I've got the XDA and the volume is only a potential issue if you connect it directly into an amp. With RCA's going to my XPA-3, with some cds I get 90 db(at seating position) at about 12 out of 80. With others I've been in the low 20s. Others on the Emo forum have said the volume is implemented incorrectly so that one step up on the volume gives several db increase for the first 6-7 on the volume dial. then it levels out to a proper .5 db for every .5 increase of the volume.
I will say, though, that the SQ is definitely an improvement over running my cd player(ERC) to the external inputs of a Denon 3803 and then pre outs to the amp. A superior soundstage with more accuracy/refinement across the frequency range. Not night and day difference, but certainly noticeble. Also, the XDA seems a little brighter, but Denons are usually labeled a warm sound, so it should be pretty neutral for most.
Having a volume on this unit really makes it attractive and it's a feature that's pretty rare for most DACs, let alone at this price range. I'm disappointed at the incorrect implementation of the volume, and I hope Emotiva can come up with some kind of update for it. But I'll keep it anyway, it's my first DAC and it does sound pretty good.
