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The AIYIMAT10 JAN5654 Tube Vacuum Preamplifier is a high-fidelity headphone amplifier that supports a wide range of headphones (16-300Ω) and features Bluetooth 5.0 for advanced audio decoding. With its OLED display and versatile connectivity options, it’s the ideal choice for audiophiles looking to enhance their home audio systems.
S**M
Versatile and Excellent, But With A Caveat for Headphones Users
In need of a DAC for a large (2000w) home audio system, I stumbled upon the various offerings by this company and like you, was intrigued by the specs, features, and price point. Being a longtime fan of vacuum tube audio, I was curious about the inclusion of tubes in the circuit, but remained skeptical. I opted for this model primarily for its features, but what sold me are the DAC and Op Amp chipsets, both of which are regarded in the industry as solid choices in pursuit of excellent quality audio. This gave cause for cautious optimism.The unit is easy to get up and running, the controls intuitive, the Bluetooth easy to pair if you go that route. For PC/Windows-USB users, a free downloadable Savi Audio ASIO driver for PC/Windows-USB connections (see manual) had things up and running in 24bit/48khz resolution in no time. The OLED display indicates the selected input mode and the resolution of the signal when S/PDIF inputs are used, which is very helpful. Included are a pair of matched NOS GE JAN5654 pentodes. I checked the voltage at the tube plates out of curiosity and was surprised when the meter indicated 100+VDC. Clearly, they are functional as advertised, as an audio buffer.Plugged into a power conditioner and integrated via USB or BT, the unit is dead quiet and performs flawlessly. The USB input delivers very good quality audio from the ESS Sabre DAC that is clear and detailed across the audio spectrum, providing a good soundstage and resolution at this price point. The BT input also produces very good results when linked to devices using the latest aptx codecs. The tube circuit can be toggled in and out via the remote control. When engaged, the tubes contribute just a touch of audible warmth to the signal. The effect is mild, being noticeable mostly with vocals and acoustic instruments.The headphone amp delivers plenty of volume and excellent audio quality, the treble and bass tonal adjustments providing ample range of adjustment, and I was able to listen comfortably for extended periods without fatigue. I did note however, that with my low impedance (32Ω) AKG K712 Pro studio headphones, some background noise was audible as was noted in another reviewer’s comment. This noise was completely absent when I switched to 300Ω Sennheiser HD6XX headphones. This phenomenon is not unique to the Aiyima T10, but is sometimes evident with similar devices (particularly portable ones) when using low impedance, high sensitivity headphones, so be mindful. Several remedies have been created in response. I was able to eliminate the noise fairly effectively with an inexpensive 3.5mm 80Ω earphone resistor designed specifically for this purpose (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FMG8144?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1), albeit with a nominal decrease in volume and presence. More expensive options include devices such as Ear Buddy and iFi IEMatch+. I experimented with the IEMatch ($40+), but I came away with a result not much improved upon the much cheaper resistor plug. In conclusion, if the Aiyima T10 will be used as a headphone amp, consider using quality high-impedance (e.g. 200-600Ω) headphones that are widely available, as they are a better impedance match and will provide a superior experience.In conclusion, this versatile device delivers solid audio quality without glaring flaws, and does so at an attractive price point. The Aiyima T10 performs as well or better than some DACs out there with larger price tags, and has the benefit of the switchable, pleasant tube-buffered audio feature. Given the quality and generous connectivity features at this price point, I feel it is a solid buy. I find it difficult to give this device anything less than five stars for my particular application as a preamp using USB and Bluetooth inputs. Headphones and IEM users should be mindful of my previous ceaveat on that subject.
D**S
A Great Product at a Great Price
I have an old tube integrated amp that I love but I needed something that I can use to stream and to run my TV stereo sound through. I didn't want anything too expensive, but wanted to be able to keep the rich sound of my tube amp. I researched a lot of Chi-Fi companies and Aiyima had some great reviews . The Tube T10 had great features, with everything I required, plus uses 2 tubes for output, which I was hoping would help keep the sound warm. I received my T10 and was surprised at how well made it is. It iOS small compact but much more solid than most of my Pro-Ject gear. Once plugged in and using the Bluetooth I was truly surprised at how great the music sounds. The remote has a button to directs the T10 to use tubes or not, and I like playing around with that. I definitely prefer the tube output for most of my music. I love that their are base and treble controls. My integrated amp doesn't have this either , so I can control the sound of my system much better now. I plugged any TV into the T10 using an optical cable and can now run my TV sound through my system. I love this little thing, and for the price you can't come close to beating it. I wiil definitely be looking at Aiyima for my future hi-fi needs.
C**Y
Really excellent sound qualities
I have this plugged into a laptop playing lossless files, then into an older tube amplifier, and out to a pair of Klipsch RP-600M II speakers. I had the original Schiit Modi, iFi Zen and Topping E30 II DAC’s acting as a preamp, but this little unit bests them all. Clarity, detail, soundstage, separation of instruments…all there, where the others were dull, flat and lifeless. While not a true tube preamp, engaging the tube buffer is a real treat. Even with really good equipment further downstream I don’t feel like I’m missing anything.
A**R
Quit working in a couple months!
I liked the way it sounded. I had heard Aiyima has good sounding gear. I bought it for the digital inputs so I could hook my tv up to my older receiver. It quit working after A couple months. I bought upgraded tubes for it as well. Now I'm out $220. Oh well live and learn no more CHI-FI for me!
J**I
Sounds better than the Topping DX3 pro plus
I wanted a DAC that could handle CDs, USB input from my laptop, and bluetooth for when others visit and want to play music from their phones. After looking around and reading reviews, I purchased the Topping DX3 pro plus. However, in my system I found it rather harsh on the upper midrange, even using a subwoofer to round out the bass.Tried it with all the inputs, but just couldn't get used to the harshness. I have custom bookshelf speakers (Acoustic suspension with air motion tweeters, designed myself with a crossover from Dayton Audio) and a subwoofer from Micca. Everything, but especially the CD coax input sounded jarring, harsh, and too forward.I sent it back and started looking at alternatives. Enter the Aiyima T10. As you might know, their A9 amp got rave reviews lately on several youtube channels. I don't need an amp (have a good one alreay) so I decided to try this. Its essentially a DAC and a headphone amp, with tubes.After using this with USB and Optical inputs from my CD player, I can say that the tubes it comes with don't color the sound much - but they do make it enjoyable to listen to. I might do some tube rolling, but they do the job fine so far. Bass is full, midrange is natural, and treble is not over-emphasized. This isn't the same level of smoothness I get from my turntable, and it won't rescue a poorly recorded CD from 1987, but for the money its a great entry level DAC that will bring your existing amp (and PC) into the world of streaming.
Trustpilot
2 months ago
3 days ago