• Excellent audio quality as inherited from acclaimed Xonar Essence ST/STX
• Precision clock tuning technology and asynchronous USB transfer ensure jitter-free fidelity
• Integrated 600ohm headphone amplifier optimizes sound detail with two gain settings
• 120dB Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) delivers high definition audio clarity
• Dedicated jumper switch allows direct audio delivery to your power amplifier, by-passing DAC volume controls
• Three swappable Op-Amps enable tonal character tuning based on personal taste

The Essence of Sound

Following considerable positive feedback from customers on the excellent sound quality of Xonar Essence ST/STX sound cards, we developed the Xonar Essence STU USB external digital-to-analog converter and headphone amplifier. Based on the acclaimed design of Xonar Essence ST/STX and going beyond their already high standards, it offers even more premium audio quality plus easy controls and connectivity for discerning music lovers who needs a good DAC and headphone amplifier to drive the full capabilities of their high-end headphones.

High quality precision audio

Xonar Essence STU delivers clean, clear, and low distortion sound with 120dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) thanks to exacting hardware design and top-notch component selection.

Precision clock tuning technology

Xonar Essence STU embeds a precise clock tuning IC that kills jitter prior to signal processing, ensuring the highest fidelity with extensive detail and lively sound imaging.

Digital-to-analog converter (DAC)

High fidelity Texas Instruments PCM1792A DAC delivers accurate digital-to-analog conversion, sensational audio clarity, and low distortion.

Audiophile-approved capacitors

WIMA FKP2 and Nichicon Finegold capacitors deliver balanced and rich sound.

Asynchronous audio transfer

Asynchronous USB transfer mode separates unstable and noisy clocks generated by the computer or its USB interface logic, maintaining sync with master clock circuitry on Xonar Essence STU.

Balanced (or mirrored) PCB layout

Symmetrical analog output path ensures balanced and truthful representation of all sound sources and minimal crosstalk.

Integrated 600ohm headphone amplifier optimizes sound detail with two gain settings

Headphone amplifier

Renowned TPA6120A2 headphone amplifier supports up to 600ohm impedance, driving all headphones available in the market. It empowers your favorite set with dynamic and detailed sound.

Headphone gain switch

Xonar Essence STU offers readily accessible switching between low and high gain settings, accommodating better listening experiences across a wide range of headphones, from in-ear headsets (typically 16ohm-32ohm) to premium full-size headphones ( up to 600ohm). This is especially useful with the increasing popularity of mobile devices, which normally ship with low impedance/high sensitivity headsets.

Convenient tonal tuning

Xonar Essence STU has room for three swappable Op-Amps (operational amplifiers), which you can replace to adjust tonal performance based on personal taste. This open-ended and customizable design is inherited from previous Xonar Essence audio products, and remains true to the series’ commitment to accommodating as many audiophile preferences as possible.

Texas Instruments NS-LME49720 and NS-LM4562NA Op-Amps deliver acoustics fine-tuned by audio engineers to support livelier, more detailed, and more spacious sound.

By-passing volume jumper switch

The included jumper switch re-routes sound and allows Xonar Essence STU to be used as a pre-amplifier in conjunction with a dedicated power amplifier. You can opt to adjust master volume directly on the power amplifier without having to reach Xonar Essence STU controls.

Selectable DC servo headphone output

Many music enthusiasts choose to solder a DC servo on their DAC to minimize power-up pop noise on the renowned TPA6120A2 headphone amplifier. The dedicated DC servo on Xonar Essence STU offers a convenient and solder-free alternative.