Emotiva XDA-2 User manual

XDA-2
Differential Reference
TM
DAC
User Manual
XDA-2

Important Safety Precautions and Explanation of Symbols
!
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of
important installation, operation, and service instructions in this manual.
The lightning ash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user
to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltages within the enclosure that may be of sufcient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electrical shock to the user.
Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting to install, congure, or operate the XDA-2
Differential Reference DAC. After successful installation and conguration of the XDA-2, be sure to
retain this manual in a safe place for future reference.
Safety is a key component to a long lasting and trouble free installation. Please read and follow
all instructions and heed all warnings on the XDA-2 and in this manual. The vast majority of the
subsequent safety precautions are common sense. If you are not comfortable with the installation
of audio/video entertainment equipment, you should seek the services of a qualied installation
professional or call us for help.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT USE THE
XDA-2 NEAR WATER OR IN WET LOCATIONS, DO NOT EXPOSE IT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE,
DO NOT EXPOSE IT TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING FROM OTHER SOURCES, AND ENSURE
THAT NO OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS (SUCH AS VASES) ARE PLACED ON IT. DOING SO
MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE UNIT AND THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, WHICH MAY
RESULT IN BODILY INJURY OR DEATH.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER
FROM THE XDA-2. THERE ARE NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE THE UNIT. REFER
ALL SERVICE TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
Do not install the XDA-2 near or above any heat sources such as radiators, heating vents, or other
apparatus that produces heat. Do not block any ventilation openings or heat sinks. Avoid installing
the unit directly above other heat-producing equipment unless sufcient ventilation or forced-air
cooling is provided.
Do not install the XDA-2 in locations without proper ventilation. The XDA-2 itself produces very little
heat, but the top panel will still get warm and requires some clearance for air ow. The unit should
not be installed in an enclosed location such as a bookcase, cabinet, or closed equipment rack with
other equipment that will produce excessive heat unless sufcient forced-air ventilation is provided.
Always install your XDA-2 according to the manufacturer’s instructions and only use attachments or
accessories specied by the manufacturer.
Do not install the XDA-2 on any stand, shelf, or other piece of furniture that is unable to support its
weight. If a cart is used to move the unit, use caution to avoid injury from tip-over.
Connect the XDA-2 only to power sources of the correct voltage (as shown in this manual and on the
XDA-2 unit).
Protect power supply cables from being pinched, walked on, or otherwise damaged. Be especially
careful where the power cable enters the power outlet and the unit.
Only connect the XDA-2 to an electrical outlet or extension cord of appropriate type and rating.
DO NOT defeat the safety purpose of a grounding or polarized plug by removing ground pins or
using unsafe adapters. A polarized plug has two blades - one wider than the other. A grounding plug
has a third ground prong in addition to the two main conductors. The wide blade or third groundling
prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not t your outlet, consult an electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet. If you replace the power cord, only use one of similar type and equal or
greater current rating.
!

The power cable for the XDA-2 should be unplugged from the outlet during severe electrical storms, or
when unused for a long period of time.
Only replace the fuse(s) in the XDA-2 with fuse(s) of proper value and voltage rating.
The XDA-2 should only be cleaned as directed in the manual. Avoid spraying liquids directly onto the unit.
Do not insert or allow small parts or hardware to fall into the connectors on the unit.
You should seek service for your XDA-2 by qualied service personnel if any of the following occur:
1. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged.
2. Objects or liquid have fallen or spilled into the unit.
3. The unit has been exposed to rain.
4. The unit exhibits a marked change in performance.
5. The unit has been dropped, or its enclosure or chassis is damaged.
NOTE: TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THE XDA-2 FROM THE AC POWER MAINS, DISCONNECT
THE AC POWER CORD FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE.
NOTE: THE POWER CORD ON THE XDA-2 MUST REMAIN READILY ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES.
!
CAUTION
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, DO
NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
FCC Interference Statement
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference
to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that of the receiver.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Emotiva Audio Corporation
Attn: Repair Department
135 Southeast Parkway Court
Franklin, TN 37064
Tel [phone]
www.emotiva.com

Page 1
XDA-2
Contents
Important Safety Precautions and Explanation of Symbols
FCC Interference Statement
XDA-2 Differential Reference™ DAC .................................................1
Introduction.........................................................................................3
About This Manual..............................................................................4
Features .............................................................................................5
Unpacking...........................................................................................6
XDA-2 Front Panel .............................................................................7
XDA-2 Remote Control.......................................................................9
XDA-2 Rear Panel............................................................................10
Quick Start........................................................................................13
Connection and Conguration..........................................................14
Operation..........................................................................................16
Care and Maintenance .....................................................................18
Inputs and Outputs ...........................................................................19
Specications ...................................................................................20
Troubleshooting................................................................................21
Emotiva Audio Corporation Five-Year Limited Warranty ..................22
Notes ................................................................................................24
XDA-2 Differential Reference™ DAC

Page 2
XDA-2

Page 3
XDA-2
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing your new XDA-2 Differential Reference DAC.
The XDA-2 connects to all your digital music sources—computer, media player, CD transport,
and more—and delivers audiophile-quality sound. With its precision analog resistor ladder
volume control that maintains resolution even at low volumes, the XDA-2 is an ideal digital
preamp. At the same time, its discrete, high-current headphone amplier drives headphones
with authority.
The XDA-2 is the ideal way to enhance the sound quality of virtually any audio system. No
matter your digital source—or sources—the XDA-2 is ready, with multiple optical and coaxial
inputs, as well as 24/192 USB for easy connection to your computer. Emotiva’s Differential
Reference™ topology, combined with an asynchronous sample rate converter to remove jitter,
delivers exceptional sound quality. Coupled with the convenience of a front-panel alphanumeric
display and a full-function machined aluminum remote control, there’s no better value in DACs
today.
Happy listening!
The Emotiva Team

Page 4
XDA-2
About This Manual
This Quick Reference Manual will provide you with the information you need to get started
enjoying your XDA-2 Differential Reference DAC. For more detailed information, including
specications, please download the full-length version of the User Manual from our website
at www.emotiva.com.
We suggest that you read through the entire manual; we kept things as short and direct as
possible. Even if you’re an expert user, you will probably nd some interesting information
and useful suggestions.
You may wish to keep a copy of this manual with your records, and record serial numbers or
other purchase information on the Notes page at the back.

Page 5
XDA-2
Features
The XDA-2 is an audiophile quality two-channel PCM digital-to-analog converter (DAC).
The digitally controlled analog resistor ladder volume control, which doesn’t cause loss of
resolution even at low volume levels, also makes the XDA-2 an ideal “digital preamp” for
people who have only digital sources. The XDA-2 is the ultimate way to upgrade the sound
quality of almost any audio system that includes digital audio sources.
Features offered by the XDA-2 include:
• Three audiophile-quality components in one: USB DAC, digital preamp, and
high-current headphone amplier.
• Full 24/192 support for all inputs, including USB.
• 6 digital inputs (2 coax, 2 Toslink, 1 USB, 1 AES/EBU).
• Analog Devices AD1955 multi-bit delta-sigma DAC delivers exceptional performance
and superior audio quality.
• Analog Devices AD1896 asynchronous sample rate converter (ASRC) provides almost
total immunity to jitter.
• ASRC bypass mode.
• Differential Reference™ balanced design with OPA 2134 precision op amps.
• Incorporates a seamless high-quality digital preamp with analog resistor ladder volume
control with 0.25 dB steps and awless channel tracking down to -100 dB attenuation.
• Connects directly to an Emotiva amp for a complete system.
• Includes an audiophile quality discrete headphone amplier.
• Powers all standard headphones, a low 0.1 ohm output impedance, and a 105 dB
signal to noise ratio.
• Sounds great with sensitive headphones and in-ear monitors.
• Informative front panel display (with congurable brightness) for input and sample rate.
• Independent control and retention of main output level and headphone volume.
• Full function machined aluminum remote control included.
• Universal AC voltage—automatic 115VAC/230VAC operation.
• Sophisticated low noise power supply with a high quality toroidal transformer and
multiple stages of linear regulation.
• Transferrable 5-year warranty, 30-day in-home trial.
You can nd more information about the Emotiva XDA-2 on our website at
www.emotiva.com.

Page 6
XDA-2
Unpacking
Your XDA-2 was carefully packed and should reach you in perfect condition. If you
notice any shipping damage or other issues when you unpack it, please contact Emotiva
immediately.
Gently remove your XDA-2 from the packing carton and remove all wrappings and shipping
material.
It is important to save the box and all packing materials in case your preamp ever needs to
be moved or shipped back to the factory for service.
We truly value customer feedback and would like to hear from you.

Page 7
XDA-2
XDA-2 Front Panel
1. Headphone Jack
The headphone amplier in the XDA-2 is an all-discrete audiophile quality design with
excellent noise and distortion characteristics and very low output impedance. When there
are headphones plugged into this jack, the main outputs are muted, and the Volume buttons
on the front panel (and on the remote control) adjust the headphone output level. When no
headphones are plugged in, the Volume buttons adjust the main output level. Both settings
are stored independently.
2. Mute Button
Press the Mute button once to mute the output of the XDA-2; press it again to return to the
previously selected level. Pressing the Mute button mutes both the main outputs and the
headphone outputs. Pressing Volume Up immediately cancels the mute function.
3. Volume Up and Volume Down Buttons
Pressing the Volume Up button raises the Volume; pressing the Volume Down button
lowers it. A single press moves the Volume one step, holding the button causes the Volume
to move smoothly. When there are headphones plugged into this jack, the Volume buttons
on the front panel (and on the remote control) adjust the headphone output level. When no
headphones are plugged in, the Volume buttons adjust the main output level.
Volume control is via a precision digitally controlled analog resistor ladder network, which
ensures absolute repeatability and near-perfect channel matching, even at very low
settings. Unlike digital volume controls, the XDA-2’s analog volume control doesn’t reduce
bit depth nor introduce grain or distortion at low volume settings.
MUTE VOL DIM STANDBY
AES/EBU OPT1 OPT2 COAX1 COAX2 USB
1 2 43 5 7 8
XDA-2
6

Page 8
XDA-2
4. Dim Button
Dims the illumination on the VFD (vacuum uorescent display) and the halo illumination on
the front panel buttons in several steps.
5. Standby Button
When the rear panel AC Power switch is On, press this button to switch the XDA-2 On;
press it again to return to Standby. You may also switch the XDA-2 using the On and
Standby buttons on the remote control. When the XDA-2 is On, the VFD and the halos
around the other buttons will be illuminated.
Note: The Standby button is black (all the other buttons are silver), so it can be
somewhat difcult to see in a dim room.
Note: The rear panel AC Power switch must be on for the XDA-2 to operate. If the rear
panel AC power switch is Off, the XDA-2 will not respond to either the front panel
controls or the remote control.
6. IR Sensor Window
The IR receiver for signals from the remote control is located behind this window.
(It looks like a button but it is not.)
7. VFD (vacuum fluorescent display)
By default, the VFD displays the current Volume setting (when there are headphones
plugged in, it displays the headphone Volume; when no headphones are plugged in, it
displays the main volume). The VFD also indicates when Mute is engaged (the word Mute
blinks in the display), and momentarily displays the sample rate when a new incoming
digital signal is detected. The VFD also momentarily indicates when the ASRC is engaged
and disengaged (the VFD will display ASRC On when the ASRC is engaged and ASRC
Bypass when the ASRC is disengaged).
8. Input Selector Buttons
Pressing each button selects the associated Input, and the LED above the button
illuminates to show that the input is selected.

Page 9
XDA-2
XDA-2 Remote Control
The solid aluminum full-function remote control for the XDA-2 duplicates all the front panel
controls on the XDA-2 unit. (The remote control has separate buttons for On and Standby
whereas the front panel has a single button which toggles.) The remote control has one
additional button which toggles between ASRC On and ASRC Bypass.
ASRC (asynchronous sample rate converter)
The ASRC button (on the remote control but not the front panel) engages and disengages
the ASRC in the XDA-2. The ASRC is a sophisticated digital processor that re-samples
incoming digital audio to a xed 96k sample rate and, as part of the conversion process,
eliminates virtually all jitter on the incoming signal.
Engaging the ASRC will always produce an audible improvement in sound quality when
the source has a lot of jitter (computer USB outputs usually have a lot of jitter; the jitter on
other inputs varies depending on the source component and cables). Excessive jitter tends
to make music sound “blurred”, although the effect is somewhat subjective. If the jitter is
relatively low to begin with, eliminating it will not produce an audible improvement, but the
96k re-sampling process itself will produce a slight but audible difference.
Since the ASRC is only necessary in some situations, the XDA-2 offers the option of
bypassing it when desired. (You can switch the ASRC in and out while listening, and simply
pick the mode that sounds better for a particular song or input.) The VFD will momentarily
display ASRC On or ASRC Bypass to indicate when the ASRC is switched.
Note: The ASRC Bypass button takes effect immediately, and may be operated while
music is playing to determine which way you prefer to listen to a given source.
Note: When the ASRC is engaged, the display will still show the original incoming
sample rate (when it displays the sample rate) rather than the re-sampled (96k)
sample rate.

Page 10
XDA-2
XDA-2 Rear Panel
1. Balanced Outputs
Connect these outputs to a set of balanced inputs on your preamp, or to the balanced
inputs on your power amplier or powered monitors (if you’re using the XDA-2 as a
preamp).
2. Unbalanced Outputs
Connect these outputs to a set of unbalanced inputs on your preamp, or to the unbalanced
inputs on your power amplier or powered monitors (if you’re using the XDA-2 as a
preamp).
Note: Both Balanced and Unbalanced outputs are active at all times. The level of both
sets of outputs is controlled by the Volume Up, Volume Down, and Mute controls.
Note: The main outputs are muted when headphones are plugged into the front
panel. When there are headphones plugged in, the Volume buttons on the front panel
(and on the remote control) adjust the headphone output level. When no headphones
are plugged in, the Volume buttons adjust the main output level. The XDA-2 stores
both settings independently. When you unplug the headphones, the main output
level will return to its previous setting; when you plug the headphones back in, they
will return to their previous setting.
3. AES/EBU Digital Input
AES/EBU is a type of digital audio signal most often encountered on pro audio equipment
(and some high-end CD players). It is considered preferable for very long cable runs if it is
an available option.
Note: This is a digital input, and ONLY accepts a digital audio signal containing
STEREO PCM data in the AES/EBU signal format. Connecting this input to a balanced
analog audio connection may result in damage to the XDA-2 or your other equipment.
AES/EBU OPT1 OPT2 USB
1 2 43 5 76
LINE OUTPUTS DIGITAL INPUTS
CO1 CO2
8 9 10

Page 11
XDA-2
4. Optical 1 and Optical 2 Toslink Optical S/PDIF Inputs
These inputs accept optical S/PDIF (Toslink) digital audio signals at sample rates up to
192k and bit depths up to 24 bits.
Note: The XDA-2 is a stereo PCM DAC and only accepts STEREO PCM digital audio
signals. The XDA-2 CANNOT decode Dolby Digital or DTS audio content. Be sure that
any equipment connected to these inputs is congured to output stereo PCM audio.
Note: The Toslink inputs on the XDA-2 can accept 192k sample rate data. However,
the Toslink outputs on some source devices are incapable of sending data at rates
above 96k, and some poor quality Toslink cables are unable to cleanly pass signals
above 96k.
5. Coaxial 1 and Coaxial 2 Coax Electrical S/PDIF Inputs
These inputs accept electrical S/PDIF digital audio signals at sample rates up to
192k and bit depths up to 24 bits.
Note: The XDA-2 is a stereo PCM DAC and only accepts STEREO PCM digital audio
signals. The XDA-2 CANNOT decode Dolby Digital or DTS audio content. Be sure that
any equipment connected to these inputs is congured to output stereo PCM audio.
6. USB Input
The USB input on the XDA-2 is used to connect the XDA-2 to a computer. When connected
to a computer, the XDA-2 will appear to the computer as a “USB sound card” or “USB audio
device”, and you will be able to select it as an audio output device.
The XDA-2 is a “USB Audio Class 2 Device” and supports up to 192k sample rate and 24 bit
depth over USB. When using the XDA-2 with a Windows PC, you will need to install a (free)
driver on the PC. Some newer Apple computers, and some versions of Linux, may be able
to connect to the XDA-2 without a driver (if they have a USB Audio Class 2 driver built in).
Drivers, instructions for installing them, and details about the features supported by each,
will be available on the XDA-2 product page of our website.
Note: The USB port on the XDA-2 is intended for connecting the XDA-2 to a computer
as an “external sound card”; you cannot connect USB hard drives or thumb drives to
this port.
Note: “USB Audio Class 2” has nothing to do with “USB 2.0”. It is a type of driver,
which is required to reliably support sample rates over 96k on USB audio devices.
Microsoft has chosen NOT to include this driver with Windows (so far), which is
why you are required to install a separate driver. Newer Apple computers, and some
Linux distributions, include this driver. Any operating system that includes support
for “USB Audio Class 2” will probably work with the XDA-2, as will some computer-
based media players (like the Logitech Squeezebox). See their documentation for
details.

Page 12
XDA-2
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT SUPPORTED SAMPLE RATES
The AES/EBU, Optical, and Coaxial inputs on the XDA-2 support ALL standard
sample rates and bit depths up to 192/24 (44.1k, 48k, 88.2k, 96k, 176.4k, and 192k;
16 bit and 24 bit depth).
Support for specic sample rates in USB is determined by a combination of the
hardware, the operating system you are using, the type of driver and specic driver
you are using, and your player software. Support for specic types of les
(MP3, FLAC, etc) will be determined by your player software. Most player software
can be successfully congured to allow you to play les of virtually any sample rate
or bit depth on the XDA-2.
Individual drivers and instructions for using the XDA-2 with different operating
systems will be available on the XDA-2 product page of the Emotiva website.
7. Trigger In and Trigger Out
The Trigger Input accepts a standard trigger signal to allow the XDA-2 to be turned on (from
Standby) by other equipment.
The Trigger Output sends out a standard 12 VDC trigger signal which can be used to turn
on other equipment (the Trigger Output is active only when the XDA-2 is On).
8. Power (AC Line) Voltage Indicators
The XDA-2 automatically detects the proper operating voltage; these indicators show what
line voltage was recognized.
9. AC Power Switch
Switches the main AC power to the XDA-2 On and Off. When this switch is Off, no controls
operate (the XDA-2 cannot be turned On from the front panel or remote control).
10. IEC Power Cord Receptacle
Accepts a standard IEC power cable. If you choose to substitute another AC power cable,
either a two-wire or three-wire cable may be used.

Page 13
XDA-2
Quick Start
To get the most from your XDA-2, we urge you to read the entire manual. If you just can’t
wait to listen to it, this section will cover the basics you need to get started.
• Find a secure location for your XDA-2.
• Connect your XDA-2 to one or more digital audio sources.
• If you’re using a computer connected to the USB input, install the appropriate
USB driver.
• Connect the analog output of your XDA-2 to a line level input on your preamp, or directly
to your power amp.
• Find some music you really like to listen to.
• Turn on the AC Power switch and turn up the volume a bit!
• Enjoy!
While you’re enjoying your XDA-2, it would be a great time to read the rest of the manual to
learn more about it.

Page 14
XDA-2
Connection and Configuration
Input Connections
Connect one or more digital input sources to the XDA-2.
The AES/EBU, Toslink, and Coax S/PDIF digital inputs accept standard sample rates and
bit depths up to 192k / 24 bits (44.1k, 48k, 88.2k, 96k, 176.4k, 192k, 16 bit and 24 bit).
The USB input on the XDA-2 is intended to be connected to a computer or other USB host
device (not a USB thumb drive or hard drive) and will appear to that device as a
“USB audio device” or “USB speaker” (a “USB sound card”).
When using the XDA-2 with a Windows PC, you will need to install a (free) driver on the PC.
Some newer Apple computers, and some versions of Linux, may be able to connect to the
XDA-2 without a driver (if they have a USB Audio Class 2 driver built in).
Drivers, instructions for installing them, and details about the features and sample rates
supported by each, will be available on the XDA-2 product page of our website.
Note: The XDA-2 is a stereo PCM DAC and only accepts DIGITAL STEREO PCM audio
signals. The XDA-2 CANNOT decode Dolby Digital, DTS audio, or DSD content .
The XDA-2 has no analog audio inputs. If you connect the XDA-2 to a digital output
on a home theater pre/pro, Blu-Ray player, TV set, cable box, or media client, be sure
that the device is set to output stereo PCM digital audio.
Output Connections
The XDA-2 provides both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) analog stereo
connections. Both sets of connections are active at the same time, and both are controlled
by the Volume control and Mute function.
Level control is via a precision digitally controlled analog resistor ladder network, which
ensures absolute repeatability and near-perfect channel matching. Because the Volume
control doesn’t reduce bit depth at low volume settings, the XDA-2 is ideal as a purist digital
preamp, and can be connected directly to a power amplier. If you use the XDA-2 as a
signal source with a separate preamp, you can either leave the Volume on the XDA-2 set
to maximum, or use it to match the output level of the XDA-2 to those of your other analog
devices.
When headphones are plugged into the front panel jack, the main outputs are disabled, and
the Volume buttons on the front panel (and on the remote control) adjust the headphone
output level. When no headphones are plugged in, the main outputs are active, and
the Volume buttons adjust the main output level. The XDA-2 remembers both settings
independently. When you unplug the headphones, the main output level on the XDA-2 will
return to its previous setting; when you plug the headphones back in, they will return to their
previous setting.

Page 15
XDA-2
Connecting the Trigger Input and Trigger Output
The XDA-2 cannot be switched on by the trigger when the rear panel AC Power switch is
Off. The Trigger Input accepts a 12 VDC (nominal) trigger signal from another device via a
standard 1/8” mono plug. When the trigger is asserted, the XDA-2 will switch On; when the
trigger is removed, the XDA-2 will return to Standby mode. The Trigger Output sends out
12 VDC whenever the main power to the XDA-2 is On (and NOT when it is in Standby
mode) which can be used to switch on other units with trigger capabilities.

Page 16
XDA-2
Operation
Line Voltage
The XDA-2 can operate from line voltages of 115 VAC +/- 10% or 230 VAC +/- 10%; when
the unit is powered on, it will automatically detect the correct line voltage and set itself
accordingly.
AC Power Switch (rear panel)
The rear-panel AC Power switch controls the main AC Power for your XDA-2. When this
switch is in the Off position, the DAC will not operate. Turning it On will put the XDA-2 into
Standby mode.
Standby Switch (front panel Push Button)
The Standby switch is a small black push button (which can be difcult to see in a dim
room). When the XDA-2 is in Standby mode, there will be no indicators lit on the front panel.
Pressing this button once (when the AC Power switch on the rear of the XDA-2 is On) will
switch the XDA-2 On; pressing it again will return the XDA-2 to Standby mode. The remote
control has separate buttons for On and Standby.
Please refer to the section entitled XDA-2 Front Panel (pages 7 and 8)
for further information about front panel controls.