A desktop integrated amplifier with ESS ES9039Q2M, HDMI ARC and 33 watts into 4 ohms
Rotel DX-5 is a compact Class AB integrated amplifier rated at 25 W per channel into 8 ohms and 33 W into 4 ohms, with ESS ES9039Q2M DAC, PC-USB and HDMI ARC.
The model combines a true stereo amplification section with digital conversion and connectivity suited to a desktop system or small living room. PC-USB, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth and HDMI ARC converge on the ESS DAC, while an RCA input, subwoofer output and headphone jack make it possible to build a complete system around compact passive loudspeakers.
Key features
- 25 W per channel into 8 ohms and 33 W per channel into 4 ohms.
- Class AB amplification.
- ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DAC.
- PC-USB up to 32-bit/384 kHz with DSD 4X.
- HDMI ARC/CEC for TV connection.
- Bluetooth aptX™ HD and AAC.
- RCA input and subwoofer output.
- Roon Tested certification and colour TFT display.
Compact power
DX-5 delivers 25 W per channel into 8 ohms and 33 W into 4 ohms with Class AB amplification. A damping factor of 140 helps control compact woofers and declared THD remains below 0.03%, making the small format suitable for efficient desktop or bookshelf loudspeakers.
ES9039Q2M DAC
Digital conversion is handled by the ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DAC. The converter manages USB, SPDIF inputs, Bluetooth and HDMI, allowing very different sources to share one analogue output section before the power stage.
PC-USB and DSD
The PC-USB input accepts PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD 4X. Coaxial and optical handle up to 24-bit/192 kHz, so computers, streamers and digital players can connect directly without an external DAC.
HDMI ARC and TV
HDMI ARC carries TV audio to the amplifier over a single cable and CEC coordinates compatible functions. DX-5 can therefore drive a pair of passive loudspeakers for films and series as well, replacing a soundbar where a conventional stereo system is preferred.
Analogue and subwoofer
The RCA input allows an analogue source to be added and the subwoofer output integrates an active sub. The system can therefore evolve from two compact loudspeakers into a 2.1 configuration without changing the main amplification or adding an external crossover.
Bluetooth and Roon
Bluetooth supports aptX™ HD and AAC for compatible devices, while Roon Tested certification facilitates use with Roon. Wireless functions complement USB and HDMI, providing immediate access to music without giving up wired connections.
Headphones and control
The front panel includes a 6.35 mm headphone output and a colour TFT display. The remote controls volume and sources from a distance, making DX-5 suitable both for a desk and for a compact system positioned beside a television.
Dimensions and chassis
DX-5 measures 215 x 76 x 251 mm and weighs 4.1 kg. The reduced format brings transformer, heatsinks, DAC and connections together in a compact chassis while retaining rigid metal construction and an orderly internal layout.