Monoprice
Monoprice 138967 Liquid Gold Balanced Headphone Amplifier DAC
★★★★★
Audiophile-Grade Sound Quality for Discerning ListenersThe Monolith Liquid Gold X is a balanced headphone amplifier and DAC designed by Alex Cavalli. Delivering audiophile-grade sound quality, this amplifier provides a powerful and immersive listening experience. Balanced and Single-Ended Outpu...
$791.99*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.
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Overview
Audiophile-Grade Sound Quality for Discerning Listeners
The Monolith Liquid Gold X is a balanced headphone amplifier and DAC designed by Alex Cavalli. Delivering audiophile-grade sound quality, this amplifier provides a powerful and immersive listening experience.
- Balanced and Single-Ended Outputs:Offers versatile connectivity options.
- AKM AK4493EQ DAC:Delivers high-resolution audio decoding.
- Solid State Amplifier:Provides clean and powerful amplification.
- Microprocessor Controlled:Ensures precise and stable operation.
Key Features
Solid State Amplifier : Balanced design. Ultra high power. The Liquid Gold X is a fully differential, balanced, current feedback, solid state amplifier with an approximate full output power of 3.6 watts per channel into a 50-ohm load. The amplifier is microprocessor controlled using precision A-to-D and D-to-A conversions to manage and monitor the runtime behavior of all critical aspects of the circuitry.
AKM AK4493EQ DAC: Detailed sound. Exceptional musicality. The AKM AK4493 is AKM's new flagship 32-bit stereo premium DAC. It supports PCM inputs up to 768kHz and a Direct Stream Digital (DSD) input of 2.8/5.6/11.2 (maximum) MHz, the industry's highest level. An internal circuit employs a newly developed 32-bit digital filter for the ultimate in sound quality and musicality.
Balanced and Single-Ended Headphone Outputs: With multiple inputs and outputs for balanced and single-ended operation and easy front panel input selection, the Liquid Gold X is compatible with just about everything.
Versatile Inputs: Digital or Analog — We've Got You Covered: The Liquid Gold X amplifier features both single-ended and balanced analog inputs, as well as USB, Coaxial, and Optical digital inputs to support all your connectivity needs.
4x and 6x gain settings and an approximate full output power of 3.6 watts per channel into a 50-ohm load.
Specifications
Amplifier Type
Solid State, Balanced, Current Feedback
Output Power
3.6 watts per channel into a 50-ohm load
DAC Chip
AKM AK4493EQ
DAC Support (PCM)
Up to 768kHz
DAC Support (DSD)
2.8/5.6/11.2 MHz (maximum)
Digital Filter
Newly developed 32-bit
Headphone Outputs
Balanced and Single-Ended
Analog Inputs
Single-Ended and Balanced
Digital Inputs
USB, Coaxial, Optical
Gain Settings
4x and 6x
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- Experience exceptional audio fidelity and musicality through the AKM AK4493EQ DAC, supporting high-resolution audio formats.
- Benefit from the ultra-high power, fully differential, balanced solid-state amplifier design for robust sound delivery.
- Achieve precise audio management with a microprocessor-controlled amplifier, monitoring critical circuit aspects.
- Enjoy broad compatibility with multiple balanced and single-ended headphone outputs and versatile digital and analog inputs.
- Utilize the flexible 4x and 6x gain settings to match various headphone impedances and preferences.
👎 Cons
- The amplifier's specific output power of 3.6 watts per channel into a 50-ohm load might be excessive for highly sensitive headphones.
- The focus on high-end audio might mean a premium price point, which could be a barrier for casual listeners.
- While versatile, the range of digital inputs may not cover every niche audio interface.
- The advanced features like microprocessor control might make troubleshooting more complex for less technically inclined users.
- The physical size and weight of a solid-state amplifier and DAC of this caliber might be less portable than smaller audio devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of DAC chip is used in the Monoprice Liquid Gold X?
The Monoprice Liquid Gold X features an AKM AK4493EQ DAC, which is described as AKM's new flagship 32-bit stereo premium DAC.
How powerful is the headphone amplifier section of this device?
The amplifier provides an approximate full output power of 3.6 watts per channel into a 50-ohm load, making it ultra-high power.
Can this DAC handle high-resolution audio formats?
Yes, the AKM AK4493EQ DAC supports PCM inputs up to 768kHz and DSD inputs of 2.8/5.6/11.2 MHz, the industry's highest level.
Does this amplifier support both balanced and single-ended headphones?
Yes, it features both balanced and single-ended headphone outputs, offering broad compatibility with various headphone types.
What input options are available for connecting audio sources to the Liquid Gold X?
The Liquid Gold X amplifier provides versatile input options including single-ended and balanced analog inputs, as well as USB, Coaxial, and Optical digital inputs.
Are there adjustable gain settings on this amplifier?
Yes, the amplifier offers 4x and 6x gain settings to accommodate different headphones and listening preferences.
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