LUXMAN D-03X

The all new D-03X builds upon decades of experience with digital player designs that established Luxman in the top tier. The turbulent development of streaming services and new formats however asks for continuous adaptations, so it was necessary to upgrade existing models. Thus the Luxman D-03X supports MQA on CD (and up to 24-bit via USB, optical and coaxial) and DSD 11.2Mhz available via USB. The PCM is available up to 32/384 kHz via USB and up to 24/192 KHz on S/PDIF and Toslink. Quite interestingly, in the age of ESS/AKM/BB DAC chips the D-03X employs PCM1795 Texas Instruments DAC, one per channel. For USB data streams it also adds Bulk Pet transfer technology (licensed from Interface Co.Ltd) that optimizes data packaging and delivery and eases both CPUs, which should result into better stability and better sound according to the Luxman´s engineers. The analog outputs are available on single-ended RCAs and balanced XLRs. The D-03X is presented as ´Compact Disc Player´, however I see the CD transport part as a bonus to the excellent DAC only. Though it is plastic – but mounted on a thick 8mm metal plate and sealed in metal sheets - it works quiet and fast, in fact faster than with other Luxman´s players. The D-03X is a balanced player from inout to output, the hot pin on XLR can be assigned via switch at the back panel.

The casework is top-notch, as well as the remote that can be used for controlling other Luxman devices too. I liked that the rather small yellow lettering of the display could be zoomed in which made it easily readable from distance, still keeping it unobtrusive and understated. To sum it up the only thing which is missing in the new D-03X might be the absence of SACD pick-up for physical discs. We have to wait another couple of months for the Luxman D-10X, though it won´t sell for such an affordable money like the D-03X.