Musical Fidelity has introduced the X-Tube, a sleek cylindrical device designed to enhance audio with the warmth of tube technology. Featuring a tube output buffer powered by two E88CC triode tubes, the X-Tube produces a sound that is highly regarded by audiophiles, as noted by its creators. The manufacturer claims that this device significantly enhances the audio quality of digital sources, particularly those in the budget category that typically rely on basic chip designs.
Musical Fidelity X-Tube
According to Musical Fidelity, the X-Tube brings back the beloved X-profile design first introduced with the Musical Fidelity X10D tube output buffer. This design has become a hallmark of the brand, known for its compactness, innovation and musicality. The X-Tube not only maintains the legacy of the X10D, but improves upon it with modern advancements.
The X-Tube enclosure is constructed from a one-piece aluminum extrusion cylindrical chassis, also for superior shielding against electromagnetic interference. The brushed aluminum faceplate is not only for aesthetics, but also contributes to a clean, durable construction.
The Musical Fidelity X-Tube’s engineering is based around the use of two E88CC triode tubes, a configuration that allows for a single-ended signal path. According to the makers, this design offers several key advantages over traditional solid-state components, including faster transient response and better handling of dynamic volume changes. Additionally, tubes inherently have a higher input impedance than solid-state devices, resulting in superior impedance matching. This ensures that your source components and amplifier work together seamlessly, with minimal signal loss and optimal power transfer.
For many audiophiles and music lovers, the appeal of tube sound is undeniable. The Musical Fidelity X-Tube brings the best of tube technology into a compact, easy-to-integrate design. Tubes are prized for their ability to create a sound that feels more organic and emotionally engaging, thanks to their emphasis on even harmonics. In plain English, tubes add a small amount of distortion to the signal, but this distortion is perceived as pleasant.
