Asus Essence_III Audio Precision Test Report

Essence 3

Audio Precision Test Report

•Disclaimer: The information and contents contained in this test report are for Essence 3 user’s reference only and may not be altered in any manner. Test results may vary with different testing environment and equipment.

August 2013	15060-04010000
E8635 / First Edition

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The story behind the Essence series

Aiming to create a classic master piece, the development of the Essence line has triggered us to engage a new quest in search for true high end audio and the essence of sound. We looked for all traces and only to realize that the answer lies in the very root of our own culture, and that it is the process of searching for the purest sound in harmony with man and the environment that defines the highest level of audio.

This Audio Precision test report was prepared not only to back up the unprecedented performance of Essence 3, but is also a footnote of our ongoing quest in search for the essence of sound.

Test Platform Information

•USB DAC: ASUS Essence 3

•Audio Precision Instrument: SYS-2722

•Test Signals: 96KHz, 24bit

ASUS Essence 3 Audio Precision Test Report

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Feature Summary

•Ultimate audio enjoyment with native Direct Stream Digital (DSD) support

•DSD is an encoding technology at 1 bit representation of the audio waveform, allowing high reproduction of the original audio. With native DSD support, audiophiles can enjoy highfidelity music.

•Top-notch headphone amplifier enables balanced headphones

of up to 600ohm impedance

•Most headphone amplifiers only support single-end headphones. However, for advanced users who are accustomed to modeling their own balanced headsets, Essence 3 has unique mini-XLR ports tailored for headphone audiophiles. The balanced signals are kept in differential from DAC chip to headphone output without being converted to single end and back (a true balanced signal), providing best signal clarity and minimized noise interference. It also supports up to 600ohms impedance, allowing headphone enthusiasts to enjoy the best of their favorite headphones without any additional amplification needed.

•Exclusive remote-controlled stepped attenuator ensures

precise and convenient adjustments

The Essence 3 comes with a 24-step attenuator that ensures precise left/right balance at any volume level. Unlike traditional designs that the attenuator is operated by hand, it has an MCU that directly controls the multiple relays, making it completely remote-controllable with precision.

ASUS Essence 3 Audio Precision Test Report

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