By: Dipin Sehdev

Eversolo has made a significant impact on the high-end audio scene with its innovative and user-friendly music streamers. The original DMP-A6 (91% CE Critic Score) garnered widespread acclaim for its sleek design, intuitive interface, and impressive audio performance. Now, with the introduction of the DMP-A6 Gen 2, Eversolo aims to further refine and enhance this already successful model, catering to the discerning audiophile.  

A Foundation of Excellence:

Before delving into the enhancements of the Gen 2, it's crucial to understand the strengths of its predecessor. The original DMP-A6 impressed reviewers with its:

• User-Friendly Interface: The 6-inch touchscreen, running a customized Android operating system, provided an intuitive and visually appealing way to navigate music libraries, browse streaming services, and adjust settings.  
• Robust Connectivity: A comprehensive array of inputs and outputs, including optical, coaxial, USB-C, and Ethernet, ensured compatibility with a wide range of audio sources and components.  
• Powerful Processing: The combination of an ARM Cortex-A55 processor and dual ES9038Q2M DAC chips delivered high-resolution audio playback with exceptional clarity and detail.
• Versatile Streaming Capabilities: Seamless integration with popular platforms like Chromecast, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready, and AirPlay 2 provided access to a vast library of music.  
• "EOS Audio Engine": This proprietary technology bypassed Android's audio processing limitations, allowing for bit-perfect playback of high-resolution audio files from streaming services.  

Building Upon Success: Key Enhancements in the DMP-A6 Gen 2

The DMP-A6 Gen 2 introduces several significant upgrades, aiming to further elevate its audio performance and user experience:  

• Enhanced Linear Power Supply: One of the most notable improvements is the implementation of an enhanced linear power supply. This critical component provides cleaner and more stable power to the internal circuitry, minimizing noise and ensuring optimal performance from the delicate audio components. Eversolo claims that this upgrade reduces noise levels to below 40uV, a significant reduction that translates to a more refined and transparent sound.  
• Expanded Connectivity: Recognizing the growing importance of home theater integration, Eversolo has added HDMI ARC and Trigger-out functionality. HDMI ARC allows for seamless transmission of audio from a connected TV, while Trigger-out enables automatic power on/off of the DMP-A6 Gen 2 in conjunction with other components in your system, streamlining your audio setup.  
• Upgraded Audio Processing: At the heart of the audio improvements lies a significantly upgraded XMOS chip. This advanced processor enables the DMP-A6 Gen 2 to decode native DSD512 and PCM 32-bit/768kHz audio, unlocking the full potential of high-resolution audio files. This capability is crucial for audiophiles seeking the highest level of fidelity and detail in their music playback.  
• Wake-on-LAN Functionality: For added convenience, the DMP-A6 Gen 2 incorporates Wake-on-LAN (WOL) functionality. This allows users to remotely power on the streamer via their home network using a connected device or app, eliminating the need to physically interact with the unit.  
• Refined Touchscreen Display: The 6-inch touchscreen, a hallmark of the DMP-A6 series, has been further refined with improved color accuracy. This enhances the visual experience, making navigation and interaction with the interface even more enjoyable.  

A Deeper Dive into Audio Performance:

The DMP-A6 Gen 2 leverages the power of dual ES9038Q2M DAC chips, renowned for their exceptional audio performance. These high-performance DACs, handling left and right channels independently, deliver exceptional detail, dynamic range, and spatial separation. The result is a soundstage that is both wide and deep, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the musical performance.  

The combination of high-quality DACs, a refined power supply, and the upgraded XMOS processor results in a significant improvement in audio fidelity. The DMP-A6 Gen 2 delivers a more nuanced and refined sound, with greater clarity, detail, and dynamic range. Subtle nuances in the music, such as the decay of a cymbal crash or the subtle interplay of instruments in a complex orchestral piece, are more readily apparent, providing a more engaging and immersive listening experience.  

User Experience and Features:

The DMP-A6 Gen 2 maintains the user-friendly interface that made its predecessor so popular. The intuitive touchscreen allows for easy navigation through music libraries, streaming services, and settings. The device seamlessly integrates with a wide range of popular streaming platforms, including:  

• Chromecast: For easy streaming from mobile devices and other compatible devices.
• Tidal Connect: For high-quality streaming from the Tidal music service.
• Roon Ready: For seamless integration with the Roon music player ecosystem.  
• AirPlay 2: For effortless streaming from Apple devices.
• Spotify Connect: For convenient access to your Spotify playlists and albums.

Furthermore, the DMP-A6 Gen 2 offers flexible storage options. In addition to internal storage, users can install an optional SSD drive, providing ample space for storing local music libraries. This flexibility allows users to build a personalized music library and enjoy their favorite music offline, independent of internet connectivity.  

A Note on the DMP-A6 Master Edition:

For audiophiles seeking the ultimate in performance, Eversolo offers the DMP-A6 Master Edition. This higher-end model incorporates even more advanced components, including:  

• Ultra-Low Phase Noise Femtosecond Audio Clocks: These advanced clocks minimize jitter, resulting in a more stable and accurate audio signal.  
• OPA1612 Operational Amplifier Array: This high-performance amplifier ensures lossless signal amplification and transmission, further minimizing distortion and noise.

The Master Edition also features a refined aesthetic with a redesigned volume knob and customizable RGB lighting effects, adding a touch of luxury and personalization.  

Conclusion:

The Eversolo DMP-A6 Gen 2 represents a significant advancement in high-end music streaming. Building upon the strengths of its predecessor, this new model incorporates a range of enhancements, including a refined power supply, upgraded audio processing, and expanded connectivity. With its refined audio performance, expanded connectivity, and intuitive user interface, the Eversolo DMP-A6 Gen 2 sets a new standard for high-end music streamers. It is a testament to Eversolo's commitment to innovation and their dedication to providing audiophiles with the tools they need to enjoy music at its finest. We look forward to the reviews and CE Critic Score. 

Technical Specifications:

• DACs: Dual ES9038Q2M
• Decoding: DSD512 Native, PCM 768kHz/32-bit
• Inputs: Optical, Coaxial, USB-C, HDMI ARC
• Outputs: Optical, Coaxial, RCA, XLR, HDMI
• Display: 6-inch touchscreen
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth 5.0
• Streaming: Chromecast, Tidal Connect, Roon Ready, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect
• Other: Wake-on-LAN, Trigger output, 10-band EQ

Availability and Pricing:

• Availability: Available soon
• Price: £799 / $859 / AU$1,399