Incredibly looking Sendy Audio KYLIN: A Class A DAC/Headphone Amp Built for Pure, Natural Sound

First seen at CanJam NYC, Sendy’s KYLIN desktop DAC/amp combines ESS Sabre decoding, Class A amplification and premium components in a sleek all-in-one design.

High-end headphone specialist Sendy Audio has officially launched the Sendy Audio KYLIN, a new high-resolution desktop DAC and headphone amplifier aimed at listeners who want clean, transparent and natural sound in a single compact system.

Originally previewed at the renowned headphone event CanJam NYC 2025, the KYLIN generated strong interest thanks to its classic styling, premium internal components and versatile connectivity. Following that early reception, Sendy Audio has now released the device as a full commercial product.

Priced at $1499 / £1499, the KYLIN is designed as a complete desktop audio hub capable of driving a wide range of headphones while delivering high-resolution digital playback.

High-Resolution DAC Architecture

At the heart of the KYLIN is the respected ESS ES9038Q2M, a high-performance converter developed by ESS Technology.

The DAC is paired with an XMOS USB audio interface, ensuring stable data transmission and extremely low jitter when connected to a computer or digital transport.

This combination enables support for native DSD512 playback, allowing compatible sources to deliver bit-perfect high-resolution audio without unnecessary conversion or processing.

The result, according to Sendy Audio, is a presentation that reveals fine musical textures, subtle detail and wide dynamic range.

Pure Class A Headphone Amplification

Beyond its DAC section, the KYLIN places significant emphasis on its analog amplification stage.

The unit features a pure Class A output stage, using carefully matched Hitachi B649 and D669 transistors to provide smooth and stable power delivery.

Class A amplification is often favored in audiophile designs for its low distortion and natural tonal character, though it typically comes at the cost of higher heat generation and power consumption.

To support the amplifier stage, the KYLIN incorporates a selection of premium components including:

• WIMA capacitors (Germany)

• Nichicon capacitors (Japan)

• Dual Burr‑Brown OPA604 op-amps

  
  

Together, these components help maintain a clean signal path and stable power delivery, contributing to the unit’s detailed yet musical presentation.

Designed to Drive Almost Any Headphone

One of KYLIN’s key goals is versatility.

The amplifier automatically detects the impedance of connected headphones and adjusts its output power accordingly, helping ensure optimal performance with both easy-to-drive models and more demanding audiophile headphones.

A selectable gain switch further allows users to fine-tune amplification levels depending on their source and headphone pairing.

Multiple Headphone Outputs

To accommodate different cables and headphone standards, the KYLIN offers three output options:

• 4-pin XLR balanced output

• 4.4mm balanced output

• 6.35mm single-ended output

  
  

This range ensures compatibility with most modern audiophile headphones without the need for additional adapters.

Volume adjustment is handled through a high-precision Japanese potentiometer, designed for smooth and accurate level control.

Flexible Connectivity for Desktop Systems

The KYLIN is built to function as the central hub of a desktop audio setup.

Multiple digital and analog inputs and outputs allow the unit to integrate with computers, streamers, DAC sources or traditional hi-fi components.

Power delivery is managed by a servo-regulated power supply, a design intended to minimize electrical noise and maintain consistent voltage stability — both important factors for preserving signal integrity in high-resolution audio systems.

Premium Construction

Physically, the KYLIN is housed in a precision-machined aluminium chassis, designed to provide both durability and effective heat dissipation for the Class A amplifier circuitry.

The minimalist industrial design reflects Sendy Audio’s focus on clean aesthetics and long-term reliability, making the unit equally suited to modern desktop setups and dedicated listening stations.

Key Specifications

Product: DAC / Headphone Amplifier

DAC chip: ESS ES9038Q2M

USB interface: XMOS USB audio

Hi-res support: Native DSD512

Amplification: Class A output stage

Output transistors: Hitachi B649 / D669

Op-amps: Dual Burr-Brown OPA604

Capacitors: WIMA & Nichicon (9,400µF total)

Headphone outputs:

• 4-pin XLR (balanced)

• 4.4mm balanced

• 6.35mm single-ended

Volume control: Japanese APLS potentiometer

Gain control: Selectable gain

Power supply: Servo-regulated

Chassis: Precision aluminium housing

Final Thoughts

With the KYLIN, Sendy Audio has created a device that blends high-resolution digital decoding, pure Class A amplification and premium components into a single elegant desktop unit.

Rather than focusing purely on technical specifications, the design emphasizes natural tonality, musical engagement and system versatility.

For listeners seeking a refined all-in-one DAC and headphone amplifier capable of driving a wide range of headphones, the KYLIN positions itself as a compelling new option in the mid-to-high-end desktop audio market.