The Volumio Motivo was kindly provided as a loan and now is returned back. I didn’t receive monetary or any other kind of compensation and I don’t use affiliate links. The price of the Motivo is €1749 and you can buy it from the Volumio online shop. The price includes shipping, import duties and sales taxes as well as lifetime subscription to all Volumio premium features.
Who is Volumio
Volumio is recognized as the creator of Volumio OS, a free software solution designed for Raspberry Pi and PC users. This platform enables users to manage their compatible streaming devices directly from a smartphone, computer, or tablet. The software can be downloaded and installed at no cost, and it serves as a foundation for various audio manufacturers to develop their own streaming applications. However, it is important to note that the free version of Volumio OS does not include all available features, as several are exclusive to the premium version, which requires a monthly subscription.
Volumio has broadened its operations to include the production of proprietary audio devices that utilize the premium edition of the Volumio OS as their core software. Their current lineup features the Integro (an integrated network amplifier), the Rivo (a dedicated streaming transport), the Primo (a network player equipped with a DAC), and the recently introduced Motivo.
Volumio Motivo
The Volumio Motivo is a premier audiophile streamer, DAC, and headphone amplifier (all-in-one device), featuring a large 8” touchscreen and encompassing the Volumio Premium OS.
At its core, the Motivo utilizes the high-performance ES9038Q2M DAC chip from ESS, paired with a receiver co-developed by Volumio and Amanero Technologies. It incorporates advanced transport technology similar to that found in the Rivo, enhancing it further to optimize performance. The design includes dedicated reclocking, galvanic isolation, and separate power supply rails for each digital output, ensuring the highest performance from any DAC. The main processing unit is the Broadcom BCM 2711 Quad Core 1.5 GHz, supported by 2GB of DDR4 RAM and 16GB of internal EMMC storage.
Technical highlights
The USB bridge
The DAC receives its I2S and DSD signals from an Amanero USB bridge, a renowned Italian technology company in the audiophile community. Through a strong partnership between Volumio and Amanero, a tailored version of the USB bridge has been developed. This customized version integrates both hardware and firmware enhancements, enabling the re-clocking of I2S and DSD signals to significantly reduce jitter compared to the standard Amanero model.
Linear power supply
The Motivo incorporates a primary linear regulator for its analog section, similar to those found in premium linear power supplies. This design eliminates the requirement for an external linear power supply, as the device generates a stable 6V supply voltage internally. Each sub-section of the analog stage is powered by its own dedicated low-noise, low-dropout regulator, which is arranged in series with the 6V linear regulator, ensuring optimal cleanliness of the power supply and minimal noise for every individual element.
Digital Transport unique features
The device incorporates advanced reclocking, galvanic isolation, and dedicated power supply rails for each digital output. The S/PDIF coaxial and optical digital outputs are produced by the WM8804 transceiver from Wolfson/Cirrus, which is directly linked to the I2S bus of the System-on-Module. The coaxial output features galvanic isolation achieved through a high-bandwidth transformer sourced from the Japanese manufacturer Murata. Additionally, both the external USB ports and the internal USB port required by Amanero are connected to a Microchip USB hub, which employs proprietary technology to enhance the reconstruction of the USB digital signal, thereby improving signal integrity.
I2S over HDMI output
The Volumio Motivo is equipped with I2S over HDMI output, which is compatible with all protocols and pin configurations for seamless integration with various DACs. The setup process is straightforward and automated; users simply need to choose their DAC from the I2S menu, where all supported models are organized alphabetically. This list is frequently updated to incorporate newly launched DACs. In the unlikely event that your DAC is not listed, you can easily contact Volumio via email to request its inclusion in the next firmware update.
The headphone amplifier
The headphone amplifier stage utilizes the esteemed class AB TPA6120A2 operational amplifier from Texas Instruments. It is connected differentially with the DAC to reduce common-mode noise effectively. The output stage of the headphone amplifier has been meticulously optimized for compatibility with both high-impedance and low-impedance headphones, featuring two dedicated outputs that are integrated with the XLR line output connectors.
Connectivity
The Volumio Motivo features several digital outputs, including USB, coaxial, optical, and I2S, as well as connectivity options such as Gigabit LAN, WiFi, and Bluetooth 5.0. It is equipped with two USB 2.0 ports that accommodate external storage devices and optical drives for CD playback and ripping. For analog outputs, the device offers stereo RCA, balanced XLR, and two headphone outputs designed for different impedance loads—one for low and the other for high. It is important to note that the headphone outputs share functionality with the XLR outputs, preventing simultaneous use. Additionally, both RCA and XLR outputs can be configured as either fixed or variable, allowing the Motivo to function as a dedicated DAC or a preamplifier. However, it does not support digital or line level inputs.
Design and functionality
The Volumio Motivo seems to be designed with desktop use in mind, featuring an upward-facing touch screen that enhances user interaction while maintaining a compact footprint. Desktop positioning allows for easy access to the headphone outputs located at the rear. However, it is worth noting that each time you wish to use headphones, you will need to disconnect the XLR plugs if they are in use, which may not be the most convenient solution.
The touchscreen is angled slightly upward to facilitate operation from a close distance; however, this design becomes impractical when the device is situated in a HiFi rack, rendering the feature ineffective. While it is still possible to control the Motivo remotely using a smartphone, tablet, or PC, similar to other steamers, browsing content is limited compared to a device with a horizontally oriented display.
The positioning of the headphone outputs at the back of the device presents significant challenges for usage. It can be quite inconvenient to access these outputs in a tight HiFi rack, even requiring you to disconnect your XLR cables each time you wish to use your headphones. Even if you opt to place the Motivo on the top shelf of the rack, you will still face difficulties in browsing content and will be unable to bypass the need to reach for the rear part and unplug the cables.
A weird design decision
The upward-facing screen and the rear-mounted headphone outputs, which are also shared with the XLR balanced outputs, represent unusual design decisions that undermine some fundamental aspects of the otherwise high-performing Volumio Motivo.
Build quality
The Motivo features a solid aluminum body that has been precisely machined using CNC technology, resulting in an exceptionally crafted and aesthetically pleasing design. The sole physical button, also constructed from aluminum, is highlighted by an eye-catching red hue that creates a striking contrast against the all-black chassis.
Volumio OS and user interface
The touchscreen displays the well-known Volumio graphic interface, which incorporates numerous features for user-friendly navigation, whether you are exploring your local music collections or accessing streaming platforms. The Motivo natively supports all leading streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, and Radio Paradise, as well as all file formats. An official Roon Ready certification is anticipated to be available shortly. The device also supports various plugins such as YouTube, Squeezelite, Radio Paradise, Podcasts, Pandora, Fusion DSP, Roon Bridge, SoundCloud, and Mixcloud. Additionally, it includes several other functionalities, such as a powerful AI search capability, low pass filter options, automatic standby, and up-sampling features among others.
The touchscreen offers impressive responsiveness, excellent visibility, and vivid colors, although it can be somewhat reflective. Volume control is managed through the central rotary multifunction button located on the device. If you choose to position the Motivo at a distance, you can conveniently control it via a PC web browser or the Volumio app, which is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. The Motivo operates swiftly without any significant lag, providing a seamless user experience across various tasks.
Listening impressions
As a steaming digital transport
The Volumio Motivo, when used exclusively for streaming, delivers outstanding performance characterized by remarkable transparency and zero jitter. It provides your preferred DAC with the most accurate and pristine digital streams, free from any digital or electronic interference. Your DAC will perform optimally due to the purity and integrity of the incoming signal. I have evaluated all the digital outputs, and each one produced excellent sound quality, so you can confidently choose the one that best meets your needs.
As a standalone DAC/preamp
The DAC section of the Volumio Motivo represents an enhanced iteration of the already impressive Volumio Primo. The Motivo achieves a remarkable balance of clarity and fidelity while also delivering a rich and engaging musical experience. Its sound profile is both detailed and expressive, characterized by exceptional clarity and precision, along with outstanding resolution and refinement.
The bass delivers a powerful, fast, and well-controled performance, along with superb layering, weighty textures, and a significant physical presence. The mid-range is rich with vibrant harmonies, all while maintaining a high level of precision and articulation clarity. The Motivo showcases realistic timbre and outstanding tonal accuracy, making it suitable for both relaxed and analytical listening across various music genres.
The treble is lively and energetic without being harsh or overly bright. The Motivo excels in detail retrieval and treble precision while maintaining a mildly forgiving and refined character. It showcases an expert application of the ESS DAC chip, effectively minimizing digital glare and delivering its renowned accuracy in a way that enhances the overall musical experience. The sound is neither cold nor lifeless, and the timbre avoids the typical artificiality associated with ESS, as well as the dryness and diminished texture weight often present at higher frequencies.
The XLR outputs provide the optimal choice for the best soundstage performance, delivering a spacious and holographic audio experience characterized by a well-balanced sense of depth and width. This soundstage exhibits remarkable imaging precision, effectively conveying the scale of the music, regardless of whether the ensemble is large or small.
The embedded headphone amplifier
The integrated headphone amplifier offers an excellent all-in-one solution for enjoying your preferred headphones right from the start. It provides ample power and dynamic range to drive most headphones effectively, while remaining completely silent, making it perfect for sensitive earphones. The amplifier section delivers a transparent sound, free from any coloration, allowing you to experience the DAC output in its most authentic state. This versatility enables you to use a wide range of headphones without concerns about sonic compatibility.
While the headphone amplifier may suffice for an all-in-one setup, it is important to note that it does not fully match the performance of the DAC section. I view the Motivo primarily as a high-performing streaming DAC that requires a quality external headphone amplifier (or speaker amplifier) to truly excel and realize its complete capabilities. The Flux Lab Acoustics M-Field is a superb option, but more affordable alternatives like the Aune S17 Pro can also deliver satisfactory results.
No need for an expensive power supply upgrade
In my previous reviews of the Volumio Rivo and Primo, I noted that these devices required a high-quality aftermarket power supply to fully realize their capabilities. However, this is not the case with the Motivo, which features a well-engineered internal power supply that effectively rectifies and cleans the incoming AC from the external switching power adapter. While it is possible to enhance performance with a quieter external adapter, the existing setup is adequate, eliminating the necessity for a costly upgrade.
In the end
We will separate the conclusion into two distinct sections: one focusing on sonic performance and the other addressing form factor and functionality.
Part one
When it comes to sonic performance, the Motivo stands out as it excels in every task it undertakes. It ranks among the top options in its category, whether utilized as a dedicated network transport, a network DAC/preamp, or a comprehensive all-in-one solution. Whether you require a DAC/preamp for your speaker system, are a headphone enthusiast, or seek a premium streaming transport, the Volumio Motivo is a superb option that offers ease of use, highlighted by its large touchscreen and intuitive Volumio OS.
Part two
Certain challenges stem from the Motivo’s distinctive form factor and the unconventional decision to place the headphone outputs at the rear of the unit, where they are shared with the XLR outputs.
The Motivo appears to be primarily intended for desktop use, allowing easy access to the large touchscreen and the rear headphone outputs. However, if you plan to use both active speakers and headphones, you may find yourself needing to frequently plug and unplug cables.
Relocating the Motivo away from your desktop to a HiFi rack diminishes some of its functionality. In this setup, you lose the ability to utilize the touchscreen or browse content easily, and accessing the headphone outputs becomes quite challenging, particularly when it comes to connecting and disconnecting cables.
Final verdict
Ultimately, I can totally vouch for the Volumio Motivo and highly recommended it based on its sonic performance in all use scenarios, but it’s really up to you to figure out if it meets your needs and how it fares against the competition.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2024.
+ Excellent sound as a DAC/preamp
+ Class-leading performance as pure network transport
+ Very capable headphone amplifier
+ Premium resolution and refinement
+ Absolutely silent
+ Great all-in-one solution
+ Ideal for desktop use
+ Balanced line output
+ Bluetooth, WiFi and LAN connectivity
+ Plenty of digital outputs
+ Easy configurable I2S over HDMI
+ Large touchscreen with excellent visibility
+ Fast and responsive Volumio OS
+ User friendly and easy to use
+ App and web interface for remote control
+ Lifetime subscription to premium Volumio OS
+ Very well made and relatively compact
+ No need for an external power supply upgrade
- Both headphone outputs are positioned at the rear
- The headphone outputs are shared with the XLR plugs
- No balanced headphone output
- No digital or analog inputs
- Upwards facing touch screen diminishes its effectiveness when placed in a rack
- Best used in a desktop scenario
- The headphone amplifier is not up to the DAC standards
- The touch screen is a bit reflective
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