VENTURE ELECTRONICS MEGATRON – SONIC JUGGERNAUT

INTRODUCTION:

Venture Electronics, a Chinese brand is a well-established audio manufacturer who has good expertise in developing high quality audio gears ranging from in ear monitors, DAC/AMP etc. The monk earbud is loved by everyone that revolutionized the budget market with its unique sound output. Today in our hands is the Venture Electronics Megatron DAC/AMP that boasts great specs for the price of 50USD! In this review, let’s dissect its audio section in detail.

SPECIFICATIONS:

DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9018K2M

Audio Format Support: 24bit/96kHz PCM

Amplifier: Custom amp module

Input: USB Type-C

Output  Balanced: 4.4mm + 2.5mm, SE: 3.5mm, AUX line out: 3.5mm

Power Output   

Balanced @ 32Ω: 300mW (4.9V)

Balanced @ 300Ω: 40mW

SE @ 32Ω: 170mW (2.4V)

SE @ 300Ω: 10mW

AUX: 0.95V

DISCLAIMER:

This unit was provided to me by Wild Lee from Venture Electronics in exchange for my honest opinion regarding the product. The observations are based on my usage and is not influenced by any means.

Unaffiliated Purchase Link: https://tinyurl.com/h3e5ex3z

DESIGN AND BUILD:

The solid aluminium block that encloses the amp and DAC inside, feels smooth and premium on the hands. Aux, Charge In, Data and Switches are nicely embedded onto the body for a seamless functionality. A tiny LED indicator is placed to indicate the user the current device’s mode.

The package includes the main unit, an impedance adapter, a short type c to c cable and a type A to type C cable

SOUND IMPRESSIONS:

The Megatron encloses an ESS9018K2M DAC chip that reaches a bit rate of up to 24bit/96Khz and has a power output of 170mW @ 32 Ohms (SE), 300mW @ 32 Ohms (2.5,4.4) which might seem to be off standard against the current lineup, yet the sonic nature of this product is stellar for the price.

BASS PROFILE:

• This has the analogue warmth that feels smooth and energetic throughout the presentation.
• Sub bass rumbles are pushed above that provides the fun factor without creating any noticeable congestion.
• The fullness is appreciated in the Megatron which makes the mid-bass more polished and mature.

MID-SECTION:

• Megatron makes the mid-section sound forward that makes the listening session more engaging.
• The analogue warmth complements the vocals making them sound rich and lush without losing out the natural sensation.
• The coloration is kept neutral throughout the presentation which states that the source is true to its nature.

TREBLE:

• Extension is kept clean with smoother note edges that makes even the sharpest sounding IEM to deliver a tamed and controlled response.
• Adequate brightness and air movement is appreciated in the Megatron to deliver a vivid sonic output.

TECHNICALITIES:

• Megatron showcases an expansive stage width that accommodates the notes precisely into its position.
• Megatron can bring out the essential nuances with ease for its asking price.

VERDICT:

Megatron, from the house of Venture Electronics for the price of 50USD showcases its true analogue sonic output that even matches well against the competitors today is a SONIC JUGGERNAUT!

Equipped with a ESS9018K2M DAC Chip that reaches a bit rate of up to 24bit/96Khz and has a power output of 170mW @ 32 Ohms (SE), 300mW @ 32 Ohms (2.5,4.4) which might seem to be off standard against the current lineup, yet the sonic nature of this product is stellar for the price.

The aluminium casing looks minimal yet functional! This got all the three terminations (3.5, 4.4, 2.5) with an additional line out option to connect your speakers. There’s no inbuilt battery, but this has a separate PD Charging port for sustained power output and simultaneous charging of the source.

A neutral sounding DAC enriched with the analogue warmth with no colouration is what I expect for a natural and smooth listening experience. The Megatron showcases its forwardness in the mid-section, sounding natural and engaging. Treble extension is kept under control providing enough brightness and air to the overall presentation. Technical chops are on par with the competitors, displaying a holographic stage with precise note placements.

The controlled elevation and a neutral response of the Megatron, makes this a forgiving one with the IEM’s that’s aggressive in its nature. The lack of independent volume control and PEQ facility seems to be off standard considering the new age competitors, yet its overall sonic output, three output terminations, separate power in and lineout holds the upper hand in its price segment even at this point.

POSITIVES AND NEGATIVES:

Pros:

• Warm Analogue Signature
• Plenty of Power
• Lineout option for External Speakers
• Power In port for PD Charging (Source)
• Multiple Output Terminations (2.5, 3.5, 4.4)
• Price to Performance ratio

Cons:

• Tricky Power-in Port (Work’s device specific)
• Hisses with sensitive IEM’s
• Lack of Independent Volume Control