Synergy
Power/Efficiency
The xDuoo DM-01 is a capable little desktop tube DAC/AMP that delivers a robust 1500 mW output power at 32Ω through its 6.35mm single-ended headphone jack.
This power output ensures that even high-impedance full-sized dynamic headphones can be driven effectively.
The DM-01 was also able to effortlessly drive my 300Ω Sennheiser HD 580 to listenable levels while preserving full extension and sound stage. It was able to drive my Audio Technica R70x to my preferred listening volume as well, with no issues whatsoever.
Pairings
The xDuoo DM-01 shines when paired with full-sized headphones that benefit from a slightly warmer sound signature without sacrificing resolution and treble energy.
During my testing, I found that the DM-01 complemented the Audio-Technica R70X and HD580 precision quite well.
This pairing felt intuitive, as I’ve always found these two high-impedance dynamic driver headphones perform best with warmer sources like my xDuoo MT-602 hybrid tube amplifier or the FiiO K11 R2R.
The DM-01’s subtle warmth added a welcome sense of weight to the R70X’s sound without compromising its excellent soundstage and imaging.
Unfortunately, I found that the DM-01 did not pair well with more sensitive IEMs. Upon plugging in my Moondrop Blessing 3 to the DM-01’s 6.35mm output, I immediately heard a loud hissing and buzzing that rendered all music playback fuzzy.
Select Comparisons
xDuoo MT-602
Since the MT-602 is only a dedicated headphone amplifier, I paired it with the SMSL SU-1 for this comparison.
Technical
The MT-602 is a dedicated hybrid tube amp utilizing a pair of 6J1 preamp tubes and a transistor-based power section, while the DM-01 integrates a 12AU7 tube stage with a digital DAC section that supports up to 24-bit/384kHz PCM and Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC, aptX, and AAC codecs.
The DM-01 delivers a more substantial 1500mW @32Ω via its 6.35mm output, whereas the MT-602 provides up to 1300mW @32Ω.
Both can drive full-sized headphones effectively, but the DM-01’s built-in DAC and wireless capability make it more versatile out of the box.
While the MT-602 requires a separate DAC, it offers a more hands-on experience for users looking to tailor their setup piece by piece.
The DM-01, on the other hand, is a more integrated solution with onboard digital inputs (USB, coaxial, optical) and a line out for preamp use—ideal for desktop listeners seeking convenience and warm tonality in a single device.
Design
The MT-602 features a utilitarian look with a compact metal chassis, exposed tubes placed at the top, and a straightforward layout with a single volume knob and power switch on the front. It’s designed for functionality and minimal desk footprint, giving off a classic no-nonsense amplifier vibe.
The DM-01 embraces a more playful and futuristic design inspired by retro robots and circuit boards.
Its taller aluminum chassis is adorned with embossed lines reminiscent of PCB traces, complemented by an eye-catching teal finish that adds personality without overwhelming the look.
The MT-602 is lighter and more compact, making it easier to stack or tuck into smaller setups. Meanwhile, the DM-01 is noticeably taller, drawing more visual attention with its bold, sci-fi-inspired motif.
Performance
The xDuoo MT-602 paired with a DAC like the SU-1 delivers a fuller and more traditional “tube-like” presentation than the DM-01.
The bass response on the MT-602 leans heavier, with a stronger sub-bass and mid-bass impact. This gives bass kicks and guitar riffs a thicker, more pronounced presence.
In comparison, the DM-01 has a lighter sub-bass presentation and shifts its emphasis slightly toward the mid-bass region, giving it a more laid-back but still textured bass character.
The DM-01 edges ahead with a bit more energy and clarity. Snare hits and hi-hats sound crisper and more forward compared to the MT-602’s softer, more smoothed-over delivery.
The MT-602 tends to mellow out sharp transients, which can be more forgiving on bright or fatiguing tracks but may reduce perceived detail in fast-paced or complex mixes.
Midrange performance between the two also differs subtly. The MT-602, with its warmer tonality, presents vocals and instruments with a richer tone, but this warmth can slightly obscure fine details.
The DM-01, while still on the warm side, has a cleaner, less “tubey” sound that preserves more of the nuance in string instruments and vocals, making it more articulate in midrange-heavy tracks.
The MT-602 has a slight edge in staging, sounding more open and spacious. The DM-01, while immersive, tends to keep elements a bit more centered and intimate by comparison.
FiiO K11 R2R
Technical
The FiiO K11 R2R and xDuoo DM-01 offer distinct approaches to desktop DAC/AMP design. The K11 R2R employs a 24-bit R2R DAC, delivering a smooth, analog-like sound signature. In contrast, the DM-01 utilizes dual CS43131 DACs within a hybrid tube architecture, blending warmth with clarity.
Whereas the K11 purely solid-state R2R relies on a dual SGM 8262 configuration for its amplification, the DM-01 integrates a 12AU7 tube stage for a warmer, organic sound.
The DM-01 provides 1500mW at 32Ω via its 6.35mm output, suitable for a wide range of headphones, while the K11 R2R offers 1300mW at 32Ω through its balanced output.
Both units support USB, coaxial, and optical input; however, the DM-01 adds Bluetooth 5.4 with support for aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, and LE Audio formats
Design
Both the xDuoo DM-01 and the FiiO K11 R2R feature anodized aluminum enclosures, but they diverge significantly in visual identity and user interface.
The DM-01 embraces a distinctive aesthetic inspired by retro-futuristic robotics, with a sharp, robot-shaped shell and a dark teal finish. Its front panel is populated with indicators, LEDs, and a front sticker panel for a touch of individuality.
This layout contributes to its retro-mechanical personality, which contrasts against the sleek minimalist trend seen in many modern desktop units.
In contrast, the FiiO K11 R2R follows a modern and minimalist design approach. It adopts a boxy shape with softly rounded edges, resembling compact desktop PCs.
The front is almost entirely dominated by a clean display screen, forgoing traditional buttons in favor of a streamlined interface navigated via a multifunction volume knob.
Performance
The DM-01 emphasizes mid-bass warmth, delivering a lush and enveloping low end that excels with genres like funk and disco. Its sub-bass is present but less pronounced, providing a relaxed and textured bass experience.
The K11 R2R offers a more balanced bass response. In NOS mode, the bass is neutral and smooth, while OS mode enhances bass impact and extension, making it suitable for bass-heavy genres.
The DM-01 presents a smooth midrange with a slight emphasis on male vocals, offering an intimate and cohesive sound. However, it may slightly smooth over finer details in instruments like electric guitars and keyboards.
The K11 R2R delivers a similarly warm and natural midrange. Vocals and instruments benefit from this warmth, sounding rich and engaging without becoming overly lush.
The DM-01’s treble is slightly more pronounced than that of the K11 R2R, offering a clearer presentation of snares and hi-hats without becoming harsh. Its soundstage is intimate, providing a focused listening experience.
The K11 R2R’s treble varies with mode selection: NOS mode offers a smoother treble, while OS mode introduces more energy and extension. Its soundstage is expansive, contributing to an immersive listening experience.
My Verdict
Priced at $279, the visually striking xDuoo DM-01 is as much a decorative novelty as it is a serious desktop amplifier and DAC. Its hybrid tube design skillfully balances organic warmth with impressive resolution and dynamic performance.
While its control scheme and limited compatibility with more sensitive IEMs leave something to be desired, the DM-01 offers a comprehensive range of input options, allowing easy connection to phones, laptops, consoles, and CD players with minimal hassle.
For those seeking a convenient and versatile way to experience the legendary tube sound, the DM-01 is worth a listen, and you might find yourself charmed by its quirky retro aesthetics along the way.
xDuoo DM-01 Specifications
- DAC/AMP Chip: Cirrus Logic CS43131
- Output Power: 1500mW at 32Ω
- Inputs: USB-C/ Bluetooth 5.4 (aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, LE Audio)
- Outputs: 6.35mm single-ended headphone jack/ 3.5mm Line Out
- USB Playback: Supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD64–DSD256, DXD up to 32-bit/384kHz, and MQA 8X unfolding
