The DA&T Xi-51 is a masterpiece of simplicity, performance, and design. By integrating a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), dual Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs), and dual amplifiers directly into the speakers, the Xi-51 eliminates the need for external components like amplifiers or processors. This all-in-one design simplifies setup while delivering optimal audio performance straight out of the box, with no calibration required. The result is uncompromising sound quality that meets the expectations of seasoned audiophiles yet remains approachable for beginners.
The Xi-51 supports four audio sources: coaxial, optical, analog, and optional Bluetooth. Adding Bluetooth functionality is as simple as inserting the BT-3 Dongle into the USB port on the back panel, enabling high-quality aptX HD streaming. Dual SPDIF coaxial outputs further enhance its versatility, allowing connection to a second Xi-51 for stereo setups or enabling daisy-chaining of multiple speakers to cover larger spaces. Each additional Xi-51 can connect to another Xi-51, ensuring seamless audio coverage in any environment.
Users can easily configure the system through back-panel toggle switches, setting master/slave relationships, left or right channels, or even a left + right summed output. The Xi-51 also features a built-in frequency response adjustment with three modes to adapt to different listening needs:
- Standard: Balanced for versatile, all-around listening.
- M1: Enhanced loudness for low-volume, nighttime listening.
- M2: Reduces frequencies below 60Hz, optimizing midrange and treble clarity for easy pairing with a subwoofer.
Advanced 32-Bit Volume Processing with D.D.S. Technology
The DA&T Xi-51 leverages cutting-edge D.D.S. (Direct Digital System) technology to deliver exceptional audio performance. By upsampling signals to 32bit/384kHz, the system eliminates distortion, minimizes interference, and reduces noise through digital volume processing, bypassing traditional analog circuitry. This results in an outstanding dynamic range of 130dB, providing pristine clarity and fidelity.
A sophisticated DSP digital crossover system in the Xi-51 further enhances performance by utilizing over 100 precise crossover points between the tweeter and woofer. With steep transitions and phase-accurate processing, the system achieves seamless sound integration across all frequencies, ensuring a cohesive and natural listening experience.
The Xi-51 features an intuitive touch panel on top, illuminated by blue stepping LED lights to indicate the current volume settings. When set to master mode, users can adjust the volume directly by touching the +/- controls on the panel. In slave mode, the blue LEDs for volume are disabled, and only a red LED indicates power status.
Volume adjustments are optimized to follow the human ear loudness curve, offering smoother and more natural changes at each step. For those who demand even greater precision, the optional Xi-RF remote controller allows for more accurate adjustments, with each button press corresponding to a precise +/- 1dB change.
Superior Amplification Technology and Custom-Engineered Drivers
The Xi-51 stands out with DA&T's renowned amplification technology, offering unparalleled clarity and dynamic sound reproduction:
- Dual DAC Modules: Digital signals are accurately converted to analog and routed to dedicated amplifiers.
- Independent Amplifiers: Each speaker features two amplifiers—a 75-watt unit for the tweeter and a 150-watt unit for the woofer.
- Minimized Signal Path: A compact 30 cm analog path minimizes distortion and ensures impeccable signal integrity.
The amplification system mimics the performance of high-end Bi-Amp and Mono-Mono systems, achieving a dynamic range of up to 105dB with pristine sound and minimal distortion. It seamlessly integrates with custom-designed drivers. The 1-inch tweeter and 5-inch mid-bass woofer are exclusively crafted for the Xi-51, meticulously engineered to harmonize with the amplifiers, enclosure, and internal circuitry. For example, the woofer underwent 16 prototype iterations, fine-tuned during development to achieve optimal sound quality.
The Xi-51 underwent rigorous three-year testing in ISO-compliant anechoic chambers at EATD, Taiwan’s largest electroacoustic laboratory. This extensive process ensures the Xi-51 meets the highest standards and guarantees precise frequency response control, accurate phase alignment, and optimized low-frequency performance.
Unlimited Expansion and Dedicated Bass Module Xi-82
The Xi-51 offers exceptional flexibility, with each unit capable of being configured as the left channel, right channel, or left + right sum. In a stereo setup, where one speaker functions as the left channel and the other as the right channel, this configurability is essential. Since each Xi-51 speaker is identical, assigning the correct position—left or right—is crucial for generating an accurate and immersive soundstage.
The left + right sum configuration is ideal for background music playback, requiring only a single Xi-51 speaker to deliver balanced and satisfying sound in smaller spaces. For larger environments, such as a car showroom or an exhibition hall, multiple Xi-51 speakers can be daisy-chained via their coaxial outputs. The master/slave control allows for easy volume adjustments across all connected units, ensuring a cohesive audio experience in every corner of the space.
The Xi-51 delivers remarkable bass performance for its size, however, for those who demand even greater power and full-range performance, the Xi-82 bass module is the perfect addition. Designed to extend low-frequency response down to 20Hz, the Xi-82 transforms the Xi-51 into a commanding floorstanding system with deep, impactful, and authoritative bass. The Xi-82 is crafted with precision and manufactured on demand—please contact us for availability.
Exquisite Bentwood Craftsmanship with Bamboo Elegance
The cabinet of the Xi-51, along with its companion Xi-82 bass module, is crafted using a meticulous curved woodcraft process, known as bentwood craftsmanship. Thin wood layers are steamed, bent, and laminated to create the elegantly curved structure. This method not only enhances the cabinet’s external appearance but also provides superior strength compared to conventional MDF cabinets. The curved woodcraft is typically reserved for premium furniture due to its labor-intensive nature and higher production costs, underscoring the Xi-51’s commitment to quality and aesthetics.
The surface is finished with a bamboo veneer, giving the speaker a refined and natural look inspired by Nordic furniture design. The lightweight and rigid construction minimizes sound wave diffraction, resulting in a wide, immersive stereo soundstage with clear imaging. The Xi-51’s cabinet is not only durable and resistant to torsion but also able to withstand high sound pressure levels, ensuring vivid and pleasing sound reproduction. Its seamless integration into various interior styles makes it both a functional and visually stunning addition to any space.
Thoughtful Design for Optimal System Performance
DA&T made a deliberate choice to design the Xi-51 without a direct USB input. Instead, the optional C16 USB-to-Coaxial Digital Converter (DDC) serves as a dedicated bridge, converting USB signals to coaxial for integration with the Xi-51. Why opt for an external DDC? This thoughtful decision addresses practical challenges, including USB length limitations, speaker placement flexibility, and the need to protect the Xi-51 from the source device's complex, noisy ground and significant electromagnetic interference (EMI).
The C16 features an exclusive ground isolation circuit, which effectively breaks the ground connection, shielding the Xi-51 from interference. On one end, it connects to the source device via a compliant USB cable and, on the other, to a 75-ohm coaxial cable that supports long-distance transmission of over 20 meters. This setup ensures the Xi-51 operates independently of any interference, delivering clean, high-quality sound. With both USB-B and USB-C ports built-in, the C16 can also connect easily to mobile devices, supporting PCM 384kHz/32bit and Dop 128 playback.
For users not requiring USB, the Xi-51’s SPDIF inputs are already widely compatible with streamers like iFi Zen Stream or WiiM Series, making it easy to connect. Pairing the Xi-51 with these streamers transforms the system into a full-featured audio setup, supporting Tidal, Spotify, DLNA, NAA, and ROON.
