ASUS has announced yet another member of Xonar audio lineup, the Xonar Essence STU USB external digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier that is based on design and quality of ASUS' Xonar Essence ST/STX sound cards as well as should offer audiophile-grade performance and deliver accessible external controls and USB connectivity.

According to ASUS, the Xonar Essence STU USB DAC and headphone amplifier comes as a result of positive feedback from customers regarding the quality of Xonar Essence ST/STX sound cards. It offer clear, clear and low distortion sound with a 120dB siglan to noise ratio (SNR) thanks to its quality hardware design with balanced PCB layout to minimize component crosstalk and interference, packs strong 600ohm headphone amplifier and features asynchronous USB audio and swappable Op-Amps for DIY sound modification.

Based on Texas Instruments PCM1792A DAC and TPA6120A2 headphone amplifier, the Xonar Essence STU USB DAC also uses audiophile-approved WIMA FKP2 and Nichicon Finegold capacitors for balanced and rich sound. It packs Texas Instruments NS-LME49720 and NS-LM4562NA Op-Amps (or operational amplifiers) fine-tuned by audio engineers and provides room for for three swappable Op-Amps that can be replaced by users.

As far as the ease of use is concerned, the Xonar Essence STU offers readily-accessible controls with dual-volume controls and include stereo RCA out, a 6.3 mm headphone jack, two digital inputs, and auxiliary input.

According to ASUS, the Xonar Essence STU will be available from late October worldwide with an MSRP of US $399.



Source: ASUS.com.