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Balanced output isn’t just a technical upgrade; it completely transforms the way you experience music. By giving the left and right channels their own dedicated signal paths, balanced audio virtually eliminates noise and interference. That means a cleaner, quieter background where every note and subtle detail stands out with stunning clarity.
For serious headphones, the HXL’s 4.4mm balanced output delivers the extra power and control needed to drive high-impedance or studio-grade models with ease. The result is deeper, tighter bass, incredible dynamics, and a wider, more precise soundstage that makes it feel like you’re sitting in the room with the artist. Once you hear your favorite songs through balanced audio, you won’t want to go back.

Wired headphones aren’t just a throwback, they’re a choice for better sound, greater control, and less digital fatigue. With no compression or signal lag, they deliver clean, full-resolution audio that’s more detailed and easier on your ears at lower volumes. It’s why more DJs, creators, and everyday listeners are making the switch back.
The HXL takes that one step further with true balanced output. Dual DACs and a 4.4mm jack give each channel its own path, cutting noise and crosstalk for pinpoint imaging and a wider soundstage. Whether you’re editing, producing, or just riding the train, it brings your music into focus and makes every track hit harder, sound clearer, and feel more alive.

The Audioengine HXL may fit in the palm of your hand, but it delivers the kind of sound you’d expect from high-end desktop equipment. Housed in an anodized aluminum case, it’s built to last while staying portable. Built-in headphone jacks flatten and dull your music, but the HXL brings every track to life with incredible clarity, depth, and detail. Whether you’re pushing powerful studio headphones or streaming your favorite playlists at home, it unlocks layers of sound you’ve been missing, making every listen feel brand new. Once you hear it, you’ll never settle for ordinary audio again.

The Audioengine HXL packs massive performance into a size small enough to slip into your laptop bag. Powered directly by your device through USB-C, it’s always ready to deliver incredible sound without the hassle of charging. Inside, dual DACs, balanced output, and a precision 60-step digital volume control work together to unlock the full potential of your headphones. Whether you’re driving demanding studio cans or simply upgrading your daily listening, the HXL makes every track sound richer, clearer, and more alive. Just plug in and press play, no apps, no drivers, no barriers between you and the music you love.

The Audioengine HXL keeps things simple so you can focus on the music. Powered directly through a single USB-C connection, it’s always ready to go, no batteries to charge, no extra cords to deal with. Just plug it in and get pure, powerful sound wherever you are, whether you’re at home, on the go, or in the studio.
The HXL includes a headphone amplifier based on the LME49726 delivers 32-bit precision, high dynamic range and ultra low distortion. This headphone amp is able to provide low-impedance, high-fidelity audio to a wide range of wired headphones.
DAC type
USB-C
Input
USB-C audio
DAC Chipset
SA9312 + Dual CS43131
USB transfer mode
Asynchronous dual clock
USB device class
UAC 2.0
Input bit depth
32 bit
Input sample rate
PCM: Up to 32-bit / 384kHz
DSD: DSD64 / DSD128 (DoP), DSD256 (Native)
Output
3.5mm and Balanced 4.4mm
Full-scale output level
2.06Vrms @ 600Ω (3.5mm)
4.09Vrms @ BAL
Output impedance
<0.5Ω
Recommended headphone impedance range
10Ω – 600Ω
Headphone amplifier
LME49726
Frequency response
20Hz – 40kHz ±0.1dB
SNR
132dB (BAL), 125dB (3.5mm)
THD+N
0.0002% (112dB)
Crosstalk
-129dB (BAL), -96dB (3.5mm)
Power requirement
Standby: ~75mA
Active: ~120mA (Pink noise @ 50%, 32-bit 384kHz)
Product dimensions
48 × 15 × 10 mm
Shipping weight
1.0lbs (0.5kg)
Environmental
Operating Temperature: 32 to 95 degrees F
Non-operating Temp: -4 to 113 degrees F
Relative Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing
Included accessories
USB-C to Lightning adapter and USB-C to USB-C cable
Setup guide
Other Components:
External low-noise crystal oscillator
Low jitter PLL internal clock
Low noise LDO regulator
Asynchronous mode operation
LED Playback Indicators
• Red: Power / PCM 48kHz
• Green: PCM 88.2 – 96kHz
• Yellow: PCM 176 – 384kHz
• Blue: DSD64 / DSD128 / DSD256
Pocket-Sized Power
The compact design of the HXL makes it easy to take anywhere while delivering serious performance. Built from precision-machined aluminum, it’s rugged enough for travel and clean enough for your desktop, proving that portable gear doesn’t have to compromise on quality.
Dual Headphone Outputs
The HXL includes both 3.5mm and 4.4mm balanced outputs, giving you flexibility for everything from sensitive in-ear monitors to demanding studio headphones. Balanced output delivers more headroom, tighter bass, and a quieter noise floor for a true hi-fi listening experience.
No Batteries, No Charging
Forget about managing extra power cords or waiting for a charge. The HXL draws power directly from your phone, tablet, or computer through a single USB-C connection, keeping your setup clean and ready to play at a moment’s notice.
Upgrade Any Audio Source
Bypassing the built-in sound card of your computer or mobile device, the HXL acts as a high-quality DAC and headphone amplifier in one. Use it to power headphones or connect directly to powered speakers or a Home Music System for a clear, detailed upgrade to any setup.
Simple, Hassle-Free Operation
No drivers. No apps. No setup headaches. Just plug the HXL into your device and start listening. LED indicators clearly display playback resolution, and the onboard 60-step volume control gives you precision without adding bulk or complexity.
HXL can easily drive wired headphones with impedances of 10 ohms or higher.
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How a pair of music-loving tech veterans set out to create reasonably priced speakers that are good-looking, easy to use, and, most important, sound amazing.
Listen Your Way – Yotpo photo gallery renders here via ACF field
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