Asus Xonar Essence One Review (w/ Raysonic CD228 & Audeze LCD2)

1. Introduction2. Asus Xonar Essence One3. Setting up the System4. Asus Xonar Essence One (Super High Res Gallery)5. Asus Xonar Essence One Testing6. Closing Thoughts7. View All Pages

The Asus Xonar Essence One is a fantastic product and one that firmly targets an enthusiast audiophile in the market for a new high grade amplifier with the option of controlling their PC sound. It doesn't quite reach the heady heights of our dedicated tube amplifier when tasked with audiophile grade headphones, however to be fair we did place it directly in comparison with a custom made amplifier at more than five times the price.

The build quality is immense, being crafted from high grade aluminum. Every Essence One is tested before shipping, and the team include a detailed list of results from their audio laboratory.

When compared to other soundcards I have tested in recent years, this product is simply in a different league, capable of resolving immensely high levels of detail without sounding harsh. Obviously it needs paired up with quality equipment, but as it was able to drive our flagship Audeze LCD2 headphones there will be no problems with a lesser headset.

I particularly like the option to change the op-amps inside the unit, audiophile users will love the ability to fine tune their audio experience, even if it costs more and takes some time to source the parts. ASUS don't appear to offer additional kits for the Essence One directly, but if you are interested enough then different sounding variations of the op-amps can be bought online.

When factoring in the high grade internal components, such as the toroidal transformer and capacitors with the overall build quality, I was expecting the Xonar Essence One to cost in the region of £500 inc vat. I was surprised to find that it was available in the UK for less than £350 including VAT. It may sound like a lot of cash, but anyone interested in improving their system sound with high grade speakers or headphones will certainly be wise to shortlist the Xonar Essence One.

The Xonar Essence One can be purchased directly from ARIA for £342.84 inc vat.

Pros:

• Very competitive price point considering the versatility and audio quality.
• Built to the highest standards.
• Bass response is immense.
• op-amps can be upgraded.
• mid range is impressive.
• expansive soundstage.

Cons:

• USB sound quality isn't going to showcase this product to the full.
• High end frequencies need controlled by a quality source.
• We would love a luxury model with true balanced headphone output.

Kitguru says: The Essence One offers a lot for the modest asking price. If you take audio seriously then this should be at the top of your list.

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