In case Google is showing you this page directly, click here to go the start of the article.
Comparisons
Unfortunately my arsenal of streamers is not the largest, and the units I have available for comparisons are both considerably cheaper than the Eversolo DMP-A8. We will check out how the DMP-A6 fares up against Eversolo’s king of streamers. The second on the list is Matrix Audio’s Mini-i Pro 4.
Eversolo DMP-A6
The A6 comes in a slightly more compact form factor than the A8, but also features the same excellent build quality and software as its bigger brother. So in terms of usability the DMP-A6 does not fall short of the A8. Pricewise the DMP-A6 lands at 859 USD, a whopping $1,000 Dollars less.
Where they do differ though, is in sound quality (and price of course).
The DMP-A8 has a larger sound overall, with a noticeably superior depth and layering. The DMP-A8 is grander as a total and paints a more detailed picture.
The DMP-A6 has a more clinical sound, where the A8 sounds richer in comparison. Instruments have a fuller body and more smoothness. The A6 is dryer sounding and delivers a more upfront treble tuning. The DMP-A6 to me needs more coloration in the later stages of the audio chain. Whereas the DMP-A8 in my opinion does not necessarily need to be softened up top.
Otherwise both Eversolos feature a distinct house tuning. Where balance and neutrality is their key signature. Both units have superb control and texture. Either one of them comes with high resolution and highly convincing technical abilities.
Eversolo DMP-A8
Matrix Audio mini-i Pro 4
In my opinion there are big differences between the two units. The Matrix is a far more compact unit, that easily finds its place on any desktop. The Eversolo needs more space. The DMP-A8 offers a lot of extras alone when we look at the digital ins and outs of it. The options you’re getting from the A8 are far more.
Especially the software of the Eversolo is miles ahead, but also the sound signature of the two is quite apart. The User Interface and User Experience of the Matrix have both left me frustrated at times, which is nothing I could ever say about the Eversolo.
The Eversolo DMP-A8 has a more natural, fuller and organic sound, that just sounds more alive than the one of the Matrix mini-i pro 4. The DMP-A8 puts more flesh into bass and mids, making them richer and lusher as a whole. The Matrix sounds more linear and dryer if you will.
In a technical aspect of the sound, it is the Eversolo again, who leaves the Matrix in its rear-view mirror. Resolution, layering, texture and sound stage design are all better achieved on the DMP-A8 than on the Mini-i Pro 4.
A benefit the Matrix has over the Eversolo is the headphone output though. Which is something the Eversolo lacks. But that’s purely something that depends on your needs.
Overall the Eversolo presents a more complete package, even with the headphone amp missing.
Conclusion
Eversolo has convinced me with the DMP-A6 back in the day, and I was very eager to try out the A8. I admit, that I went into this review with quite some excitement, and Eversolo has again fully delivered. The DMP-A8 is masterfully built, it runs a software that just works and gives you all the options for streaming and digital connections you will ever need.
I honestly don’t see what else you could ever want from a unit than the immense feature-set the Eversolo offers. And that is on top of its superb sound and usability. The DMP-A8 should be an absolute no-brainer for anyone who is looking for a future proof streaming DAC.
Eversolo’s DMP-A8 is perfect. I have nothing else to say than, this is it. Fully recommended, it joins our Best Buy DAC list here.
Summary
Pros:
Excellent Sound quality
Excellent Usability
Future Proof hardware
Superb Build Quality
Roon Ready
Tidal and Spotify Connect
Airplay
Support of M2 SSD
Cons:
Absolutely none
Page 1: Intro, Eversolo, Eversolo DMP-A8
Page 2: Package & Build Quality, Usability, Sound
Page 3: Comparisons, Conclusion, Summary
