Monolith by Monoprice Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and DAC with THX AAA Technology (Dual AKM 4493 DACs & Dual AAA-788 Modules)
Product # 24459
$499.99
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$499.19
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Browse 152 questions
Browse 152 questions
and 172 answers
When using USB input, why does unit always display 48KHz regardless of source?
A shopper
on May 29, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Not sure about Macs, but for Windows, make sure to install the provided XMOS driver from the product page, check that you have the latest firmware, and most importantly, in the Device Properties window Advanced tab, make sure to enable both boxes regarding Exclusive Mode so WASAPI compatible software can enforce the correct output to match the source. And some apps (Tidal) need you to dig into their settings to enable using exclusive mode.
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- Jeff Q on May 29, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 5, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Not sure about Macs, but for Windows, make sure to install the provided XMOS driver from the product page, check that you have the latest firmware, and most importantly, in the Device Properties window Advanced tab, make sure to enable both boxes regarding Exclusive Mode so WASAPI compatible software can enforce the correct output to match the source. And some apps (Tidal) need you to dig into their settings to enable using exclusive mode.
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- Jeff Q on May 29, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 5, 2019
The amp/dac can output at least 192khz I believe. I had the same issue so I had to go to sounds-> thx aaa amp/dac-> right click-> properties-> then you can select the bitrate/samplerate you want your PC to output to the amp/dac. When I'm outputting via Tidal it displays 192khz and outputting via foobar will the sample rate of the file matches the display. Also you may need to update the firmware of the amp/dac if you're still having issues.
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- Robert Q on May 29, 2019
- Purchased on May 5, 2019
Right-click the Speaker icon in your system tray and click Playback devices.
Select the XMOS XHRA-2HPA speaker, then click Properties.
Click the Advanced tab.
Click the drop-down and it will show you the sample rate and bit depths options
Select the XMOS XHRA-2HPA speaker, then click Properties.
Click the Advanced tab.
Click the drop-down and it will show you the sample rate and bit depths options
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- Hugo D on May 31, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 14, 2019
For Mac I use Bit Perfect as recommended by Paul McGowan of PS Audio. Look for the PS Audio guide “How to Build a Music Server”.
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- Matt M on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 9, 2019
I don’t have this issue. Could be your sources only output that bitrate. On my windows pc I have mine set to 192k
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- Chris T on May 29, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 12, 2019
What computer (MAC/Windows) are you using and then what program are you using? (Tidal, Spotify...)
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- Inaccurate
- New User U on May 29, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 8, 2019
Windows 10, either the included Groove Music or Foobar 2000. Flac and MP3 files. Downloaded the xmos USB driver from here, it and the hardware always display 48KHz.
Not sure where my first reply went, but I am using windows 10, playing flac and mp3 files on the included groove music or foobar 2000.
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what's the output impedance of this amp?
A shopper
on Sep 24, 2017
Output impedance of AAA-788 is very low! It's less than 0.05 Ohms at 1 kHz.
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- Andrew M on Sep 21, 2018
Staff - it seems that you answered the supported headphone impedance, but what most of us want to know is the actual output impedance of the headphone out on this unit. Will it be below 1ohm so we can use it with more sensitive IEMS and the like?
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- Nick B on Dec 29, 2017
Output impedance is 1.3 ohms on 1/4 jack. This just got reviewed on May 6, 2019 at ASR and it is pretty.
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- New User U on May 7, 2019
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Does this unit work with iOS devices with lightning connectors, like iPad Pro and iPhone?
New User U
on Jun 8, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you need a usb ios lightning to USB adapter also known as "Lightning To USB Camera Adapter Cable With USB Power Interface White For iPhone 8/8Plus/7/7Plus/6/6S/6Plus and iPad" I can't link you directly of course.
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- Artis H on May 12, 2020
- Purchased on May 6, 2020
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you need a usb ios lightning to USB adapter also known as "Lightning To USB Camera Adapter Cable With USB Power Interface White For iPhone 8/8Plus/7/7Plus/6/6S/6Plus and iPad" I can't link you directly of course.
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- Artis H on May 12, 2020
- Purchased on May 6, 2020
like most USB DAC's this has USB B input on the back. I have never seen a USB B to lightning cord. so its going to be difficult at best
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- matthew c on Jun 8, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 16, 2019
In order to work with IOS device you would need to connect via lightning connector to USB b cable or a USB interface.
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- david s on Jun 9, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 28, 2019
Only if you use an adapter to convert the signal to optical or USB then use a USB A to B connector.
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- Jason W on Jun 8, 2019
- Purchased on Feb 7, 2019
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Are there gain or impedance levels on this? If so how do you switch between them? I do not see it in the menu settings or the manual.
Michael G
on Jul 30, 2019
BEST ANSWER: No there are not gain settings. I have read some report there is slight noise with very sensitive IEMs; some have solved this grounding the case; some with impedance cables - which largely provide the same as a gain switch. I use mine with full-size headphones of mixed sensitives as well as a pre-amp and it is black as black for me but I don't have anything extremely sensitive.
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- New User U on Jul 31, 2019
- Purchased on Feb 26, 2019
BEST ANSWER: No there are not gain settings. I have read some report there is slight noise with very sensitive IEMs; some have solved this grounding the case; some with impedance cables - which largely provide the same as a gain switch. I use mine with full-size headphones of mixed sensitives as well as a pre-amp and it is black as black for me but I don't have anything extremely sensitive.
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- New User U on Jul 31, 2019
- Purchased on Feb 26, 2019
No, there are not. You just turn the gain up or down depending on your headphones until the volume is good for you.
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- Mark D on Jul 30, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 5, 2019
There are no gain or impedance levels. There is just a volume control.
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- Nathan A on Jul 30, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 16, 2019
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My unit came with firmware 1.04 pre-installed. But the latest firmware listed on the product page is 1.03. should I update to that?
A shopper
on Oct 18, 2019
BEST ANSWER: I would not "update" it if it came with a higher version. Mine came with 1.01 and I did the update.
According to the official changelogs posted, all 1.03 does is fix an issue with the phase of the back outputs.
As 1.04 is higher than that, I would expect it to include those fixes.
According to the official changelogs posted, all 1.03 does is fix an issue with the phase of the back outputs.
As 1.04 is higher than that, I would expect it to include those fixes.
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- Mark D on Oct 18, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 5, 2019
BEST ANSWER: I would not "update" it if it came with a higher version. Mine came with 1.01 and I did the update.
According to the official changelogs posted, all 1.03 does is fix an issue with the phase of the back outputs.
As 1.04 is higher than that, I would expect it to include those fixes.
According to the official changelogs posted, all 1.03 does is fix an issue with the phase of the back outputs.
As 1.04 is higher than that, I would expect it to include those fixes.
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- Mark D on Oct 18, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 5, 2019
why would you update to an older version? If I were you I would stick with the 1.04. Unless you are having issues, then contact customer support.
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- VIKRANT S on Oct 18, 2019
- Purchased on Feb 26, 2019
Definitely not, stick with 1.04. If you're curious about the changes, I would contact Monoprice directly.
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- New User U on Oct 18, 2019
- Purchased on Nov 16, 2018
I would keep 1.04, it will likely show up on the product page soon. Your unit was updated in production
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- New User U on Oct 19, 2019
- Purchased on Feb 26, 2019
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What is the difference between this item and https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=39359 ?
Gleb K
on Apr 7, 2020
BEST ANSWER: This includes a DAC. The other does not. If you are using balanced headphones this would be an all in one solution for you for a fully balanced DAC and AMP combo.
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- Matt M on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 9, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This includes a DAC. The other does not. If you are using balanced headphones this would be an all in one solution for you for a fully balanced DAC and AMP combo.
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- Matt M on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 9, 2019
The unit you linked is just an amplifier. It does not have a DAC. it has no USB and no Toslink/SPDIF inputs, just analog RCA and XLR inputs
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- Sam T on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 29, 2019
one is just a headphone amplifier and other is a headphone amplifier with DAC
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- tak w h on Apr 7, 2020
- Purchased on Apr 26, 2019
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will this need to install a driver to use the usb input?
A shopper
on Oct 29, 2017
BEST ANSWER: After scouring the internet for compatible xmos drivers for ASIO DSD playback, I found Thesycon trial drivers that worked, but after 30 min it starts playing a test tone every min. The only way I can stream using ASIO through the DAC is using Asio4All. It fakes a driver so your player can grab it for ASIO output. This is how I get DSD streaming, but it only works for DSD64, but not 128, probably because of bandwidth constraints.
So the standard Windows USB driver works for all PCM by DirectSound, but switching output to WASAPI doesn't properly send DSD.. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but as far as i can tell, WASAPI and ASIO outputs need dedicated Drivers provided by the manufacturer to stream DSD to the DAC.
So the standard Windows USB driver works for all PCM by DirectSound, but switching output to WASAPI doesn't properly send DSD.. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but as far as i can tell, WASAPI and ASIO outputs need dedicated Drivers provided by the manufacturer to stream DSD to the DAC.
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- Justin D on Jan 2, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 6, 2018
BEST ANSWER: After scouring the internet for compatible xmos drivers for ASIO DSD playback, I found Thesycon trial drivers that worked, but after 30 min it starts playing a test tone every min. The only way I can stream using ASIO through the DAC is using Asio4All. It fakes a driver so your player can grab it for ASIO output. This is how I get DSD streaming, but it only works for DSD64, but not 128, probably because of bandwidth constraints.
So the standard Windows USB driver works for all PCM by DirectSound, but switching output to WASAPI doesn't properly send DSD.. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but as far as i can tell, WASAPI and ASIO outputs need dedicated Drivers provided by the manufacturer to stream DSD to the DAC.
So the standard Windows USB driver works for all PCM by DirectSound, but switching output to WASAPI doesn't properly send DSD.. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but as far as i can tell, WASAPI and ASIO outputs need dedicated Drivers provided by the manufacturer to stream DSD to the DAC.
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- Justin D on Jan 2, 2019
- Purchased on Dec 6, 2018
For Macs you should not need one but Windows will likely require one to take full advantage of the high resolution formats. It is my understanding that The newest Creators Edition of Windows 10 includes an updated USB 2 driver that supports resolutions higher than 96Khz but I'm not sure of the extent of that support.,
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- George N on Dec 16, 2017
Come on!!! Somebody could tell me if this monoprice thx support NATIVE DSD or convert to PCM? I want to buy this tomorrow but i HAVE to know that before!! Please somebody tell me. I will use this with my macbook and audirvana plus. I have a lot of DSD files and that is the reason because is very important to me know the native dsd support!
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- New User U on Mar 28, 2019
For Windows: PCM you need no driver. For DSD64 or 128 you need the included driver in the product page.
For Android: no driver is required for PCM nor DSD, is great, plug and play.
For Macs I do not know.
For Android: no driver is required for PCM nor DSD, is great, plug and play.
For Macs I do not know.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Mar 31, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
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Will this have a full hardware decoder for MQA?
A shopper
on Dec 12, 2017
BEST ANSWER: It will not. It will, however, have an AKM 4493 DAC. Brand new DAC from AKM.
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- New User U Staff on Dec 12, 2017
BEST ANSWER: It will not. It will, however, have an AKM 4493 DAC. Brand new DAC from AKM.
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- New User U Staff on Dec 12, 2017
interesting that's a deal breaker when there are better formats that the DAC recognizes
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- New User U on Nov 21, 2018
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How is the dirac sensaround? How is it different from not turned on?
New User U
on Nov 21, 2018
Monolith by Monoprice Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and DAC with THX AAA Technology (Dual AKM 4493 DACs & Dual AAA-788 Modules)
Monolith by Monoprice Portable Headphone Amplifier and DAC with THX AAA Technology
BEST ANSWER: I think it is pretty subjective, and the effect definitely varies by track. This is why we left it as an option to be on or off. When it is off, you are just getting the pure, unaltered sound you would get if Dirac wasn't inside.
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- New User U Staff on Nov 21, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I think it is pretty subjective, and the effect definitely varies by track. This is why we left it as an option to be on or off. When it is off, you are just getting the pure, unaltered sound you would get if Dirac wasn't inside.
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- New User U Staff on Nov 21, 2018
Dirac sensaround blew me away by how good it is. It definitely is not a gimmick. It makes headphones transparent, you don’t hear left and right, just the music. Closed headphones sound better than open. My open Elears sounds the best with sensaround. It just makes them sound effortless. The biggest improvement was on my IMR R1’s, it made them sound like speakers.
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- Todd W on Nov 21, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 5, 2018
Some songs, its wonderful. Some songs -- its not wonderful. You'll be constantly turning it on and off depending on the music/genre and recording.
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- Anthony N on Nov 26, 2018
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Is the front panel display VFD or LED?
A shopper
on Dec 4, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I believe it is an LCD. Does not have th classic 7 segment numerical representation. With that said, the color choice sure makes it look like a vfd.
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- Alex Z on Dec 4, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 16, 2018
BEST ANSWER: I believe it is an LCD. Does not have th classic 7 segment numerical representation. With that said, the color choice sure makes it look like a vfd.
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- Alex Z on Dec 4, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 16, 2018
I would assume LCD, not LED but that is a bit harder to tell. The display is definitely not VFD.
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- Ian W on Dec 5, 2018
- Purchased on Nov 16, 2018
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I ran my optical cable from my Marantz CD to the Monolith Amp but getting no sound. Is there something I need to set on the amplifier from the menu that I have overlooked?
A shopper
on Feb 4, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Please make sure you are using the optical input on the input select screen.
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- New User U Staff on Feb 4, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Please make sure you are using the optical input on the input select screen.
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- New User U Staff on Feb 4, 2019
Hold the Enter [input] button for 2 seconds. Then scroll the volume button counter clockwise until to get to Optical input - Then press Enter [input].
Make sure you have your desired output to Headphones or Lineout - to hear sound.
Make sure you have your desired output to Headphones or Lineout - to hear sound.
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- Tyrone S on Feb 4, 2019
- Purchased on Jan 18, 2019
You have to press and hold the "Enter/Input" button and then select "Optical" for that input to receive audio. If you have already done that I'm not sure what else it could be.
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- Ryan W on Feb 4, 2019
- Purchased on Jan 22, 2019
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Will there be a Balanced XLR headphone cable for the M1060/c in the near future ?
Paul P
on Mar 12, 2019
Monolith by Monoprice Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and DAC with THX AAA Technology (Dual AKM 4493 DACs & Dual AAA-788 Modules)
Monolith by Monoprice M1060C Over Ear Closed Back Planar Magnetic Headphones
Monolith by Monoprice M1060 Planar Headphones with 2.5mm Connectors (Open Box)
BEST ANSWER: This is not being planned at this time.
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- New User U Staff on Mar 25, 2019
BEST ANSWER: This is not being planned at this time.
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- New User U Staff on Mar 25, 2019
I got one from Periapt Cables. They are high quality and affordable
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- Brad B on Mar 12, 2019
I’m seeing a balanced cable on Amazon for the 1060C. In fact, there are both XLR and TRRS cables shown. That may do the trick.
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- Daniel O on Mar 12, 2019
- Purchased on Feb 26, 2019
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If I were to run a separate dedicated DAC with this, will that bypass the DAC functions on this AAA788? Hoping to use this only for its amp functions
A shopper
on Apr 19, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Not sure why you would want to bypass the balanced DAC inside...
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- New User U Staff on Apr 22, 2019
Guys this is not the answer, Can u be more technically on that? If I disable dirac, eq and other staff and connect another dac, what will happen? Will in convert sound from analog to digital?
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- New User U on Jun 6, 2019
Because I am have a $1300 DAC
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- New User U on Nov 7, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Not sure why you would want to bypass the balanced DAC inside...
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- New User U Staff on Apr 22, 2019
Guys this is not the answer, Can u be more technically on that? If I disable dirac, eq and other staff and connect another dac, what will happen? Will in convert sound from analog to digital?
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- New User U on Jun 6, 2019
Because I am have a $1300 DAC
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- New User U on Nov 7, 2019
Yes. You can bypass it. However, when I tried to use it with the SMSL SU8, (which sounded amazing with my Jotunheim) it sounded VERY subpar compared to the internal DAC already in the 788. I don’t know if it was synergy or the chips being that much better but since I’ve tried this, I’ve only used the internal DAC. What DAC would you pair with this?
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- New User U on Apr 19, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 8, 2019
I was going to pair it with my own SMSL SU8 as well! Was planning of pairing the SU8 with the Massdrop 789 but I missed out on the drop AGAIN. So I thought I might as well get this Monoprice instead of waiting forever for the 789. So wouldn't recommend pairing the SU8 with the Monoprice correct? Just use the Monoprice on its own?
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- New User U on Apr 20, 2019
Hi! I am planning to use my SMSL SU8 as well! Was supposed to pair it with a AAA 789 but I missed out on the drop again and I don't want to wait anymore. So you wouldn't recommend pairing the Monoprice with the SU8 right? Just run off the Monoprice on its own?
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- New User U on Apr 20, 2019
Absolutely. You can give it a shot as well when it arrives. I gave it another shot this morning, just to double check. Strongly recommend just running the 788 on it’s own. MUCH MUCH better! Lol
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- New User U on Apr 21, 2019
No but it's really tough to better it's dual AK4473s and DSP. It's 100% digital preamp and only true analog on the output side.
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- New User U on Apr 19, 2019
- Purchased on Feb 26, 2019
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Watched a review and the volume on the unit kept going after the reviewer stopped turning the knob. Has this been addressed? Here is the video I saw the issue in. https://youtu.be/BDtZ5WD8kWM?t=1362
New User U
on May 5, 2019
BEST ANSWER: We are looking into the possibility of this being addressed through firmware. I do not feel it is a showstopping issue though. Would you really turn the volume in that way while listening to headphones? I don't think you would.
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- New User U Staff on May 6, 2019
BEST ANSWER: We are looking into the possibility of this being addressed through firmware. I do not feel it is a showstopping issue though. Would you really turn the volume in that way while listening to headphones? I don't think you would.
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- New User U Staff on May 6, 2019
Unfortunately no, but to me it is not a big deal, just don't scroll the volume to fast. I asked a question to Monoprice regarding adding a 20hz region in the PEQ in a future firmware update. Hopefully they will add this along with fixing the speed of the volume control.
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- Juan G. Vizcarra L on May 5, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 18, 2019
If you turn it normally it works fine, but it's not logarithmic so to make a large change you have to turn it a lot and going fast it lags and keeps going. In my opinion it's the one and only software issue.
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- matthew c on May 5, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 16, 2019
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I have speakers with rca stereo line in. Can you tell me please which connection gives better sound and whats the difference in sound , with cables from rca line out to rca line in cable or from 4 pin balanced out to rca line in ? Thank you!
New User U
on Aug 8, 2019
For speakers I would recommend just using the rca line outs on the back of the unit. Keep in mind this unit is not meant for powering speakers, so make sure you only use this for outputting music to "powered" speakers.
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- Robert Q on Aug 9, 2019
- Purchased on May 5, 2019
No balanced outputs only rca outputs.
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- NORRIS K on Aug 8, 2019
- Purchased on Apr 29, 2019
Front panel have balanced output for headphones it can be used for balanced to rca cable , and as i understand correctly rca out is dac only and front dac and amp!
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- New User U on Aug 8, 2019
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does the Dirac Sensaround mode work when using the analog imputs or only works with the digital ones?
A shopper
on Sep 3, 2017
BEST ANSWER: The Dirac Sensaround will work on both types of inputs.
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- New User U Staff on Nov 28, 2017
BEST ANSWER: The Dirac Sensaround will work on both types of inputs.
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- New User U Staff on Nov 28, 2017
Just a note: DIRAC does not work with DSD input, just PCM.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Mar 29, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
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Does this product not have a pre out or line-level out? Would be nice to use the dac for speakers.
New User U
on Sep 3, 2017
BEST ANSWER: The control panel permits the amplifier output (variable) to be directed either to i) the XLR4 and 1/4" TRS, or ii) to the RCA outputs on the back. In either case it is variable level controlled by the volume knob, so it can function as a preamp for speakers.
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- Andrew M on Sep 21, 2018
BEST ANSWER: The control panel permits the amplifier output (variable) to be directed either to i) the XLR4 and 1/4" TRS, or ii) to the RCA outputs on the back. In either case it is variable level controlled by the volume knob, so it can function as a preamp for speakers.
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- Andrew M on Sep 21, 2018
It does not
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- Noel B on Sep 5, 2017
Due to customer feedback, this will now have unbalanced RCA analog line outs.
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- New User U Staff on Sep 25, 2017
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How big is this amp?
A shopper
on Sep 4, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Full dims will be made available when the product is released.
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- Dave L Staff on May 8, 2018
8.7" x 7.8" x 2.0"
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- New User U on Nov 21, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Full dims will be made available when the product is released.
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- Dave L Staff on May 8, 2018
8.7" x 7.8" x 2.0"
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- New User U on Nov 21, 2018
22x22x5 cm. Including knob.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Mar 29, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
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is this amp compatible with 220v 50Hz?
A shopper
on Sep 4, 2017
Do we need a different power supply for EU/220V? Will any 16.5V 1.25A do?
- Reply (1)
- New User U on Oct 4, 2018
Do we need a different power supply for EU/220V? Will any 16.5V 1.25A do?
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- New User U on Oct 4, 2018
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does it have different gain levels?
A shopper
on Sep 25, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you will be able to set different gain levels.
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- New User U Staff on Sep 26, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Yes, you will be able to set different gain levels.
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- New User U Staff on Sep 26, 2017
AS far as I know from the manual, there is no way of selecting different gain levels. Please correct me if I'm wrong and point me to the manual where this information is exposed.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Mar 29, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
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What are the dimensions?
A shopper
on Oct 23, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Final dimensions are not complete, but it will be relatively compact.
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- New User U Staff on Dec 12, 2017
for example, the Massdrop x THX AAA™ 789 Linear Amplifierwhich seems to be similar is 8.3 x 9.1 x 2.2 in (210 x 230 x 57 mm)
I am just speculating so take this as a grain of salt:
8.3 x 9.1 x 2.2 in (210 x 230 x 57 mm)
8.3 x 9.1 x 2.2 in (210 x 230 x 57 mm)
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- New User U on Jun 9, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Final dimensions are not complete, but it will be relatively compact.
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- Inaccurate
- New User U Staff on Dec 12, 2017
for example, the Massdrop x THX AAA™ 789 Linear Amplifierwhich seems to be similar is 8.3 x 9.1 x 2.2 in (210 x 230 x 57 mm)
I am just speculating so take this as a grain of salt:
8.3 x 9.1 x 2.2 in (210 x 230 x 57 mm)
8.3 x 9.1 x 2.2 in (210 x 230 x 57 mm)
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- New User U on Jun 9, 2018
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Does the volume knob control the analog outputs? ie. Can this function as a preamp for external speakers?
A shopper
on Nov 17, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Yes, the volume knob also controls the analog outputs.
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- New User U Staff on Jan 23, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes, the volume knob also controls the analog outputs.
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- New User U Staff on Jan 23, 2018
If you need balanced output, see above for information on a modification. Please note, this will void the warranty.
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- Andrew M on Sep 21, 2018
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Can we pass SACD DSD to this unit? I was under the impression that this can only be passed via HDMI.
Timothy H
on Nov 22, 2017
BEST ANSWER: Yes and no. You cannot hook up a SACD player to the unit since it does not have an HDMI input. However, anymore the DSD files, formerly only found on SACD's, are available as Hi-rez downloads from quite a few sites and some people have even gone to the considerable trouble of ripping their SACD's, so they have the files on a computer. Once you have the DSD files on a computer, you can play them on this unit via the USB type B input, assuming your player software supports the playing of DSD files (JRiver, for example). Also, if this unit supports DSD over DoP, you could probably use the coaxial digital input, but it is not stated if this unit allows that. This usually only works for 2.8 Mhz DSD files, not the 2X or 4X resolution files as coaxial doesn't have the bandwidth for that.
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- Don D on Jan 30, 2018
You can hook up any SACD player with analogue outputs to the amp and you will have DSD playback. However, this setup bypasses the DAC in the amp so the listener will be dependent upon the player’s DAC for SACD playback.
BEST ANSWER: Yes and no. You cannot hook up a SACD player to the unit since it does not have an HDMI input. However, anymore the DSD files, formerly only found on SACD's, are available as Hi-rez downloads from quite a few sites and some people have even gone to the considerable trouble of ripping their SACD's, so they have the files on a computer. Once you have the DSD files on a computer, you can play them on this unit via the USB type B input, assuming your player software supports the playing of DSD files (JRiver, for example). Also, if this unit supports DSD over DoP, you could probably use the coaxial digital input, but it is not stated if this unit allows that. This usually only works for 2.8 Mhz DSD files, not the 2X or 4X resolution files as coaxial doesn't have the bandwidth for that.
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- Don D on Jan 30, 2018
You can hook up any SACD player with analogue outputs to the amp and you will have DSD playback. However, this setup bypasses the DAC in the amp so the listener will be dependent upon the player’s DAC for SACD playback.
Excuse me. But if i use, for example, audirvana in my macbook (connected by usb to the monoprice), will it recognize the dac like native dsd capable? Or the dsd will be converted to pcm?
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- New User U on Mar 1, 2019
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The picture has the two balanced analog lines labeled as 'analog in', shouldn't that be analog out?
Justin B
on Dec 20, 2017
BEST ANSWER: The unit has balanced inputs, and unbalanced inputs and outputs. You can use the balanced headphone output on the front as a balanced output.
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- New User U Staff on Feb 13, 2018
BEST ANSWER: The unit has balanced inputs, and unbalanced inputs and outputs. You can use the balanced headphone output on the front as a balanced output.
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- New User U Staff on Feb 13, 2018
And with some warranty-voiding simple soldering, it should be pretty straightforward to modify the unit so the two XLR-3 "inputs" become balanced outputs wired internally to the XLR-4 headphone out and controlled by the volume dial. i.e. remove C67, C76, C79, C84 to disconnect XLR3's from the ADC. Then patch wire twisted pairs connecting the two XLR3's pins to XLR-4 pins as follows:
twisted pair 1
L+: XLR3 J2 pin 2 to XLR4 J10 pin 1
L-: XLR3 J2 pin 3 to XLR4 J10 pin 2
twisted pair 2
R+: XLR3 J4 pin 2 to XLR4 J10 pin 3
R-: XLR3 J4 pin 3 to XLR4 J10 pin 4
Each XLR-3 pin 1 is already tied to ground so you can leave that alone. This configuration is a bit better than using the XLR-4 balanced output since the cables will now have grounded shields, and the downstream device will now have shared ground with the 789 product.
twisted pair 1
L+: XLR3 J2 pin 2 to XLR4 J10 pin 1
L-: XLR3 J2 pin 3 to XLR4 J10 pin 2
twisted pair 2
R+: XLR3 J4 pin 2 to XLR4 J10 pin 3
R-: XLR3 J4 pin 3 to XLR4 J10 pin 4
Each XLR-3 pin 1 is already tied to ground so you can leave that alone. This configuration is a bit better than using the XLR-4 balanced output since the cables will now have grounded shields, and the downstream device will now have shared ground with the 789 product.
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- Andrew M on Sep 21, 2018
And the headphone outputs and RCA inputs/outputs will continue to work fine. You just lose balanced analog in capability.
If one were to do this mod, what would the volume and gain need to be set at to get standard line out voltages from the xlr connectors (2vrms, 4vrms, etc.) with minimal noise?
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- New User U on Nov 1, 2018
I'm not confident in my soldering skills to do this myself. Is this something I could take somewhere to have done for a fee? What kind of place would take on a job like this?
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What's the output impedance(not the advertised range of headphone impedance that the amp "supports") of the headphone amp ?
A shopper
on Jan 9, 2018
Monolith by Monoprice Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier and DAC with THX AAA Technology (Dual AKM 4493 DACs & Dual AAA-788 Modules)
Monoprice Desktop Headphone Amplifier
Monolith by Monoprice Tube Headphone Amplifier with ESS Sabre DAC
BEST ANSWER: Desktop HPA is 32Ω. Monolith tube HPA is selectable; 32Ω, 64Ω, 150Ω, 300Ω, & 600Ω
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- Dave L Staff on May 15, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Desktop HPA is 32Ω. Monolith tube HPA is selectable; 32Ω, 64Ω, 150Ω, 300Ω, & 600Ω
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- Dave L Staff on May 15, 2018
Output impedance of AAA-788 is very low! It's less than 0.05 Ohms at 1 kHz.
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- Andrew M on Sep 21, 2018
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You describe the DAC as capable of DSD 11.2MHz, but AMK lists the AK4493EQ as supporting DSD 22.4MHz. Is there a limitation in the way the design has been implemented?
A shopper
on Feb 13, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Specs listed are currently not final and will be updated.
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- New User U Staff on Feb 13, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Specs listed are currently not final and will be updated.
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- New User U Staff on Feb 13, 2018
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OK, so the 788 isn't a true balanced amplifier... but you're putting two in. AND you're putting in two AKM 4493 DACs.
Are you putting two of these in to make it a balanced output? What is the reasoning behind using two of each of these units if the unit won't be balanced? Furthermore, why put a 4-pin XLR connector on the unit if it won't be balanced? You have a lot of clarifying to do Monoprice and I suggest you get someone who actually knows what they're talking about to answer all these questions, because they are not being answered with any clarity.
Are you putting two of these in to make it a balanced output? What is the reasoning behind using two of each of these units if the unit won't be balanced? Furthermore, why put a 4-pin XLR connector on the unit if it won't be balanced? You have a lot of clarifying to do Monoprice and I suggest you get someone who actually knows what they're talking about to answer all these questions, because they are not being answered with any clarity.
Tom T
on Aug 21, 2018
BEST ANSWER: The gentleman that answered is the AAA tech engineer from THX. Obviously, we stand by his answer as we worked extensively with THX in bringing this product to fruition.
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- New User U Staff on Aug 24, 2018
BEST ANSWER: The gentleman that answered is the AAA tech engineer from THX. Obviously, we stand by his answer as we worked extensively with THX in bringing this product to fruition.
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- New User U Staff on Aug 24, 2018
Incorrect. This Monoprice unit is truly balanced in & out. It contains dual THXAAA-788 stereo amplifier modules configured to create a fully balanced bridged stereo output. It also supports TRS unbalanced output.
The XLR-4 is present to permit balanced headphone connection.
The XLR-4 is present to permit balanced headphone connection.
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- Andrew M on Aug 23, 2018
Incorrect? What information do you have? Do you work for Monoprice? Because the only thing I've seen is a staff response that told someone that it was not a truly balanced output (that response seems to be gone now), which prompted this question.
Also, during questioning over at Massdrop for the THX 789, on of the THX team stated that this DAC/AMP would not be truly balanced.
Also, during questioning over at Massdrop for the THX 789, on of the THX team stated that this DAC/AMP would not be truly balanced.
I work for THX and have seen the schematic ;)
The Monoprice desktop XLR-4 output IS truly balanced. There was an early miscommunication about how many 788 amplifiers were going to be included in the design. i.e. having balanced output requires more amplifiers than just single-ended output.
The Monoprice desktop XLR-4 output IS truly balanced. There was an early miscommunication about how many 788 amplifiers were going to be included in the design. i.e. having balanced output requires more amplifiers than just single-ended output.
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Can this dac handle sample rates higher than 192khz over USB?
Shawn M
on Sep 22, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Our THX DAC is compatible with signal up to 768kHz
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- Dave L Staff on Sep 25, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Our THX DAC is compatible with signal up to 768kHz
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- Dave L Staff on Sep 25, 2018
I'm not able, XMOS official driver installed on Windows 10, connected to USB input to go over 24bits/192Khz. Looking at the XMOS-XHRA-2HPA device on Sound Control Panel, the maximun bit rate appears in the combo box is 24 bit, 192.000 Hz.
Please someone from Support can confirm this. Looking at the specs this is ok for SPDIF or Optical inputs, but for USB, according to AK4493 and XMOS Chip should be 32 bit/ 768kHz.
Please someone from Support can confirm this. Looking at the specs this is ok for SPDIF or Optical inputs, but for USB, according to AK4493 and XMOS Chip should be 32 bit/ 768kHz.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Nov 15, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
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what is the output impedance from the single ended input? I need to know if it will be suitable for low impedance iems (16 ohms or less).
A shopper
on Nov 16, 2018
BEST ANSWER: It's roughly 0.6 ohms. If you look at he bottom of the product page, you can download a whole host of measurements we did at the THX labs.
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- New User U Staff on Nov 17, 2018
BEST ANSWER: It's roughly 0.6 ohms. If you look at he bottom of the product page, you can download a whole host of measurements we did at the THX labs.
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- New User U Staff on Nov 17, 2018
It's 0.06 Ohms at 1 kHz (the most common benchmark frequency). It's 0.50 Ohms at 20 kHz. As Hobie says Monoprice has posted our measured graph of Zout vs freq.
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- Andrew M on Nov 29, 2018
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Is a WIndows 7 and Windows 8.X driver available? I know it will work on WIn 10, but my HTPC is WIn 7.
A shopper
on Nov 17, 2018
BEST ANSWER: Yes included in the product support page.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Mar 31, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
BEST ANSWER: Yes included in the product support page.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Mar 31, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
Drivers are available in the product page.
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- Manuel Antonio Gomez M on Mar 29, 2019
- Purchased on Mar 26, 2019
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It's great. But...
I enjoy it. I love the fact that I can connect my Audio Engine A5+ to it and my 6XX headphones. However, when the line out is connected it I lose all sound every once in a while and have to turn off and back on.
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A Game Changer
Super clean with more than enough power for any of my headphones. Big upgrade from any of my previous setups and great for the price. It's a game changer. Using the balanced output with balanced cables makes my sounds a pure treat.
Headphones:
Sennheiser HD 58X
HiFi Man HE 400i
AKG 712 Pro
Focal Elex
Headphones:
Sennheiser HD 58X
HiFi Man HE 400i
AKG 712 Pro
Focal Elex
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Very clean amp/DAC for the price
So I've been using a Valhalla 2 and experimenting with tube rolling. All i know is a tube amp. The Valhalla 2 stock tubes sound like solid state and it sounds great. Then the monolith came into my life...
I hooked it up and changed windows sound settings to ensure I was getting the besf signal possible. The first thing I did was open up the game I always play because that is what I use my setups for. I actually suffered a vertigo spell because of how clear and concise this amp is paired with my HD800S connected by XLR.
The DIRAC mode is interesting and Monoprice could charge more for this unit because of it. It works on some things and no so much on others. Live music is where jt shines as it does a good job simulating a speaker environment.
The included EQ is a nice addition, but I would recommend a seperate stand alone unit if you want to go that route. I use a Loki.
I wish the menu and enter button were on the same side. Maybe something they can work on the next iteration.
I hooked it up and changed windows sound settings to ensure I was getting the besf signal possible. The first thing I did was open up the game I always play because that is what I use my setups for. I actually suffered a vertigo spell because of how clear and concise this amp is paired with my HD800S connected by XLR.
The DIRAC mode is interesting and Monoprice could charge more for this unit because of it. It works on some things and no so much on others. Live music is where jt shines as it does a good job simulating a speaker environment.
The included EQ is a nice addition, but I would recommend a seperate stand alone unit if you want to go that route. I use a Loki.
I wish the menu and enter button were on the same side. Maybe something they can work on the next iteration.
Added May 18, 2020
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Sound = Amazing, unit arrived not 100% functional
This unit shocked me. I expected it to sound good, but the night that I hooked it up, I just could not stop listening. I've even listened again to music/tracks I was'nt into and have picked up new appreciation. Truly fantastic in sound.
I also used it for gaming and it was again, very pleasing compared to the competitor gear it replaced.
The pre out, does not work and I can't find any documentation that says you need to enable it. When removing the headphone in any other amp I have, the pre out to my powered speakers start to play. So, now I need to ship my new favorite toy back.
The menu system, lack of input button and proper on off button are annoying but not deal breakers given how it sounds.
I will update my review once I get a working unit in hand.
I also used it for gaming and it was again, very pleasing compared to the competitor gear it replaced.
The pre out, does not work and I can't find any documentation that says you need to enable it. When removing the headphone in any other amp I have, the pre out to my powered speakers start to play. So, now I need to ship my new favorite toy back.
The menu system, lack of input button and proper on off button are annoying but not deal breakers given how it sounds.
I will update my review once I get a working unit in hand.
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UTTERLY HEADPHONETASTIC!!
I have numerous headphone amps and or headphone amp/dac combos, but nothing as terrific and first rate as my Monoprice. I enjoy the XLR connection but even the unbalanced connection is great.
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Exquisite
Like liquid mercury on black velvet. Is that even a thing? It is now. ...it is now.
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More work than it is worth...
This device sounds very nice! However, every morning I have to power cycle the device so my Mac Mini can detect it and use it for audio output. Once power cycled the menu to change the input selector on the device is quite a pain to navigate through. Which also brings to light why the default input at power cycle is RCA-in instead of USB given this thing has a built in DAC? Additionally, the volume knob needs to be more sensitive as it takes a FOREVER amount of turns to increase or decrease volume. I really wanted to like this thing but after a little time with it I would prefer something that requires less fiddling with to get to work.
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Outstanding, neutral DAC and amp
I've had my Monolith for a few months now, and have used it for gaming, home theater (as a preamp for a Pioneer Elite VSX-44), and music.
The DAC stage is incredibly neutral, detailed, and is everything you could want in a neutral, fully balanced DAC stage. It is WAY better than the Texas Instruments Aureus DAC that's in my AVR.
The amp stage has gobs of power, and I have yet to hear any distortion, unless I have the volume up WAY too loud...
As a gaming DAC (Xbox One X optical out, Dolby Atmos surround emulation enabled), the Monolith is unrivalled. With a good set of cans (such as the HE-4XX or the Meze 99 Noir) you get an incredible, very close to real life experience.
My only complaints are that they use an abysmal, giant plug on the power cable (annoying when you have tons of stuff on your PSU), and there's no remote control (more of a concern if you're using it as a home theater DAC).
The DAC stage is incredibly neutral, detailed, and is everything you could want in a neutral, fully balanced DAC stage. It is WAY better than the Texas Instruments Aureus DAC that's in my AVR.
The amp stage has gobs of power, and I have yet to hear any distortion, unless I have the volume up WAY too loud...
As a gaming DAC (Xbox One X optical out, Dolby Atmos surround emulation enabled), the Monolith is unrivalled. With a good set of cans (such as the HE-4XX or the Meze 99 Noir) you get an incredible, very close to real life experience.
My only complaints are that they use an abysmal, giant plug on the power cable (annoying when you have tons of stuff on your PSU), and there's no remote control (more of a concern if you're using it as a home theater DAC).
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January 26, 2020
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Works Very Well as a Pre-Amp
Part of a primarily Monolith System: Amazon Ultra HD music streaming from a Chromecast Audio via Monolith S/PDIF Toslink to a Monolith by Monoprice Desktop Balanced Headphone Amplifier used as a DAC and pre-amp/EQ, to the 2x200w Monolith amp, which feeds Klipsch Chorus speakers and a Monolith M12-S subwoofer via Monolith RCA cables.
Added Jan 19, 2020
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Loving It
I bought mine through amazon (Monoprice is the seller) because it has been out of stock here at the main Monoprice website for quite a while now.
So far I am very happy with this DAC/AMP. THX provides the most transparent and clean sound I have ever heard.
And I love the Dirac sound too. If you like listening to live classical music played by orchestra, and you have a pair of headphone that produce relatively precise soudstage (I have DT 1990 and Mrspeakers Ether CX), you would find Dirac particularly amazing. I can hear the vocal/lead instrument/string instruments at the front , flutes and bassoons kinda in the middle, while percussions coming from the back. This is pretty amazing.
So far I am very happy with this DAC/AMP. THX provides the most transparent and clean sound I have ever heard.
And I love the Dirac sound too. If you like listening to live classical music played by orchestra, and you have a pair of headphone that produce relatively precise soudstage (I have DT 1990 and Mrspeakers Ether CX), you would find Dirac particularly amazing. I can hear the vocal/lead instrument/string instruments at the front , flutes and bassoons kinda in the middle, while percussions coming from the back. This is pretty amazing.
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July 9, 2019
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