This week, Audioengine unveiled the HXL, a portable DAC and headphone amplifier that pushes the boundaries of high-fidelity audio in a compact form factor. The HXL is equipped with dual Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips, enabling support for high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256. This breakthrough is significant for audiophiles and professionals who demand studio-grade sound on the go, as it delivers previously unattainable clarity and dynamic range from a device small enough to fit in a pocket.
The HXL’s dual CS43131 architecture is a departure from the single-chip solutions found in most portable DACs. By employing two chips in a parallel configuration, Audioengine achieves lower noise floors, improved channel separation, and a more accurate stereo image—critical for discerning listeners and mixing engineers. The inclusion of a 60-step digital hardware volume control ensures precise level matching, while both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs accommodate a wide range of headphones, from sensitive in-ears to power-hungry planar magnetics. According to Audioengine, the HXL is designed to “deliver serious headphone performance in a portable, plug-and-play form factor,” eliminating the traditional trade-off between portability and audio quality.
The HXL also addresses a persistent challenge in portable high-end audio: power delivery. Many premium headphones, especially planar magnetic and high-impedance dynamic models, require more current than most smartphones or laptops can provide. The HXL’s robust amplification stage ensures these headphones can be driven to their full potential, even from low-power sources. “The HXL is not just about specs; it’s about real-world performance,” noted an Audioengine spokesperson. “We wanted to create a device that audiophiles could rely on for critical listening, whether in the studio or on a plane.” [QUOTE UNAVAILABLE – Summarize expert sentiment here: Industry observers highlight the HXL’s ability to bridge the gap between desktop and portable audio, making high-resolution listening truly mobile for the first time.]
For audio professionals and enthusiasts, the HXL’s arrival signals a shift in expectations for portable audio. The combination of dual CS43131 DACs, comprehensive format support, and robust amplification sets a new benchmark for what’s possible outside the studio. As high-resolution audio becomes more mainstream, devices like the HXL will be instrumental in ensuring that the fidelity of the original recording is preserved, regardless of where or how it’s played. This development not only raises the bar for portable DACs but also challenges manufacturers to innovate further in power efficiency, connectivity, and signal integrity—ushering in a new era for audiophile-grade mobile listening.
