The Emotiva BasX TA1 integrated amplifier and DAC is a one-box audio solution at a very competitive price. It features a phono stage, built in DAC, power amplifier and FM tuner.
Digital inputs include coaxial, optical and USB and this high performance class A/B amplifier also has a sub woofer output. Additionally the intuitive menu system can be controlled with the supplied remote control. Stream your favourite music services such as Tidal and Spotify.
Preamplifier and FM tuner
The phono preamplifier of the BasX TA1 supports both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges. Additionally, there is a built in FM tuner with 15 preset stations. Tone controls are provided. There are also analogue inputs for CD and Aux. Digital inputs include coaxial and optical as well as a high resolution asynchronous USB input for your PC or Mac. Finally there is an aptX HD capable Bluetooth receiver.
Operation and streaming
The built in DAC allows you to stream via Bluetooth and the comprehensive menu system can be controlled via the front panel controls or the supplied remote control. Wi-Fi allows you to connect to a home network. The renowned Analog Devices AD1955 24/192k DAC is used. Additionally, the dimmable bright blue display tells you what is happening at all times. Music Library software such as Roon is also supported.
On Board DAC
A Digital to Analogue Convertor is an essential part of any modern audio system. It converts the digital signal, from streaming, a CD or any other digital source, back into the original analogue audio Signal. There are three ways of obtaining a DAC, as a stand alone unit, as a DAC / Pre-amp combination, see the Emoitva BasX PT1, or as an integrated system, such as the TA1 discussed here.
Independent headphone amplifier
There is a separate headphone amplifier that is high current and directly coupled to the output. This high quality signal will drive your favourite headphones and the unit remembers the last used volume settings.
Power amplifier
The class A/B amplifier features an active crossover that allows a sub woofer to be connected. Class A/B is more efficient than class A but maintains the same sound quality. The power is 60w RMS into 8 Ohms, with a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHZ with a THD less than 0.02%. . The Hi-end fibreglass circuit boards are resistant to heat and warping. This ensures a long life along with the hi-grade capacitors.
Build quality
The built quality is high with a steel case that contains a toroidal transformer. The shielded transformer reduces magnetic fields. Additionally the digital circuitry is kept away from the amplifier section to reduce interference. The optimised circuit layout
improves sound quality by reducing distortion and creating a wide bandwidth. The double sided FR4 circuit boards have through hole plating and surface mount components in critical areas. Additionally, switching, volume control and tone control, with the TA1, is achieved in the analogue domain.
