XDUOO MH-O2 Headphone Tube Amplifier with DAC.

MatAudiophiles​

When music flows in your veins, choose a good guide!

xDuoo MH-02​

xDuoo MH-02
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Preludium:
xDuoo is a brand that constantly follows its own rhythm, it became famous primarily as a manufacturer of affordable and very good-sounding headphone amplifiers. However, for some time now it has also become the author of many iconic products such as xDuoo Link 2 bal, or XD05pro or my favorite xDuoo poke II. Of course, this is not the only area in which xDuoo can say a lot. In addition to portable audio, they have many stationary solutions to their credit, including the great xDuoo MT-602 headphone amplifier or the very interesting and good stationary DAC MU-601. xDuoo MH-02 is a novelty and a preview of another new product line. It is a hybrid amplifier based on two 6j1 tubes in the preamplifier section and a solid transistor system in class A, on the DAC side we have a stand-alone CS43131 chip. Importantly, the whole thing was priced at a decent 149 USD.

Unboxing:
As for the device itself, it is packed in a larger box, in which we will find the device itself, which we will get to in a moment, as well as a dedicated 12V/2A power supply and a USB-USB C cable with an adapter from a large jack to a 3.5mm jack. The latter addition is unnecessary because on the output side of the device itself we will find a 6.5mm, 4.4mm and 3.5mm output. This time we also have a gain adjustment button based on the +12 and +18dB option. In addition to the possibility of replacing the built-in tubes, we also have an RCA preamplifier line output and an RCA line input. I was right, I missed the balance on the input side, but this is not a problem in this price range. On the front we will also find a neat volume knob and stylish backlight. The device itself is made of gray metal and is really relatively small.



Sound:
For my tests, I used the EarMEn PSU-3 linear power supply, for comparisons I used the xDuoo mu601 and mh602. I used Tidal and a playlist with popular music. On the headphones side, these were: HifiMan Sundara, OlloAudio s5x, Dunu falcon ultra.

DAC/AMP:

Low tones: Low tones retain the general character of tube amplifiers, they are full and massive. The sound of the lower range offered by the xDuoo MH-02 is engaging and warm. It is not as dense and smooth as in the case of fully tube models. However, thanks to the use of transistors, the amount of detail transmitted in the lower range is much greater and, importantly, the dynamics gain significantly. We have a solid and massive sound base offering a lot of emotions and information, and at the same time we will not lack dynamics or a fast dynamic impact. The xDuoo MH-02 is a device that can easily keep up with modern music and will work well regardless of the chosen music genre.

Mid tones: The midrange is something that makes the xDuoo MH-02 extremely attractive. Not only do we get a warm, somewhat analog sound with an unusually natural and exciting timbre, but above all it is full of details and nuances. As a rule, pure tube amplifiers do not offer such good results. Of course, this is an entry-level amplifier, but comparing it in this budget with other designs based on a pure tube, I consider the use of a hybrid solution to be a very good move. The vocals are natural and full of emotions with a beautiful texture and smooth sound. The sound stage offers considerable depth and decent width. Although the separation of instruments is at a slightly lower level than in the case of devices based only on transistors, thanks to playing around the head, the xDuoo MH-02 creates a natural and realistic presentation. The purity of the signal depends on the headphones used, with in-ear models we will catch some noise, but in the case of the HifiMan sundara this problem did not occur at all.

High tones: This frequency range is creamy and smooth, this is actually the area where we can feel the purity and smoothness of the use of tubes in the preamplifier section the most. At the same time, thanks to the use of a good combination of the analog section based on transistors and tubes, we do not lose details and information. A lot depends on the tubes used and thanks to the option of trouble-free tube replacement, we can tune the sound to our own needs. At the same time, the xDuoo MH-02 in the basic configuration offers a dense and massive sound that can engage and encourage listening.

DAC/PRE:
The xDuoo MH-02 always works as a tube preamplifier, adding a large dose of fun and warmth to our system. It fits perfectly into colder music systems, offering a warm and more emotional sound with colored tuning. In the case of warmer systems, we can gain analog and tube coloration, which can result in an even greater dose of musicality. At the same time, we have full access to the volume control and can control our system from the xDuoo MH-02.

AMP:
As a standalone headphone amplifier, the xDuoo MH-02 offers a strong and analog sound with a neutral tonal coloration, it is not as dark as the TA01-B from xDuoo or as bright as the MT-602. I would rate its color as more analog and natural, which is not a common phenomenon in equipment of this class. Importantly, the xDuoo MH-02 scales great with better DAC systems such as the EarMen tradutto. There was no problem with R2R systems, both with my FiiO K11R2R and HifiMan EF600 it got along great, offering a coherent and smooth sound.

Comparisons:

xDuoo MH-02 (149USD) VS xDuoo MT-602 (99USD)

xDuoo MT-602 is primarily a stand-alone amplifier without a sound card function, for the purposes of this comparison I connected it to MU-601, a dedicated DAC from xDuoo. Interestingly, in terms of sound, the MT-602 offers a brighter sound and much more directed towards the exposure of high tones. xDuoo MH-02 is a less bright sound, and much more focused on a stronger and more analog sound, which is closer to the TA-01B.

xDuoo MH-02 (149USD) VS FiiO K11 (120USD)

FiiO K11 offers more connectivity options and cannot function as a stand-alone headphone amplifier. In terms of sound, it offers a more technical and clinical tuning, with a cooler and less warm sound signature. The xDuoo MH-02 is a completely different sound, tilted 180 degrees towards warmth and analogue, much closer to the K11R2R, but the tuning is more detailed and less warm than what we can find in the K11R2R. Returning to the classic K11 from FiiO, it will be an excellent choice for lovers of technical sound with a highly detailed tone. While the xDuoo MH-02 will delight lovers of warmth and dense tube sound. Both devices are outstanding in their price categories and should be obligatory listened to in a budget of up to USD 200.

xDuoo MH-02 ( USD 149) VS Fosi Audio SK2 ( USD 99)

The Fosi Audio SK2 is a device much less demanding in terms of power supply, all we need is a USB C socket, which makes it more mobile and compact, the dimensions of the device also indicate the same. SK2 offers a preamplifier line output and a 3.5mm and 4.4mm bal. In terms of sound, SK2 is slightly more technical, more focused on extracting details. At the same time, xDuoo MH-02 offers greater functionality and can act as a standalone amplifier, presents a more analog and fuller sound. However, it has too much power for very sensitive in-ear headphones and is dedicated rather to on-ear models. In the case of IEM headphones, Fosi SK2 offers lower amplification, which may be more desirable. Importantly, in terms of warmth and analog approach to sound, the xDuoo MH-02 certainly comes out better thanks to the presence of tubes. Both devices are absolutely great and each offers excellent sound tailored to individual needs. Therefore, I encourage you to try both and choose the one that best suits your taste.

Summary:
The xDuoo MH-02 is an excellent all-in-one device. It works great both as an entry-level hybrid amplifier and as a fully independent DAC/AMP for most headphones. If you have slightly more demanding headphones, they will definitely gain a lot from connecting them to the xDuoo MH-02. If someone like me loves warm and pleasant sound, and at the same time does not want to give up on details and technical aspects, then the xDuoo MH-02 will definitely find something for themselves. Importantly, the natural and smooth tuning that the xDuoo MH-02 offers us is something that will bring a lot of listening pleasure to every music lover or music enthusiast. We also have all the most popular headphone outputs on board, including balanced 4.4mm. The device itself is compact and easily fits on a desk. Thanks to the possibility of replacing the tubes or connecting a better power supply, we can even further tune the sound to our own needs, which makes the xDuoo MH-02 even more universal. That’s why I think the xDuoo MH-02 is a leader in terms of cost-effectiveness for those looking for tube sound and don’t want to invest a fortune. In my opinion, the xDuoo MH-02 offers an excellent price-quality ratio, which is not so obvious. The market is full of cheap tube amplifiers, but in the case of xDuoo, I am always sure that the devices they offer are not only practical, but also safe for our headphones. Additionally, they offer great and engaging sound. The xDuoo MH-02 made a huge impression on me and presented an excellent level of sound. That’s why I recommend and encourage you to listen to the xDuoo MH-02 yourself. Importantly, the implemented DAC section is so good that I can safely risk saying that the xDuoo MH-02 is practically a complete.

In the crowded jungle of audio gear, finding the sweet spot between that beloved tube warmth and the muscle of solid-state power can feel like hunting for a unicorn. But fear not—enter the xDuoo MH-02, a Class-A hybrid headphone amp that’s here to deliver the best of both worlds. With a compact frame and a mighty 1300mW of output at 32Ω, it’s more than capable of satisfying even the pickiest audiophiles. and let’s not forget the vintage vibe, thanks to those charming 6J1 tubes peeking out like little steampunk antennae—although, trust me, swapping them for GE 5654W tubes? Total game changer.

Let’s take a closer look at why the xDuoo MH-02 is turning heads.
Whats in the box:

Design & Build Quality

At first glance, the xDuoo MH-02 looks like a piece of industrial art. Its sleek aluminum chassis with ridges is not just for show; it helps dissipate heat while adding a rugged, modern aesthetic. The tubes sit proudly on top, giving it a retro-futuristic vibe, almost as if it’s ready to power up a retro spaceship instead of your iems or headphones.

With dimensions of 12 x 7.8 x 4 cm, it won’t dominate your desk space, and at 0.35 kg, it’s surprisingly light for a unit that packs this much power. The layout is simple yet practical—there’s a bright red volume knob that’s hard to miss, a gain button for when your cans need that extra kick, and three headphone outputs: 3.5mm TRS, 4.4mm balanced, and 6.35mm. It’s versatile enough to accommodate most setups without making you search for adapters.

The back of the unit features RCA inputs and outputs, a USB-C input, and a DC12V power jack. It’s a clean, organized design that prioritizes functionality without clutter.



Connectivity

The MH-02 offers a solid array of connectivity options. Its USB-C input supports both Android and iOS devices, as well as your PC or laptop. There’s also an RCA input for more traditional setups and an RCA output if you want to use the MH-02 as a preamp. While these options provide flexibility, there’s one small caveat: the lack of an input switch. If you’re planning on switching between USB and Aux inputs frequently, you’ll have to physically unplug the USB cable—a minor annoyance for some, but worth noting.

Power & Amplification

Now, let’s get to the meat of the MH-02—how does it handle your headphones and iems ? With a hearty 1300mW of output at 32Ω, this little amp is more than capable of driving most headphones on the market, from high-impedance cans to more sensitive in-ears. And with the option to switch between +12dB and +18dB gain, you’re not left wanting for power.

What’s impressive is how it balances the strengths of tubes with solid-state performance. The 6J1 tubes act as preamps, adding a touch of warmth and smoothness to the sound, while the Class-A transistor section handles the grunt work. The result? A sound that’s rich, detailed, and surprisingly clean for a tube amp, thanks to the CS43131 DAC chip keeping noise levels in check.




Sound Performance

Tube amps are often associated with that warm, gooey sound—smooth mids, softened treble, and a bit of bloom in the bass. The MH-02 delivers some of that, but with a more balanced, refined presentation that straddles the line between warmth and detail. It doesn’t drown you in tube syrup but instead gives you a taste, and it’s just enough to leave you craving more.

Bass

The bass is punchy but not overdone. It digs deep enough to give you a satisfying thud without overstaying its welcome. However, it’s not the slow, rolling bass you might expect from a tube amp—it’s tighter, with a quicker decay. There’s a touch of warmth, but don’t expect the room-shaking thump of a more traditional tube setup. Still, for a hybrid amp, the bass performance is admirable but when i change to the GE 5654W tubes i notice a boost in subass and more weight and punchier midbass with more warmth the carries over to the lower midrange.

Mids

The midrange is where the MH-02 really shines. Voices are pushed forward, and instruments have a nice, natural tone. There’s an inviting smoothness here, particularly with vocals, which are rendered with a pleasing richness. In high-gain mode, the mids take center stage, but they never overpower the rest of the spectrum. It’s like sitting front row at a concert—intimate, but without losing the big picture.

Treble

The treble is slightly rolled off, but that’s to be expected with tubes specialy with the 6j1 stock tube. but when i change to the 5654w tubes It smooths out the harsh edges of overly bright recordings, making it an ideal choice for those who are treble-sensitive. The detail is still there, but it’s presented in a way that’s easier on the ears. You won’t get the same level of sparkle as with a pure solid-state amp.

Soundstage & Dynamics

The soundstage strikes a pleasant balance—neither overly expansive nor claustrophobically narrow. Picture it as sitting in a small, well-designed venue where each instrument has room to breathe without the performance feeling overwhelming. It’s not the vast, open-air sensation some solid-state amps provide, but more of a warm, front-row experience.

As for dynamics, the MH-02 handles shifts in intensity with a certain finesse. The transients aren’t as razor-sharp as you might expect from a solid-state setup, but that’s part of the tube amp allure. Each note carries a weight and presence that adds richness, making the overall sound feel more immersive and emotionally engaging.





Pairing the Xduoo MH-02 tube amp with the FiiO K11 R2R DAC amp creates an intriguing fusion of analog warmth and digital precision. Both devices bring distinct characteristics to the table, and when combined, they produce a sound signature that blends the best of both worlds.

As someone who enjoys experimenting with different audio gear pairings, the Xduoo MH-02 tube amp and FiiO K11 R2R DAC combo immediately piqued my interest. The K11's R2R DAC offers a natural and detailed sound with its resistor ladder architecture, while the Xduoo MH-02 tube amp adds a distinct analog warmth that is difficult to replicate with solid-state amplification.

When I first connected the K11 to the MH-02, I was curious to see how the pairing would affect the overall tonal balance. The K11 on its own already has a slightly warmer, more organic sound compared to typical Delta-Sigma DACs, and I wondered if the tube amp might overdo the warmth or cloud the details. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how complementary they were.




The FiiO K11 is no stranger to accuracy. With its R2R (resistor ladder) DAC, it produces a sound that’s clean, natural, and beautifully textured. It’s the kind of precision that audiophiles drool over, where each note stands tall, distinct, and untouched. The K11 alone already leans toward a slightly warmer sound signature compared to many digital DACs, which makes it especially appealing to those who prefer a more natural timbre.

On the other hand, the Xduoo MH-02 is the audio equivalent of a vinyl collection passed down through generations—there’s a warmth, a smoothness, an unmistakable richness that tubes bring to the sound. It’s a kind of magic that digital gear often lacks. And yet, pairing these two doesn’t overload the warmth or cloud the details. Instead, it strikes a beautiful balance between precision and musicality.



Sonic Chemistry:

Once connected, the first thing I noticed was how the Xduoo MH-02 transformed the midrange. The K11 is already detailed, but the MH-02 adds a layer of smoothness that feels almost liquid. Vocals become more intimate and lifelike, with textures that you can almost feel. It’s like the singer just stepped a little closer, making the performance more personal. Instruments also gain extra body, particularly in the mids, giving everything a richer tone.

Bass, meanwhile, gets a little extra love, but not in a way that overwhelms the mix. The K11’s tight, controlled bass gets a subtle bloom from the MH-02, adding depth and warmth without crossing the line into boomy territory. It’s like the amp gives a slight hug to the low end, adding weight without suffocating it.

The treble remains crisp and clear, retaining all the detail the K11 is known for. In fact, the MH-02 does a great job of preserving the K11’s precision, allowing the tiny variance in tracks to still shine through. You get all the micro-details—like the shimmer of a cymbal or the delicate touch of a piano key—but they’re now enveloped in a smoother, more organic presentation.



Dynamics and Soundstage:

When it comes to dynamics, this pairing really shines. The K11 is already quite adept at handling complex tracks, but the MH-02 adds a bit more punch. Dynamic swings hit with greater impact, and the music feels more engaging. It’s like moving from watching a movie on a standard TV to a high-end cinema setup—you’re suddenly immersed in the action.

The soundstage also sees a noticeable improvement. On its own, the K11 offers a good sense of space, but once the MH-02 enters the picture, the soundstage expands both in depth and width. Instruments feel better separated, and there’s more air between them, giving the overall presentation a greater sense of realism. It’s like the sound moves from 2D to 3D, making it more immersive, engaging even holographic.

Usability and Aesthetic Appeal

Both the Xduoo MH-02 and FiiO K11 are compact, making them perfect for a desktop setup. The K11’s sleek display is functional and modern, giving you quick access to settings, while the MH-02’s glowing tubes add a touch of vintage charm. It’s the kind of combo that doesn’t just sound good—it looks great sitting on your desk.

In terms of usability, the pairing is versatile. The MH-02’s power output is ample, easily driving even demanding headphones, while the K11’s gain settings allow you to adjust for more sensitive gear like IEMs. Whether you’re listening with over-ear headphones or in-ears, the combo works beautifully without any fuss.



Final Thoughts: Analog Warmth Meets Digital Precision

Pairing the Xduoo MH-02 tube amp with the FiiO K11 R2R DAC amp feels like a match made in audio heaven. The K11’s clean, natural, and detailed sound pairs wonderfully with the MH-02’s warm, rich, and immersive qualities. Together, they create a sonic experience that’s both engaging and musical, offering the best of both the digital and analog worlds.

And for anyone looking to add a touch of analog charm to their setup without losing the clarity and detail that digital audio provides, this pairing is a great choice. It takes the best traits of both devices and enhances them, creating a listening experience that feels more lifelike, immersive, and downright enjoyable. If you’re like me and love to tinker with your setup, this is one combo that will keep you coming back for more.



Conclusion:

Is It For You?

If you’re looking for an affordable entry point into the world of tube amps without sacrificing the precision of solid-state amplification, the xDuoo MH-02 is a solid contender. It’s not perfect—the lack of an input switch might bug some users, and the stock tubes are serviceable but not extraordinary. However, it offers a balanced sound signature with a touch of tube warmth, enough power to drive most headphones, and a design that won’t take up too much space on your desk.

Think of the MH-02 as a gateway drug to higher-end tube amps. It gives you a little taste of what tubes can do without going all-in on the warm, bloomy sound. And who knows? After spending some time with it, you might just find yourself browsing for tube upgrades and diving deeper into the rabbit hole.

In short, the xDuoo MH-02 is like a great first date—it shows you a good time, gives you a taste of something special, and leaves you wanting more

Link: https://xduoo.net/product/mh-02/