Effectiveness

Evaluating the price-to-quality ratio, the DMP-A8 positions itself as a worthy investment for serious audiophiles. While the initial cost might seem steep, the combination of features—from high-resolution streaming to its analog gain preamp—justifies the price for those who value audio excellence. Compared to assembling separate components for streaming, DAC, and preamp functionality, this device provides economical yet premium performance in one package. For individuals looking to elevate their home audio setup, it delivers true value by consolidating multiple roles into a single, elegant device.

Additional information