The Xonar Essence STX

Description: The sound experience is described as "organic" and smoother compared to the LME49720 op-amp. The term "musical" is used subjectively, indicating a preference for the dynamics presented. Optimal listening occurs at extra high gain settings. When switching from the LME49720 to the LME49860, a higher volume was initially noted with the LME49720, necessitating a reduction in volume when using the LME49860. There is interest in trying discrete op-amps, although their high cost is a concern that may undermine the purpose of using this sound card. Plans to invest in an amplifier are mentioned, contingent upon finding affordable discrete op-amps priced below $20. The user expresses satisfaction with the combination of the Essence ST sound card and K701 headphones, but seeks a warmer sound with more bass impact. There is an intention to test various op-amps, including the ordered LME49720. The subjective experience includes a preference for a warmer sound profile that is less analytical. Comparisons are made between different op-amp configurations, with the latest combination of 2xLME49860 and LME49720 noted for producing a larger soundstage and increased bass, albeit with a slight loss of tightness in sound. The technical specifications indicate that the LME49860 can handle a maximum voltage of +/- 22V, compared to +/- 17V for the LME49720.

The circuit in question appears to involve an audio amplification system utilizing operational amplifiers (op-amps) to enhance sound quality. The LME49720 and LME49860 op-amps are key components, each contributing distinct sonic characteristics to the audio output. The LME49720 is known for its clarity and precision, while the LME49860 offers a broader voltage range and potentially warmer sound.

In practice, the circuit likely includes a power supply section capable of providing the necessary voltage levels for the op-amps, along with input and output stages designed to interface with audio sources and load devices such as headphones or speakers. The extra high gain settings suggest the presence of adjustable gain stages, which may involve feedback resistors configured to optimize performance based on the specific op-amp in use.

The exploration of discrete op-amps indicates an interest in further improving audio fidelity, which may involve replacing the integrated op-amps with custom-built alternatives. This approach can yield unique sound profiles but comes with higher costs and complexity.

The feedback and gain configurations are essential in determining the overall sound quality, with different combinations of op-amps influencing parameters such as dynamic range, warmth, and bass response. The pursuit of an optimal listening experience is evident in the experimentation with various op-amp pairs, highlighting the subjective nature of audio preferences.

Overall, the circuit design reflects a nuanced understanding of audio amplification, where component choice and configuration play critical roles in shaping the final sound output.This is where the fun begin - the sound is hmm. "organic". Everything seems to smooth a bit compare to LME49720, a very subjective word. "musical" Also I hear more dynamics. Listening is best at extra high gain. Upon switching from LME49720, I actually hear a high volume on LME49720 and had to tone down, and switch to high gain for LME49860. Howe ver lately I have switched back to extra high gain. I would be very interested in trying out discrete OP-AMP, but they are overly expensive, and defeat purpose of going for this sound card (PRICE!). If I invest in an AMP (which I`m planing to do), I might. However if any can find cheaper discrete OP-AMP below 20ish do let me know :) I would be very interested in trying out discrete OP-AMP, but they are overly expensive, and defeat purpose of going for this sound card (PRICE!).

If I invest in an AMP (which I`m planing to do), I might. However if any can find cheaper discrete OP-AMP below 20ish do let me know :) Nice "review"! I`m basically in the same situation as you, I have a pair of K701 that I run straight out of my Essence ST and I`mplanning oneventually buying an external amp since I feel as if the Xonar`s amp isn`t really doing the K701justice. I do think theEssence+K701-combosounds amazing, but I would like a littlewarmer/softer sound and a bit more bassimpact.

Before I buy an external ampthough, I`m also gonna tryout some different op-amps :) I`ve ordered a pair of LME49720 that I`m eager to test :)Hopefully they`ll be arriving tomorrow! This is where the fun begin - the sound is hmm. "organic". Everything seems to smooth a bit compare to LME49720, a very subjective word. "musical" Also I hear more dynamics. Listening is best at extra high gain. Upon switching from LME49720, I actually hear a high volume on LME49720 and had to tone down, and switch to high gain for LME49860.

However lately I have switched back to extra high gain. I would be very interested in trying out discrete OP-AMP, but they are overly expensive, and defeat purpose of going for this sound card (PRICE!). If I invest in an AMP (which I`m planing to do), I might. However if any can find cheaper discrete OP-AMP below 20ish do let me know :) This is where the fun begin - the sound is hmm.

"organic". Everything seems to smooth a bit compare to LME49720, a very subjective word. "musical" Also I hear more dynamics. My thoughts exactly. They seem a little warmer, a little less analytical sounding. Wasn`t sure if it was just placebo or not. Some say that there shouldn`t be any audible difference between the two. I preferred their sound to that of LME49720s, coupled with LM6172 in buffer. I`m trying out a different combo now, 2xLME49860 + LME49720. To my ears, it actually sounds much better than the previous combinations, bigger soundstage and, surprisingly, more bass, though it kind of seems a little less, umm, tight well, technically, the LME49860NA is quite the same like the 49720NA, the only difference is that the -860NA covers +/- 22 V max, and the -720NA +/- 17 Volts.