Hey there PA fam. Today we’re looking at something a little different, the FX-Audio D2160 Full digital amplifier and DAC. This is a really versatile unit that is absolutely loaded with features. It has multiple input options including Bluetooth with
FX-Audio website: http://www.szfxaudio.com/
- Excellent build quality
- Energetic and powerful presentation
- Solid bass and expressive midrange
- Multiple input options including Bluetooth
- With 99 volume steps it can take a long time to adjust using the dial
Buy on:
Specifications
INPUT: Bluetooth 4.2/PC-USB/OPTICAL/COAXIAL/ANALOG AUDIO LR
OUTPUT: Banana plug/6.35mm output
USB: USB2.0
USB sampling rate: 16Bit 44.1 kHz-192 kHz/24Bit 44.1 kHz-192 kHz
OPTICAL sampling rate: 16Bit 44.1 kHz-192 kHz/24Bit 44.1 kHz-192 kHz
COAXIAL sampling rate: 16Bit 44.1 kHz-192 kHz/24Bit 44.1 kHz-192 kHz
Bluetooth performance: aptX,aptX Low Latency,SBC and AAC
AUX ANALOG AUDIO: 24Bit 48kHz sampling rate
VOLUME RANGE: 0-99
MACHINE GAIN: L–Low gain 36dB H–High gain 48dB
EQ MODEL: 6
DC POWER: 36V,
POWER OUTPUT: 4Ω 150W+150W
SNR: 105dB
DISTORTION RATE: 0.04%
Frequency Response:20Hz-20kHz
Headphone amp power output: 32Ω 60mW
Headphone amp SNR:93dB
Headphone amp distortion rate:0.02%
Headphone amp frequency response:20Hz-20kHz
Power waste:1-150 W
Headphone amp power waste:3.5W
Size:23.817.34.2 cm
Net weight:1.8kg
Gross weight:2.7kg
This product was provided for the purpose of an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.
Package and Accessories
Just like all of the FX-Audio products, the D2160 comes in an unbleached brown cardboard box with black text on the top. The text contains a product description but not the model number and the FX-Audio slogan: “Your Music Dream!”
Inside the box we find everything secured in a white protective foam inlay. Let’s take a look at what’s inside.
- D2160 power amplifier
- Power brick
- Bluetooth antenna
- USB Data cable
- Remote control
- User manual and warranty
Build Quality and Design
The FX-Audio D2160 has a very robust brushed aluminium alloy chassis with a smooth glossy finish. Running down each side is a series of metal fins that act as a passive heat-sink to dissipate heat.
On the underside are 4 rubber feet that protect the surface the device is placed on and raise the unit allowing for increased airflow. I should mention that even after prolonged use the chassis stayed very cool.
On the front panel (from left to right)
The rear panel contains (from left to right): Bluetooth antenna, USB input, Optical input, Coaxial input, RCA input, Speaker outputs and dual Power jacks (24V-36V).
Internals and Features
The FX-Audio D2160 is based on a TAS5614 amplification chip, allowing the unit to provide 2x65W at 8Ω or 2x125W at 4Ω with
A Maxim MAX9722 amplification chip is in charge of headphone amplification and can deliver 60mW at 32Ω. The headphone SNR is -93dB with a THD of 0.02%. For the USB input, there is a Cmedia CM6642 chip while the TOSLINK and coaxial utilize an AKM AK4118.
The FX-Audio D2160 offers bass and treble tone controls, as well as several EQ presets, loudness setting, plus low and high gain modes.
Another interesting feature is the dual DC inputs. You can use two power supply’s simultaneously, allowing for a more stable current and improved performance.
Bluetooth – Sit back and relax
One thing that makes the D2160 really exciting is its Bluetooth functionality. The Qualcomm CSR 64215 provides Bluetooth 4.2 support so you can easily pair with a smartphone, tablet or DAP. I found this a great way to stream Spotify using aptX from my Android smartphone.
Remote Control
It would be kinda silly to have Bluetooth if you had to get up to change the volume or adjust the tone settings. Fortunately, the D2160 comes with a fully functional remote that covers all volume, tone, input and EQ controls.
Sound
Don’t let the modest price of the D2160 fool you. Once you start listening you’ll quickly realize that FX-Audio has some talented engineers on their payroll.
The D2160 is perfectly at home driving the ELAC Debut B6 bookshelf speakers. It takes full advantage of their powerful low end, bringing out their best while maintaining steady control. At the same time, it brings my old Sony SS-W280 speakers to life with a liveliness that I didn’t know they were capable of.
This FX-Audio FDA has an engaging and natural tonality. It provides a clear midrange and an open and airy treble that doesn’t show any signs of aggression.
First of all, I’d recommend selecting the Source Direct option which will bypass the tone controls and give you the most natural, cleaner and transparent sound. While we’re at it, check to make sure that the EQ is set to Normal. Now you can get a proper idea of what the amplifier sounds like and you can choose to utilize the tone and/or EQ options later if desired.
Playing through Porcupine Tree’s ‘ “Trains”, the D2160 surprises with it’s dynamic and balanced presentation. It has a great sense of rhythm and drive and faithfully conveys the songs’ energy.
The D2160 can be subtle too. In songs like “J’ai Fait Une Promesse” from Anathema’s Falling Deeper album, the FX-Audio maintains self-assurance and control while faithfully reproducing all the small nuances in the track.
Conclusion
The D2160 is a super versatile device that can transport your existing speakers into the new digital landscape that we live in. Its multiple input options and solid Bluetooth connectivity ensure that it can easily fit into your current ecosystem or be the foundation of a brand new one. For its strong performance and low cost, the FX-Audio D2160 is easily worthy of our recommendation.