Rotel DX-5 – Compact Integrated Hi-Fi Amplifier with ESS DAC and HDMI ARC

The Rotel DX-5 is a high-performance integrated amplifier designed to deliver genuine Hi-Fi reproduction in a particularly compact format. At just 215 mm wide, it combines Class AB analogue amplification, a high-current toroidal transformer manufactured by Rotel, a 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC and a comprehensive selection of digital and analogue connections.

Delivering 25 W per channel into 8 Ohms and up to 33 W per channel into 4 Ohms, the DX-5 is designed for systems where space is limited but build quality, control and sound quality remain priorities.

Rotel Class AB Amplification

Despite its compact dimensions, the DX-5 uses a genuine Class AB amplification architecture, powered by a high-current toroidal transformer manufactured in-house to Rotel's specifications.

The power amplifier section uses high-current output transistors in a push-pull configuration, delivering 25 W per channel into 8 Ohms and a maximum output of 33 W per channel into 4 Ohms.

A damping factor of 140 contributes to precise loudspeaker control, while total harmonic distortion below 0.03% helps preserve the transparency and integrity of the musical signal.

32-bit ESS ES9039Q2M DAC

Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by the ESS ES9039Q2M Sabre DAC, a high-performance solution designed to provide low noise, high precision and a spacious, detailed sonic presentation.

This digital section allows the DX-5 to serve as the centre of a modern Hi-Fi system, accepting digital sources directly via USB, coaxial, optical, HDMI ARC or Bluetooth.

PC-USB up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD256

The PC-USB Audio Class 2.0 input supports PCM signals up to 32-bit/384 kHz, allowing compatible computers to be connected directly to the amplifier's internal DAC.

DSD up to 11.2 MHz (DSD256) is also supported, together with DoP up to 5.6 MHz.

HDMI ARC for TV Integration

The HDMI ARC connection makes it easy to integrate the DX-5 into a home entertainment system, receiving audio from a compatible television through a single HDMI cable.

This allows the same loudspeaker system used for music to provide higher-quality sound for films, television, series and games.

Bluetooth with aptX™ HD and AAC

For convenient use with smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, the DX-5 features Bluetooth with aptX™ HD and AAC.

This provides convenient wireless music playback while keeping the Hi-Fi system independent of any particular streaming application or platform.

Coaxial and Optical Digital Inputs

The coaxial and optical S/PDIF digital inputs support LPCM signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz, allowing CD players, streamers, televisions and other compatible digital sources to be connected.

Analogue Input

In addition to its extensive digital connectivity, the Rotel DX-5 includes an RCA analogue input, allowing a conventional line-level source to be integrated into the system.

Subwoofer Output

A dedicated SUB output makes it easy to integrate an active subwoofer, allowing the creation of a compact 2.1 system with greater low-frequency extension and impact.

Roon Tested

The Rotel DX-5 is Roon Tested, confirming that Rotel and Roon have worked together to verify compatibility for use within the Roon ecosystem through a compatible source.

Compact Format

At just 215 mm wide, 76 mm high and 251 mm deep, the DX-5 occupies approximately half the width of a conventional Hi-Fi component.

Its compact format makes it particularly attractive for desktop systems, rooms where space is limited or installations where discreet styling is required without sacrificing genuine Hi-Fi amplification.

Key Features

• Compact integrated Hi-Fi amplifier
• Class AB amplification
• 25 W per channel into 8 Ohms
• 33 W per channel into 4 Ohms
• High-current toroidal transformer manufactured by Rotel
• High-current output transistors in push-pull configuration
• 32-bit ESS ES9039Q2M Sabre DAC
• PC-USB Audio Class 2.0
• PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz via PC-USB
• DSD up to 11.2 MHz / DSD256
• DoP up to 5.6 MHz
• Coaxial and optical digital inputs up to 24-bit/192 kHz
• HDMI ARC
• Bluetooth with aptX™ HD and AAC
• RCA analogue input
• Dedicated subwoofer output
• Roon Tested
• Remote control included
• Available in Black or Silver

Technical Specifications

Type: Integrated Amplifier
Amplification: Class AB
FTC Power Output: 25 W per channel
Continuous Power Output: 25 W per channel into 8 Ohms
Maximum Power Output: 33 W per channel into 4 Ohms
Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.03%
Intermodulation Distortion: <0.03%
Analogue Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 100 kHz (0 ±0.19 dB)
Damping Factor: 140 (20 Hz – 20 kHz, 8 Ohms)
Input Sensitivity / Impedance: 680 mV / 100 kOhms
Input Overload: 4.2 V
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >100 dB

DAC: ESS ES9039Q2M Sabre, 32-bit
PC-USB: USB Audio Class 2.0
PC-USB Resolution: Up to 32-bit/384 kHz
DSD: Up to DSD256 / 11.2 MHz
DoP: Up to 5.6 MHz
S/PDIF Inputs: Coaxial and Optical
S/PDIF Resolution: LPCM up to 24-bit/192 kHz
HDMI: ARC
Bluetooth: aptX™ HD and AAC
Certification: Roon Tested

Analogue Input: RCA
Subwoofer Output: Yes
Loudspeaker Outputs: Yes

Power Supply Europe: 230 V / 50 Hz
Power Consumption: 80 W
Standby Power Consumption: <0.5 W
Dimensions (W × H × D): 215 × 76 × 251 mm
Front Panel Height: 70 mm
Weight: 4.1 kg
Finishes: Black or Silver

In the Box

• Rotel DX-5
• Remote control
• Power cable
• Documentation