xDuoo TA-20, the disappointment

Hello all,

I have also just got the TA-20 and I am facing some volume issue and wondering if someone can help.

I am feeding it with the Topping DX7 Pro and when I use RCA, the unit works as expected, but when I use XLR, the volume is way too low and even at full volume I can barely hear anything (it also sound like the sound is recessed somehow). I am currently using 1/4 output and the 4pin XLR cable is on its way.

What do you think the problem might be?

Is the dx7 pro set to variable volume mode on xlr?

Yes it is on variable volume mode set at max volume

Hmm I wonder if it’s because you are using unbalanced headphones, perhaps it might change when you go balanced headphones wise (some volume might be lost in converting to unbalanced inside the xduoo from balanced)

Maybe… I am hoping the balanced cable will resolve the problem. Waiting for that to be delivered at the moment.

I know this is stupid, but are you using the correct input on the front? You have to choose the balanced input vs Aux1/Aux2.

Yes I have checked all different inputs. AUX 1 and 2 with RCA in works with normal volume, but XLR input has the volume issue.

Did you buy new or used?

I bought a new unit.

Also, I have tested the RCA out also works with the XLR in, just not the phone out from the front. Is there a way to confirm whether something is defective or I am setting up something wrong.

Pretty hard to set up wrong. You have two RCA’s and one XLR in. Then you must pick the correct input on the front. Lastly, you then insert a 1/4" or XLR headphone cable and start listening.

If it doesn’t work, I would contact the seller.

Did you fix your problem?

I just bought the TA-20 and I hope I don’t have any of the issues reported hear. I did at the same time get a couple of JJ replacement tubes which should be better than the cheap stock tubes these tend to have.

Most of the reviews I’ve seen said it’s a good amp, well except on the ASR forum but that’s to be expected over there. :wink:

I can say that my TA-20 sounds great and pairs very well with my iFi Neo and my Z1R and AP2000ti sounds awesome with it. The soundstage is larger on both headphones along with added bass impact and presence. When the tubes I ordered get here I can really see how the TA-20 sounds because the stock tubes while fine aren’t as good as ones I ordered.

Hello,
Is it a Good amp for the Lcd 2 C and Fostex Tr x00 phone?
Or give it better?

I would be connect to the Singxer Sda 2 in the balance output from them,and would go out to the XLR from the Amp,because all my phones have a Xlr cabel on it.

How did you remove the stock tubes in the TA-20?
I’ve pulled up, twisted, wiggled, but they don’t come out.
Thanks in advance

I just pull up and kind of wiggle them at the same time, they are in there tight but if you pull hard enough they’ll come out.

If you’re looking for some really good tubes to use these GE military stock tubes I found and they sound great and are noticeably better than all the other tubes I’ve bought for the TA-20. They were a bit pricey at $100 (the Platinum grade ones) for the pair but imo it was well worth it.

here’s the link if want a pair,

Thanks for the info. On your recommendation and after watching the video on Upscale Audio’s website, I placed an order for the GE tubes - thank you.

Good call, they really do give the amp that little extra SQ it needs imo.

Today I FINALLY swapped the stock tubes in my TA-20 to the Genalex Gold Lion tubes. I’ve had them for quite a while now, but I’ve been kinda chicken to do it! I was afraid I would break something. But today I just got over myself and did it!

This is a near perfectly matched set and Man, what a difference over the stock tubes. Don’t get me wrong, the stock tubes (I don’t know what kind they are, I don’t recognize the logo on them) weren’t bad at all. in fact they sounded pretty friggin good. But these are definitely a step and a half above.

They provide better low end punch, better tonality overall and so much more clarity and detail. There is also an improved spatial quality to the music and better separation of instruments. And all the while there is still that beautiful bit of warmth and mid bliss. I’m really impressed. I didn’t think there was going to be this much of an improvement. I have fallen for this amp all over again. It may not be full-on tube, but damn it’s good. I’ve got the Sundara’s on now and it’s incredible. I’m not getting that reported hiss others have reported. This thing has been solid since I got it. Two thumbs way up. Viva la Genalex!

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