ONIX ZENITH XST20 HIGH-END SACD TRANSPORT LAUNCHES

The Onix Zenith XST20 marks the beginning of a new high-end product line, designed for serious HiFi enthusiasts.

The Onix Zenith XST20 SACD Transport  is the first in a trio of matching desktop components, soon to be joined by a flagship DAC and a Linux-based streamer transport.

ONIX ZENITH XST20 SACD TRANSPORT

The Onix Zenith XST20 is built to deliver true DSD playback for SACD discs. Audiophiles can enjoy native DSD64 output via I2S or DSD64 DoP over Coaxial, Optical, AES, and BNC connections. However, do note that USB output does not support SACD playback.

TOP LOADING CD MECHANISM

Designed with a top-loading mechanism and a classic disc clamp, the Onix Zenith XST20 prioritises high-quality playback. It supports single-layer and multi-layer SACDs, standard CDs, and even MQA-CDs, all with seamless, gapless track transitions.

I2S OUTPUT WITH FPGA-ASSISTED FLEXIBILITY

A key feature of the Onix Zenith XST20 is its highly adaptable I2S output. With the ability to switch between 10 different pinout modes, it ensures broad compatibility with nearly all I2S DACs on the market.

PURE SACD/CD TRANSPORT

Focused solely on physical media playback, the Zenith XST20 avoids streaming, wireless connectivity, or app-based controls. Instead, it provides a streamlined experience with a 3.4-inch touchscreen for core settings and a premium remote control for convenience.

CLASSIC ONIX DESIGN

The Onix Zenith XST20 is housed in a robust aluminium chassis, precision-crafted using CNC machining. Subtle gold accents elevate the aesthetic, maintaining the brand’s distinctive, high-end design language.

THE ONIX STORY

Onix was founded in 1979 in Brighton, England, by Tony Brady, who designed power amplifiers with the support of Michael O’Brien, then a manager at Rogers. The brand launched its first classic models, the OA20 and OA21, in 1981, establishing a reputation for high-quality British HiFi and its signature black-gold aesthetic. By the 1990s, Onix had gained international recognition, but in 1997, facing industry shifts, it was acquired by Pu Hsao Hsiung of Taiwan Sound Art Co., who modernized its sound while preserving its British HiFi heritage. In 2003, Onix partnered with Shanling Audio, leading to the release of high-end models like the OC93 and OIA92 in 2022. In 2023, Onix re-entered the international market with its Miracle High-End HiFi stack, marking a new chapter in its legacy of innovation while staying true to its roots.

ONIX ZENITH XST20 SACD TRANSPORT SPECIFICATIONS

imensions: 32 x 24 x 7.2 cm

Weight: 5.2 kg

Display: 3.4-inch touchscreen

Power Supply: 25VA Talema transformer

Supported Discs: CD, Multi-layer SACD, Single-layer SACD, MQA-CD

DIGITAL OUTPUTS

Optical / Coaxial / AES / BNC: CD playback at 44.1 kHz, SACD playback as DSD64 via DoP or D2P

I2S: CD playback at 44.1 kHz, SACD playback as native DSD64

USB: CD playback at 44.1 kHz (SACD not supported)

ONIX ZENITH XST20 SACD TRANSPORT PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

The Onix Zenith XST20 will be available from April 2025, priced at $2,099 internationally and $2,299 in the USA.

HiFi PiG Says: A new option for SACD purists.