Overdrive SX

About the Overdrive SX

The Empirical Audio Overdrive SX is a third-generation USB DAC and preamplifier that offers a breakthrough in sound quality. It features 16 Hynes-technology regulators tailored for specific applications, an ultra-simple pure Class-A analog signal path, and a fully balanced analog output stage with point-to-point silver wiring. The DAC uses a Sigma-Delta modulator architecture but achieves the live sound quality of NOS and R2R tube DACs without tubes, providing superior accuracy and dynamics. It supports PCM formats up to 24-bit/192kHz via USB or Ethernet interfaces, coaxial S/PDIF, and I2S inputs. The device includes selectable digital filters (low, medium, high) to optimize sound quality and a volume control with low noise and distortion. The Overdrive SX is praised for its extremely low jitter, low noise floor, wide and deep soundstage, and precise imaging. It also incorporates a preamp function superior to most external preamps. The DAC outputs are available in RCA and XLR with selectable output levels. The unit is powered by a fast-reacting hybrid power supply with dedicated regulators and uses high-quality output coupling capacitors such as V-Caps, Sonicap Platinums, or Duelunds. The Overdrive SX received the "Best Bits" designation from Audiostream.com in 2018 and is recognized for its exceptional detail retrieval and lifelike presence in both timbre and dynamics. It does not support DSD playback. The product is manufactured and sold directly by Empirical Audio in the USA.